Space Foundation is America’s leading nonprofit dedicated to advancing space exploration and connecting the world’s space community.
They started up in 1983, working out of Colorado Springs, and their mission revolves around inspiring, educating, and advocating for space-related endeavors everywhere.
Space Foundation’s mission is pretty straightforward: push space-related efforts that inspire, enable, and move humanity forward.
They act as a bridge, connecting government, military, industry, and education within the space world.
Their work falls into four main areas. They inspire people through public awareness, educate with STEM programs, connect folks at industry events, and advocate for smart space policy.
Space Foundation creates objective space awareness for government agencies, private companies, and anyone else interested.
Their vision? They want a global community where space exploration benefits everyone.
They work to show the public how space technology actually improves daily life, using programs like Certified Space Technology to highlight these real-world perks.
Space Foundation reaches out to students, teachers, professionals, policymakers, and community members.
By casting such a wide net, they influence space policy, workforce development, and how people view space exploration.
On March 21, 1983, Space Foundation opened its doors during a crucial moment in American space history.
A group of passionate advocates saw the need to connect the scattered parts of the space community and started something new.
Since then, Space Foundation has grown into a major nonprofit supporting space activities and professionals.
They’ve expanded their reach to educators in all 50 states—and even beyond U.S. borders.
One big milestone: launching the annual Space Symposium, now a top global event for space professionals.
They also introduced The Space Report, which has become the go-to guide for space activities worldwide.
Their educational programs have reached thousands of teachers and students.
Space Foundation’s research and analysis programs now help companies, government offices, policymakers, and media find reliable info about the space industry.
Space Foundation’s main headquarters sits in Colorado Springs, Colorado, right near major military space hubs and aerospace companies.
That puts them close to key players in both government and commercial space.
They run the Space Foundation Discovery Center in Colorado Springs.
This spot doubles as an education center and a tourist draw, with interactive exhibits about space tech, exploration, and history.
They extend their reach through programs and partnerships across the U.S. and the world.
Their educational efforts operate in all 50 states, and their policy work centers around Washington, D.C.
Space Foundation keeps an active international presence too.
They partner with global space agencies, participate in United Nations space committees, and host international delegations.
This wide network helps them push space exploration forward worldwide.
Space Foundation brings together different corners of the international space industry.
They do this through strategic partnerships, focused outreach, and representing commercial, government, and educational stakeholders.
They help collaboration happen between space agencies, private companies, military groups, and academic institutions all over the world.
Space Foundation works directly with embassies, consulates, and government space agencies to build real international relationships.
They keep active partnerships with commercial enterprises, educational institutions, and think tanks across several continents.
These partnerships lead to consulting agreements and new program opportunities.
Trade associations and corporate donors also help them expand their reach in the space world.
They co-founded the Global Foundation for Space Science and Mathematics (GFSSM) with the UK National Space Academy.
This partnership highlights their commitment to international space education.
Embassy Row in Washington D.C. is a hot spot for diplomatic meetings.
Space Foundation often hosts international delegations and speakers to strengthen ties in the global space community.
Space Foundation participates in the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space.
By joining these conversations, they get involved in global space policy and peaceful exploration efforts.
They present at international conferences around the world, sharing knowledge and encouraging collaboration between countries and programs.
Their Washington D.C. office connects with congressional members and public policy leaders.
They advocate for space exploration and space-inspired industries by regularly consulting with government officials.
International dignitaries often meet with Space Foundation through formal meetings and joint programs.
These relationships help shape global space policy and encourage partnerships across borders.
Space Foundation represents the whole global space community, not just a small slice.
They serve space agencies, commercial businesses, and their subcontractors from every sector.
Military, national security, and intelligence organizations get a voice through Space Foundation’s broad approach.
Cybersecurity groups and federal agencies also benefit from their advocacy.
State government agencies and educational institutions can tap into Space Foundation’s network and resources.
This wide representation makes sure everyone in the space community gets heard.
Their Space Symposium draws together influential people from all parts of the global space industry.
