The state of Florida is clearly visible in this photo taken by the crew of space shuttle mission 51-C.

SL4-139-4029 (10 Jan. 1974) --- An oblique view of the State of Florida, looking northward up the peninsula, as photographed from the Skylab space station in Earth orbit by one of the Skylab 4 crewman. The camera used was a hand-held 70mm Hasselblad, with SO-368 medium-speed Ektachrome. This view shows almost the entire state, except the panhandle region. The Bahama Banks area appears in the southeast part of the picture as the light blue water. Andros Island in the Bahamas group is the island in the lower right corner. The Gulfstream flows between Florida and the Bahama Banks. This fast-moving, warm-water current transports energy from the tropics to the northern latitudes. The effect of the warmer Gulfstream waters on the atmosphere is seen as increased convection (caused by the warmer water heating the air from below) resulting in the fair weather cumulus seen confined primarily over the Gulfstream. A portion of Cuba is seen in the lower left corner of the picture. Photo credit: NASA

The crew of space shuttle mission STS-29 took this photograph of Florida, including a view of Brevard County, as the orbiter passed 184 miles above the state.

iss072e891004 (March 22, 2025) --- The Florida peninsula and the eastern coast of the United States, including the Bahamas in the Atlantic Ocean, are pictured at 1:37 a.m. local time from the International Space Station as it orbited 260 miles above.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Officials of the NASA-Kennedy Space Center and the state of Florida pose for a group portrait at a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Space Life Sciences Lab at the new lab. From left are Capt. Winston Scott, executive director of the Florida Space Authority; Dr. Robert J. Ferl, director of Space Agriculture Biotechnology Research and Education (SABRE), University of Florida; Charlie Quincy, chief of the Biological Sciences Office, Kennedy Space Center; Jose Perez-Morales, NASA Project Manager for the Space Life Sciences Lab; Jim Kennedy, director of the Kennedy Space Center; The Honorable Toni Jennings, lieutenant governor of the state of Florida; Frank T. Brogan, president of the Florida Atlantic University; and Dr. Samuel Durrance, executive director of the Florida Space Research Institute. Completed in August, the facility encompasses more than 100,000 square feet and was formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory or SERPL. The state, through the Florida Space Authority, built the research lab which is host to NASA, NASA’s Life Sciences Services contractor Dynamac Corp., Bionetics Corp., and researchers from the University of Florida. Dynamac Corp. leases the facility. The Florida Space Research Institute is responsible for gaining additional tenants from outside the NASA community.

STS-26 ONBOARD - The Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral, and most of Brevard County, Florida, are clearly visible in this photo taken by the crew of the orbiter Discovery while in orbit during space shuttle mission STS-26.

STS-29 ONBOARD - The crew of space shuttle mission STS-29 took thousands of still photographs during their five days in orbit, including this view of south/central Florida.

The Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral, and most of Brevard County, Florida, are clearly visible in this photo taken by the crew of the orbiter Discovery while in orbit during space shuttle mission STS-26.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Dynamac employees (from left) Larry Burns, Debbie Wells and Neil Yorio carry boxes of hardware into the Space Life Sciences Lab (SLSL), formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory (SERPL). They are transferring equipment from Hangar L. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility being built for ISS biotechnology research. Developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida, NASA’s life sciences contractor will be the primary tenant of the facility, leasing space to conduct flight experiment processing and NASA-sponsored research. About 20 percent of the facility will be available for use by Florida’s university researchers through the Florida Space Research Institute.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Space Life Sciences Lab (SLSL), formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory (SERPL), is nearing completion. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility being built for ISS biotechnology research. Developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida, NASA’s life sciences contractor will be the primary tenant of the facility, leasing space to conduct flight experiment processing and NASA-sponsored research. About 20 percent of the facility will be available for use by Florida’s university researchers through the Florida Space Research Institute.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Ivan Rodriguez, with Bionetics, and Michelle Crouch and Larry Burns, with Dynamac, carry boxes of equipment into the Space Life Sciences Lab (SLSL), formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory (SERPL). They are transferring equipment from Hangar L. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility being built for ISS biotechnology research. Developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida, NASA’s life sciences contractor will be the primary tenant of the facility, leasing space to conduct flight experiment processing and NASA-sponsored research. About 20 percent of the facility will be available for use by Florida’s university researchers through the Florida Space Research Institute.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Honorable Toni Jennings (left), lieutenant governor of the state of Florida, and Frank T. Brogan, president of Florida Atlantic University, receive a briefing on the research that will be conducted in the Space Life Sciences Lab from Dr. Robert J. Ferl (right), director of Space Agriculture Biotechnology Research and Education (SABRE), University of Florida. Jennings and Brogan are speaking at a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the lab hosted by NASA-Kennedy Space Center and the state of Florida at the new lab. Completed in August, the facility encompasses more than 100,000 square feet and was formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory or SERPL. The state, through the Florida Space Authority, built the research lab which is host to NASA, NASA’s Life Sciences Services contractor Dynamac Corp., Bionetics Corp., and researchers from the University of Florida. Dynamac Corp. leases the facility. The Florida Space Research Institute is responsible for gaining additional tenants from outside the NASA community.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Capt. Winston Scott, executive director of the Florida Space Authority, speaks at a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Space Life Sciences Lab hosted by NASA-Kennedy Space Center and the state of Florida at the new lab. Completed in August, the facility encompasses more than 100,000 square feet and was formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory or SERPL. The state, through the Florida Space Authority, built the research lab which is host to NASA, NASA’s Life Sciences Services contractor Dynamac Corp., Bionetics Corp., and researchers from the University of Florida. Dynamac Corp. leases the facility. The Florida Space Research Institute is responsible for gaining additional tenants from outside the NASA community.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Frank T. Brogan, president of the Florida Atlantic University, speaks at a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Space Life Sciences Lab hosted by NASA-Kennedy Space Center and the state of Florida at the new lab. Completed in August, the facility encompasses more than 100,000 square feet and was formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory or SERPL. The state, through the Florida Space Authority, built the research lab which is host to NASA, NASA’s Life Sciences Services contractor Dynamac Corp., Bionetics Corp., and researchers from the University of Florida. Dynamac Corp. leases the facility. The Florida Space Research Institute is responsible for gaining additional tenants from outside the NASA community.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Dignitaries, invited guests, space center employees, and the media gather for a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Space Life Sciences Lab hosted by NASA-Kennedy Space Center and the state of Florida at the new lab. Completed in August, the facility encompasses more than 100,000 square feet and was formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory or SERPL. The state, through the Florida Space Authority, built the research lab which is host to NASA, NASA’s Life Sciences Services contractor Dynamac Corp., Bionetics Corp., and researchers from the University of Florida. Dynamac Corp. leases the facility. The Florida Space Research Institute is responsible for gaining additional tenants from outside the NASA community.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Dignitaries, invited guests, space center employees, and the media show their appreciation for the speakers at a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Space Life Sciences Lab hosted by NASA-Kennedy Space Center and the state of Florida at the new lab. Completed in August, the facility encompasses more than 100,000 square feet and was formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory or SERPL. The state, through the Florida Space Authority, built the research lab which is host to NASA, NASA’s Life Sciences Services contractor Dynamac Corp., Bionetics Corp., and researchers from the University of Florida. Dynamac Corp. leases the facility. The Florida Space Research Institute is responsible for gaining additional tenants from outside the NASA community.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Dignitaries, invited guests, space center employees, and the media gather for a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Space Life Sciences Lab hosted by NASA-Kennedy Space Center and the state of Florida at the new lab. Completed in August, the facility encompasses more than 100,000 square feet and was formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory or SERPL. The state, through the Florida Space Authority, built the research lab which is host to NASA, NASA’s Life Sciences Services contractor Dynamac Corp., Bionetics Corp., and researchers from the University of Florida. Dynamac Corp. leases the facility. The Florida Space Research Institute is responsible for gaining additional tenants from outside the NASA community.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Dynamac employees Debbie Wells, Michelle Crouch and Larry Burns are silhouetted as they talk inside a conference room of the Space Life Sciences Lab (SLSL), formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory (SERPL). They have been transferring equipment from Hangar L. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility being built for ISS biotechnology research. Developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida, NASA’s life sciences contractor will be the primary tenant of the facility, leasing space to conduct flight experiment processing and NASA-sponsored research. About 20 percent of the facility will be available for use by Florida’s university researchers through the Florida Space Research Institute.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Employees check out the new chamber facilities of the Space Life Sciences Lab (SLSL), formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory (SERPL). From left are Ray Wheeler, with NASA; Debbie Wells and Larry Burns, with Dynamac; A.O. Rule, president of Environmental Growth Chambers, Inc. (ECG); Neil Yorio, with Dynamac; and John Wiezchowski, with ECG. The SLSL is a state-of-the-art facility being built for ISS biotechnology research. Developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida, NASA’s life sciences contractor will be the primary tenant of the facility, leasing space to conduct flight experiment processing and NASA-sponsored research. About 20 percent of the facility will be available for use by Florida’s university researchers through the Florida Space Research Institute.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Dynamac employees (from left) Larry Burns, Debbie Wells and Michelle Crouch talk in a conference room of the Space Life Sciences Lab (SLSL), formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory (SERPL). They have been transferring equipment from Hangar L. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility being built for ISS biotechnology research. Developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida, NASA’s life sciences contractor will be the primary tenant of the facility, leasing space to conduct flight experiment processing and NASA-sponsored research. About 20 percent of the facility will be available for use by Florida’s university researchers through the Florida Space Research Institute.

