(Photo via BlackStar Orbital Technologies Corporation)
By Arizona Commerce Authority
BlackStar Orbital Technologies Corporation, headquartered on the Florida space coast, announced the establishment of a new engineering and manufacturing facility in Sierra Vista.
Located at Sierra Vista Municipal Airport, the facility is set to be operational by 2026. This facility is poised to be a cornerstone for the development and production of the BlackStar Spacecraft, the company’s spaceplane-satellite hybrid.
The BlackStar Spacecraft combines the functionality of a satellite with the versatility of a spaceplane, designed for diverse missions including Earth observation, environmental monitoring, and advanced communication solutions for both commercial and defense purposes. Its capabilities also extend to supporting vital scientific research in areas such as climate study, ocean floor mapping, and more.
The Sierra Vista facility represents a $7.1M investment. It will encompass 45KSF, including 25KSF dedicated to hangar space for the BlackStar SpaceDrone. It’s designed to foster innovation in systems and flight testing, with an initial production capacity of 15 spacecraft per year, scaling up to full production by 2026. This expansion is expected to bring at least 50 new aerospace and defense jobs to Sierra Vista, significantly contributing to the city’s economic growth.
“This new facility in Sierra Vista is a landmark development for BlackStar Orbital,” said Christopher Jannette, president of BlackStar Orbital. “The strategic location and robust support from local authorities like the City of Sierra Vista and the Arizona Commerce Authority have been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition. Our BlackStar Spacecraft, developed and produced here, will not only advance our mission in aerospace innovation but also strengthen Arizona’s position as a leading hub in the space industry.”
Marking the company’s first venture in Arizona, this facility highlights BlackStar Orbital’s growth and commitment to contributing to the thriving aerospace sector. Arizona was selected for its vibrant industry, supportive business environment, and strategic geographical positioning. BlackStar Orbital joins a prestigious list of aerospace leaders in Southern Arizona, enhancing the region’s long-term strategic vision of enhancing the national aerospace and defense landscape.
“We are excited to welcome BlackStar Orbital to our community,” said Sierra Vista Mayor Clea McCaa. “We greatly appreciate the efforts of the Arizona Commerce Authority and our own City of Sierra Vista economic development team in doing the work needed to land this project. Sierra Vista’s tech-centric workforce and shovel-ready airport space make this an ideal location for BlackStar’s missions.” (Source)