This annual event creates networking opportunities and helps build business connections among all kinds of space sector reps.
The Space Foundation Discovery Center is Colorado Springs’ top space education spot.
It’s packed with hands-on exhibits about space technology and exploration.
Visitors can dive into interactive displays, join educational workshops, and attend community events for all ages.
The Discovery Center is the region’s only dedicated space science museum.
You’ll find interactive exhibits focused on space exploration and technology.
State-of-the-art displays let guests experience space missions up close.
Simulators give you a shot at piloting spacecraft or exploring planetary surfaces.
The facility displays real space artifacts and models of current spacecraft used in commercial and government missions.
Educational displays break down topics from rocket science to satellite tech.
Visitors can learn about space careers and the growing commercial industry through engaging presentations.
The exhibits show how space exploration affects daily life—think communication, weather, and navigation.
Hands-on activities make tricky space concepts easier for everyone, kids and adults alike.
You’ll find the Space Foundation Discovery Center just off Garden of the Gods Road in Colorado Springs.
It’s easy to get to for both locals and tourists.
General admission tickets cover all permanent exhibits.
Some special workshops charge extra materials fees, mostly to cover supplies you’ll take home.
Workshop Details:
The center welcomes visitors all year.
Programs are tailored for different age groups.
Field trips work for everyone from Pre-K to college, and the curriculum ties in space principles.
The Discovery Center runs all sorts of programs throughout the year for Colorado Springs residents and visitors.
Events range from family activities to professional development workshops for teachers.
Summer programs go through late August.
They offer special workshops and events that look at space topics beyond our solar system.
The “Summer of Discovery” series brings new programming every Saturday.
Educational partnerships help the center reach farther into the community.
They team up with local libraries and schools to share space education resources, including those educational backpacks families can check out.
Teachers get professional development opportunities to bring space-based learning into their classrooms.
The center trains educators to use space themes to get students excited about science, technology, engineering, and math.
Home school groups can join specialized programs that fit different learning needs.
They also offer technology workshops and networking events so space fans can meet industry professionals and other learners.
Space Foundation shakes up how students and teachers experience STEM.
They use hands-on, space-themed curriculum and professional development.
Their programs cover everything from kindergarten to grad school, with both digital access and in-person options at the Discovery Center.
Space Foundation supports PreK-20 students with standards-based curriculum that brings space principles into all STEM subjects.
These programs use real space missions and technology to teach big science ideas in ways that actually make sense.
Students get to design spacecraft, calculate orbits, and explore planetary science through interactive modules.
The curriculum links classroom learning to current NASA missions and commercial spaceflight news.
This helps students see how math and science matter in the real world.
Digital delivery makes these programs available to schools everywhere.
Whether you’re in a rural district or a big city, you can access the same high-quality space education.
Hands-on learning is a big deal here.
Students build rockets, program rovers, and do experiments that mimic real aerospace engineering challenges.
Professional development programs give teachers the tools to deliver engaging space lessons.
Space Foundation offers comprehensive training on space science and teaching methods.
Teachers get STEM lesson plans that line up with state and national standards.
These ready-to-use materials save time and keep curriculum quality high.
Scholarships help teachers attend workshops and conferences, so money isn’t a barrier to advanced training.
The foundation’s teacher programs include both in-person workshops at the Discovery Center and virtual sessions.
This flexibility makes it easier for teachers no matter where they are.
Ongoing support helps teachers use new concepts in their classrooms.
Educational specialists offer guidance as teachers adapt space-themed lessons for their students.
The Discovery Center in Colorado Springs acts as a hub for immersive space education.
Students join simulated space missions and explore interactive exhibits with real spacecraft parts.
Educational field trips mix fun with solid learning goals.
Students try zero-gravity simulators and mission control scenarios that show off space science principles.
Financial assistance helps more students get these experiences, especially those from underrepresented communities.
Virtual field trips bring the Discovery Center to classrooms that can’t make the trip.
These digital visits include live chats with space education specialists and real-time demos.
