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GSA Webinar: Business Case for Spaceports

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GSA-Webinar-Business-case-for-spaceports
Business Case for Spaceports

Featured Speakers:

  • John Oberst, President and CEO for Pacific Spaceport Complex – Alaska
  • Jimmy Spence, Business Development Specialist of Houston Spaceport 
  • Ross Hulbert, Business Engagement Manager with Spaceport Cornwall 
  • Jimmy Moffitt, Vice President, Spaceport Operations for Space Florida

The Business Case for Spaceports:

Unlocking Economic Development Opportunities

July 23 at 11:30 AM Eastern

Spaceports are more than gateways to space—they are engines of local and regional economic growth. Join the Global Spaceport Alliance (GSA) for an insightful webinar exploring how spaceports can drive investment, attract commercial tenants, create high-tech jobs, and stimulate innovation ecosystems.

This session will unpack the economic value proposition of spaceports and offer practical strategies for developing sustainable business models. It will also examine how spaceports can serve as anchors for broader space cluster development, fostering networks of aerospace companies, research institutions, startups, and support services that collectively strengthen regional competitiveness.

You will hear from industry leaders and economic development experts who will share real-world examples, public-private partnership approaches, and tools for aligning spaceport infrastructure with long-term community benefit.

Whether you’re a spaceport operator, policymaker, investor, or economic development professional, this webinar will help you build a compelling business case for spaceport development in your region.

Key Topics:

  • The spaceport/space cluster business model: revenue streams and investment strategies
  • Case studies of spaceport-driven economic revitalization
  • Engaging public-private partnerships and funding opportunities
  • Workforce development and community impact 
REGISTER FOR WEBINAR

SPEAKERS:

Dr. George Nield
Moderator
Dr. George Nield
Chairman
Global Spaceport Alliance
 
Dr. George C. Nield, Chairman of the Global Spaceport Alliance, is a highly respected aerospace leader whose distinguished career spans NASA, the FAA, the U.S. Air Force, and private industry—including a spaceflight aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard.
John Oberst

John Oberst
President and CEO
Pacific Spaceport Complex – Alaska

Jimmy Spence

Jimmy Spence
Business Development Specialist
Houston Spaceport 

Ross Hulbert

Ross Hulbert
Business Engagement
Manager
Spaceport Cornwall 

Jimmy Moffett

Jimmy Moffett
Vice President, Spaceport Operations
Space Florida 

GSA Chairman Dr. George Nield Leads International Dialogue on Spaceports at Osaka Expo

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Expo 2025 Osaka

At the recent Osaka Expo, Global Spaceport Alliance Chairman Dr. George Nield served as a keynote speaker and panel chair during a landmark session on spaceports and the growing space economy. The session, hosted by the Puglia Region at the Italy Pavilion, brought together spaceport leaders from Italy, Japan, and the United States to explore how spaceports are transforming from launch pads into innovation hubs driving economic opportunity.

“Spaceports are not just gateways to orbit—they are catalysts for research, manufacturing, training, and economic growth,” Dr. Nield said. His keynote traced the evolution of commercial spaceflight and the pivotal role that spaceports play in the expanding trillion-dollar global space economy.

Dr. Nield emphasized that the future of space access will be shaped by public-private partnerships, global regulatory harmonization, and spaceports that serve as integrated ecosystems—not just launch sites. He also spotlighted case studies like Houston Spaceport and underscored the rising demand for suborbital travel, aerospace training, and point-to-point transport.

Panel representatives from the Japan Spaceport Association, ENAC (Italian Civil Aviation Authority), Spaceport America, Hokkaido Spaceport, and others echoed the call for international collaboration. Key topics included infrastructure readiness, regulatory frameworks, and the role of education and workforce development in advancing spaceport viability.

As spaceports emerge worldwide, the Global Spaceport Alliance continues to foster international cooperation and share best practices to support their sustainable growth. Dr. Nield closed the session by reaffirming GSA’s commitment to global engagement: “With shared vision and partnership, spaceports can help us unlock access to space for communities across the planet—and beyond.”

