In an ambitious move to support the rapidly expanding space manufacturing sector, four Florida universities have joined forces to establish the Center for Science, Technology, and Advanced Research in Space, or C-STARS.
Researchers from the University of Florida, Florida A&M University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and Florida Institute of Technology will collaborate with industry partners to advance the production of unique medicines, electronics, and bioenergy systems in space. Additionally, these universities will collaborate with Tennessee-based Oak Ridge Associated Universities to enhance outreach strategies. The multisite center will lead workforce development programs to train the next generation of specialists in space technologies, sciences, and exploration.
The rapid increase in private sector investment and competition has increased the demand for in-space manufacturing technology and products to drive the new space economy. C-STARS brings together space research and manufacturing experts to fulfill the demand for space-related data, products, and services.
"Space manufacturing provides distinct advantages that cannot be replicated on Earth, enabling the production of novel and potentially higher-quality products," said Siobhan Malany, Ph.D., an associate professor of pharmacodynamics in the UF College of Pharmacy and center director of C-STARS. "As space research becomes more accessible and affordable, commercial space companies will depend upon C-STARS' expertise to develop the necessary infrastructure and train their workforce to grow their space operations."
