From Ancient Astronomy to Space Tourism: The Future of Space Travel in Peru

The ancient Peruvians were known to observe the stars for both religious and practical purposes. Now, with the future spaceport to be built in Piura, this ancient practice could receive a new boost.

The Spaceport project has gained notoriety in recent months, with the El Pato air base in Talara designated as one of its locations for establishment. The Private Investment Promotion Agency (Porinversión) is responsible for defining the management and making the project a reality, with the Peruvian Air Force (FAP) and the Ministry of Defense also involved.

The goal of the Spaceport project is to facilitate launches of rockets and spacecraft for orbital and suborbital flights. Being close to the equator, it’s estimated that fuel savings of 30% can be achieved, resulting in increased cargo capacity on flights.

The space station will consist of ground platforms, a control center, hangars for preparation, integration and validation, as well as taxi and take-off runways. It will be located in a remote area away from population centers. The project is part of the Multiannual Report on Investments in Public-Private Partnerships and Asset Projects (IMIAPP), with an estimated investment of over S/1,000 million.

In addition to facilitating space tourism, the Spaceport project is expected to contribute to technological research and education. Collaborations with NASA and the United States Space Command Commission have provided technical advice and knowledge exchange opportunities that can lead to technology development.

Last year, a team of young Peruvian researchers won first place at NASA International Space Apps Challenge with their project “Space Odyssey Planner”. The team emphasized the importance of promoting astronomy in education and how this new space station could inspire a new generation of stargazers. Just like ancient Peruvians who looked up at stars for guidance, this new space station could help us look even further into our universe’s mysteries.

With this new opportunity ahead