Phoenix has really stepped up as a powerhouse in America’s space economy. The city blends advanced semiconductor manufacturing with a lineup of established aerospace companies.
Over 1,250 supply chain contributors call the region home. Phoenix ranks fifth nationwide for aerospace and defense manufacturing jobs.
Phoenix’s space industry covers manufacturing, research, and commercial operations that support both government and private space missions. Big names like Raytheon, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and Honeywell anchor this sector.
But honestly, the industry stretches well beyond traditional aerospace. Virgin Galactic, for example, is assembling next-generation spaceplanes in Mesa and aims to start research payload flights in 2026.
Local players like Paragon Space Development in Tucson and Qwaltec in Tempe bring their own specialized tech to the table.
Semiconductor integration gives Phoenix a real edge over other space hubs. Everspin Technologies, for instance, makes magnetoresistive RAM (MRAM) for spacecraft—this stuff can handle radiation and extreme temperatures where regular electronics just fail.
Arizona State University boosts the whole ecosystem with over 120 space industry partnerships and involvement in more than 25 active space missions. The university’s NewSpace Initiative helps train students in aerospace and systems engineering.
The Phoenix space industry supports about 66,000 jobs and adds nearly $9 billion to Arizona’s economy. That growth actually beats the national average for aerospace.
Government investment is speeding things up even more. The U.S. Department of Commerce picked ASU Research Park for a national semiconductor research facility under the CHIPS and Science Act.
This new facility will prototype advanced chips for quantum computing and rocket systems.
Space tourism is exploding as the fastest-growing segment. According to Grand View Research, space tourism could turn into a multibillion-dollar market by 2030.
Phoenix companies are moving quickly to grab a piece of that action.
The Department of Defense’s Microelectronics Commons Southwest Hub is training workers in specialized manufacturing. These programs help fill workforce gaps as companies ramp up.
Phoenix plays a huge role in the global space economy through its semiconductor supply chains. No satellite, probe, or crewed spacecraft can function without advanced chips tough enough for space.
The local chipmaking ecosystem includes Intel, TSMC, and ON Semiconductor, with billions invested in their facilities. These companies build components for autonomous navigation, satellite imaging, and mission-critical computing systems around the world.
Arizona’s space-qualified manufacturing attracts international partnerships. The mix of established aerospace companies and cutting-edge semiconductor production opens doors for complex space missions.
The state’s renewed focus—thanks to the Arizona Space Commission—gives Phoenix a shot at capturing more of the projected $1.8 trillion growth in the space economy over the next decade.
This government support helps coordinate industry efforts and makes life a little easier for space companies looking to comply with regulations.
Phoenix is home to major aerospace manufacturers that build everything from commercial aircraft to military systems.
Space vehicle producers and satellite manufacturers are drawn to the region, and honestly, Arizona’s clear skies and business-friendly environment don’t hurt.
Boeing runs big operations in Phoenix, focusing on commercial aircraft components and military systems. They picked Arizona for its skilled workforce and tax benefits.
Honeywell Aerospace has a strong presence in the Phoenix area too. They make avionics systems, aircraft engines, and navigation equipment for both commercial and military use.
Northrop Grumman keeps expanding in Arizona’s aerospace corridor. Their Phoenix facilities develop advanced radar and electronic warfare tech.
Major Manufacturing Focus Areas:
Intel’s semiconductor facilities in Phoenix support aerospace applications. Their chips power flight control systems and satellite communications gear across the industry.
Orbital ATK, now part of Northrop Grumman, specializes in space launch vehicles made right here in Arizona. They build solid rocket motors and spacecraft parts for NASA and commercial launches.
Several smaller companies in the Phoenix metro area produce satellite components. Arizona’s 300+ sunny days make it a great place for testing and development.
Space Production Categories:
Microchip Technology supports space applications with specialized semiconductors. Their Phoenix operations turn out radiation-hardened chips that spacecraft electronics depend on.
Manufacturers here supply components for both government and commercial space missions. Many are eyeing the booming commercial space tourism market.
Boeing keeps growing its Phoenix operations because of lower corporate taxes and the local talent pool. The company has poured millions into new manufacturing capabilities and workforce training.
TSMC plans to build advanced semiconductor manufacturing facilities in Arizona. Their chips will power next-gen aerospace and space applications that need serious processing muscle.
Blue Origin has considered Arizona for manufacturing sites. The state’s pro-business attitude and aerospace infrastructure make it pretty appealing for space companies.
