Atlantic Spaceport Consortium
From Azores to Space: Shaping the Future of European Space Access
Located in the Azores, ASC leads the way in making European space access innovative, sustainable, and globally competitive.
OUR MISSON
Pioneering Portugal’s Role in Space
The Atlantic Spaceport Consortium (ASC) is shaping the future of space access for Europe and the world. From a unique geostrategic location in the Azores, at the heart of the North Atlantic, ASC’s mission is to deliver innovative and cost-efficient ground service solutions to launch providers. ASC’s ultimate vision is to unlock the full potential of the space economy and the limitless opportunities it holds.
Founded in 2020 with the goal of establishing Portugal’s first commercial spaceport, ASC is a 100% private and Portuguese-owned partnership between OPTIMAL Structural Solutions and Ilex Space. This collaboration combines complementary expertise: OPTIMAL specializes in the design and maintenance of metallic and composite structures, while Ilex Space leads the commercial strategy and international business development. Together, they provide ASC with a strong technological and commercial foundation, enabling a comprehensive range of services—from launch operations to re-entry and recovery support.
ASC has developed critical technical capabilities to operate and manage a spaceport on the island of Santa Maria to meet Europe’s growing demand for launch sites. ASC’s mission also extends beyond infrastructure development; from facilitating satellite launches to developing custom-built ground support equipment and navigating complex regulatory landscapes, ASC is dedicated to advancing European space capabilities. Its activities align with the strategic objectives outlined in the Portuguese and Azorean Space Strategies, positioning the Azores as a pivotal space hub in the Atlantic and a gateway for Europe’s growing space ambitions. The Consortium is committed to fostering strong local partnerships, creating an effective and competitive value chain, and solidifying the Azores as a thriving space hub, while preserving its pristine natural environment. Accordingly, the company is currently hosted at Incuba+, in Vila do Porto, under the ESA BIC Portugal incubation program.
Looking to the future, the Atlantic Spaceport Consortium is committed to being an enabler of Europe’s growing space ambitions. By sustainably enhancing launch capabilities at Santa Maria and throughout the Atlantic region, ASC is poised to leave a legacy of flexibility, strengthened international collaboration, and expanded opportunities for Europe in space.
MILESTONES
Our Journey from Vision to Reality
2024
September
GAMA Mission
Partnering with the student-led RED team, ASC conducted its first launch campaign with two back-to-back rocket launches from Santa Maria, on the 26th and 28th of September 2024, in coordination with the local authorities, while also testing the launch site for the first time.
2020
ASC Incorporated
Founded in 2020 with the goal of establishing Portugal’s first commercial spaceport, ASC is a 100% private and Portuguese-owned partnership between OPTIMAL Structural Solutions and Ilex Space.
2018
The Consortium is formed
In 2018, OPTIMAL Structural Solutions and Ilex Space started exploring synergies and a vision for the Azores ecosystem began to form. In short time, they proposed the concept for an open spaceport on the island of Santa Maria and those foundations still stand today.
Ready to Propel Your Mission to Success?
Connect with the experts at ASC and discover how our tailored services can bring your space ambitions to life. Whether you’re looking for support with launches, integration, or recovery operations, our dedicated team is here to help.
Take the first step toward an extraordinary space journey!