If a spaceport is built, will it be used by the military? Despite efforts of the state to portray it as a commercial (and presumably civilian) facility, its use to carry military missions aloft is not only possible, it is … Continued
The proposal to develop a commercial space launch facility in Ka’u, the state has said, depends upon attracting a commercial operator. If no corporation or consortium of corporations can be induced to build and operate the facility the idea will … Continued
In an area as remote and relatively undeveloped as Ka’u is, natural resources are abundant. The development of a space launch facility at Palima Point or elsewhere in the district cannot help but have a disruptive impact on the natural … Continued
What effect will a spaceport in Ka’u have upon the health of people on the Big Island? Risk Science Associates, a firm in Corte Madera, California, conducted a study of precisely this question. The results are presented in Volume VIII, … Continued
The chemicals used in the launch of spacecraft can pose exceptionally high dangers to human health. Liquid nitrogen and helium can cause asphyxiation. Liquid oxygen can increase fire hazards by enhancing the inflammability of combustible materials. Liquid hydrogen readily ignites … Continued
If the spaceport in Ka’u gets off the ground, the several hazardous compounds used as rocket propellants will have to find their way to Palima Point. According to the as-yet unreleased draft environmental impact statement prepared for the Department of … Continued