jsc2025e065391 (1/15/2025) --- A six-well BioCell, the hardware that holds samples for the International Space Station Microgravity Associated Bone Loss-B (MABL-B) investigation, which assesses how bone-forming stem cells respond to microgravity. Researchers are measuring gene expression changes and the secretion of signaling proteins that promote bone formation and increase bone loss. Results could provide insight into spaceflight-related bone loss and support development of treatments for bone loss caused by disease on Earth. Credit: Mayo Clinic

This set of images from NASA Terra satellit highlights coastal areas of four states along the Gulf of Mexico: Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and part of the Florida panhandle. The images were acquired on October 15, 2001 Terra orbit 9718.

Before the start of the First Florida Space Summit, participants gather around the poster. From left are Center Director Roy Bridges, Representative Jim Davis, Representative Dave Weldon, NASA Administrator Dan Goldin, Senator Connie Mack, Governor Jeb Bush, Senator Bob Graham and 45th Space Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Donald Pettit. The summit, which was held at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, featured key state officials and aerospace companies to discuss the future of space as it relates to the State of Florida. Moderated by Bridges, the event also included State Senator Patsy Kurth, State Senator Charlie Bronson, and State Representative Randy Ball

Before the start of the First Florida Space Summit, participants gather around the poster. From left are Center Director Roy Bridges, Representative Jim Davis, Representative Dave Weldon, NASA Administrator Dan Goldin, Senator Connie Mack, Governor Jeb Bush, Senator Bob Graham and 45th Space Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Donald Pettit. The summit, which was held at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, featured key state officials and aerospace companies to discuss the future of space as it relates to the State of Florida. Moderated by Bridges, the event also included State Senator Patsy Kurth, State Senator Charlie Bronson, and State Representative Randy Ball

Before the start of the First Florida Space Summit, participants gather around the poster. From left are Center Director Roy Bridges, Representative Jim Davis, Representative Dave Weldon, NASA Administrator Dan Goldin, Senator Connie Mack, Governor Jeb Bush, Senator Bob Graham and 45th Space Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Donald Pettit. The summit, which was held at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, featured key state officials and aerospace companies to discuss the future of space as it relates to the State of Florida. Moderated by Bridges, the event also included State Senator Patsy Kurth, State Senator Charlie Bronson, and State Representative Randy Ball

