article_snippet.sent: Launching far away from populated areas (i.e. middle of the ocean) also significantly reduces public safety risk.
article_snippet.sent: Maximum speed: 460 knots, 530 mph (850 km/h) Maiden launch: Flight testing will begin in 2016.
article_snippet.sent: The first launch of the space launch vehicle is likely to take place in 2018.
article_snippet.sent: Launch sites: Several sites are under consideration, including Kennedy Space Center, Wallops Island and Vandenberg AFB.