New Partnership Boosts Rocket Launches in Alaska

FAIRBANKS, Alaska – A landmark agreement between the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) Geophysical Institute (GI) and the Alaska Aerospace Corporation (AAC) aims to enhance rocket launch capabilities at the Poker Flat Research Range. The formal agreement was signed during a ceremony on Tuesday at the Geophysical Institute, with officials highlighting its potential to secure a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) orbital license.

“This partnership will be amazing and will allow for a higher tempo of launches,” said GI Director Robert McCoy, emphasizing Alaska’s unique position with two operational rocket ranges. AAC CEO John Oberst noted that the collaboration would open new opportunities, particularly as NASA expresses increased interest in hypersonic orbital launches.

The Alaska Aerospace Corporation, a state chartered entity established in 1991, has been launching from Kodiak Island since 1998. It operates the Pacific Spaceport Complex-Alaska, the state’s only commercial orbital rocket launch site. In contrast, Poker Flat has historically conducted suborbital research launches but is now looking to expand its capabilities with AAC’s expertise.

“We’ve got the right mix for the needs of the country, which is demanding more access to space,” Oberst stated. The partnership is expected to benefit both parties as AAC seeks to amplify its launch frequency while addressing the growing U.S. demand for launch sites.

The agreement, set for five years with renewal options, will explore various missions utilizing both organizations’ resources. UAF President Pat Pitney highlighted the broader implications of this partnership, suggesting it represents a new era for Alaska’s aerospace sector.

As Alaska positions itself as a potential low-cost gateway to space, the partnership between GI and AAC may pave the way for future innovations in aerospace technology.

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