The Honorable Toni Jennings, lieutenant governor of the state of Florida, speaks at a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Space Life Sciences Lab hosted by NASA-Kennedy Space Center and the state of Florida at the new lab. Completed in August, the facility encompasses more than 100,000 square feet and was formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory or SERPL. The state, through the Florida Space Authority, built the research lab which is host to NASA, NASA’s Life Sciences Services contractor Dynamac Corp., Bionetics Corp., and researchers from the University of Florida. Dynamac Corp. leases the facility. The Florida Space Research Institute is responsible for gaining additional tenants from outside the NASA community.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An aerial photo of the Space Life Sciences Lab at KSC. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA KSC and the State of Florida.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An aerial photo of the Space Life Sciences Lab at KSC. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA KSC and the State of Florida.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An aerial photo of the Space Life Sciences Lab at KSC. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA KSC and the State of Florida.

Senator Bob Graham (left), Center Director Roy Bridges (center) and Senator Connie Mack (right) take a break during the First Florida Space Summit, held at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The summit featured key state officials and aerospace companies discussing the future of space as it relates to the State of Florida. Moderated by Bridges, the event also included State Senator Patsy Kurth, Representative Dave Weldon, and 45th Space Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Donald Pettit

Senator Bob Graham (left), Center Director Roy Bridges (center) and Senator Connie Mack (right) take a break during the First Florida Space Summit, held at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The summit featured key state officials and aerospace companies discussing the future of space as it relates to the State of Florida. Moderated by Bridges, the event also included State Senator Patsy Kurth, Representative Dave Weldon, and 45th Space Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Donald Pettit

Participants in the First Florida Space Summit take part in a discussion on the future of space as it relates to the State of Florida. Held at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, the discussion was moderated by Center Director Roy Bridges. Seated (left to right) are State Representative Randy Ball; Tony Villamil, with OTTED; and State Senator Charlie Bronson. The event also included Senator Bob Graham, Senator Connie Mack, State Senator Patsy Kurth, Representative Dave Weldon, 45th Space Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Donald Pettit and heads of aerospace companies

A ribbon cutting ceremony on the upgraded eastbound span of the Indian River Bridge is held on June 9, 2023 near NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. From left are Florida Department of Transportation State Secretary Jared Perdue; Florida State House Representative Thad Altman; Florida State Senator Tom Wright; Kennedy Space Center Director Janet Petro; Florida Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez (cutting the ribbon); Frank DiBello, Space Florida President/Chief Executive Officer; Florida State House Representative Tyler Sirois; and FDOT District Five Secretary John Tyler. The new high-rise bridge serves as the primary entrance and exit to the space center for employees and visitors. The bridge spans the Indian River Lagoon and connects Kennedy and the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station to the mainland via State Road 405/NASA Causeway in Titusville. This first section of the bridge replaces the two-lane drawbridge which was built in the mid-1960s to support the Apollo program.

An osprey with a sea trout in its claws gets ready to fly in the Kennedy Space Center area, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, 23 February 2008. The crew of space shuttle Endeavour mission STS-123 is scheduled to arrive at 11:00 A.M. EST., at the shuttle landing facility 23 february 2008. The mission STS-123 launch is scheduled for launch no earlier than 11 March 2008.

Space shuttle Endeavour lands at the Kennedy Space Center, Shuttle Landing Facility, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, 26 March 2008. Endeavour completed a sixteen day mission to the International Space Station where it delivered the latest KIBO Experiment Module and the Canadian Robot DEXTRE. The mission STS-123 also had five space walks associated with the mission.Endeavour landed on the secon landing possibility.

Space shuttle Endeavour lands at the Kennedy Space Center, Shuttle Landing Facility, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, 26 March 2008. Endeavour completed a sixteen day mission to the International Space Station where it delivered the latest KIBO Experiment Module and the Canadian Robot DEXTRE. The mission STS-123 also had five space walks associated with the mission.Endeavour landed on the second landing possibility.

