Environmental Impact of the Talara Space Port Piura: Perspectives and Challenges

Duran-Aquino R.C.; Roman-Gonzalez A. · Proceedings of the International Astronautical Congress, IAC (2025) · DOI: 10.52202/083092-0080

Resumen

The establishment of Talara Space Port in the Piura region of northwestern Peru represents a transformative development for South America’s emerging space sector, yet introduces complex environmental challenges across multiple domains. This comprehensive study employs a multi-methodological approach integrating environmental modeling, comparative spaceport analysis, and regional ecological assessment to evaluate potential impacts and propose mitigation frameworks. Atmospheric impact analysis reveals that propellant selection critically determines climate forcing profiles, with black carbon emissions from hydrocarbon fuels exhibiting 500× greater global warming efficiency in the stratosphere compared to surface sources. Terrestrial ecosystem assessment identifies significant habitat fragmentation risks for Piura’s unique coastal desert ecosystems, while marine impact modeling indicates potential deposition patterns affecting the Humboldt Current marine biodiversity hotspot. Acoustic analysis demonstrates the necessity of water-based suppression systems capable of handling 1.1 million gallons per minute to mitigate 220 dB launch noise. Orbital sustainability assessment emphasizes the imperative of debris mitigation compliance, including 90%+ disposal success probability and 5-year deorbit requirements. The study proposes an integrated environmental management framework incorporating adaptive regulatory mechanisms, continuous cumulative impact assessment, international cooperation protocols, and region-specific conservation strategies. Results indicate that while Talara Space Port presents substantial environmental challenges, these can be effectively managed through proactive mitigation, technological innovation, and robust regulatory oversight, positioning Peru as a leader in sustainable spaceport development within the Global South context.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos; Universidad Nacional Tecnológica de Lima Sur