WATCH THE PRESENTATION

GSA Members Dawn Aerospace and Oklahoma Air & Space Port Forge a New Era of Suborbital Spaceflight

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Dawn Aerospace unveil the future—literally in hand—with a sub-scale Aurora spaceplane at the Oklahoma Breakfast during Space Symposium 2025 in Colorado Springs

Two leading members of the Global Spaceport Alliance (GSA)— New Zealand-based Dawn Aerospace and the Oklahoma Air & Space Port—have announced a groundbreaking partnership that is set to transform suborbital space around the world. Under the new agreement, Dawn Aerospace will establish U.S. operations and fly its Mk-II Aurora spaceplane from Oklahoma, marking a pivotal moment in spaceport development and reusable spaceplane operations.

“Partnering with Dawn Aerospace establishes Oklahoma as a potential leader in space access and possibly making the Oklahoma Air & Space Port one of the busiest spaceports in the world,” said Craig Smith, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA).

This partnership marks a significant step in democratizing space access for local communities. By establishing high-frequency, low-cost suborbital launches from a spaceport, this vehicle brings space within reach of universities, startups, and research institutions across their region. It opens the door for students, educators, and innovators to actively participate in space science, conduct real-world experiments in microgravity, and pursue careers in the space industry—all without leaving their home state/area. 

Through this effort, space is no longer the domain of distant launch sites—it becomes a tangible, local opportunity that uplifts entire communities and fuels regional economic growth.

Advancing the GSA Mission Through Member Collaboration

This partnership exemplifies the core mission of the Global Spaceport Alliance: to connect and empower spaceports and stakeholders worldwide through strategic collaboration, shared innovation, and sustainable growth.

“The GSA was created to foster precisely these kinds of forward-looking relationships,” said Dr. George Nield, Chairman of GSA. “When two GSA members come together to advance the frontier of space access, it’s a win not only for the Alliance—but for the entire spaceport ecosystem.”

With the Aurora spaceplane scheduled for delivery and first flights in 2027, the Oklahoma Air & Space Port will become a major testbed for microgravity research and suborbital science, with broad commercial and educational benefits.

Dawn Aerospace Mk-II Aurora

Breaking Barriers with Reusable Spaceflight

Dawn Aerospace’s Mk-II Aurora is a rocket-powered, remotely piloted spaceplane designed to carry payloads up to 11 lbs (5 kg) to altitudes exceeding 330,000 feet (100 km). In 2024, Aurora became the fastest rocket-powered aircraft to launch from a runway, reaching Mach 1.12 at 82,500 feet and breaking a decades-old “time to climb” world record. With a rapid 4-hour turnaround, Aurora is expected to be the first aircraft to cross the Karman line twice in one day—a capability with massive implications for microgravity access and scientific experimentation.

“Our mission is to push the boundaries of aviation all the way to space, and Oklahoma is a perfect place in the United States to make that happen,” said Stefan Powell, CEO, and founder of Dawn Aerospace. “By developing a rapidly reusable aircraft, we’re bringing the efficiency of aviation to spaceflight—dramatically increasing flight frequency, cutting costs, and accelerating breakthroughs in science and space research that deliver critical insights and services for a better future.”

Transforming Oklahoma into a Space Access Hub

By welcoming Dawn’s cutting-edge platform, the Oklahoma Air & Space Port—one of GSA’s founding members—is reinforcing its commitment to innovation, national security, and economic growth.

“The next industrial revolution is happening in space, and the scientific research and commercialization opportunities that exist in microgravity are transformational. Operating Dawn’s Aurora spaceplane at the Oklahoma Air and Space Port will both reduce costs and increase access to microgravity throughout the space industry. This important partnership positions the state of Oklahoma at the center of American space innovation”, said Jim Bridenstine, managing partner of the Artemis Group and former NASA administrator (2018-2021).

The state’s leadership echoed these ambitions:

“Oklahoma is positioned to be at the forefront of the next space frontier and a hub for national defense,” said Oklahoma Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell. “With targeted investment, the state is moving to secure frequent and reliable space access and is set to become America’s busiest suborbital launch site. Launching from Burns Flat will unlock a new class of microgravity research, national security applications, and commercial innovation.”

