Commercial Spaceflight Operations Act gets an ASA Endorsement

Commercial Spaceflight Operations Act gets an ASA Endorsement
ASA - Lt Governors

Louisiana Lt Governor Billy Nungesser, Virginia Lt Governor Winsome Earle-Sears, and Ross Garelick Bell, ASA Executive Director, at the 2024 Aerospace States Association meeting in New Orleans.

Commercial Spaceflight Operations Act gets an ASA Endorsement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 

Commercial Spaceflight Operations Act Picks Up Key Endorsement

GSA Applauds Action by the Aerospace States Association.

 

[ALEXANDRIA, VA., August 21, 2024] At the annual meeting of the Aerospace States Association (ASA), which took place on June 24-27, 2024, in New Orleans, a resolution was adopted unanimously to urge Congressional passage of the Commercial Spaceflight Operations Act of 2024. The proposed legislation, which was developed by the Global Spaceport Alliance, is intended to meet the needs of the evolving commercial spaceflight industry by updating national policy, streamlining government oversight, and providing needed infrastructure funding. 

Key provisions include:

  • Establishment of the Commercial Space Transportation Administration, by moving the Office of Commercial Space Transportation out from under the FAA and having it report directly to the Secretary of Transportation.
  • Creation of a commercial spaceflight research alliance to enable progress in addressing issues of interest to government, industry, academia, and the international community.
  • Adoption of a National Spaceport Policy that would support the development of a network of spaceports and allow assured access to space for all users.
  • Updating the Space Transportation Infrastructure Matching Grants Program and providing funding to support projects that will increase the safety, capacity, efficiency, and resiliency of space transportation operations.
  • Modification of the statutory definition for Space Support Vehicles to enable commercial spaceflight companies to conduct human spaceflight training programs using high-performance or former military aircraft, just like NASA does.
  • Support for development of high-speed, long-distance transportation, specifically point-to-point transportation through space, which is expected to be a major game changer for both national security and economic competitiveness.

ASA is a nonpartisan organization comprising Lt. Governors, Governor-appointed delegates, and members from aerospace organizations and academia. It focuses on research and development, workforce training, economic development, STEM education, and maintaining competitiveness in the global marketplace. This year’s meeting was hosted by Louisiana Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser, ASA Chair. 

Dr. George C. Nield, GSA Chairman, expressed his thanks and appreciation to Lt. Governor Nungesser, Virginia Lt. Governor Winsome Earle-Sears (ASA Vice Chair), and Ross Garelick Bell (ASA Executive Director) for their visionary leadership.

“Having ASA’s support on the Commercial Spaceflight Operations Act and related issues will make a tremendous difference in enabling timely action on Capitol Hill,” noted Dr. Nield. “GSA looks forward to expanding our partnership with ASA in the future as we identify needed aerospace policy changes at the federal, state, and local level.”

GSA is committed to engaging with government decision-makers and key stakeholders to educate and advocate for essential policy changes. While the Commercial Spaceflight Operations Act is primarily focused on changes to U.S. policy, the benefits will likely be global in nature, and could set the standard for spaceport operations around the world.

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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.

Jim Bridenstine to Keynote the GSA Spaceport Summit – a Commercial Space Week Event

Jim Bridenstine announced as Keynote speaker at the GSA Spaceport Summit

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Jim Bridenstine Named Keynote Speaker for GSA Spaceport Summit, Part of Commercial Space Week

(Alexandria, VA. Nov 7, 2023) – The Global Spaceport Alliance (GSA) is proud to announce that Jim Bridenstine, former NASA Administrator, will serve as the keynote speaker for the highly anticipated GSA Spaceport Summit, taking place on January 29, 2024 in Orlando, Florida.. The summit is the first element of Commercial Space Week, and is hosted in collaboration with SpaceCom and the Space Mobility Conference.

Mr. Bridenstine, who served as the Administrator of NASA from 2018 to 2021, brings a wealth of expertise and insights into the future of space exploration and commercial space endeavors. His leadership at NASA has left a lasting impact on the space industry and its direction, making him an exceptional choice to address the attendees of the GSA Spaceport Summit.

The GSA Spaceport Summit is a premier event for spaceport operators, spaceport contractors, and entrepreneurs in the space sector. The event features discussions and presentations on the latest innovations, challenges, and opportunities in the growing spaceport industry. As the keynote speaker, Mr. Bridenstine will share his unique perspective on the future of space operations and the role of spaceports in enabling commercial space activities.

Commercial Space Week is a week-long celebration of the burgeoning commercial space industry, providing a platform for thought leaders, industry experts, and stakeholders to come together, exchange ideas, and explore collaborations. In partnership with SpaceCom and the Space Mobility Conference, this event promises to be an exceptional opportunity for attendees to gain insights into the exciting developments within the commercial space sector.