Investment Drivers:
Companies pick Phoenix for its technical talent and business perks. The region offers solid aerospace infrastructure but keeps operating costs lower than traditional aerospace hubs.
Phoenix has become America’s top destination for semiconductor production. TSMC alone is investing $165 billion in manufacturing facilities that create the advanced chips powering today’s spacecraft and satellites.
This manufacturing ecosystem directly supports the region’s growing space industry with specialized electronics.
Modern spacecraft run entirely on advanced semiconductors for navigation, communication, and critical operations. Every satellite, rocket, and space capsule needs chips that can survive intense temperatures and radiation.
Phoenix’s semiconductor facilities now make the most advanced chips produced in the U.S. TSMC’s Phoenix campus recently started commercial production of processors for space applications.
These chips control rocket guidance, satellite communications, and more. Space missions demand semiconductors that meet strict reliability standards—there’s no fixing things once they’re in orbit.
Phoenix’s chip production and space technology just go hand in hand. Local aerospace companies can source advanced electronics directly from nearby manufacturers.
Virgin Galactic picked Mesa for spaceship assembly partly because Arizona has a growing tech workforce trained in semiconductor manufacturing. That skilled labor transfers well to space industry needs.
Phoenix has a full electronics manufacturing supply chain, not just chip production. The region covers raw materials, component assembly, and finished product manufacturing.
Major semiconductor facilities include TSMC’s six planned fabs, Intel’s Chandler campus, and ON Semiconductor’s production lines. These companies employ thousands of engineers and technicians.
Arizona State University runs the Southwest Advanced Prototyping Hub, one of eight national chip research centers funded by federal legislation. This place should be up and running by 2028, focusing on next-gen semiconductor development.
Community colleges in the state train technicians specifically for semiconductor work. TSMC and other big manufacturers really depend on these programs to fill jobs.
Phoenix’s electronics ecosystem has hundreds of supplier companies making specialized components. These range from testing equipment to packaging materials used in chip manufacturing.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company leads Phoenix’s semiconductor boom with its massive north Phoenix complex. The company expanded from one planned factory to six, totaling a $165 billion investment.
Intel keeps significant operations in Chandler, adding to the region’s semiconductor strength. Their Arizona facilities focus on advanced processor development and manufacturing.
Microchip Technology runs production facilities that serve both commercial and aerospace markets. The company specializes in microcontrollers and analog semiconductors for space applications.
ON Semiconductor makes power management chips and sensors vital for spacecraft operations. Their Arizona sites focus on automotive and industrial tech that overlaps with what space missions need.
These companies benefit from Phoenix’s business-friendly vibe and skilled workforce. Having so many manufacturers in one place creates advantages through shared suppliers and talent.
The Arizona Commerce Authority is always on the lookout for more semiconductor companies to join the region. New facilities keep expanding the state’s advanced manufacturing capabilities.
Phoenix’s space industry thrives on cutting-edge research at Arizona State University and strategic partnerships that link academic institutions with private companies.
The region’s universities open doors for the next generation of space professionals through solid STEM programs.
ASU leads Phoenix’s academic space efforts with the Thunderbird Initiative for Space Leadership, Policy and Business. The program runs from downtown Los Angeles but keeps strong ties to Phoenix headquarters.
The initiative brings together scholars, executives, founders, and military officers to tackle real space industry challenges. Faculty members work hands-on with global organizations to develop new management practices for space companies.
Key program areas include:
The Thunderbird certificate in Space Leadership teaches participants how to spot growth opportunities in commercial space. Courses feature top space leaders and faculty with real-world experience.
ASU’s approach leans into practical applications. Students learn directly from experts who’ve founded companies and landed government contracts.
Phoenix universities work closely with NASA research facilities and private space companies. These partnerships give students and faculty hands-on experience.
The University of Arizona sponsors the Arizona Space Business Roundtable, a leadership forum that hosts monthly speakers from industry, government, and the military.
Research collaborations cover aerospace engineering, quantum technologies, and satellite communications. Faculty dive into hypersonics projects and advanced materials development.
Partnership benefits include:
Universities also team up with the Arizona Space Commission, which oversees statewide space activities. This keeps academic programs in sync with what the industry actually needs.
Phoenix area universities have built clear pathways from high school to graduate programs in space-related fields. These programs help fill critical workforce needs in the space economy.
STEM initiatives focus on hands-on experiences. Students work with real space hardware and take part in mission planning exercises.
Universities partner with local high schools to introduce space careers early. Programs include robotics competitions, satellite building, and astronaut training simulations.