As part of the agreement, Oklahoma’s colleges and universities will have free access to Aurora for research flights during the first year of operations—empowering the next generation of space professionals through hands-on experience.

A Model for GSA’s Vision of the Future

For the Global Spaceport Alliance, this partnership between two member organizations reflects the Alliance’s vision of a globally connected network of spaceports and operators that enable safe, sustainable, and frequent access to space.

With Dawn Aerospace operating one of the most advanced suborbital platforms from a U.S. spaceport, the space industry is one step closer to achieving the goals outlined in the GSA’s strategic roadmap: cross-border innovation, integrated launch infrastructure, and routine horizontal space access.

Dawn Aerospace's New Release - Oklahoma

Dawn GSA Special Briefing Recording

Dawn Aerospace Unveils Game-Changing Spaceplane in GSA Special Briefing
Recording Now Available

The Global Spaceport Alliance (GSA) has released the full recording of its special briefing featuring Stefan Powell, CEO of Dawn Aerospace, who unveiled a major advancement in suborbital spaceflight: the Aurora spaceplane.

Stefan announced that its Aurora spaceplane is now available for purchase, with first deliveries expected in 2027. This marks
a historic milestone: the first time a space-capable vehicle — designed to fly beyond the Kármán line (100 km – 328,000 ft) – has been offered for direct sale to customers.

Read out more about Dawn Aerospace

GSA Special Briefing with Dawn Aerospace

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GSA Special Briefing Dawn Aerospace

Dawn Aerospace Unveils Game-Changing Spaceplane in GSA Special Briefing
Recording Now Available

The Global Spaceport Alliance (GSA) has released the full recording of its special briefing featuring Stefan Powell, CEO of Dawn Aerospace, who unveiled a major advancement in suborbital spaceflight: the Aurora spaceplane.

Stefan announced that its Aurora spaceplane is now available for purchase, with first deliveries expected in 2027. This marks
a historic milestone: the first time a space-capable vehicle — designed to fly beyond the Kármán line (100 km – 328,000 ft) – has been offered for direct sale to customers.

Aurora is set to become the fastest and highest-flying aircraft ever to take off from a conventional runway, blending the extreme performance of rocket propulsion with the reusability and operational simplicity of traditional aviation. This breakthrough enables high-frequency, low-cost access to both high-altitudes and space.

Dr. George Nield, GSA Chairman, emphasized the importance of this announcement as it provides access to space for spaceports and its communities. He pointed out that Aurora’s compatibility with existing infrastructure, noting its potential to activate dozens of underutilized spaceports worldwide. Powell also discussed operational simplicity, global regulatory engagement, and upcoming delivery plans, with first customer launches expected in 2027.

Dawn Aerospace is actively seeking operators and partners with existing runway access to support the rollout of this revolutionary system.

READ the Dawn Aerospace News Release

Watch the GSA Special Briefing below:

About Dawn Aerospace:

Dawn Aerospace is developing the fastest and highest-flying aircraft ever to take off from a runway, combining the extreme performance of rocket propulsion with the reusability of conventional airplanes to enable high-frequency, low-cost access to high-altitudes and space. Dawn’s remotely piloted aircraft are certified under New Zealand’s CAA Part 102 and the New Zealand Space Agency’s High-Altitude License, allowing flight from the ground to beyond 60,00 feet—well above conventional airspace limits.

Dawn’s founders recognized the potential of applying aviation-style operations to spaceflight — delivering routine, runway-based access to space with rocket-powered aircraft. In addition to its spaceplane program, Dawn Aerospace is a leading provider of propulsion systems for satellite developers, with its technology currently on 25 operational satellites.

Global Spaceport Alliance

ABOUT GLOBAL SPACEPORT ALLIANCE

Established in 2015, the Global Spaceport Alliance has become the largest network of spaceports in the world. Members include spaceport operators, suppliers, and government and academic entities involved in the commercial space sector. GSA offers members timely access to information, the ability to engage with key decision makers, and the opportunity to participate in working groups targeting specific areas of interest to the spaceport ecosystem.

