Texas Space Commission
In March 2023, House Bill 3447 was passed establishing the Texas Space Commission with the goal to strengthen Texas’ aerospace innovation.
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
In March 2023, House Bill 3447 was passed establishing the Texas Space Commission with the goal to strengthen Texas’ aerospace innovation.
In 2020, their shared vision became a reality with the launch of the EDGE Center, a cutting-edge educational facility specifically designed to train the next generation of aerospace technicians.
bp and NASA have unveiled a new partnership aimed at advancing energy production and space exploration.
News | October 18, 2024
NASA Astronauts Return to Earth, Stop at Houston’s Johnson Space Center for Health Evaluation
NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission has finally concluded after an unexpected nine-month journey to the International Space Station (ISS). The astronauts aboard; Butch Wilmore, Suni Williams and Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, successfully touched down in Florida on Tuesday evening.
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.
NEWS | August 6, 2025
Highlights from the latest edition of Houston Facts. From Houston's economy to emerging industries and living in Houston, this publication covers it all.
NEWS | August 4, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership welcomed 12 new member companies in the month of July.
Event | August 6, 2025
Want to learn more about the Houston Energy Leadership Cohort? Join us on August 6 for an informational session where you’ll hear from program leaders and past participants about how HELC can grow your energy career.