In the realm of space exploration and education, numerous organizations work collaboratively to push the boundaries of technology, innovation, and knowledge. These organizations span from state-sponsored initiatives to national non-profits, each playing a crucial role in advancing space-related activities. Here’s a comprehensive look at some key space organizations.
Aerospace States Association (ASA)
The Aerospace States Association is an alliance of over 30 states working together to support aerospace education and policy initiatives. Oklahoma Lt. Governor Mary Fallin chairs the ASA, which aims to enhance aerospace development and collaboration across the United States.
Air Force 45th Space Wing
Operating Cape Canaveral Air Station and the Eastern Range, the Air Force 45th Space Wing is crucial for launching operations. Brigadier General Mark H. Owen commands the wing, reporting to the USAF Space Command in Colorado, ensuring the successful deployment of military and commercial payloads.
Astronauts Memorial Foundation
Dedicated to honoring fallen astronauts and promoting space education, the Astronauts Memorial Foundation oversees various K-12 programs. President Stephen Feldman directs the use of 50% of Challenger revenues to support these educational initiatives, fostering a new generation of space enthusiasts.
Canaveral Council of Technical Societies
This local membership organization represents various technical societies, many of which are not directly related to space. The Canaveral Council sponsors the annual Space Congress event on Florida’s Space Coast, promoting dialogue and collaboration among technical professionals.
Challenger Center for Space Science Education
A non-profit organization with 34 Challenger Learning Centers nationwide, including operations in Jacksonville, Tallahassee, and Tampa. The Challenger Center sponsors hands-on space education programs, providing immersive learning experiences for students.
Delaware AeroSpace Education Foundation (DASEF)
Founded by Dr. Stephanie M. Gerjovich Wright, a NASA Space Ambassador, DASEF aims to enlighten and inspire students and the public in Delaware. The foundation prepares individuals to meet the challenges of the 21st century through innovative aerospace education programs.
Enterprise Florida, Inc.
This state-sponsored economic development organization focuses on space industry development. President Darrell Kelley leads Enterprise Florida, which reports to a board chaired by Governor Jeb Bush, promoting Florida as a hub for aerospace activities.
Environmental Systems Commercial Space Technology Center
Based at the University of Florida, this NASA-sponsored institute develops commercially viable environmental systems technologies. It plays a key role in advancing sustainable space exploration methods.
Florida Aviation Aerospace Alliance
Sponsored by Enterprise Florida, this membership organization guides statewide aviation and aerospace policy. Executive Director Marshall Heard works with Chairman Jim Bodine to address the aviation and aerospace needs of the state.
Florida Aerospace Finance Corporation
Led by Frank DiBello, this corporation acts as a clearinghouse for innovative financing of aerospace projects. It is modeled after the successful Florida Export Finance Corp and aims to support the growth of the aerospace industry in Florida.
Florida Defense Alliance
An arm of Enterprise Florida, the Florida Defense Alliance coordinates statewide defense industry issues. It represents defense-oriented agencies and communities, ensuring Florida’s defense industry remains robust and competitive.
Florida Space Authority
This authority oversees statewide space-related economic and academic development. Executive Director CAPT Winston Scott reports to a Board of Supervisors, appointed by the governor and legislature, to support space-related businesses.
Florida Space Business Roundtable
Representing space-related companies across Florida, this membership organization is led by Chairman Bud Gardner. The Roundtable organizes policy advocacy initiatives, education projects, and business-oriented events.
Florida Space Grant Consortium
Hosted by the University of Central Florida, this NASA-sponsored consortium includes Florida universities and colleges. Director Sam Durrance administers up to $500,000 annually in NASA funds for education and research programs.
Florida Space Institute
Hosted by the University of Central Florida, this institute expands academic involvement in space research and education. Directed by Dr. Ron Phillips, it facilitates direct interaction with the spaceport.
Florida Space Research Institute
An independent institute established in law, it oversees multi-university space activities. Executive Director Sam Durrance reports to an industry-led Board of Directors, supporting various space research and educational programs.
Institute for Human & Machine Cognition
Supported by NASA, this institute at the University of West Florida focuses on understanding cognition in humans and machines. With over $10 million in annual research funding, it develops cognitive prostheses to enhance human intellectual capacities.
Kennedy Space Center Support Committee
Led by Executive Director Nikki Walker, this political organization sponsors fundraisers and political visits to Kennedy Space Center. It is supported by Space Coast political and industry contacts.
NASA Alumni League
Composed of retired NASA employees, this national membership organization provides expertise for various projects. The Space Coast chapter reviews space research and education grant proposals for Florida’s space-related institutions.
NASA/FIU Regional Applications Center
Located at Florida International University, this NASA-sponsored center focuses on high-performance computing and database applications. It includes the TerraFly remote sensing data distribution system.
NASA Kennedy Space Center
Responsible for NASA’s launch and payload support operations, KSC focuses on R&D programs. Director Roy Bridges oversees operations and liaises with NASA HQ in Washington.
National Keep-It-Sold (NKIS)
A grassroots group organized by chambers of commerce, including the Cocoa Beach Area Chamber, to support NASA’s space exploration programs. It advocates for continued space exploration to national elected officials.
National Space Club
With a chapter in Florida, the National Space Club sponsors industry events, educational programs, and award ceremonies. The Florida chapter, chaired by Rick Abramson, supports various space-related activities.
National Space Society
This national membership organization includes several Florida chapters. It consists of private citizens who support space exploration and advocate for continued space advancements.
Society of Performers, Artists, Athletes and Celebrities for Space Exploration (SPAACSE)
A not-for-profit organization dedicated to educating the public about space exploration. It highlights the benefits of space activities to mankind and promotes public interest in space.
SpaceTEC®
Funded by the National Science Foundation, SpaceTEC® provides educational resources for aerospace technology. It fosters interest in science and technology and offers a national certification program for aerospace technicians.
Space Communications Technology Center
Based at Florida Atlantic University, this NASA-sponsored center develops satellite communications technologies. It focuses on advancing commercial satellite communications capabilities.
Space Foundation
A national non-profit organization advancing space awareness and education. The Space Foundation hosts prominent events like the National Space Symposium and provides educational programs to support space endeavors.
Summer Industrial Fellowship for Teachers (SIFT)
This non-profit group sponsors summer employment for teachers within space-related companies. Co-funded with Challenger license plate revenues, it aims to integrate practical space industry experience into education.
Technological Research & Development Authority
Responsible for space-related academic grant programs, business incubators, and technology transfer programs. Director Frank Kinney administers funds from Challenger license plate revenues and other sources to support educational and research initiatives.