Space event explores how Houston is pushing the aerospace industry forward

NASA astronauts training at JSC in 2019 (Courtesy NASA/Bill Brassard)

Aerospace industry leaders shared why Houston is the current and future leader in human space exploration at the partnership’s annual State of Space event on October 11.

NASA astronaut Kate Rubins said in a panel discussion, “In the very near future, we’re going to land humans on the moon and say ‘Moon, Houston.’ It is the only city in the world where

Steve Altemus, President and CEO of Intuitive Machines, Peggy Guirgis, General Manager of Space Systems, Collins Aerospace, and Vanessa Wyche, Director of the Johnson Space Center, also joined the panel moderated by David Alexander, Director of the Rice Space Institute. was a member The panel discussed exciting developments happening in Houston, including NASA’s involvement in the Artemis program. JSC serves as mission control for all manned missions, including the launched Artemis 1.

“To bring this mission together to the moon and start from Houston is incredible,” Artemas said. Intuitive Machines is working on several projects for NASA, including the development of lunar landers and other technologies. The Houston-based company and Collins Aerospace are the primary tenants of the Houston Spaceport, a hub for aerospace and aviation activities.

Panelists pointed to the region’s talent, infrastructure and ‘community’ as attributes that attract businesses. That sense of community allows aerospace companies, NASA and others to “unite to achieve our goals,” Artemas said.

But panelists also noted that continued investment in infrastructure, building a talent pipeline, and more public-private partnerships will be key to Houston being considered an epicenter of human exploration and discovery.

“We must continue to work together not only to establish infrastructure, but also to continue building a talent pipeline that will keep pace with our rapidly changing ecosystem,” Guirgis said.

Innovators, businesses, and local colleges and universities have already demonstrated their commitment to invest in positioning Houston as a leader in the aerospace industry. The spaceport’s Collins Aerospace Facility will include Houston’s first spaceflight incubator, enabling startups, universities and industry professionals to solve complex space technology challenges. In addition, San Jacinto his college EDGE center is focused on building a talent pipeline and Aeon has partnered with his JSC to launch a technology transfer center in Aeon to boost innovation.

“No country can do this on its own. It will require international, industrial and academic partners.

Houston is home to more than 350 companies involved in aircraft and spacecraft manufacturing, research, technology, and other air transportation support activities. Aircraft, spacecraft and parts trade in the region will total $1.3 billion in 2021.

Learn more about Houston’s aerospace and aviation industry.