Stoke Space Prepares for Nova Rocket Launch from Historic Pad

Stoke Space, founded in 2019 and based in Washington state, is developing its Nova rocket, with a planned uncrewed cargo launch in late 2026 from Space Launch Complex 14 at Cape Canaveral. The complex has a legacy dating back to 1956, previously supporting notable missions, including the Mercury and Gemini programs, and was declared a national historic landmark in 1984.

The new Nova rocket will feature a unique upper-stage capsule with 30 thrusters for precise landings, a capability not previously achieved by competitors like SpaceX and Blue Origin. Constructing on the historic pad involved overcoming time constraints and extensive demolition, showcasing Stoke Space's engineering capabilities. The impact of this development may enhance competition in the medium-lift rocket segment, emphasizing advancements in reusable technologies.