SpaceX is accelerating its Starship infrastructure on Florida’s Space Coast, with a 380-foot-tall processing facility under construction at Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39A. The facility, dubbed ‘Gigabay,’ is expected to become the primary hub for assembling Starship vehicles ahead of potential launches from the region. Dr. Don Platt, a professor at Florida Tech, said the facility’s progress is a clear indicator of SpaceX’s commitment to the area. ‘If it looks like it’s finishing up, then you know they’re definitely ramping up,’ Platt said during a recent visit to the site. SpaceX has been building launch infrastructure at both Launch Complex 39A and Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, signaling its intent to conduct Starship missions from Florida. The company’s public offering in July raised $85.7 billion, providing new resources for the project. However, experts say Florida’s timeline depends on test flights in Texas. ‘We’ve got to get these next two more test flights from Texas first,’ Platt said, noting that a fully successful orbital flight from Texas is likely a prerequisite for Florida launches. SpaceX’s COO, Gwynne Shotwell, previously told CNBC a Starship flight from Florida could happen as soon as this fall, but progress in Texas remains critical. Construction of the Gigabay facility has intensified in recent months, with SpaceX expanding its footprint on the Space Coast. The facility will handle final assembly and processing of Starship vehicles, a step that could reshape launch operations in the region. Meanwhile, SpaceX continues launching Starlink satellites from California, balancing its dual focus on Starship development and its existing satellite internet service. The company’s presence in Florida is growing, but challenges remain as it navigates technical hurdles and regulatory requirements. Local officials and industry watchers are closely monitoring the Gigabay facility’s completion, which could mark a turning point for Starship operations on the Space Coast.