Oklahoma is set to become a key player in the realm of spaceflight and microgravity research following a new partnership between the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA) and Dawn Aerospace, as the former brings the company's innovative Aurora spaceplane to the Oklahoma Air and Space Port. Operations are expected to kick off in 2027, establishing Oklahoma as a leading launch site in the U.S., according to a statement obtained by Oklahoma governmental authorities.
"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," highlighted Oklahoma Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell during the announcement on Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics, underscoring the state's commitment to national defense and microgravity research opportunities. Brenda Rolls, Chairwoman of OSIDA, further detailed the scope of this collaboration, revealing that Oklahoma would soon witness theeconomic growth, educational opportunities, and scientific advancement right under the vast skies they hold dear.
The Mk-II Aurora, described by Dawn Aerospace as the fastest, highest-flying aircraft to originate from a runway, has the capability to reach the fringes of space, approximately 100 km altitude, and can do so twice in a single day. This rapid reuse aircraft will provide frequent, affordable microgravity access, which is crucial for fields like cancer research and advanced materials, and particularly benefits Oklahoma's academic community. Founded in 2017 and currently employing over 120 individuals across multiple international locations, Dawn Aerospace also plays a significant role in green satellite propulsion technology.
New job prospects, infrastructure investment, and first-year free flight access for Oklahoma universities are among the anticipated benefits of the collaboration, Representative Anthony Moore (R-Clinton) conveyed his excitement on the state's investment in space infrastructure paying off, ensuring that Oklahoma carves its name as an influencer in futures aerospace and defense scenarios. The Oklahoma Air & Space Port, managed by OSIDA and situated at the Clinton-Sherman Airport (CSM) in Burns Flat, is noteworthy for having the fourth-largest concrete civilian runway in North America and was the inaugural inland spaceport to receive a horizontal launch license by the FAA in 2006, the authority responsible for 14 spaceports across ten states.
Entities such as Scout Space, Johns Hopkins University, Cal Poly, and Arizona State University have already engaged with Dawn Aerospace as early customers for payload flights.
