Shaping the Future of Space: How Would You Invest $150 Million to Propel Texas into the Space Industry?
What would you do with $150 million to help promote the future of the space industry? Exploration, commercialization, national defense, pharmaceutical? In this case, the sky is NOT the limit when it comes to what should be done. Going forward, the newly established Texas Space Commission has the amazing opportunity to shape the future of the US Space Industry.
The State of Texas has allocated $150 million to stimulate the commercial space industry. As we consider how to best utilize these funds, I’m eager to hear your thoughts and suggestions.
The mission of the Texas Space Commission: “Promoting innovation in the field of space operations and commercial aerospace opportunities, including the integration of space, aeronautics, and aviation industries into the Texas economy.”
Recent discussions have highlighted several key priorities:
1. Nuclear Power Sources: There is significant interest in optimizing technologies using nuclear power for space missions, along with the necessary policy and legislative support. Rich Julien has some thoughts!
2. Infrastructure and Research: There is a pressing need for robust infrastructure and cutting-edge research to support and expand our commercial space operations. Seth Wilk, PhD and the team at UT Austin Defense Research Advancement are sure to be involved. Not to mention Evan Loomis and the team at ICON and what they have already built.
3. Collaboration with the Private Sector: Combining the $150 million fund with other sources to create a competitive offering, including potential partnerships with the private sector and determining the ROI, particularly in relation to national defense. Craig Cummings and Moonshots Capital are already involved with companies operating in space.
4. Leveraging National Defense Partnerships: Supporting technologies in demand by the military and attracting new entities to Texas. Drew Scheberle and the National Security Innovation Council as well as Nina Shelat and the Center for Defense Innovation at Capital Factory will also help lead the way.
What innovative projects or areas would you focus on?
How can we best leverage these funds to advance Texas in the commercial space industry?
Your insights and ideas are invaluable as we move forward.
In addition, I recommend signing up for the TSC Newsletter to stay up to date with the new Executive Director, Norman Garza, Jr., and the team are doing to spur collaboration.
Looking forward to your thoughts and suggestions.
