WASHINGTON, D.C. – Kelvin Coleman was appointed Friday, September 9, 2022, to serve as the Associate Administrator for Commercial Space Transportation (AST). He is a seasoned leader with a deep understanding of what it means to promote the commercial space industry while upholding a perfect public safety record. The Commercial Spaceflight Federation (CSF) has worked extensively with Mr. Coleman during his time at AST and applauds the Federal Aviation Administration for appointing him to this position.
“There is no better candidate than Kelvin Coleman to serve as AST-1,” said CSF President Karina Drees. “CSF and our members look forward to continuing to work with him in his new position. We share an appreciation for the importance of protecting public safety and creating an environment that facilitates the continued growth of the innovative commercial space industry.”
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About the Commercial Spaceflight Federation
The Commercial Spaceflight Federation is the leading voice for the commercial spaceflight industry. Founded in 2006, CSF and its roughly 90 members are laying the foundation for a sustainable space economy and democratizing access to space for scientists, students, civilians, and businesses. CSF members are responsible for the creation of thousands of high-tech jobs driven by billions of dollars in investment. Through the promotion of technology innovation, CSF is guiding the expansion of Earth’s economic sphere, bolstering U.S. leadership in aerospace, and inspiring America’s next generation of engineers and explorers.
Washington D.C. – The Commercial Spaceflight Federation (CSF) applauds Vice President Harris’ announcement of a United States commitment not to conduct destructive, direct-ascent anti-satellite (ASAT) missile testing. This is an important first step towards an international agreement to prohibit the use of all debris-creating ASAT weapons. CSF looks forward to continuing to work with the Administration on this important initiative.
Recent ASAT tests have created thousands of pieces of debris that have increased the risk of collisions for satellite constellations, space stations, launch vehicles, and astronauts. CSF and its members are dedicated to creating a sustainable and safe space environment that enables a continued human presence in low-Earth orbit (LEO) and reliable access to space. Commercial space activities in LEO and beyond improve life on Earth by providing important environmental monitoring for climate change and weather, as well as enabling global broadband internet access, Earth imagery, and research and development that leads to innovative medical and scientific breakthroughs. The deliberate creation of debris generated by destructive, direct-ascent ASAT missile tests adds substantial risk to the space environment. CSF is committed to working with the United States government to address space sustainability to eliminate the irresponsible, purposeful creation of space debris. Yesterday’s announcement, combined with the recent release of the National Strategy for In-Space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing, will help to ensure a peaceful and prosperous future in space for America, its international partners, and the world.
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About the Commercial Spaceflight Federation
The Commercial Spaceflight Federation is the leading voice for the commercial spaceflight industry. Founded in 2006, CSF and its 90 members are laying the foundation for a sustainable space economy and democratizing access to space for scientists, students, civilians, and businesses. CSF members are responsible for the creation of thousands of high-tech jobs driven by billions of dollars in investment. Through the promotion of technology innovation, CSF is guiding the expansion of Earth’s economic sphere, bolstering U.S. leadership in aerospace, and inspiring America’s next generation of engineers and explorers.
Washington, D.C. — The Commercial Spaceflight Federation (CSF) and Patti Grace Smith Fellowship (PGSF) program announced an expanded partnership to bring three students to Washington, D.C., to participate in the 24th Commercial Space Transportation Conference (CST).
Patti Grace Smith was a trailblazer in the aerospace industry and passed away unexpectedly on June 5, 2016, following a life-long commitment to racial equality and a stellar career. The PGSF program was established in honor of Smith’s legacy and provides extraordinary Black students with their first work experience in the aerospace industry.
In memory of Smith’s commitment to encouraging young women of color to pursue aerospace and STEM careers, applicants for the CSF/CST scholarship were limited to PGSF fellows and applicants. Three outstanding women were chosen:
“The partnership that the PGSF has with CSF is extremely important since Patti was pivotal in transforming the dream of commercial space and bringing that to reality,” said Khristian Jones, Co-Founder, PGS Fellowship. “There is no better way to honor Patti than to assist in transferring the dreams that young space enthusiasts have into reality by providing the tools to make it come true.”
