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Senator Ashley Moody of Florida is advocating for the newly established U.S. Space Academy to be located in the Sunshine State. During a public announcement on Tuesday (September 8), Moody and other space industry leaders expressed their desire for Florida to host the academy, which aims to train future astronauts, scientists, and engineers. Moody plans to introduce legislation to this effect once the Senate reconvenes.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order on August 28 to create the U.S. Space Academy, similar to the U.S. Military Academy and U.S. Air Force Academy. The order calls for a presidential commission, chaired by NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman, to recommend the academy's location within 120 days. Florida leaders, including Moody, argue that the state is uniquely positioned to host the academy due to its robust space ecosystem and extensive space launch activities.
In a bipartisan letter to President Trump and Isaacman, Florida's congressional delegation highlighted the state's advantages, including its climate, universities, and proximity to NASA and Space Force operations. The letter, signed by Moody and other Florida representatives, emphasized the state's ability to provide a comprehensive educational experience for Space Academy students.
Florida's Space Coast has seen significant growth, with rocket launches increasing by over 500% since 2016. Moody's previous legislative efforts include the Secure U.S. Leadership in Space Act and the Space Ready 2.0 Act, both aimed at bolstering Florida's space industry. She also proposed the CAPE Canaveral Act to relocate NASA's headquarters to Florida.
The push for the academy aligns with Moody's vision of Florida as "America's launchpad to the stars." The state's leaders believe that hosting the academy would further cement Florida's role in shaping the future of American space exploration.