of these authorities to preserve our natural resources, protect the maritime public, and ensure economic prosperity. Captain of the Port Responsibilities The fundamental role of the sector commander is to pro- mote and enforce the safety and security of U.S. ports and waterways. Rocket testing, launches, and recovery operations taking place near the maritime community present a hazard to the MTS. As an organization, we support commerce and innovation, but we also have a responsibility to ensure the safety of the maritime com- munity. Limited access areas (LAA), more commonly known as safety and security zones, and regulated navi- gation areas (RNA) are essential tools in this mission. Due to the complexity of space operations and the unpredictable scheduling, waterways management staffs are continuously challenged to meet regulatory requirements while still providing industry and the public with adequate notice of hazardous operations. The establishment of these areas facilitates appropriate maritime domain awareness, adequate broadcasts and communication, and on-water patrol assets to enforce compliance. Providing this support not only prevents launch cancellations, but, in the event of a non-nominal, or emergency scenario, protects the public, enables first responders to perform uninterrupted operations, and ensures the protection of astronauts or other proprietary national interest equipment. Using the Ports and Waterways Safety Authorities under 46 USC Chapter 700, this year District Seven and Sector Jacksonville established an RNA to ensure the safety of vessels, mariners, and navigable waters dur- ing hazardous space operations. Working with space partners like the United States Space Force, NASA, FAA, and independent space companies, the Coast Guard uses all information available to evaluate potential maritime risk. Based on this risk, the Captain of the Port activates a portion of the RNA based on mission specific concerns. By activating a reduced area for a short time period, the effects of a launch on the MTS are drastically reduced. Additionally, the RNA provides Coast Guard assets a legally enforceable area tailored specifically to the size of the present hazard. Notification of the activation of LAAs and RNAs is vital to public safety. In addition to traditional means of notification, such as Navigation Telex, marine safety information broadcasts, and local notices to mariners, Sector Jacksonville has developed space operations launch advisories and leverages social media to inform the public. Confronting New Challenges Support of the space mission is not without its obstacles, A U.S. Coast Guard Station Port Canaveral boat crew enforces a safety and security zone off the coast of Cape Canaveral, Florida, during a June 2016 rocket launch. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Anthony L. Soto Summer 2023 Proceedings 25