Group programs fit different ages and learning goals.
Younger students focus on basic space concepts, while high schoolers tackle advanced engineering.
Space education at Space Foundation goes beyond STEM.
They weave in art and humanities to recognize that space exploration needs creativity, communication, and cultural understanding.
Students learn about the history of space exploration from many viewpoints.
They look at how different cultures have understood space and astronomy over time.
Creative projects let students express science ideas through art, writing, and multimedia.
These activities reinforce learning and build communication skills.
The humanities side includes talking about the social and ethical sides of space exploration.
Students consider how space tech changes daily life and shapes the future.
Cross-curricular connections show students that space exploration is a human adventure needing lots of skills and perspectives.
This approach helps prep them for the teamwork found in today’s aerospace careers.
The Space Foundation opens doors for young professionals to join the space industry.
They do this with targeted training programs and career mentorship.
Their initiatives tackle talent shortages and build more diverse pipelines of skilled workers ready for aerospace careers.
Space Workforce for Tomorrow (SWFT) brings together the Space Foundation, government agencies, and academic institutions. They’re all working to tackle the United States’ urgent shortage of technical talent in aerospace.
SWFT links space industry employers with up-and-coming professionals through hands-on mentoring. Young aerospace workers get to meet senior space leaders and build peer networks that help their careers grow over time.
The initiative puts a spotlight on work-ready skills that match what the industry actually wants right now. Participants train in both technical know-how and soft skills needed for real aerospace jobs.
Key program components include:
The Foundation’s New Generation initiatives focus on aerospace professionals under 35. These programs help emerging talent connect with established leaders in the space industry.
Career development starts early and continues well into professional life. The Foundation backs PreK-20 students with space-based STEM curriculum that weaves in science and technology.
Teacher support programs offer professional development and classroom resources. Educators get training, lesson plans, and scholarships to boost space education in schools.
For entrepreneurs, specialized training digs into the usual hurdles faced by space-based tech companies. These programs cover business development, funding strategies, and technical scaling for aerospace startups.
Training tracks include:
The Space Foundation partners with underserved communities to open up access to aerospace careers. Their programs focus on young people who face economic hurdles getting into the space industry.
Agile workforce development solutions meet the needs of learners from all backgrounds. The Foundation breaks down barriers that keep talented individuals out of space careers.
Programs spark STEM interest in kids with hands-on space activities and real-world applications. Students can see how their education links directly to actual aerospace jobs.
Diversity initiatives focus on:
Digital delivery lets the Foundation reach students everywhere. Their Colorado Springs Discovery Center offers in-person experiences, while online platforms serve global audiences interested in space careers.
Every April, the Space Symposium draws space professionals from all over the world to Colorado Springs. Attendees join specialized breakfasts, international collaboration discussions, and ceremonies that recognize outstanding achievements in the space community.
The Space Symposium happens each year from April 7-10 at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colorado. This four-day gathering stands as the top event for commercial, civil, military, and emerging space sectors worldwide.
Opening Night kicks off with a drone show by the St. Vrain Innovation Center. The show lights up the lake at 9:00 PM, giving everyone a memorable start.
Specialized breakfasts focus on key industry sectors. The Government Affairs Breakfast brings together government, military, and industry folks to talk public policy. The Acquisition Breakfast digs into procurement strategies and acquisition for national security.
International collaboration gets the spotlight at the Global Space Collaboration Luncheon. International leaders, policymakers, and industry experts meet to talk about how nations, space agencies, and private companies can work together.
Workforce development is front and center during the Space Workforce for Tomorrow Luncheon. Industry leaders discuss the STEM talent gap and how to build a workforce ready for future missions.
The Space Symposium features a lineup of speakers from military, government, and commercial space. Lt Gen Philip Garrant, USSF sits down for a one-on-one interview at the Acquisition Breakfast, with Tom Arseneault moderating.
Dr. Heather Wilson gives a keynote at the Space Workforce for Tomorrow Luncheon. Her talk leads into the panel Securing our Future – Building a Workforce That Drives Global Leadership, moderated by Melanie Stricklan.