Details and registration of the GSA Spaceport Summit, as well as the full Commercial Space Week schedule, can be found on the event’s website www.globalspaceportalliance.com. Registration to the Summit is free for GSA Members. 

For media inquiries, interview requests, or additional information, please contact Izzy House, GSA Director of Marketing Strategies at globalspaceportalliance@gmail.com.

About the 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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EQUATORIAL LAUNCH AUSTRALIA signs multi-launch contract with INNOSPACE to conduct orbital launches from the ARNHEM SPACE CENTRE 

Equatorial Launch Australia

17 August 2023, Adelaide, Australia and Sejong, Korea

Equatorial Launch Australia (ELA) the developer, owner and operator of the Arnhem Space Centre (ASC) on the Gove Peninsula in Australia’s Northern Territory, has today signed a multi-year, multi-launch contract with Korean aerospace company, INNOSPACE, for a series of orbital launches from the Australian spaceport.

The agreement will see the launch of several INNOSPACE rocket variants each carrying between 50kg and 500kg payloads into low earth orbit from the ASC across a five-year timeframe until Dec 2028.

ELA is widely regarded as the most advanced multi-user commercial spaceport in the world, and the signing of this contract has validated the business concept and development plans by securing INNOSPACE – the only hybrid-fuelled rocket company worldwide to have successfully launched into space – as the first commercial company to become a ‘resident launcher’ (long term tenant and regular launcher) at the Australian spaceport. The first launches by INNOSPACE from the ASC are expected to commence in early 2025. ELA previously had a three-launch contract with NASA.

ELA has been working with the Australian Space Agency (ASA) to expand its existing Launch Facilities License (LFL) to support orbital launches from the ASC with a range of orbital rockets, differing azimuths and trajectories and a much wider array of propellant mixes and rocket configurations as part of its Phase 2 Development Plan. This work with the ASA will now expand to assist INNOSPACE to obtain its first Australian Launch Permit (ALP). This ALP approval process is expected to take between 6 and 14 months commencing later his year.

As one of up to seven planned ‘resident launchers’ INNOSPACE will be allocated a Space Launch Complex (SLC), comprising two modern ASC launch pads customised to INNOSPACE’s rocket requirements and an extensive Horizontal Integration Facility (HIF) which allows for rocket assembly, payload integration (in an ISO 8 clean room) and has overhead cranes, offices, workshops and system test facilities in a temperature and humidity controlled environment. Each SLC is fully enclosed and encompasses a range of ITAR compliance measures including video and movement sensor security, extensive fencing, and access control.

Michael Jones, Executive Chairman and Group CEO of ELA said the contract with INNOSPACE was a major milestone for ELA. “We are delighted to announce this multi-launch and long-term agreement with INNOSPACE and what we hope is the first of several launch agreements which we have been developing for some time. INNOSPACE is a truly innovative company with outstanding technology and is one of the leaders in the emerging market of smaller launch providers. INNOSPACE is one of the first of the next batch of “new space” rocket companies to launch and with increasing congestion at major spaceports globally, INNOSPACE has recognised the unique launch/geographic, infrastructure and commercial benefits of launching from the ASC.”

“The launch contract and associated space launch complex agreement which we have been discussing for over a year provide INNOSPACE with the flexibility they require around launching a range of launch vehicles at an increasing cadence over the next five years,” he said.

“This contract demonstrates the potential for the ASC to deliver on our goal of being the pre-eminent commercial launch site globally. With the combination of our launch pad design/technology, launch inclination options, geopolitically stable base, infrastructure, logistics and engineering support solutions we have developed, we know we offer a highly competitive and attractive spaceport solution,” said Mr Jones.

“Last year’s three successful launches with NASA allowed us to showcase the skill and capabilities of both the ELA team and the Arnhem Space Centre to the world. We’re excited to embark on that journey again – this time with INNOSPACE. It is a very important part of our ethos and culture to be known for what we achieve and not what we predict, and this contract again shows this aspect of ELA.”

Soojong Kim, CEO of INNOSPACE said, “we are thrilled to have secured an optimal launch spaceport, the ASC, which has the benefits of launching from an equatorial spaceport and brings launch efficiencies through this multi-launch agreement with ELA. Our goal is to offer customers greater flexibility for their launch schedule and orbit access with frequent dedicated launch opportunities. We expect to enable our satellite customers to achieve significant innovation with our orbital launch services by launching from the ASC.”