Space shuttle Endeavour lands at the Kennedy Space Center, Shuttle Landing Facility, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, 26 March 2008. Endeavour completed a sixteen day mission to the International Space Station where it delivered the latest KIBO Experiment Module and the Canadian Robot DEXTRE. The mission STS-123 also had five space walks associated with the mission.

Space shuttle Atlantis lands at the Kennedy Space Center, Shuttle Landing Facility, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, 20 February 2008. Atlantis completed a thirteen day mission to the International Space Station where it delivered the latest modu;e to the ISS named Columbus.

An osprey with a sea trout in its claws flies in the Kennedy Space Center area, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, 23 February 2008. The crew of space shuttle Endeavour mission STS-123 is scheduled to arrive at 11:00 A.M. EST., at the shuttle landing facility 23 february 2008. The mission STS-123 launch is scheduled for launch no earlier than 11 March 2008.

Space Shuttle Atlantis viewed from the Mobil Launch Platform (MLP) during it's final rollout to Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA 31 May 2011. Launch of Atlantis on the STS-135 mission to deliver supplies to the International Space Station is currently planned for no earlier than 08 July 2011. The STS-135 mission is planned to last eight days and will be the final flight of the Space Shuttle program.

members of the media gather in the VAB to photograph the last rollout of Shuttle Atlantis on the Mobil Launch Platform (MLP) at Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA 31 May 2011. Launch of Atlantis on the STS-135 mission to deliver supplies to the International Space Station is currently planned for no earlier than 08 July 2011. The STS-135 mission is planned to last eight days and will be the final flight of the Space Shuttle program.

Space shuttle Endeavour lands at the Kennedy Space Center, Shuttle Landing Facility, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, 26 March 2008. Endeavour completed a sixteen day mission to the International Space Station where it delivered the latest KIBO Experiment Module and the Canadian Robot DEXTRE. The mission STS-123 also had five space walks associated with the mission.

Kennedy Space Center Director Charley Bolden (L) The STS-135 crew (L-R) Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Doug Hurley and Mission Specialists Sandra Mangus, Rex Walheim and Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach pose for a photo in front of Shuttle Atlantis on the Mobil Launch Platform (MLP) during it's final rollout to Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA 31 May 2011. Launch of Atlantis on the STS-135 mission to deliver supplies to the International Space Station is currently planned for no earlier than 08 July 2011. The STS-135 mission is planned to last eight days and will be the final flight of the Space Shuttle program.

Space shuttle Atlantis lands at the Kennedy Space Center, Shuttle Landing Facility, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, 20 February 2008. Atlantis completed a thirteen day mission to the International Space Station where it delivered the latest modu;e to the ISS named Columbus. The parachute deployed out of the rear of Atlantis will help slow don the shuttle after landing.

Kennedy Space Center Director Charley Bolden laughs at a story being told to him by STS-135 crew Commander Chris Ferguson during rollout of Shuttle Atlantis on the Mobil Launch Platform (MLP) at Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA 31 May 2011. Launch of Atlantis on the STS-135 mission to deliver supplies to the International Space Station is currently planned for no earlier than 08 July 2011. The STS-135 mission is planned to last eight days and will be the final flight of the Space Shuttle program.

Space shuttle Endeavour lands at the Kennedy Space Center, Shuttle Landing Facility, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, 26 March 2008. Endeavour completed a sixteen day mission to the International Space Station where it delivered the latest KIBO Experiment Module and the Canadian Robot DEXTRE. The mission STS-123 also had five space walks associated with the mission.

Space shuttle Endeavour lands at the Kennedy Space Center, Shuttle Landing Facility, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, 26 March 2008. Endeavour completed a sixteen day mission to the International Space Station where it delivered the latest KIBO Experiment Module and the Canadian Robot DEXTRE. The mission STS-123 also had five space walks associated with the mission.