The Corporate Partnership Dinner includes a fireside chat with the Polaris Dawn Mission Team. Attendees hear firsthand about recent commercial spaceflight operations and crew experiences.
Master of ceremonies roles go to industry professionals like Prof. Pascale Ehrenfreund, Paul Engola, and Thomas Dorame from Space Foundation. They guide discussions and help people connect throughout the event.
Panels run across multiple tracks in the International Center, with sessions happening in both north and south locations to cover a wide range of topics.
The Space Foundation honors top individuals and organizations during the Space Symposium. These events celebrate standouts from commercial, civil, military, and emerging space sectors.
The Opening Ceremony is where they present most awards. You’ll need a registrant badge or separate ticket to get in.
Corporate partnerships get special attention at the Corporate Partnership Dinner. The Foundation thanks companies for donations, in-kind help, and volunteer work that keeps things running.
The Closing Dinner specifically honors space warfighters and their impact on national and global security. This event recognizes military and global partners serving in space domain operations.
Recognition ceremonies highlight the teamwork behind space achievements and honor both individual and organizational contributions to space exploration, technology, and international cooperation.
Each year, the Space Foundation presents a handful of prestigious awards to recognize excellence in space exploration, education, and public outreach. The biggest honors are the General James E. Hill Lifetime Space Achievement Award and the Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award, both handed out during the Space Symposium.
The General James E. Hill Lifetime Space Achievement Award is the Space Foundation’s top honor. Named for the late chairman, retired U.S. Air Force General James E. Hill, this award goes to people who’ve made extraordinary lifetime contributions to space exploration and development.
Honorees stand out for their achievements in advancing human welfare through space technology, exploration, or related work. The Space Foundation’s Board of Directors chooses recipients from nominations sent in from all over the space industry.
Recent recipients include:
Past winners come from all corners of the industry—from NASA leaders and astronauts to top space executives. Notable names include Neil Armstrong, Sally Ride, Buzz Aldrin, and Eugene Kranz.
The Foundation presents the award during a special ceremony at the Space Symposium. Each honoree gets recognized for pushing space exploration forward for everyone’s benefit.
The Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award highlights K-12 educators who show real innovation using technology for STEM education. The Space Foundation teams up with the Astronauts Memorial Foundation and NASA to present this annual honor.
Named after Mercury astronaut Alan Shepard, the award goes to teachers and district staff who inspire students in science, technology, engineering, and math. Recipients find creative ways to bring space-related technology and concepts into their programs.
Winning educators make a measurable impact on student engagement and learning. They often develop unique curricula that tie space exploration directly to the classroom.
The selection process looks for innovation, student impact, and educational effectiveness. Winners get recognized at the Space Symposium, plus cash awards and educational resources.
This award supports the Space Foundation’s mission to advance space education. It puts a spotlight on the vital role educators play in preparing the next generation of space professionals and scientifically literate citizens.
The Space Foundation publishes The Space Report, which offers a deep dive into the global space economy. Industry growth hit $613 billion in 2024. This research tracks launch activities, commercial developments, and space infrastructure trends, with quarterly and annual updates.
The Space Report provides up-to-date data on the global space ecosystem. The Q2 2025 edition showed the space economy breaking $600 billion for the first time—15 straight years of growth.
Space Foundation keeps tabs on important industry metrics like launch frequency and commercial activity. In 2024, they counted 259 launch attempts, which means there was a launch about every 34 hours. That’s a big jump in pace compared to past years.
Policymakers, educators, and industry pros all rely on this report for credible space industry info. Government leaders use the findings to help shape space policy. Educational institutions use the data for curricula and research.
Key metrics tracked include:
The Space Foundation spots new patterns in commercial spaceflight and government programs with each quarterly report. Launch activity keeps rising, with 2024 marking the fourth year in a row for record attempts.
Commercial space companies are clearly driving most of this growth. Private firms now handle regular cargo missions, satellite launches, and crew transport. NASA’s commercial partnerships have really opened up access to low Earth orbit.
