The Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA) has formally requested a one-time appropriation of $7.5 million from the state legislature to construct a hangar for the state’s first spaceplane. This facility will be located at the Oklahoma Air and Space Port in Burns Flat, with construction anticipated to begin in the summer of 2024 if the funds are approved.
In December 2023, the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) commissioners approved a $490,000 design contract for this hangar. The spaceplane, an unmanned aerial vehicle currently under development, is expected to be delivered to Oklahoma in 2027. Once operational, it will provide flight services to universities, research centers, and private companies, significantly enhancing the state’s aerospace capabilities.
Grayson Ardies, CEO of OSIDA and executive director of ODAA, expressed optimism regarding the project during a recent meeting with state representatives. He highlighted the potential revenue generated by the spaceplane, estimating annual earnings between $3 million and $5 million. Ardies emphasized the importance of attracting more tenants to the spaceport, stating that this growth would pave the way for OSIDA’s self-sustainability.
Economic Impact and Future Prospects
According to Ardies, the spaceport is already looking to secure additional partnerships, with prospects that could bring in an estimated $100 million to $150 million in private capital. He noted that the agency has “fish on the line” and is actively working to reel in these opportunities.
Reflecting on the broader implications of Oklahoma’s growing space industry, Ardies mentioned the support of Jim Bridenstine, the former NASA administrator and current head of the Artemis Group. Bridenstine has been providing strategic consulting to OSIDA since its inception in 2024. Ardies remarked that the current “space renaissance” in the United States is critical not only for commercial endeavors but also for national defense, asserting that space is emerging as a vital battleground for the future.
Engaging the Community
During discussions, Representative Jacob Rosecrants, a Democrat from Norman, inquired about initiatives that could strengthen Oklahoma’s position in the space industry. Ardies responded by stressing the importance of educating young people about the opportunities available in the aerospace sector within the state. He encouraged Oklahomans to recognize that engaging in this industry does not require relocating to traditional aerospace hubs like Houston or Cape Canaveral.
Ardies concluded by inviting residents to participate in the spaceplane’s inaugural launch. He emphasized that raising awareness about career opportunities in Oklahoma’s burgeoning space industry is essential for fostering interest among the younger generation.
As Oklahoma positions itself as a significant player in the aerospace sector, the potential construction of the hangar and the arrival of the spaceplane mark crucial steps toward realizing the state’s ambitions in space exploration and technology.
