Starfighters Space Joins C-STARS Consortium to Advance Space Manufacturing and Research at Kennedy Space Center

Starfighters Space, Inc. has joined the Center for Science, Technology, and Advanced Research in Space (C-STARS), a proposed National Science Foundation (NSF) Industry–University Cooperative Research Center (IUCRC) focused on advancing space manufacturing and training the next generation of space technology professionals.

C-STARS, based at University of Florida will bring together researchers at the Florida Institute of Technology, Florida Agriculture and Mechanical University, and the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, as well as industry and government partners to accelerate research and commercialization across key areas including biotechnology, advanced materials, electronics, and in-space manufacturing.

Through its participation, Starfighters Space will integrate its high-performance flight platform into the C-STARS ecosystem, supporting research, testing, and mission development in suborbital and microgravity environments.

“Starfighters was built to enable faster, more flexible access to space, and C-STARS allows us to extend that platform directly into the research and manufacturing domain,” said Tim Franta, Chief Executive Officer of Starfighters Space. “By working alongside leading universities and government partners, we can help accelerate how new technologies are developed, tested, and ultimately deployed. As the industry moves beyond access toward cadence, flexibility, and mission readiness, platforms that can bridge research, testing, and operational deployment will become increasingly critical – and this partnership positions us at the center of that shift.”

Operating from the Shuttle Landing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, Starfighters Space provides flight support for testing and research, astronaut training, and launch operations using its fleet of F-104 aircraft. The company’s capabilities include simulating launch profiles, supporting zero-gravity and sensor testing, and serving as a flexible platform for payload development.

Participation in C-STARS is expected to provide Starfighters with access to specialized research facilities, collaborative funding opportunities, and a network of academic and government partners. The partnership will also support joint initiatives aligned with NASA and broader commercial space priorities, while helping reduce development risk and cost through shared infrastructure and coordinated research efforts.

Jamie Foster, an Assistant Director of the University of Florida Astraeus Space Institute and C-STARS UF-lead said, “By creating a focused hub where researchers, companies, and federal agencies all interact, C-STARS is laying the foundation for a thriving space manufacturing economy. This innovative collaboration space ensures that the C-STARS members and academic partners are leading, not just research efforts, but forging the necessary and practical partnerships to move breakthroughs in the lab to Low Earth Orbit."

Additionally, she said, “One of our biggest commitments through C-STARS is hands-on workforce development programs in the rapidly emerging areas of space biomanufacturing. From research experiences to internships with industry, we are working to develop talent pathways that enable students from many backgrounds to become the innovators, builders and leaders of the new space sector.”

If C-STARS is selected for NSF funding, Starfighters Space intends to join the consortium as a full member. In support of the initiative, the company has committed $50,000 annually, with an additional contribution to demonstrate its support regardless of the NSF award outcome.