GSA Webinar Series – Navigating Risk

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GSA Webinar Series - Navigating Risk

Navigating Risk – Strategies for Spaceport Resilience

Recording fro June 18, 2025

As commercial spaceport operations scale globally, managing risk has never been more critical. From infrastructure and environmental hazards to cybersecurity and regulatory compliance, today’s spaceports must navigate an increasingly complex risk landscape.

Join us for an in-depth GSA webinar—“Navigating Risk: Strategies for Spaceport Resilience”—bringing together top experts from across the industry to share tools, frameworks, and real-world insights for identifying, mitigating, and managing risk in spaceport operations.

Featured Speakers:

  • Rich Derienzo, President of Kaiser Solutions – Infrastructure Security, Risk/Threat Assessments and Mitigation, Crisis Management   
  • Andy Anderegg, with MITRE – Commercial Space Integration & Systems Resilience 
  • Christopher Kunstadter, Space risk professional with Triton Space – Risk Management and Insurance Strategies 
  • Bernie McShea, Economic Development CEO and Aerospace Professional (Moderator) McShea Consulting – Economic Develop impacts 

Whether you’re developing a new facility or refining your operational protocols, this session offers strategic perspectives and practical guidance to strengthen your spaceport’s resilience and ensure long-term sustainability.

Who Should Attend:
• Spaceport operators and developers
• Commercial launch providers
• Risk and compliance professionals
• Investors and insurers in the space sector
• Policy and regulatory leaders
Reserve your spot today and be part of the conversation shaping the future of safe and sustainable spaceport operations.

*Subject to change – Please check back.

Mike Kuchler

Mike Kuchler

Senior Manager, Launch and Range Services, Deloitte Consulting LLP
 
Mike oversees Deloitte Space’s portfolio of commercial space integration and spaceport development programs. He has 16 years of experience in federal consulting and international emerging markets, focusing on finance, strategic planning, program management, business model transformation, and legislative policy in the aerospace and defense sectors. In this capacity Mike has served as an advisor to the Space Force, as well as state-sponsored, private, and global spaceports.
Rich Derienzo

Rich Derienzo

President of Kaiser Solutions

Infrastructure Security, Risk/Threat Assessments and Mitigation, Crisis Management

Richard J. DeRienzo is the founder and CEO of Kaiser Solutions Inc (KSI) based in Ormond Beach FL. KSI is a US Veteran owned small business tailoring specialized services to companies in aerospace and other industries. We bring deep industry and government expertise to assist companies with Risk Assessment and Mitigation; Crisis Management; Spaceport operations and profitability; protection of critical infrastructure; as well as other professional services. KSI partners with US Government clients, State/Local authorities, and provides liaison services to private companies interacting with US Government agencies.

KSI also partners with CDI Global to provide buy and build solutions as well as M&A support. We also partner with NESTRE Health and Performance, which is a Cognitive Performance company with direct application to Aerospace companies and space faring clients.

Prior to founding Kaiser Solutions, Mr. DeRienzo served as a senior CIA Directorate of Operations officer for 18 years. He served in command positions in Latin America, South Asia, Europe, and at CIA Headquarters. Mr. DeRienzo also worked closely with C-suite leaders in the US finance, technology, and energy sectors.

Mr. DeRienzo served for 12 years as a US Army intelligence officer and paratrooper. He served domestically and overseas, acquiring deep expertise in the security of installations and critical infrastructure.

Andy Anderegg

Andy Anderegg

with MITRE

MITRE’s surface to space architect in the L250 Innovation Center, he facilitated a whole-of-nation approach for managing the risks from commercialization of space with the Aspen Institute, industry, DOC, NASA, FAA, and USSF. He led the intelligent domain strategy for Labs and a related MIP challenge on post-disaster recovery coordination, emphasizing how private sector coordination shapes national outcomes.

Christopher Kunstadter

Space risk professional with Triton Space – Risk Management and Insurance Strategies 

Bernie McShea

Economic Development CEO and Aerospace Professional(Moderator) McShea Consulting – Economic Develop impacts 

Senior Executive with multiple billion dollar successes in business and economic development. Created and led national award-winning business development teams, at Space Florida and the Pittsburgh Regional Alliance. Expertise in team formation and growth, business case development and analysis, economic development and place marketing, location analysis/site selection, economic development incentives negotiation, and technology evaluation from an investor’s perspective

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Global Spaceport Alliance

ABOUT GLOBAL SPACEPORT ALLIANCE

Established in 2015, the Global Spaceport Alliance has become the largest network of spaceports in the world. Members include spaceport operators, suppliers, and government and academic entities involved in the commercial space sector. GSA offers members timely access to information, the ability to engage with key decision makers, and the opportunity to participate in working groups targeting specific areas of interest to the spaceport ecosystem.

