The recent shift in the U.S. federal policy towards space signals increased
opportunities for expansion of Maryland’s already established foothold in
the space industry. The state’s robust research community, strong
educational opportunities and stellar workforce position it to act on the
following recommendations. 1. Exploit and Enhance Maryland’s Leadership in Space and Earth Science Research
& Development
2. Pursue Business Development Opportunities in Space and Earth Sciences and
Technology Commercialization to Create New Products, Wealth and Employment
3. Building on Wallops - An Opportunity for the Eastern Shore
4. Educate and Train People for Space and Earth Sciences Sectors
A hub of activity in the growing realm of climate change research, Maryland could become the “capital of Earth Science,” according to John Sommerer, Space Department Head, JHU APL.
The NASA Wallops Flight Facility (WFF), located 40 miles from Salisbury and employing more than 700 Marylanders is a premier research center and rocket launch site. WFF’s Mid-Atlantic Spaceport, one of four U.S. spaceports licensed for orbital access is slated to service the International Space Station. Prospects for companies to partner with WFF tenants NASA, NOAA, the Naval Surface Combat Systems Center and the U.S. Coast Guard have the ability to transform the Lower Shore.