Graduate programs prepare students for specialized jobs in spacecraft design, mission operations, and space business management. Many grads go on to work at local space companies or launch their own ventures.
The education pipeline connects straight to Phoenix’s space companies. Students often move from internships right into full-time jobs with established employers in the region.
Phoenix and Arizona play key roles in major NASA missions and international space projects. The region develops new exploration technologies and adds significant scientific research through university partnerships and private industry collaborations.
Arizona State University has worked with NASA on space missions since the 1970s. The university supplies instruments and research for active missions, including Mars rover operations.
Right now, ASU participates in over 25 space missions. Their teams cover planetary science, instrument building, and mission operations.
Key Mission Partnerships:
The University of Arizona holds the fifth spot nationally for NASA-funded research. Their Lunar and Planetary Laboratory has played a role in space exploration since the 1960s Ranger moon missions.
Arizona’s Multi-Mission Operations Center runs operational support for a variety of space missions. The team manages mission control and processes data for government and commercial clients.
Phoenix-area companies like Honeywell Aerospace and Northrop Grumman work on national defense and exploration contracts. Local industry stays directly connected to federal space projects through these partnerships.
Arizona’s semiconductor industry builds advanced chips that keep modern spacecraft and satellites running. The local chipmaking ecosystem helps drive space-grade electronics forward.
ASU Research Park hosts the National Semiconductor Technology Center. Here, engineers design quantum computing chips and next-gen processors for rockets and spacecraft.
ASU leads the Southwest Advanced Prototyping Hub. This Department of Defense project speeds up microelectronics development, focusing on tech that’s ready for space.
Technology Development Areas:
Virgin Galactic builds spacecraft parts at its Arizona facilities. They lean on local aerospace know-how and manufacturing for commercial spaceflight vehicles.
Arizona universities design life support systems and habitats for long missions. Their research targets lunar stations, Mars trips, and commercial space stations.
The University of Arizona runs specialized facilities for space research. Their Arizona Space Institute works on space resilience, advanced materials, and mission operations.
Phoenix acts as headquarters for several space science research projects. Local universities chip in with scientific instruments, data analysis, and mission planning for national programs.
ASU’s NewSpace Initiative links academic research with commercial space companies. This program helps spin university research into real businesses.
Research Contributions:
Arizona researchers join asteroid mining mission development. The state’s role in OSIRIS-APEX shows off its skills in sample collection and analysis.
Local companies supply specialized parts for exploration vehicles. Phoenix-area manufacturers build everything from spacecraft electronics to life support equipment for NASA and commercial partners.
The region’s universities train future space scientists and engineers. Students get hands-on with real missions, building a skilled workforce for tomorrow’s exploration.
Phoenix has really become a hotspot for space entrepreneurship. The city blends established aerospace infrastructure with a wave of new commercial space ventures.
Space startups here find solid support systems and access to next-gen tech like AI and advanced technologies.
Phoenix’s space startup scene gets a boost from close ties to aerospace giants like Boeing, Honeywell, and Lockheed Martin. These companies offer mentorship, partnerships, and a pool of experienced talent for new ventures.
The city’s “Silicon Desert” vibe draws entrepreneurs working on space tourism, satellite tech, and commercial flights. Local incubators and coworking spaces even tailor programs for space-focused startups.
Arizona State University acts as a major driver for space entrepreneurship. Their Space Science and Technology Initiative connects student innovators with industry pros. Professor Jim Bell, who works on NASA Mars rover missions, helps bridge university research and commercial projects.
Key entrepreneurial advantages include:
The Arizona Technology Council created an Aerospace, Aviation, Space and Defense Committee. This group helps position the region as a global aerospace hub and connects startups with big companies and government contracts.
Phoenix gives space startups plenty of support through government programs and private groups. In February 2025, Governor Katie Hobbs brought back the Arizona Space Commission, setting up clear pathways for space companies to get resources and funding.
The Arizona Space Summit at ASU brings together over 150 leaders from academia, business, and government every year. This event connects new companies with investors, partners, and customers in the space world.
Arizona’s space industry generates billions in revenue and supports more than 150,000 jobs, counting indirect effects. This strong economic base opens doors for new companies to join existing supply chains.
Support infrastructure includes:
The Future 48 Workforce Accelerators program helps space startups find skilled workers. Companies often say finding talent is harder than landing projects, so workforce development really matters.
Phoenix’s location offers access to testing ranges, clear skies for observation, and proximity to both government and commercial launch sites.