GSA Webinar Series – Launch capacity in Sweden

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GSA Webinar - Launch Capacity in Sweden

International Partnering on Spaceport Launch Capability – Sweden

In this webinar recording, we look at the upcoming launch in Sweden and discuss international collaboration in spaceport development and launch capabilities. Industry experts share critical components needed to build resilient, globally connected spaceports and the partnerships driving the spaceport industry. Insights from GSA, Firefly, Swedish Space Corporation (SSC), Swedish Air Force, and Air Liquide, this discussion covers the challenges and opportunities in creating launch-ready spaceport ecosystems across the world.

GSA Webinar Series – Launch Down Under

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GSA Webinar - Launch from Down Under

Launch from Down Under

Challenges and Lessons Learned in the Emerging Space Industry in Australia and New Zealand

RECORDING READY
Experts from Austrade, Equatorial Launch Australia, Southern Launch, Australia Space Agency, Rocket Lab, and others discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of conducting rocket launches in Australia and New Zealand. They explore the technical and logistical hurdles of launching from remote areas, the complexities of regulatory compliance, and the lessons learned from pioneering missions in diverse southern environments. The speakers highlight the countries’ geographic advantages for specific orbital missions and share insights on environmental considerations, infrastructure development, and the collaborative efforts shaping Australia’s and New Zealand’s future in the global space industry.

Panelists:

Enrico Palermo - Australian Space Agency

Enrico Palermo
Head of the
Australian Space Agency

Sandy Tirtley - Rocket Lab

Sandy Tirtey
Senior Director – Global Commercial Launch Services for
Rocket Lab

Michael Jone - ELA

Michael Jones
Group Chief Executive Officer of
Equatorial Launch Australia (ELA)

Lloyd Damp - Southern Launch

Lloyd Damp 
CEO for
Southern Launch

GSA at Farnborough Intl Space Show

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GSA spaceport panel at Farnborough Intl Space Sho

Global Spaceport Alliance Celebrates Successful Partnership and Panel at Farnborough International Space Show

The Global Spaceport Alliance (GSA), the leading international organization for spaceport stakeholders, proudly reflects on a successful collaboration and partnership with Farnborough International at the inaugural Farnborough International Space Show, held March 19–20, 2025. The partnership marked a significant step forward in promoting global spaceport development and fostering international dialogue within the commercial space sector.

As a strategic partner of the event, GSA brought together global leaders, experts, and innovators to highlight the critical role of spaceports in enabling the future space economy. One of the major highlights was GSA’s featured panel discussion, Enabling the Space Economy, and This Starts with Launch Pad Systems, held on March 19. The session drew a packed audience and sparked engaging conversations on the infrastructure and policy needed to support the space economy’s projected growth—from $500 billion today to more than $1.8 trillion within the next decade.

Panelists included:

Their diverse perspectives, spanning government, aerospace engineering, launch systems, and regulatory oversight, offered attendees a comprehensive look at the vital role of spaceports in driving access to space and unlocking economic potential across the globe.

The New Era in Human Habitation in Space: The Private Sector Will Lead the Way.

In addition to this panel, Steve Wolfe, GSA’s Deputy Executive Director, also led a high-level session titled The New Era in Human Habitation in Space: The Private Sector Will Lead the Way. The panel featured leaders from Axiom Space, Vast, Thales Alenia Space, and Voyager Technologies, and emphasized the critical transition from modular habitats to fully functioning space cities.

