A computer rendering shows the planned Spaceport America terminal and hangar from above.

The terminal building, is estimated to cost approximately 31 million U.S. dollars. It is supposed to be model of eco-design, developers say, with few energy requirements and minimal "embodied carbon"—the amount of carbon dioxide emitted during the production of the building.

Much of the structure will be dug into the landscape, helping to buffer the interior from the extremes of the hot and sunny New Mexico climate. The building will also feature electricity-producing photovoltaic cells and a system for storing and reusing water.

The designers hope to achieve a platinum Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating from the U.S. Green Building Council—the group's highest certification.

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