Phoenix space startups now weave artificial intelligence into their solutions for satellite operations, space tourism, and manufacturing. The city’s tech backbone supports these advanced applications.
AI applications in Phoenix include autonomous satellite navigation, predictive spacecraft maintenance, and passenger safety monitoring for commercial flights. These tools build on the region’s broader tech know-how.
The semiconductor boom in Phoenix helps space companies needing advanced chips for spacecraft. Major facilities from companies like TSMC give local access to cutting-edge components.
AI integration areas include:
Phoenix companies create AI-powered tools for space situational awareness, tracking debris and managing satellite operations. This becomes more crucial as commercial space activity ramps up.
The city’s expertise in autonomous vehicles crosses over into space applications. Companies use similar AI tech for both ground and space navigation.
Local universities offer AI research tailored to space needs. Students and faculty team up with companies to build practical AI solutions for commercial space.
Arizona’s space industry really thrives thanks to government support at several levels. The state leans on targeted laws, oversight groups, and economic development resources to create a competitive aerospace scene.
Arizona passes key laws to attract space companies. The state offers tax breaks for aerospace manufacturers and research centers, including property tax cuts for qualified space tech firms.
The Arizona Commerce Authority supplies direct funding through grants and loans. Companies developing satellite tech or launch systems can tap into these resources. The state also made the permitting process for aerospace facilities much simpler.
Lawmakers recently expanded research and development tax credits. Space companies can now claim credits up to 200% of qualified expenses. Arizona also scrapped sales tax on spacecraft parts and testing equipment.
Special economic zones near big airports provide extra tax perks for space businesses. Companies in these zones get faster regulatory approval for building new facilities.
Gov. Katie Hobbs revived the Arizona Space Commission in 2025, adding seven industry leaders. The commission brings together folks from aerospace companies, universities, and research groups. Members guide the state’s space industry growth.
The commission coordinates across state agencies and private companies. They spot regulatory barriers that slow down business. The group also suggests policy tweaks to bring in more aerospace investment.
Commission members review grant applications from space companies. They focus on projects that create jobs and push technology development forward. The commission links Arizona businesses with federal space contracts.
Regular meetings feature presentations from up-and-coming space companies. The commission helps these businesses navigate state rules and connects them with Arizona universities.
The Arizona Commerce Authority leads economic development efforts. It runs the Arizona Competes Fund, which invests directly in space companies. The fund has backed satellite makers and launch service providers.
Local economic development authorities in Phoenix and Tucson add their own incentives for aerospace companies. These include workforce training and infrastructure upgrades.
Authorities work closely with big aerospace employers like Raytheon and Honeywell. They use these relationships to attract supply chain partners and promote Arizona at national space conferences.
Economic development teams track industry growth and job creation. They measure how well incentive programs work and adjust strategies based on company feedback and market shifts.
Phoenix’s space industry depends on a base of specialized launch facilities and advanced manufacturing. The region uses existing airport infrastructure and purpose-built spaceports to support commercial space.
Arizona aims to be a key hub for commercial space through the Arizona Spaceport Alliance. This group pushes state economic initiatives that boost Arizona’s space economy.
The state attracts global talent for space education and jobs. Arizona spaceports work as gateways for international space commerce and research.
Several spaceport sites are under review across Arizona. Each one requires market analysis, site checks, and environmental studies before getting the green light.
Proposed spaceports have to meet Federal Aviation Administration licensing. The FAA’s Office of Spaceports helps keep launch and reentry facilities safe and efficient.
Arizona’s location gives space operations a leg up. The state offers clear skies, few weather delays, and restricted airspace for launch operations.
Many Arizona airports can shift to support spaceplane operations. This move cuts costs and speeds up timelines for space commerce.
Spaceplanes need special runways and support buildings. Luckily, existing airports already have much of the needed infrastructure for horizontal launches.
Phoenix-area airports stand out for spaceplane work. Their air traffic control, fuel storage, and maintenance facilities make them a strong base for space activity.
The conversion process means adding equipment for space operations—things like range safety systems, payload processing, and environmental monitoring.
Airport-based spaceports can handle both regular flights and space operations. This dual use keeps facilities busy and brings in more revenue.
Phoenix’s advanced manufacturing sector powers the space industry’s growth. The region is home to over 120 space industry partners working on all kinds of projects.
Local facilities offer more than 40 instrument labs dedicated to space tech. These resources support everything from satellite building to launch vehicle parts.
