Paper Session II-A - Using State Research Capabilities to Expand Space Industry Activities Through the Florida Space Research Institute

Paper Session II-A - Using State Research Capabilities to Expand Space Industry Activities Through the Florida Space Research Institute

Radisson Resort at the Port, Salon I

Over the past fifty years the State of Florida has led the way for the United States’ launch operations through the military, civil, and commercial activity in the Cape Canaveral area. Significant changes in the world's launch environment and in the government-industry relationship; however, are now bringing space-related industry needs as well as opportunities to a greater level of importance in Florida’s future. As the nation seeks to increase and enhance the commercial tempo of space programs there are new roles for the State of Florida. . In addition, the State of Florida has sought methods of increasing Florida’s place in commercial space. Harnessing the State of Florida’s research capabilities not only supports the goal of increased commercialization of space, as the new century and millenium dawn, but also takes advantage of the significant growth opportunities in that field of operations. The State of Florida’s public and private universities, together with government and industrial organizations will fulfill a vital role in this effort by virtue of their research capabilities.