Aerostar Acquires Near Space Corp for Aerospace Innovation

Sioux Falls, SD in a landmark move within the aerospace industry, Aerostar International LLC has announced its acquisition of Near Space Corporation, marking a significant milestone in the realm of lighter-than-air vehicles. The acquisition promises to bring together two powerhouses in the field, creating a synergy that is poised to redefine high-altitude flight testing and aerospace innovation.

Near Space Corporation: Pioneering High-Altitude Exploration

Since its inception in 1996, Near Space Corporation has been at the forefront of high-altitude flight testing and complex Aerospace soft goods designs. From conducting drop tests for Boeing Starliner parachute systems to collaborating with NASA JPL on prototyping planetary balloon systems for the exploration of Venus’ atmosphere, Near Space Corporation has established itself as a leader in the field. Notable achievements include fabricating the air barrier for the Bigelow BEAM inflatable module on the International Space Station and managing the Tillamook Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Test Range, a crucial hub for unmanned technology testing.

Aerostar International LLC: A Legacy of Innovation

With over 65 years of experience in lighter-than-air innovation, Aerostar International LLC has been dedicated to connecting, protecting, and saving lives. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Aerostar is renowned for its stratospheric balloon systems and radar solutions, making it a cornerstone of the TCOM portfolio of aerospace and defense companies.

A Union of Innovation: The Future of Aerospace Exploration

The acquisition of Near Space Corporation by Aerostar International LLC heralds a new era of possibilities for the aerospace industry. By combining Near Space Corporation’s expertise in high-altitude flight testing and complex aerospace designs with Aerostar’s legacy of innovation, the two companies are poised to revolutionize the field of lighter-than-air vehicles.

“We are thrilled to welcome Near Space’s technology, location, and team members into the Aerostar family,” said Jim Nelson, President of Aerostar International LLC. “Their alignment with our culture is remarkable, and together, we’ll propel our mission to connect, protect, and save lives to new heights.”

Tim Lachenmeier, Chief Executive Officer of Near Space Corporation, expressed his confidence in the partnership, stating, “I couldn’t be prouder of our team’s achievements, and I’m confident that our future with Aerostar will be nothing short of extraordinary.”

Ron Bendlin, CEO of TCOM, emphasized the potential of the partnership, stating, “The enabling capabilities we have brought together will greatly enhance our ability to offer responsive and reliable solutions for persistent elevated awareness and deep sensing.”

Unlocking New Frontiers: The Johnson Near Space Center

Near Space Corporation’s Johnson Near Space Center, located at the Port of Tillamook (OR) Airport, is poised to become a hub for innovation in the field of aerospace exploration. With state-of-the-art facilities including a custom integration hangar, an avionics laboratory, and a control tower equipped with live feeds of aviation traffic data, the center offers unparalleled opportunities for experimentation and research.

The acquisition also grants access to the expansive Tillamook Test Range Operations Area, providing 32,000 square miles of regional airspace and nearby access to the Pacific Ocean and W-570 Special Use Airspace. This, coupled with Near Space Corporation’s collaboration with NASA at the Columbia Scientific Balloon Facility (CSBF) in Palestine, Texas, ensures that the partnership will continue to push the boundaries of aerospace exploration.

The Sky’s Not the Limit: A Vision for the Future

In conclusion, the acquisition of Near Space Corporation by Aerostar International LLC represents a significant step forward for the aerospace industry. With a shared commitment to innovation and excellence, the two companies are poised to lead the way in high-altitude flight testing and aerospace exploration for years to come.