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Equatorial Launch Australia
Amanda Hudswell,
Head of Marketing & Communications
amanda.hudswell@ela.space
Ph: +61 (0) 403166947
www.ela.space

INNOSPACE
Jeonghee Kim
Communications Manager
jhkim2@innospc.com
Ph: +82.44.715.7948
www.innospc.com

Global Spaceport Alliance Welcomes KBR

Global Spaceport Alliance welcomes KBR

KBR Joins the Global Spaceport Alliance!

We are thrilled to announce that KBR has joined the Global Spaceport Alliance (GSA), allowing it to more broadly share its extensive aerospace experience and capabilities with the international spaceport community.

Dr. George C. Nield, GSA’s Chairman, pointed out that, “KBR has a tremendous track record of working with both government and industry to achieve mission success, and I know that we will all be able to benefit significantly from their insights and their innovative approaches.”

KBR’s Government Solutions U.S. advances the priorities of the U.S. government and related commercial entities. As the team behind the mission, KBR provides a range of high-end services and expertise in scientific research, systems engineering, data analytics, and mission operations around the globe. 

Its in-depth portfolio spans defense modernization; military, civil and commercial space; intelligence; cyber; advanced logistics; and base operations. Whether testing the latest military aircraft or training astronauts, they equip those on the frontline and those exploring a new frontier. 

“We are delighted to join GSA and collaborate on the continued advancement of commercial space endeavors,” said Todd May, KBR Senior Vice President, Science and Space. “GSA’s visionary efforts to develop a global network of spaceports to help facilitate increased access to space and grow the space economy aligns perfectly with KBR’s goals to further human exploration to the moon and beyond. We are excited to see how the future unfolds and proud to be a part of it together.”

Known for excelling in complex and extreme environments, KBR is trusted to help their customers meet their most pressing challenges today and into the future. Their wide-ranging experience will be a valuable asset to the spaceport community.

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 Welcomes the International Space University

GSA welcomes ISU

Enriching the Spaceport Community: International Space University Joins Global Spaceport Alliance!

We are excited to announce the newest addition to our team, International Space University (ISU), who will be joining the Global Spaceport Alliance (GSA) membership. With a strong background in space education, ISU brings a wealth of expertise and enthusiasm that will significantly enhance our capabilities.

George Nield, GSA’s Chairman noted, “Given ISU’s reputation for excellence and its extensive cadre of alumni, I look forward to seeing what we can accomplish together to energize and expand the international spaceport community.

ISU was founded in 1987 and is a private, non-profit [501(c)3] university registered in France and the U.S. ISU provides “3-I” (i.e., international, interdisciplinary, and intercultural) workforce and leadership development programs for participants at the graduate student and early career professional levels for the benefit of all humanity. 

ISU has a central campus in Strasbourg, France and is establishing a permanent presence in North America. ISU has 5400 alumni shaping the international space ecosystem in 110 countries, including astronauts, entrepreneurs, space industry leaders, and government executives. 

Dr. Ken Davidian, Vice President, North American Operations of the International Space University said, “ISU is thrilled to join the Global Spaceport Alliance, enabling us to share our distinct international, interdisciplinary, and intercultural approach to space education and professional development with the global spaceport community.”

Their deep understanding of space is poised to make an immediate impact as we continue to provide support for the growing spaceport industry.

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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.

Join ISU for a five-day program coming up!

SPACE SECTOR CRASH COURSE on November 12-17, 2023 in Houston, Texas at the Holiday Inn Houston-Webster at 302 Bay Area Blvd – Webster, TX 77598

Global Spaceport Alliance welcomes Linde, Inc.

GSA welcomes Linde

Linde joins Global Spaceport Alliance

Linde has more than 100 years of experience and the resources to supply, operate and manage all the utility, cryogenic propellants, rare gases, additive manufacturing materials and systems you need for all the elements that lead to a successful launch.

One of the vacuum chambers being installed at RAL Space’s R100 facility. (STFC RAL Space)
One of the vacuum chambers being installed at RAL Space’s R100 facility. (STFC RAL Space)

Linde is a leading global industrial gases and engineering company and offers:
• Product supply consistency and service reliability on a global scale
• Site gas management and supply system support
• Investment-reducing facility leases
• Safety and environmental compliance
• Years of commercial space experience

The results for you are lower cost and less risk because of:
• Optimum cryogenic system design that improves system performance
• Additive manufacturing powders, gases and surface coating services
• Consistent propellant, component gas and liquid launch gas quality
• Reliable delivery, filling and storage expertise
• Plant-to-launch supply focus
• Risk reduction and minimized capital investment

Simply put, Linde offers world-class supply systems and products to meet your local needs.

Linde

www.Lindeus.com