National Rocket and Space Center planned for Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula

TAMPA, Fla. — A Tampa-based aerospace company is preparing a leap forward for space exploration and education in Mexico.

Merida Aerospace, taking inspiration from the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, said it “aims to position Mexico as a key player in the expanding space economy.”

The National Rocket and Space Center will be a multifaceted facility, featuring cutting-edge amenities such as a museum, observatory, and immersive experiences for the public, Merida said in a news release. It will also house space camps designed to provide hands-on training for students and individuals interested in space operations.

And the center’s significance goes beyond education and public engagement, the news release said. It will serve as an active hub for the development and innovation of astronautical technology through dedicated laboratories.

One of the key objectives of this initiative is to address the absence of a dedicated platform for aerospace engineering studies in the field of astronautics in Mexico, the release said. By offering state-of-the-art facilities and educational programs, Merida Aerospace said it aims to encourage engineers to excel in the space industry, fostering the development of world-class projects.

The scope of these projects spans various aspects of the space industry, including launch rockets, propulsion systems, satellite systems, planetary exploration rovers, and robotic systems.

The introduction of specialized curricula in collaboration with local universities is a crucial component of the project, Merida said. This partnership seeks to cultivate a new generation of astronautical engineers, equipping them with the skills required for space exploration and the development of advanced technologies. The goal is to create a talent pool capable of contributing to the growth of the space industry in Mexico.

The economic implications of the National Rocket and Space Center are significant, Merida said. The project is expected to generate new employment opportunities for thousands of Mexicans, who can receive specialized training in astronautics from Mexican universities. Moreover, it is poised to attract substantial investments from aerospace companies, particularly in the field of space exploration.

Merida Aerospace said its planned collaboration with the Mexican Space Agency and intention to establish connections with NASA further underscore Mexico’s commitment to becoming a prominent player in the global space community.