“This is a great opportunity for Niya, Anaelle, and Shalayah-Naomi to hear what’s in store for the commercial space sector and about the growing opportunities in the industry,” said Karina Drees, CSF President. “We are honored to expand our partnership with PGSF and sponsor these bright young women at CST.”
The recipients will be recognized at the 24th FAA/CSF Commercial Space Transportation Conference, February 16 – 17, 2022, in Washington, D.C. Click here for the latest agenda and registration information.
CST2022 will strictly adhere to CDC and District of Columbia COVID regulations including requiring valid photo ID, proof of at least 2 vaccinations, and compliance with mask mandates. Onsite check-in required prior to CST2022 registration.
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About the Commercial Spaceflight Federation
The Commercial Spaceflight Federation is the leading voice for the commercial spaceflight industry. Founded in 2006, CSF and its 90 members are laying the foundation for a sustainable space economy and democratizing access to space for scientists, students, civilians, and businesses. CSF members are responsible for the creation of thousands of high-tech jobs driven by billions of dollars in investment. Through the promotion of technology innovation, CSF is guiding the expansion of Earth’s economic sphere, bolstering U.S. leadership in aerospace, and inspiring America’s next generation of engineers and explorers.
About Patti Grace Smith Fellowship
The Patti Grace Smith Fellowship is on a mission to provide a meaningful, effective pathway into successful aerospace careers and future aerospace industry leadership to people whose race and ethnicity has made them the subject of systemic bias.
As they succeed in that goal, they have ventured to drive meaningful change in the aerospace industry itself in terms of how it acknowledges and addresses matters of racial and ethnic equity and inclusion.
An official spin-off of the award-winning Brooke Owens Fellowship, and based closely on that successful model, their program provides extraordinary Black students with their first work experience in the aerospace industry, personalized mentorship, and a cohort of similarly driven and talented young Black people pursuing aerospace careers.
Washington, D.C. – Mary Guenther has joined the Commercial Spaceflight Federation (CSF) as its new Director of Space Policy.
“CSF is thrilled to have Mary as part of our team where she is leading policy development and advocacy efforts that enable fair and open competition and spur innovation for the commercial space industry,” said Karina Drees, CSF President.
Before joining CSF, Guenther served as a Professional Staff Member on the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee where she was responsible for developing space, manufacturing, and science legislation. She worked on NASA, NSF, NIST, FAA AST, and the DOC Office of Space Commerce oversight and key legislative initiatives including the United States Innovation and Competition Act, which incorporated the NASA Authorization Act of 2019.
“It’s an honor to join the CSF team and be part of the extraordinary community of commercial space companies and see – firsthand – the commitment and innovation that is spurring our nation’s leadership in space,” said Guenther.
Guenther previously served as a Legislative Assistant and Special Assistant at the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee. A Maryland native, Guenther earned a Bachelor’s degree (Magna Cum Laude) in Public Communications with a second major in Economics from American University.
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About the Commercial Spaceflight Federation
The Commercial Spaceflight Federation is the leading voice for the commercial spaceflight industry. Founded in 2006, CSF and its 90 members are laying the foundation for a sustainable space economy and democratizing access to space for scientists, students, civilians, and businesses. CSF members are responsible for the creation of thousands of high-tech jobs driven by billions of dollars in investment. Through the promotion of technology innovation, CSF is guiding the expansion of Earth’s economic sphere, bolstering U.S. leadership in aerospace, and inspiring America’s next generation of engineers and explorers.