Manufacturing covers propulsion, avionics, structural pieces, and life support for space. Companies here handle a wide range of production.
Testing facilities give companies the tools to validate space hardware. They include environmental chambers, vibration tables, and thermal testers needed for space qualification.
The region’s manufacturing base sits close to major aerospace contractors, which helps supply chains and speeds up prototyping.
Payload processing centers handle satellite integration and testing. These clean rooms make sure space gear meets strict standards before launch.
Phoenix aerospace companies design and build the flight control electronics and guidance systems that keep commercial spaceflight running. These technologies really form the backbone of spacecraft operations, from launch all the way to landing.
At Blue Origin’s Phoenix facility, engineers focus on avionics development for reusable launch vehicles and orbital systems. They design flight computers, communication arrays, and control systems that keep spacecraft running smoothly during flight.
Local suppliers step in to make specialized parts like circuit boards, sensors, and data processing units. These systems track everything from engine health to cabin pressure as it happens.
Phoenix teams put a lot of energy into redundant safety systems that protect both crew and cargo. Backup computers stand ready to jump in if emergencies pop up.
Avionics manufacturers in the region supply gear for government and commercial missions alike. Honeywell Aerospace, for example, delivers flight management systems that make complex orbital moves possible.
Advanced manufacturing shops in Phoenix make lightweight electronics built for space. These components have to survive radiation, wild temperature swings, and the rough ride at launch.
Arizona space companies develop GPS alternatives and inertial guidance systems when missions head far from Earth. Traditional satellite navigation just doesn’t cut it out there.
Phoenix-area manufacturers turn out star trackers and sun sensors to help spacecraft figure out their position and orientation. These tools use stars and the sun as reference points to keep the flight path on track.
Local teams build reaction wheel assemblies and thruster control systems for precise attitude adjustments. Spacecraft rely on constant, tiny tweaks to stay pointed the right way.
Ground-based mission control centers in Phoenix work alongside onboard computers to track vehicle positions. They monitor telemetry and send out course corrections as needed.
Regional companies also write guidance software that maps out the best flight paths. These programs weigh fuel use, safety, and timing—no small feat.
Phoenix boosts its space industry with strong workforce programs and partnerships with local universities. The focus on STEM education helps keep Arizona’s best talent close to home.
Arizona leads the way in space industry training with programs tailored for high-tech jobs. The state’s AASD Industry Hub links education to what employers actually need.
Pipeline AZ offers programs that lay out clear career paths in aerospace and space. Workers can move from entry-level roles to more advanced ones with some guidance.
SciTech Institute works in Cochise and Pima Counties to build up STEM skills. They create tools that tie classroom learning directly to real jobs.
Key Training Areas:
The Space Workforce Institute plans to roll out credentialing programs in Spring 2025. Companies get a say in setting standards and preparing workers for real-world challenges.
ASU’s NewSpace Initiative connects university research teams with space companies. The program brings together students, faculty, and industry partners on projects that matter.
Jonathan Roll coordinates these efforts, linking ASU’s research with industry needs. He also organizes events that highlight innovation and workforce development throughout Arizona.
The university offers access to thousands of experts in different fields. Students get hands-on with the latest equipment in core research labs.
ASU sets up real-world learning opportunities where students prepare for leadership roles in the space industry. This approach helps graduates understand both theory and practice.
Partnership Benefits:
Arizona’s booming semiconductor industry fuels growth in the space sector. The state’s skilled workforce and open spaces catch the eye of space companies.
Phoenix tackles talent shortages with targeted recruiting. Companies try new strategies to compete for skilled workers as 2025 approaches.
The region keeps young professionals around by building real career ladders. Partnerships between industry and education open up new paths for economic growth.
Talent Advantages:
Virgin Galactic already builds spacecraft here. Other companies see the appeal and set up shop to tap into the local talent pool.
Arizona Space Summit 2025 put workforce development front and center. Leaders came together to talk about training needs and how to tackle funding challenges.
Arizona’s space sector pulls in over $560 million in economic activity and directly employs more than 52,000 people in aerospace and defense manufacturing. The state now ranks as the fifth-largest aerospace employer in the country, making Phoenix and nearby areas big winners as the industry keeps growing.
The University of Arizona’s astronomy and space science activities alone bring $560.5 million to the state economy. That’s about as much as hosting a Super Bowl—kind of wild when you think about it.
Arizona is home to more than 1,250 aerospace supply chain contributors. Big names like Raytheon, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and Honeywell keep major operations running across the state. Their presence helps smaller businesses and suppliers thrive.
