(LAS CRUCES, NM) – Spaceport America, the world’s first purpose-built, commercial spaceport, has launched its operations center and a new look for its brand on Independence Day. NMSA announced it has obtained a temporary Certificate of Occupancy from the New Mexico Regulations and Licensing Department for the Spaceport Operations Center (SOC), a dome-shaped building adjacent to the Virgin Galactic Gateway to Space that will support operations.
The design of the interior is underway and final build out construction is
expected to begin by the end of 2012. When complete, the SOC will house NMSA staff and their
primary contractors that will handle facilities operations, security, fire and EMT service.
Spaceport America also launched a new logo for July 4.
"Our new identity emphasizes our dedication to the highest level of service to both our launch
customers and the hundreds of thousands of expected annual visitors from around the globe," said
Anderson. “We look forward to soon adding access to the newly finished SOC facility to our guided
‘Preview Tour’ this summer.” Anderson said. "Spaceport America is helping a new
American Revolution take place in the commercial space industry, and what better time to
showcase our new brand than the Fourth of July," said Christine Anderson, Executive Director of
the New Mexico Spaceport Authority (NMSA).
The new identity, named "Spirit", represents two stars coming together; the collaboration of
innovative efforts to propel man's reach into space. The Spaceport America identity is created from
the colors of our nation with red symbolizing energy, strength, and power and blue symbolizing
trust, loyalty and wisdom. It reflects Spaceport America’s core commitment to the spirit of
exploration, the promise of human potential, and the powerful combination of vision and courage
as it launches the next generation of space.