Blue Abyss and NASA to advance space training and research

Image courtesy Blue Abyss / copyright Cityscape Digital

This collaboration aims to bolster the development of next-generation infrastructure and capabilities for human spaceflight, astronaut training, and the simulation of extreme environments.

Under the terms of the agreement, NASA and Blue Abyss will collaborate to explore innovative solutions for training and conducting research that addresses challenges in low Earth orbit, cis-lunar, lunar, and Martian environments.

The partnership underscores a shared vision to promote a robust and competitive commercial space sector, advancing US leadership in space exploration and innovation-driven entrepreneurship.

Key Areas of Collaboration:

• Developing commercial capabilities for astronaut selection and training.
• Conducting research on human performance, robotics, and biological and physical sciences under extreme gravity conditions.
• Mapping infrastructure needs for advanced simulation facilities, such as underwater modules, parabolic flights, and augmented reality technologies.

NASA will provide technical support and share insights from its extensive experience in space exploration to guide the development of Blue Abyss’s commercial facilities and services.

The initial phase will include a comprehensive market study conducted by Blue Abyss to outline the 10-year vision for infrastructure requirements, with milestones set for reporting and evaluation. The results of this market study will be shared with NASA to provide a better understanding of what commercial capabilities the agency could use in the future.

This non-reimbursable Space Act Agreement highlights NASA’s ongoing commitment to facilitating partnerships that stimulate commercial opportunities while advancing scientific and technological frontiers.

John Vickers, Chief Executive Officer, Blue Abyss, said: "This Space Act Agreement with NASA’s Glenn Research Center represents a pivotal milestone for Blue Abyss. As we develop next-generation infrastructure, including our proposed facilities in the US and UK, it helps position the UK as a significant player in the space sector, supporting industry growth, consultancy, training and infrastructure development that will attract international clients and foster innovation within the UK space industry."

Ross Hulbert, Head of Engagement at Spaceport Cornwall, said: "We’re thrilled to welcome Blue Abyss to our Space Systems Operations Facility at Spaceport Cornwall. It’s fantastic to have such an innovative team join us, especially at this exciting time.



“We’d like to extend our huge congratulations to everyone at Blue Abyss on their new partnership with NASA’s Glenn Research Center. This collaboration not only showcases their incredible capabilities but also solidifies the UK’s role in advanced space and subsea training.”