(Shown left to right: Steve Wolfe, GSA Deputy Executive Director, Tejpaul Bhatia, CRO at Axiom; David Caponio, SVP at Vast; Roberto Provera, Director of New Initiative and Innovation at Thales Alenia Space; and Eric Stallmer, EVP at Voyager Technologies. (Picture: Farnborough International)

“The Farnborough International Space Show provided an invaluable platform to elevate the conversation about launch infrastructure, policy, and innovation,” said James Causey, Executive Director of GSA. “We’re proud to have played a central role in this event and look forward to continuing our work with global partners to shape the future of commercial space access.”

The Global Spaceport Alliance’s presence at the event reinforces its mission to support the development and operation of spaceports.

James Causey

James Causey, GSA Executive Director; Picture: Farnborough International

Global Spaceport Alliance

ABOUT GLOBAL SPACEPORT ALLIANCE

Established in 2015, the Global Spaceport Alliance has become the largest network of spaceports in the world. Members include spaceport operators, suppliers, and government and academic entities involved in the commercial space sector. GSA offers members timely access to information, the ability to engage with key decision makers, and the opportunity to participate in working groups targeting specific areas of interest to the spaceport ecosystem.

2025 GSA Spaceport Summit

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Summit success - thank you

For Immediate Release

The 10th Annual GSA Spaceport Summit of 2025 Sets Record Attendance, reflecting Global Spaceport Growth

Alexandria, VA – February 21, 2025 – The Global Spaceport Alliance (GSA) successfully concluded its 10th Annual GSA Spaceport Summit of 2025, breaking attendance records and reinforcing the expanding global interest in spaceport development. As the official kickoff to Commercial Space Week, this year’s summit attracted the largest audience in its history, uniting industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to shape the future of spaceports as economic powerhouses.

“The incredible growth of the GSA Spaceport Summit reflects the rising global demand for spaceport collaboration, innovation, and strategic development,” said James Causey, GSA Executive Director. “This is further reflected in the steady growth in GSA membership which leapt up 37% this year to 92 and for the second year in a row, attendance has nearly doubled, highlighting the critical role spaceports play in the expanding space economy.” 

The summit welcomed representatives from the United Kingdom, Australia, Italy, Japan, Canada, Greece, Sweden, Portugal, France, Uruguay, and Nigeria, underscoring the growing international collaboration in spaceport development. “We are thrilled to see such a strong international presence shaping these discussions.”, continued Causey.

The event’s theme, “Spaceports as an Economic Powerhouse,” focused on the role of spaceports in regional economic growth, job creation, and commercial investment.

Firefly Aerospace provided updates on its launch programs and its upcoming moon lander mission, scheduled to touch down on the lunar surface on March 2, 2025. FAA Associate Administrator Kelvin Coleman addressed regulatory updates impacting commercial space transportation. The Hague Institute for Global Justice celebrated signatories of its Washington Compact focusing on a space policy framework.  

In addition, International Space University (ISU) President Dr. John Wensveen announced two new training programs in collaboration with GSA: the Spaceport Operations and Management Certification Program and the Global Spaceport Leadership Executive Program, designed to prepare the next generation of spaceport leaders. 

Panel discussions examined key industry topics, including integrating spaceflight standards, challenges of remote versus population-dense spaceports, and updates on U.S. Space Force spaceport initiatives. Experts shared insights on aligning international regulations and maximizing spaceport infrastructure for commercial and defense applications and explored the various revenue streams that spaceports should be examining for their business plans.

The next summit is set for January 27, 2026, as GSA continues to foster collaboration and drive innovation in the space economy.

For more information, photos, and updates, visit the GSA Spaceport Summit webpage.

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See the 2025 Gallery
Global Spaceport Alliance

ABOUT GLOBAL SPACEPORT ALLIANCE

Established in 2015, the Global Spaceport Alliance has become the largest network of spaceports in the world. Members include spaceport operators, suppliers, and government and academic entities involved in the commercial space sector. GSA offers members timely access to information, the ability to engage with key decision makers, and the opportunity to participate in working groups targeting specific areas of interest to the spaceport ecosystem.

Global Spaceport Alliance and FAA Host Inaugural International Spaceport Meeting in Milan, Italy

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International Spaceport Meeting

Advancing Spaceport Innovation and Economic Growth Through Worldwide Collaboration

On October 13, 2024, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Office of Commercial Space Transportation, in collaboration with the Global Spaceport Alliance (GSA), hosted the inaugural International Spaceport Meeting, held on the eve of the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2024 in Milan, Italy. The meeting brought together spaceport operators and regulatory officials from over 20 countries, marking a pivotal moment for the global spaceport industry.