Space shuttle Endeavour lands at the Kennedy Space Center, Shuttle Landing Facility, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, 26 March 2008. Endeavour completed a sixteen day mission to the International Space Station where it delivered the latest KIBO Experiment Module and the Canadian Robot DEXTRE. The mission STS-123 also had five space walks associated with the mission.Endeavour landed on the second landing possibility.

Shuttle Atlantis viewed from the Mobil Launch Platform (MLP) departs the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) during it's final rollout to Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA 31 May 2011. Launch of Atlantis on the STS-135 mission to deliver supplies to the International Space Station is planned for no earlier than 08 July 2011. The STS-135 mission is planned to last eight days and will be the final flight of the Space Shuttle program.

Space shuttle Endeavour lands at the Kennedy Space Center, Shuttle Landing Facility, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, 26 March 2008. Endeavour completed a sixteen day mission to the International Space Station where it delivered the latest KIBO Experiment Module and the Canadian Robot DEXTRE. The mission STS-123 also had five space walks associated with the mission.Endeavour landed on the second landing possibility.

Shuttle Discovery STS-133 Mission Commander Steve Lindsey gives a thumbs up during a practice crew walkout at Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA 15 October 2010. The crew of six is headed to launch pad 39A for a mock countdown that completes the three day Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. Shuttle Discovery is being prepared for what is to be it's final mission to the International Space Station, with launch scheduled for no earlier than 01 November 2010.

Space shuttle Atlantis lands at the Kennedy Space Center, Shuttle Landing Facility, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, 20 February 2008. Atlantis completed a thirteen day mission to the International Space Station where it delivered the latest modu;e to the ISS named Columbus.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From left, Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, U.S. Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore, Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Samuel W. Bodman, and NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe participate in the launching ceremony for the new Florida quarter, held at the KSC Visitor Complex. In the background is a map of the United States illustrating the state quarters issued to date. The newly unveiled quarter celebrates Florida as the gateway to discovery -- a destination for explorers in the past, a launch site for space explorers of the future, and an inviting place for visitors today.

Senator Connie Mack and Senator George Kirkpatrick talk before the Florida Space Summit being held today at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The event, featuring a discussion on the future of space as it relates to the State of Florida and moderated by Center Director Roy Bridges, included participants such as Senator Bob Graham, Rep. Dave Weldon, members of Florida's State government including Gov. Jeb Bush, NASA Administrator Dan Goldin, 45th Space Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Donald Pettit and heads of aerospace companies

Senator Connie Mack and Senator George Kirkpatrick talk before the Florida Space Summit being held today at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The event, featuring a discussion on the future of space as it relates to the State of Florida and moderated by Center Director Roy Bridges, included participants such as Senator Bob Graham, Rep. Dave Weldon, members of Florida's State government including Gov. Jeb Bush, NASA Administrator Dan Goldin, 45th Space Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Donald Pettit and heads of aerospace companies

The Space Life Sciences Lab (SLSL), formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory (SERPL), is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. Developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida, NASA’s life sciences contractor is the primary tenant of the facility, leasing space to conduct flight experiment processing and NASA-sponsored research. About 20 percent of the facility will be available for use by Florida’s university researchers through the Florida Space Research Institute.

United States Senator Bob Graham of Florida announces important new federal legislation designed to support the nation's continued space industry development. The announcement was made at Launch Complex 46 at the Cape Canaveral Air Station, the dual-use Navy facility recently modified for commercial launches by the State of Florida. In the background, from left to right, are Hugh Brown, Chairman, Spaceport Florida Authority; Charles Johnson, Athena Program Manager, Lockheed Martin Astronautics; and Col. Ron Larivee, Vice Commander, 45th Space Wing

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An aerial photo of the recently completed Space Life Sciences Lab at KSC. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An aerial photo of the recently completed Space Life Sciences Lab at KSC. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An aerial photo of the recently completed Space Life Sciences Lab at KSC. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An aerial photo of the recently completed Space Life Sciences Lab at KSC. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida.

iss065e008077 (April 28, 2021) --- The Florida Keys and the Everglades National Park are pictured from the International Space Station as it orbited 262 miles above the Sunshine State of Florida.

iss051e040813 (May 10, 2017) --- The Orbital ATK Cygnus cargo craft is pictured as the International Space Station orbits above the state of Florida, The Bahamas and the country of Cuba.

