Oklahoma eyes space hangar for Dawn Aerospace

Oklahoma is advancing its aerospace ambitions with a significant investment in new infrastructure. The Oklahoma Aerospace and Aeronautics Commission has approved $490,900 for the design of a spacecraft hangar at the Burns Flat air and space port. This initiative is a key step following a $17 million state agreement with the international space company Dawn Aerospace.

The Burns Flat facility has been selected as the premier U.S. site to host Dawn Aerospace's uncrewed suborbital plane. This innovative aircraft is designed for various applications, including life science research and defense. With flights anticipated to commence in 2027, the new hangar will be crucial for storing and managing the spacecraft. Plans for the facility include advanced features such as a control room with a viewing area and a dedicated payload processing area.

Further bolstering the state's space industry, the commission also dedicated approximately $160,000 towards a statewide space industry study. These investments underscore Oklahoma's commitment to developing its aerospace capabilities and fostering innovation within the sector, aiming to attract cutting-edge technology and research to the state.