Space Industry in Houston, Texas
Houston has been the center of human spaceflight since 1961. Home to NASA's Johnson Space Center, Mission Control, and a thriving commercial space ecosystem, the Greater Houston area employs more than 45,000 people in aerospace.
Key Space Facilities
NASA Johnson Space Center
GovernmentHome of Mission Control, astronaut training, and the International Space Station program office
Houston Spaceport
SpaceportFAA-licensed commercial spaceport at Ellington Airport, supporting horizontal launch operations
Axiom Space HQ
CommercialBuilding the world's first commercial space station, headquarters in Houston
Intuitive Machines HQ
CommercialLunar lander company that achieved the first commercial Moon landing (IM-1) in 2024
Nanoracks / Voyager Space
CommercialIn-space services and commercial space station development (Starlab)
Major Space Companies
| Company | Focus Area | Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Axiom Space | Commercial space station | View profile |
| Intuitive Machines | Lunar landers and services | View profile |
| Nanoracks | In-space services | View profile |
| Jacobs Engineering | NASA support services | View profile |
| KBR | Mission operations support | View profile |
| Boeing (Houston office) | Starliner, ISS operations | View profile |
Space Industry Job Market
Why Houston for Space?
- ✓Home to NASA Johnson Space Center and Mission Control since 1961
- ✓Growing commercial space hub with Axiom Space, Intuitive Machines, and 150+ companies
- ✓FAA-licensed Houston Spaceport at Ellington Airport
- ✓Strong university pipeline: Rice University, University of Houston, Texas A&M (nearby)
- ✓Lower cost of living than other major space hubs (DC, LA, SF)
- ✓No state income tax
Frequently Asked Questions
How many space companies are in Houston?
Houston has 150+ space and aerospace companies, ranging from major defense primes to innovative startups.
What is the average space industry salary in Houston?
The average aerospace salary in Houston is approximately $105,000. Top roles include Flight Controller, Systems Engineer, Mission Operations.
What are the major space facilities in Houston?
Key facilities include NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston Spaceport, Axiom Space HQ. Houston is a major hub for government space programs.
What types of space jobs are available in Houston?
There are currently 2,500+ open positions in the Houston area. Top roles include Flight Controller, Systems Engineer, Mission Operations, Propulsion Engineer, Software Engineer.
Why is Houston important for the space industry?
Home to NASA Johnson Space Center and Mission Control since 1961. Growing commercial space hub with Axiom Space, Intuitive Machines, and 150+ companies.
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