WASHINGTON, D.C. June 5, 2023- The Defense Innovation Unit’s (DIU) National Security Innovation Capital (NSIC) program has officially awarded The Spaceport Company a $1.5 million contract to spearhead the design and development of a cutting-edge, mobile, sea-based spaceport. This groundbreaking project aims to establish a revolutionary launch platform capable of conducting orbital class launches, opening up new horizons in space exploration, and bolstering national security capabilities. Along with proven expertise in space infrastructure development, and a reputation for pushing the boundaries of what is possible, The Spaceport Company brings a wealth of experience and a bold vision to this landmark initiative.
The ambitious endeavor aims to address the evolving needs of the national security community by providing a flexible and agile launch capability. The mobile sea-based spaceport will enable efficient deployment of satellite payloads, reducing launch constraints imposed by traditional terrestrial launch sites. This ground-breaking solution promises to revolutionize space launch operations and offer unparalleled versatility for a wide range of defense and civilian applications.
The Spaceport Company’s innovative design will incorporate state-of-the-art technologies and advanced engineering concepts to create a truly unique platform that’s differentiated from legacy approaches. By leveraging expertise from both the aerospace and maritime industries, the company aims to develop a robust and adaptable spaceport that can withstand the harshest oceanic conditions while delivering reliable and cost-effective orbital class launches.
“We are thrilled and honored to have been selected by NSIC for this groundbreaking project,” said Tom Marotta, CEO of The Spaceport Company. “Our team is excited to leverage our expertise in space infrastructure development to design and develop a mobile sea-based spaceport that will provide novel capabilities as well as support the continued growth of the commercial launch industry. By investing in advanced space launch infrastructure, NSIC is actively fostering a resilient, responsive, and forward-thinking national defense apparatus that is equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century.”
As The Spaceport Company embarks on this ambitious undertaking, the company remains committed to adhering to rigorous safety protocols, environmental stewardship, and close collaboration with regulatory authorities to ensure the project’s success.
The contract with The Spaceport Company underscores the U.S. government’s commitment to fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors to drive technological advancements that will shape the future of national security and space exploration.
ABOUT THE SPACEPORT COMPANY
The Spaceport Company is a leading provider of innovative infrastructure solutions. With a dedicated team of engineers, scientists, and maritime professionals, the company is committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in infrastructure technology. The Spaceport Company’s vision is to create cutting-edge launch platforms that enable a wide range of space missions, driving advancements in scientific research, national security, and commercial space endeavors.
ABOUT NSIC
Housed within the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), National Security Innovation Capital (NSIC) is a Department of Defense (DoD) initiative that provides funding to early-stage hardware startups commercializing dual-use products critical to national security and economic competitiveness. NSIC enables such startups to advance key milestones in their product development plans and reduce inherent technical risks by addressing the shortfall of private investment from trusted sources.
Media Contacts
The Spaceport Company
Lindsey Rogers- Communications Coordinator
[email protected]