Space infrastructure is expanding fast in several areas. Satellite constellations, space manufacturing, and orbital research facilities are all growing markets. The report shows how these trends open up new economic opportunities.
Manufacturing in space is starting to matter. Companies are trying to make things like fiber optics, pharmaceuticals, and special alloys that just aren’t possible under Earth’s gravity.
The Space Foundation shapes space policy by educating lawmakers and working with international partners to move global space initiatives forward. They focus on policies that help civil, commercial, and national security space sectors while encouraging international cooperation.
The Space Foundation runs operations out of Washington, D.C. to stay close to administration and congressional leaders. They provide educational info and testimony to support space policies across the board.
Key Educational Activities:
The Foundation acts as a trusted source for government officials. They make the case that space investment benefits everyone and that the U.S. should keep leading in space.
Target Audiences Include:
They focus on complex space topics that need expert explanation. This helps lawmakers make smart choices about funding and regulations.
The Space Foundation teams up with officials from the international space community to promote global cooperation. These partnerships push shared goals in space exploration and commercial development.
Collaboration Areas:
International policy work brings together stakeholders from lots of countries. The Foundation helps government agencies, industry leaders, and academic institutions talk and work together.
Partnership Benefits:
They push for policies that welcome international participation but still keep American leadership strong. It’s a balance that supports both competition and teamwork in space exploration and commercialization.
The Space Foundation reaches millions through strategic public outreach and media engagement.
They work with science communicators like Emily Calandrelli and keep up strong ties with major news outlets, all to make space feel accessible to everyone.
The Space Foundation runs several campaigns to get people excited about space exploration.
Their Space4U podcast drops space news and real stories right into listeners’ ears all over the country.
They bring space into classrooms nationwide with educational programs. Students from elementary to college get to participate.
Teachers get training and resources, so they can make space science engaging for young minds. That’s not always easy, but they seem to pull it off.
The Space Foundation runs the Discovery Center in Colorado Springs. This spot offers interactive exhibits and educational experiences.
Visitors can dive into space technology and check out current missions. It’s hands-on, not just reading from a textbook.
Every year, their Space Symposium draws thousands of space professionals and enthusiasts.
The event opens up networking chances and puts the latest space tech on display.
Space Foundation leaders show up on television news and podcasts pretty often. They offer expert takes on space missions, policy changes, and what’s happening in the industry.
These appearances help make tricky space topics understandable for everyone.
They keep up solid relationships with major media outlets and serve as a trusted source for journalists who cover space. Their experts break down technical stuff in ways that just make sense.
The Space Foundation puts out their own media content too. They create videos, articles, and social media posts that highlight space achievements.
This content finds its way to all kinds of audiences, across different platforms.
Their communications team has earned recognition for public outreach. NASA’s social media team even received the Space Foundation’s Douglas S. Morrow Public Outreach Award for their efforts.
The Space Foundation teams up with science communicators who have big followings. Emily Calandrelli, “The Space Gal,” is a good example of how they work with big voices in STEM education.
These partnerships help reach younger folks who might not pay attention to traditional space news. Influencers can make space feel more relatable and, honestly, just more fun.
They also work with Latino-owned media companies like Ad Astra Media. This helps them connect with communities that don’t always get space content in their feeds.
Their Space Certification Partner program builds on these relationships. Companies and media organizations can become certified partners and help spread the word about space.
It creates a network of advocates who promote space education and exploration.
The Space Foundation draws strength from leaders with backgrounds in aerospace, the military, and space exploration.
You’ll find prominent astronauts, industry executives, and space advocates guiding the mission and serving as ambassadors for space awareness.
The board includes big names from NASA, military space commands, and commercial aerospace companies.
Life Directors include astronaut Guion S. Bluford, Jr., the first African American to reach space, and Senator Bill Nelson, who flew aboard Space Shuttle Columbia.
Honorary members are some of the most recognizable names in space exploration. Buzz Aldrin, the second person to walk on the Moon, lends his experience to the organization.