Washington, D.C. (Wednesday, February 2, 2022) – The Commercial Spaceflight Federation (CSF) announced today individual and organization winners of awards in recognition of milestone accomplishments in commercial space. The 2022 winners are:
“The CSF awards were established three years ago to recognize the accomplishments and commitments by individuals and companies that have contributed to the industry’s unprecedented growth and continued success,” said CSF President Karina Drees. “Their efforts have contributed to our collective commitment to democratize space for all.”
This year marks the inaugural recognition for outstanding advocacy contributions in recognition of long-time CSF Member, Jim Kuzma, who passed away on February 5, 2021. “On behalf of Jim’s colleagues at Space Florida, we are honored that CSF recognized his many contributions to the space community and the legacy he leaves behind,” said Jillianne Pierce, Director of Federal Government Relations at Space Florida. “We extend our sincerest congratulations to Clay and Tim.”
In congratulating the winners, Caryn Schenewerk, CSF Chair and Vice President for Regulatory and Government Affairs for Relativity Space said: “CSF received countless nominations this year, making the decision particularly challenging in narrowing down a slate of winners for what was a truly extraordinary year in commercial space.”
Winners will be recognized at the FAA/CSF Commercial Space Transportation Conference during a luncheon presentation on Thursday, February 17, 2022, in Washington, D.C, featuring a keynote address from Senator John Hickenlooper. CST2022 begins at 1 PM ET on Wednesday, February 16. 2022. Click here for the latest agenda and registration information.
CST2022 will strictly adhere to CDC and District of Columbia COVID regulations including requiring valid photo ID, proof of at least 2 vaccinations, and compliance with mask mandates. Onsite check-in required prior to CST2022 registration.
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About The Commercial Spaceflight Federation
The Commercial Spaceflight Federation is the leading voice for the commercial spaceflight industry. Founded in 2006, CSF and its 90 members are laying the foundation for a sustainable space economy and democratizing access to space for scientists, students, civilians, and businesses. CSF members are responsible for the creation of thousands of high-tech jobs driven by billions of dollars in investment. Through the promotion of technology innovation, CSF is guiding the expansion of Earth’s economic sphere, bolstering U.S. leadership in aerospace, and inspiring America’s next generation of engineers and explorers.
Media Contact: Diane Smiroldo, 703-819-1963; diane@smiroldocommunications.com
Washington, DC – Tommy Sanford, Executive Director of the Commercial Spaceflight Federation, is joining Blue Origin, effective January 31, 2022. Sanford has served as Executive Director of CSF since 2014.
“Tommy has been an integral part of this organization over the past eight years during a period of substantial industry growth,” said Karina Drees, President of CSF. “He has led a number of efforts to help shape CSF, but more importantly, to get the commercial spaceflight industry the attention it deserved on the Hill and within multiple Administrations. I am grateful for his contributions to the industry and to the organization, and congratulate him on his new role!”
CSF will be expanding the team to meet the legislative and advocacy priorities of its member companies. In the interim, Drees will handle policy and outreach for CSF.
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About the Commercial Spaceflight Federation
The Commercial Spaceflight Federation is the leading voice for the commercial spaceflight industry. Founded in 2006, CSF and its 90+ members are laying the foundation for a sustainable space economy and democratizing access to space for scientists, students, civilians, and businesses. CSF members are responsible for the creation of thousands of high-tech jobs driven by billions of dollars in investment. Through the promotion of technology innovation, CSF is guiding the expansion of Earth’s economic sphere, bolstering U.S. leadership in aerospace, and inspiring America’s next generation of engineers and explorers.
Washington, D.C., Wednesday, November 19, 2021 –
The Commercial Spaceflight Federation (CSF) strongly condemns the deliberate destruction of satellites endangering humans in orbit and other spaceflight activities, which underpin our economy. Commercial operators make every effort to avoid creating space debris, recognizing the importance of environmental stewardship for all users. CSF and its members are dedicated to creating a sustainable and safe space environment that enables continued human presence in low-Earth orbit and responsible satellite constellations to improve life on Earth. CSF is committed to working with the US government to address space sustainability to eliminate the irresponsible and purposeful creation of space debris.