The space economy reaches far beyond just making rockets or satellites. Mining companies get better data from satellites, and farmers use space-based info to manage crops and water.
Arizona’s semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem gives it a leg up in the space economy. Advanced chip production supports spacecraft electronics and satellite communications. This link between tech manufacturing and space work adds even more value.
Major aerospace employers provide over 52,000 jobs statewide. These positions usually pay better than regular manufacturing jobs, which is a huge plus for local communities.
The space sector needs all sorts of skills—engineering, manufacturing, data analysis, and support services. Folks without an aerospace background still find opportunities in supply chain management, logistics, or specialized manufacturing.
Arizona’s universities play a big part in training the future workforce. Arizona State University ranks eighth nationally for NASA-funded research. The University of Arizona holds a top-six spot for NASA-funded projects, according to the National Science Foundation.
STEM education programs across Arizona help prepare students for space industry careers. The SciTech Institute runs festivals and programs that introduce young people to aerospace opportunities. These efforts keep the talent pipeline flowing for the growing sector.
Space tourism is one of the fastest-growing pieces of Arizona’s space economy. Market research says space tourism could reach multibillion-dollar levels by 2030, and Arizona seems well positioned to play a big role.
The state’s business climate keeps drawing new aerospace companies. Arizona offers reliable energy, diverse supply chains, and plenty of land for new facilities. These perks encourage steady investment in space-related operations.
Arizona stands out as the only US state covering all five critical segments of the space economy. It supports aerospace manufacturing, launch services, metals and mining, manufacturing capabilities, and research and development. This all-in-one ecosystem opens the door for growth across multiple industries.
Commercial space activities keep spreading beyond old-school government contracts. More private companies are picking Arizona for manufacturing, testing, and research centers. The Phoenix metro area reaps the benefits through new jobs and more business activity.
Phoenix has really become a space industry hub. Companies like Raytheon, Boeing, and Virgin Galactic have set up major operations in the area. The industry brings in nearly $9 billion for Arizona and supports more than 66,000 jobs across aerospace and defense.
Several major aerospace companies call Phoenix home. Raytheon, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and Honeywell all have major footprints in Arizona.
Virgin Galactic picked Mesa to assemble its next-generation spaceplanes. They plan to start flying research payloads from this spot in 2026.
Local companies also pitch in. Paragon Space Development works out of Tucson, and Qwaltec operates in Tempe. Both serve on Arizona’s re-formed Space Commission.
Lockheed Martin runs facilities in the Phoenix area as part of Arizona’s bigger aerospace and defense network. The company adds to the state’s $9 billion aerospace industry revenue.
Arizona sits eighth in the nation for Department of Defense funding per capita. That money supports all sorts of contractors, including Lockheed Martin.
They benefit from Arizona’s skilled workforce and strategic location. These factors make the state a smart pick for aerospace manufacturing and development.
Arizona’s aerospace and defense sector supports over 66,000 jobs statewide. The industry brings almost $9 billion to the state, with growth rates that actually beat national averages.
Big players like Raytheon, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and Honeywell anchor Arizona’s aerospace economy.
Newer names like Virgin Galactic are adding some diversity. Local firms such as Paragon Space Development and Qwaltec show off Arizona’s homegrown talent.
The Arizona Space Summit gathered more than 150 leaders from academia, business, and government. Tempe hosted the event on March 27-28, 2025.
Governor Katie Hobbs told space companies that Arizona is “open for business.” The summit aimed to boost Arizona’s profile as a top space sector hub.
Participants talked about opportunities in the fast-growing space economy. The event showed just how serious Arizona is about its space industry future.
Arizona’s aerospace and defense industry generates nearly $9 billion in economic impact. The sector supports more than 66,000 jobs across the state.
Growth here outpaces national averages. Arizona also ranks eighth for Department of Defense funding per capita.
Companies benefit from the state’s semiconductor ecosystem and skilled workforce. Arizona’s location and business-friendly climate attract both established names and newcomers to the aerospace world.
Northrop Grumman operates right in the heart of Arizona’s well-known aerospace economy. You’ll find the company working alongside other big defense contractors across the state.
Arizona’s strength in semiconductors really gives space tech development a boost. Advanced chips power everything from satellite systems to navigation gear and the computers that keep missions on track.
Northrop Grumman taps into Arizona’s expanding network of semiconductor manufacturers. Companies like Intel, TSMC, and ON Semiconductor have poured billions into Arizona, all helping to meet the demanding needs of space technology.
