Houston’s aerospace industry drives innovation, space exploration, and economic growth, home to NASA, top companies, and a thriving spaceport.
Ecosystem Overview
For over 60 years, Houston has been a global hub for space exploration. Home to NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC), JSC has led mission control and astronaut training for every U.S. crewed spaceflight. Leveraging this expertise, Space City is poised to lead the next era of commercial space operations.Houston companies are advancing innovation and discovery to shape the next frontier in space travel.
Space, aviation, and aerospace-related firms and institutions
Aerospace and aviation related professionals
FAA-licensed commercial Spaceport
International airports
Largest cluster of space research and technology
Aegis Aerospace has secured its legacy work of launching payloads for the Department of War’s United States Space Force under the DoW Human-Rated Payload Support Task Order 2 (DHSTO 2) issued by the USSF Space Systems Command, Space Test Program under NASA JSC’s Research, Engineering, and Mission Integration Services 2 (REMIS 2) prime contract.
The mission will undertake a series of challenging tests in Earth orbit in 2027, essential for Artemis IV, the first planned crewed mission to the lunar South Pole in 2028.
Axiom Space and Prada unveiled the Liquid Cooling and Ventilation Garment (LCVG) designed to be worn by astronauts inside the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU) spacesuit.
News | September 11, 2026
Venus Aerospace Opens New Propulsion Test Stand at Houston Spaceport
The Houston-based company received funding from the Texas Space Commission to build a five acre range support the continued development and maturation of its rotating detonation rocket engine technology.
NASA Johnson Space Center
Since NASA founded the Johnson Space Center in Houston over 60 years ago, Texas has been the global hub for human space exploration. NASA’s ongoing work—operating the International Space Station and preparing for missions to the Moon and Mars—has fueled a thriving commercial space economy, creating jobs and attracting businesses to our state.Each year, NASA invests over $2.5 billion in Texas, including $442M with small businesses, $105M with women-owned firms, and $58M with minority-owned businesses. Nationally, NASA drives $71B in annual spending and supports 339,000 jobs.
The Johnson Space Center spans over 1,700 acres in Houston, serving as NASA’s hub for human spaceflight. It houses astronaut training, mission control, and cutting edge research facilities driving space exploration.
The Johnson Space Center employs over 10,000 people, including astronauts, engineers, and scientists. This workforce drives NASA’s missions, from human spaceflight to groundbreaking research and innovation.
NASA’s Johnson Space Center is the premier training hub for astronauts, preparing them for missions beyond Earth. From simulations to zero-gravity exercises, it ensures crews are ready for space exploration.
With a $5.35 billion annual budget, the Johnson Space Center powers human spaceflight, research, and innovation. This funding supports astronauts, mission control, and cutting-edge space exploration.
NASA Exploration Park is home to the American Center of Manufacturing and Innovation (ACMI), exclusive developer of 207 acres for the next generation of human spaceflight innovation. It also hosts Texas A&M’s Space Institute and a vast lunar-Mars scape.
Houston is home to leading aerospace employers driving innovation in space exploration and aviation. The Houston Spaceport fosters collaboration, attracting startups and established firms, solidifying the city’s role as a hub for aerospace growth and discovery.
Houston offers unmatched competitive advantages for aerospace businesses, with world-class infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and a thriving innovation ecosystem. Home to NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the Houston Spaceport, the region fosters collaboration between government agencies, private companies and research institutions. Its pro-business climate, global connectivity, and access to top talent make Houston a premier hub for aerospace growth.
acres of shovel ready land
billion in total economic impact
“For nearly a decade, the Houston Spaceport has been a hub for innovation, where ideas and technology merge to tackle challenges at the forefront of human achievement. Its prime location in the nation’s fourth-largest city sets it apart from other federally licensed spaceports, providing unparalleled access to a thriving aerospace community. As the world’s first truly urban commercial spaceport, it offers unmatched business opportunities for aerospace and aviation companies of all sizes. Located on the southeast side of Ellington Airport, a mixed-use general aviation hub, the spaceport boasts nearly 400 acres of limitless potential for expansion and development."
