NASA Platforms For Sale: Finally An 8.2 Million Pound Rocket Launch Platform Can Be Yours
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The three NASA platforms, which measure 160 feet by 135 feet, were built in 1967 to support the rockets during the Apollo moon program. The 25-foot-tall platforms weigh 8.2 million pounds, and if NASA doesn't find a buyer, they may just recycle them.
"NASA does not currently have a need for the Mobile Launch Platforms to support current and future mission activities," said Tracy Young, a spokeswoman for the Kennedy Space Center. "Because of this factor, we are seeking information and concepts for traditional and nontraditional potential use of the structures as well as potential disposal options."
The NASA platforms were used to provide power to space shuttles. Open sections in the platforms allowed flames and exhaust to pass through.
NASA imagines that private space companies may be interested in using them as a rocket base for commercial launches. Possible buyers may include Jeff Bezos or Elon Musk, owners of Blue Origin and SpaceX, respectively. The two companies are competing to send NASA astronauts to the International Space Station, and are both interested in acquiring the rights to Launch Complex 39A. The site launched 82 space shuttle missions but has been idle since 2011.
NASA is seeking proposals until September 6, so get those in soon. NASA did not discuss the possible purchase price for the platforms, however, but if you eat nothing but ramen noodles for the next 43 years, you may be able to afford your very own space shuttle platform.
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