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About the Commercial Spaceflight Federation
The Commercial Spaceflight Federation is the leading voice for the commercial spaceflight industry. Founded in 2006, CSF and its 90+ members are laying the foundation for a sustainable space economy and democratizing access to space for scientists, students, civilians, and businesses. CSF members are responsible for the creation of thousands of high-tech jobs driven by billions of dollars in investment. Through the promotion of technology innovation, CSF is guiding the expansion of Earth’s economic sphere, bolstering U.S. leadership in aerospace, and inspiring America’s next generation of engineers and explorers.
2021 Summary Report of the CSF MITRE Workshop and HRP for SFPs
Washington, D.C. – Thursday, November 4, 2021 – The Commercial Spaceflight Federation (CSF) elected new Board leadership and officers at its Board of Directors this week in Washington, D.C.
Caryn Schenewerk was elected as CSF Chair. Schenewerk is Vice President for Government Affairs at Relativity Space.
Mark Mozena, Senior Director for Government Affairs at Planet, will serve as Vice Chair. Mike Gold, Executive Vice President for Civil Space and External Affairs at Redwire Space, is CSF’s new Treasurer.
The 2021 CSF officers are: Sirisha Bandla, Virgin Galactic; Karen Cox, Maxar; Mat Dunn, SpaceX; Janet Kavandi, Sierra Space.; Travis Langster, COMSPOC; Taber MacCallum, Space Perspective; Megan Mitchell, Blue Origin; and Jillianne Pierce, Space Florida.
“We welcome Caryn and look forward to her leadership during what promises to be yet another extraordinary, record-breaking year for the commercial space industry,” said Karina Drees, CSF President. Schenewerk has extensive experience in space operations for several commercial space companies and working with federal agencies, the White House, and lawmakers on Capitol Hill on a variety of policy and regulatory issues.
Schenewerk succeeds Blue Origin’s Audrey Powers who served as CSF chairwoman since September 2020. “Audrey’s leadership, tireless efforts, and invaluable insights have been instrumental for CSF over the past 15 months,” said Drees. “Audrey has been a mentor to me – personally and professionally – particularly in my role as CSF president.”
This year marks 15 years since CSF was founded in 2006 with 10 member companies. As the leading voice for the commercial space industry, CSF has grown to 90 members. New members in 2021 included Astra, COMSPOC, and Redwire. Associate members joining this year included: Arctos, Burns and McDonnell, Foundation for the Future, GeoOptics, MyRadar, Solstar Space, USNC Tech, and Venturi Astrolab. Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine joined as a Research and Education Affiliate.
“We are extremely appreciative of the time and commitment from all CSF members — especially the Board of Directors and Executive Committee members — to guide and grow the organization and support policies that encourage commercial innovation and continued expansion to further democratize space for all,” concluded Drees.
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About the Commercial Spaceflight Federation
The Commercial Spaceflight Federation is the leading voice for the commercial spaceflight industry. Founded in 2006, CSF and its 90+ members are laying the foundation for a sustainable space economy and democratizing access to space for scientists, students, civilians, and businesses. CSF members are responsible for the creation of thousands of high-tech jobs driven by billions of dollars in investment. Through the promotion of technology innovation, CSF is guiding the expansion of Earth’s economic sphere, bolstering U.S. leadership in aerospace, and inspiring America’s next generation of engineers and explorers.
Due to the worsening condition of COVID and increasing government travel restrictions, CSF is postponing the 24th Annual FAA Commercial Space Transportation Conference until February 16th and 17th, 2022 at the Ronald Reagan Center in Washington DC. We believe a February 2022 date will better serve attendees, speakers, media, sponsors, and all other stakeholders involved.
Registration and sponsorship remain open for the new February dates and can be found here.
We look forward to seeing everyone in February 2022!