Space Florida Signs Deal with Masten Space Systems

Space Florida has signed an agreement with Masten Space Systems to demonstrate reusable launch vehicles at Cape Canaveral in Florida. Image Credit: Masten Space Systems

CAPE CANAVERAL– Florida’s aerospace development organization, Space Florida and Masten Space Systems have announced their intent to demonstrate the capabilities of a Masten sub-orbital reusable launch vehicle from Space Launch Complex 36 (SLC 36) at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

Masten Space Systems is a rocket technology research and development company based out of Mojave, CA. Their rockets are designed to be fully-reusable, vertical-takeoff-and-landing suborbital vehicles designed for frequent operation affordably, with a small crew – and several times a day.

“We have been looking at Florida as a launch option for some time now,” stated Masten Founder and CEO Dave Masten. “We are excited to begin the process of determining if Launch Complex 36 is a good location for our flight operations, and hope to attempt a demonstration launch sometime in 2011.”

It is hoped that Masten’s and other suborbital vehicles will enable inexpensive, reliable, and frequent access to suborbital space. This provides customers with access to microgravity in particular and the space environment in general.

“We are thrilled to have Masten looking at Florida’s Space Coast,” stated Space Florida President Frank DiBello. “We view companies like Masten as the catalysts for innovation in our state’s aerospace economy. There is significant potential for their launch vehicles to provide a valuable platform for commercial research and development, and we look forward to working with them to explore that potential here in Florida.”

Masten Space Systems is an aerospace company developing reusable vertical takeoff, vertical landing (VTVL) launch vehicles, rocket-related products, and other engineering services. Space Florida was established to ensure Florida’s position in aerospace research, investment, exploration and commerce.

This Week at Cape Canaveral

Send Holiday Greetings To ISS Astronauts