Outer space may be vast, but Florida International University (FIU) is ready to take charge. Under the new leadership of President Jeanette M. Nuñez, the university is stepping into a pivotal role at a time when space exploration is booming. Nuñez, also the chair of Space Florida, holds significant influence in shaping the state’s aerospace landscape.
Florida is attracting major players in the space industry, like SpaceX and Boeing. This growing sector contributes nearly $6 billion to the state’s economy and supports over 150,000 jobs. More than just rockets and satellites, this movement raises important questions about governance and security in space.
The Jack D. Gordon Institute for Public Policy (JGI) is addressing these issues. Established in 1985, JGI is known for its work in national security and cybersecurity. Now, it’s extending its expertise to space policy.
“Space is more than science,” says Brian Fonseca, director of JGI. “It’s a strategic area where economic and security interests converge.” To enhance its efforts, JGI has brought in Laura Delgado López, a seasoned space policy expert. Her background includes advising NASA on scientific missions.
Delgado López’s research focuses on space governance, particularly in Latin America, a region with a rapidly growing “NewSpace” startup scene. She’s developing a “space policy dashboard” to map the complex network of space actors and identify gaps in policy. This will foster better international collaboration.
FIU’s initiatives reflect the country’s broader goals. The U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), based nearby, emphasizes regional security in its approach to space exploration.
While JGI leads the way in policy discussions, other parts of FIU are pushing boundaries in space science and engineering. Students like Alexandra Bishop, a senior in the Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs, are gaining hands-on experience. Bishop’s research focuses on China’s access to space in Argentina and its implications for U.S. security.
“My time at JGI has helped me think critically and write effectively for policymakers,” she shares. Her dream is to work in national security, inspired by her father’s career.
As the aerospace sector grows, FIU is preparing its students to lead in both technology and policy. Delgado López notes, “Space is a young field with a rich history, making it an exciting career path for students.”
Currently, over 50 FIU students are involved in NASA-funded projects, working directly with space technologies. The College of Engineering and Computing is at the forefront, focusing on innovative materials and systems essential for future space missions.
FIU’s approach brings together engineers, scientists, and policymakers to tackle the challenging issues of our new space age. The collaboration between JGI, the College of Engineering, and other departments showcases a commitment to defining how humanity navigates the complexities of space exploration.
As space exploration becomes increasingly relevant to our daily lives, the work at FIU ensures that the next generation is well-equipped for these emerging opportunities. For more information on how space exploration impacts Earth, check out NASA’s interactive site at Trace Space Back to You.
