Redwire Corporation (NYSE: RDW), a leader in space infrastructure for the next generation space economy, announced it plans to open a new state-of-the-art microgravity payload development facility with a mission operations center at the Novaparke Innovation & Technology Campus in Floyd County, Indiana, as the company looks to increase production of critical technologies enabling human spaceflight missions and commercial microgravity research and development in low-Earth orbit (LEO).
The new 30,000-square-foot facility will support increased demand from commercial companies and academic researchers focused on improving pharmaceutical drug development, optimizing disease treatments, and enabling technologies essential for sustainable human spaceflight in LEO and beyond. Construction is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of this year.
“Redwire’s continued investment in Indiana is a testament to our shared commitment to building a robust economy of the future,” said David Watkins, senior vice president of small business and entrepreneurship at the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC). “These new high-wage, high-skill careers will provide greater opportunities for residents of Floyd County and help further position Indiana as a leader in innovation.”
“We are building capacity as we pioneer consequential in-space manufacturing and microgravity research capabilities, such as bioprinting, in low-Earth orbit, with life-saving benefits on and off our home planet,” said John Vellinger, Redwire Executive Vice President. “As we leverage strategic investments to scale in-space manufacturing in LEO, it will directly impact the sustainability of future human spaceflight and deliver optimized products for Earth-based industries. The new facility will help accelerate the development of our growing portfolio of new microgravity research technologies, such as biomedical research payloads, as we continue to serve our research and deep space exploration customers.”
“Redwire is exactly the kind of world-class, innovative company we had in mind when the vision for Novaparke was first conceived,” said Bob Woosley, President of the Floyd County Redevelopment Commission. “We look forward to seeing what new breakthrough technologies will be developed here for the benefit of all and are excited for the outstanding career opportunities this presents for the next generation of scientists, engineers and professionals here in Floyd County.”