The LOA establishes a strategic collaboration that positions The Bahamas as a global destination to witness rocket landings.
SpaceX, a pioneer in space exploration, is finalizing the designs of the mission in which one of the company's drones will serve as a landing site for the Falcon 9 east of The Exumas, offering a spectacle that can only be seen in The Bahamas. This unique opportunity sets the stage for tourists to witness amazing space events from cruise ships, resorts and various tourist hotspots, cementing The Bahamas' position as a key player in the emerging space tourism industry.
The exclusive visibility of rocket landings by drone from several islands in The Bahamas distinguishes this destination as the only one of its kind in the world.
The respective landings in The Bahamas contemplated in the LOA will not only support SpaceX's Starlink mission, but will also contribute to saving lives, improving the capabilities of emergency teams and ensuring connectivity in the midst of disasters.
"This Letter of Agreement with SpaceX marks a new era for The Bahamas. We are honored to work with SpaceX to enable their Falcon 9 rockets to land safely by drone within the waters of The Bahamas, helping to continue their efforts to rocket reuse," said the Hon. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Investment and Aviation.
"Simultaneously, through Starlink's high-speed Internet from space, this agreement opens the door to unprecedented opportunities for our citizens, fostering long-term benefits for education, emergency response and innovation," Cooper said. . "The Government of The Bahamas intends to use this partnership for economic growth, job creation and improved educational opportunities."
Along with the LOA, SpaceX has committed to supporting the creation of a space installation or exhibit featuring recognizable hardware and a SpaceX spacesuit. This exhibition, the only one outside the United States, is expected to attract the attention and attendance of Bahamian citizens and international tourists.
In addition to potential revenue growth, The Bahamas has secured Starlink Internet connectivity at several locations in the Out Islands. These terminals, specifically designated for schools that lack sufficient Internet capacity, will also bolster the capabilities and operations of first responders in the area.
SpaceX's commitment to educational outreach through quarterly presentations focused on STEM and space, will have a lasting impact on the growth of STEM education in The Bahamas, providing invaluable opportunities for students and teachers.
Aisha Bowe, who worked as a NASA rocket scientist and founder and CEO of STEMBoard, has played a major role in this achievement. In 2024 she will become an astronaut, and will be the first Bahamian to reach space. Her inspiring journey, shared around the world through interviews, presentations and a documentary, matches The Bahamas' vision for innovation and education. In collaboration with SpaceX for the last fifteen months, Bowe's experience and STEMBoard's contributions have been essential in outlining the procedures for space operations in Bahamian territory.
Cooper expressed the Government's commitment to broadening the impact beyond tourism. "The Bahamas is prepared to assume its new role in the global space industry, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's history. We look forward to a future in which The Bahamas proudly stands as a pioneer of space tourism and technology, in line with our Plan for Change and our Innovate242 initiative," he said.