In a deliberate effort to promote global collaboration, the FAA and GSA invited participants from over 20 countries. This exclusive gathering was instrumental in enabling dialogue in support of worldwide cooperation in space transportation.

The event gathered representatives from spaceports, space agencies, and regulatory authorities to address key topics shaping the future of spaceport development and commercial space transportation:

  • Economic Impact of Spaceports
  • Spaceport Regulations (current and future)
  • Spaceport Cooperation
  • Operations and Infrastructure
    • National Spaceport Interagency Working Group update
    • Critical Infrastructure
    • Innovative Spaceport Uses
  • Reducing Duplication and Recognition
    • Streamlining Licensing
    • Bilateral Commercial Space Transportation Agreements
  • Airspace Integration

“Based on the success of this meeting, GSA plans to continue the conversation at the GSA Spaceport Summit. GSA will continue to lead the discussion.” said Dr. George Nield, GSA Chairman. During the meeting, Dr. Nield presented a New Vision for Spaceports, highlighting innovations and strategies to position spaceports as central technology hubs that support a broader economic ecosystem for space-related activities, both physically and virtually. His vision emphasized the importance of developing spaceports not only as launch facilities but as dynamic engines for local and global economic growth.

Dr. Nield’s presentation extended the focus on empowering and supporting spaceports through economic development and community engagement. “Building an Economic Powerhouse Around Your Spaceport” is the theme for the upcoming GSA Spaceport Summit, where discussions will center on innovative strategies to grow the spaceport ecosystem. Through events, webinars, legislative initiatives, and Advisory Groups, GSA remains dedicated to empowering spaceports and ensuring their pivotal role in the global space industry’s future.

GSA Member Initiatives Shine Bright

The GSA takes pride in the proactive efforts of its members, who are at the forefront of advancing the spaceport industry. GSA member Merrick & Company sponsored the luncheon offering a chance for participants to continue the discussion throughout the day.

Two GSA members, Space Centre Australia and the Virginia Commercial Space Flight Authority have been spearheading an initiative to foster greater international cooperation among spaceports. These efforts culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) immediately following the International Spaceport Meeting, with eight commercial spaceports from across five continents (all GSA members) agreeing to explore future collaboration.

MOU Signatories: A Global Commitment

The following GSA members were the inaugural signatories to the MOU:

  • Esrange Space Center, Swedish Space Corporation (Sweden)
  • Hokkaido Spaceport, SPACE COTAN Co., Ltd. (Japan)
  • Virginia Commercial Space Flight Authority (USA)
  • Pacific Spaceport Complex-Alaska, Alaska Aerospace Corporation (USA)
  • SaxaVord Spaceport (Scotland, United Kingdom)
  • Space Centre Australia (Australia)
  • Stargate Peru S.A.C. (Peru)
  • Sutherland Spaceport, Orbital Express Launch Limited (Scotland, United Kingdom)

The MOU aims to strengthen global access to space, enhance affordability, and create opportunities for technological innovation through shared efforts. These discussions will contribute significantly to the growth and sustainability of the commercial space sector.

Looking Ahead

The International Spaceport Meeting underscored the importance of global dialogue in advancing the spaceport industry. With exciting initiatives underway and new partnerships being forged, GSA looks forward to continuing the conversation at the GSA Spaceport Summit and other GSA events, providing a strong forum for the expansion of international cooperation within the spaceport community.

Join us for the GSA Spaceport Summit on January 27 in Orlando, Florida. For more information and to register, please visit GlobalSpaceportAlliance.com.

Global Spaceport Alliance

ABOUT GLOBAL SPACEPORT ALLIANCE

Established in 2015, the Global Spaceport Alliance has become the largest network of spaceports in the world. Members include spaceport operators, suppliers, and government and academic entities involved in the commercial space sector. GSA offers members timely access to information, the ability to engage with key decision makers, and the opportunity to participate in working groups targeting specific areas of interest to the spaceport ecosystem.

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