Neil deGrasse Tyson, the well-known astrophysicist and science communicator, helps bridge science and the public.
Former NASA administrators Daniel S. Goldin and Edward C. Aldridge, Jr. bring their leadership experience to the Foundation’s policy work and industry relationships.
Eugene “Gene” Kranz, NASA’s legendary flight director from Apollo 13, serves as an honorary member. His crisis management skills from the early days of spaceflight still offer valuable perspective.
The Space Foundation teams up with space advocates who champion STEM education and space awareness.
Emily Calandrelli, “The Space Gal,” stands out as a voice for space education and women in aerospace.
She hosts science TV programs and speaks at events about making space accessible for everyone. Her work lines up with the Foundation’s mission to inspire the next generation of space professionals.
Former astronauts join Foundation programs as speakers and advisors. Captain James Lovell, Apollo 13 commander, shares his spaceflight experience at events and through educational efforts.
These ambassadors help the Space Foundation connect with broader audiences through media, school visits, and public speaking across the country.
People ask the Space Foundation about career paths, major events like the Space Symposium, and membership options.
They also want to know more about the Discovery Center and what visitors can expect.
The Space Foundation hires for roles in education, research, event management, and advocacy.
Staff work on everything from teacher training to policy analysis.
Education specialists create STEM programs for schools across the country. Research analysts put together reports like The Space Report, tracking the global space industry.
Event coordinators handle the annual Space Symposium and other gatherings.
Government affairs specialists focus on policy issues that affect the space industry.
They also bring on marketing pros and administrative staff. Many jobs call for backgrounds in aerospace, education, or communications.
The Space Symposium is the big one—an annual gathering for space professionals from around the world.
It happens every year and draws thousands from government, industry, and academia.
The 2026 Space Symposium is set for February 18-19. Expect keynote speakers, technical sessions, and plenty of networking.
Besides the main symposium, the Space Foundation puts on smaller workshops and educational events all year.
The Discovery Center runs special programs and exhibits, too.
They also host corporate events and private gatherings at their facilities.
Educational outreach brings space content to schools and communities.
The Space Foundation Discovery Center is both an education facility and a tourist destination.
Visitors can check out interactive exhibits about space exploration and technology.
The center offers hands-on learning for students and families.
Educational programs tie space themes to science, technology, engineering, and math.
Special experiences like the Explore Mars Experience offer immersive learning opportunities.
If you want to visit, just contact the center for registration details.
The facility welcomes both educational groups and individual visitors. Programs are built to spark interest in space careers and STEM fields.
The Space Symposium is the flagship event for global space professionals.
This conference brings together leaders from commercial companies, government agencies, and international organizations.
The symposium features technical presentations on current industry topics.
Attendees get updates on new technologies, policy changes, and market trends.
Networking sessions help professionals connect across sectors. The event also includes exhibitions where companies show off their latest products and services.
Award ceremonies celebrate outstanding achievements in space exploration and education.
The Space Foundation hands out several honors during the symposium.
Corporate membership gives companies access to Space Foundation programs and events.
Members get networking opportunities and industry insights through different channels.
The Swigert Society welcomes supporters who give $2,500 or more each year.
You can donate by cash, check, credit card, cryptocurrency, stock, or donor-advised funds.
Contributions support education programs that reach teachers in every state. They also back research and advocacy work.
Individuals can donate online, by phone, or through the mail. The organization accepts a variety of charitable gifts to support its mission.
The Discovery Center keeps growing as a world-class education spot and a tourist favorite. Staff really focus on giving visitors of all ages a solid educational experience.
You’ll find interactive exhibits and programs that try to spark some real curiosity about space and STEM careers. They cover space tech and show how it actually helps life here on Earth.
People get to dive into hands-on activities and try out immersive programs. Both school groups and families come here looking for space-themed learning—it’s not just for kids, honestly.
The Space Foundation backs the whole place with its mission of education and inspiration. Their programs tie space exploration directly to real-world science and tech learning.
