The licensing process for the Space Launch Center in Santa Maria has been completed, the Azores Regional Government announced on Wednesday, August 13.

To be operated by the Atlantic Spaceport Consortium (ASC), the Azores Regional Government says that this milestone is the result of the commitment and determination of the ASC and the joint work of the Portuguese Space Agency and ANACOM with various national entities.

In a press release sent to newsrooms, the president of the regional government, José Manuel Bolieiro, said that the licensing “is a historic step that reflects the vision and commitment of the region.”

He continued: “It positions the Azores as a key player in space innovation, with clear benefits for Europe and our archipelago, paving the way for future orbital launches from Santa Maria.”

The regional government also says that the project is fully in line with the Azores Space Strategy, which values the archipelago’s unique location to foster an innovative space ecosystem and make the Azores the Atlantic Hub for Space.

The objectives are to attract investment, promote cutting-edge technology, and create economic and social opportunities for the Azorean population, while always safeguarding the safety of the population and the environment, according to the Azorean executive.

In this regard, the Azores Government concludes that it maintains “a clear perspective of seeing orbital launch operations licensed from Santa Maria in the near future.”

Translated to English as a community outreach program from the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL) as part of Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno, PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.