An integrated solution for space shuttle launching ramp

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to select the most appropriate city in Turkey for space shuttle launching ramp.Design/methodology/approachIn the proposed approach, an integrated methodology is used. The SWARA method is used in the first phase of the solution for determining criteria’s importance weights. Based on the criteria weights obtained by the SWARA method, the WASPAS method is used for selecting the best alternative.FindingsMugla is selected for the most suitable city for the first space shuttle launching pad according to determined criteria and proposed model.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough there are 81 cities in Turkey, 4 alternatives were selected for evaluation. It is possible to eliminate this limitation by the future studies with the implementation of proposed model to entire of Turkey.Practical implicationsThis proposed model can be used by the countries which want to have a new or first space shuttle launching ramp in the world.Originality/valueAlthough some climatic conditions are pointed out on the location of the space shuttle launching ramp, in literature, there is not a comprehensive and detailed evaluation example as much as the model proposed in this study. Therefore, this study is the first in terms of the proposed model and applied techniques in the sectoral sense. In addition, the study is also a guide for solving the original model which is revealed in the selection of the most suitable alternative city for space shuttle launching ramp by different multi-criteria decision-making methods.