Taking part in the First Florida Space Summit on the future of space as it relates to the State of Florida are (left to right) Lt. Governor Frank Brogan, 45th Space Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Donald Pettit, and Center Director Roy Bridges, who moderated the discussion. The event, held at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, also included Senator Bob Graham, Senator Connie Mack, State Senator Patsy Kurth, Representative Dave Weldon, and heads of aerospace companies

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Participants in the First Florida Space Summit take part in a discussion on the future of space as it relates to the State of Florida. The discussion was moderated by Center Director Roy Bridges. Seated (left to right) are Rick Stephens, The Boeing Company; State Senator Patsy Kurth; David Rossi, SPACEHAB; The event also included Senator Bob Graham, Senator Connie Mack, Representative Dave Weldon, 45th Space Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Donald Pettit, and heads of aerospace companies.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Congressman Dave Weldon (R-Palm Bay) speaks to attendees at the signing of a lease agreement between Spaceport Florida Authority and United Space Alliance (USA) for the use of a hangar. The hangar was originally developed by the state as part of a joint NASA_ Spaceport Florida Authority (SFA) Reusable Launch Vehicle Support Complex at Kennedy Space Center. USA plans to use the state-developed 50,000-square-foot facility to store and maintain Space Shuttle ground equipment

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Participants in the First Florida Space Summit take part in a discussion on the future of space as it relates to the State of Florida. The discussion was moderated by Center Director Roy Bridges. Seated (left to right) are Rick Stephens, The Boeing Company; State Senator Patsy Kurth; David Rossi, SPACEHAB; The event also included Senator Bob Graham, Senator Connie Mack, Representative Dave Weldon, 45th Space Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Donald Pettit, and heads of aerospace companies.

Taking part in the First Florida Space Summit on the future of space as it relates to the State of Florida are (left to right) Lt. Governor Frank Brogan, 45th Space Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Donald Pettit, and Center Director Roy Bridges, who moderated the discussion. The event, held at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, also included Senator Bob Graham, Senator Connie Mack, State Senator Patsy Kurth, Representative Dave Weldon, and heads of aerospace companies

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Center Director Jim Kennedy presents a Florida flag to Florida Gov. Jeb Bush. The flag was flown during construction of the Space Life Sciences Lab through dedication of the Lab. The presentation was during a tour of the Lab following the launching ceremony at the KSC Visitor Complex for the new Florida quarter issued by the U.S. Mint. The ceremony was emceed by Center Director Jim Kennedy and included remarks by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, Bush, U.S. Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore and Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Samuel W. Bodman. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- The signing of a lease agreement between Spaceport Florida Authority (SFA) and United Space Alliance (USA) for the use of a hangar at Kennedy Space Center brings smiles to the participants. Seated at the table are (left) Marcie Harris, USA Site Director, and (right) Ed Gormel, Spaceport Florida Executive Director. Observing behind them are (left to right) Rochelle Cooper, USA associate general counsel; Marv Jones, KSC associate director; Greg Popp, Spaceport Florida business manager; Congressman Dave Weldon; and State Rep. Mike Haridopolos. The hangar was originally developed by the state as part of a joint NASA/SFA Reusable Launch Vehicle Support Complex at KSC. USA plans to use the state-developed 50,000-square-foot facility to store and maintain Space Shuttle ground equipment

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- After the signing of a lease agreement between Spaceport Florida Authority (SFA) and United Space Alliance (USA) for the use of a hangar at Kennedy Space Center, (foreground left) Marcie Harris, USA site director, and (foreground right) Ed Gormel, Spaceport Florida executive director, hold a symbolic ribbon. Behind them are (left to right) Rochelle Cooper, USA associate general counsel; Marv Jones, KSC associate director; Greg Popp, Spaceport Florida business manager; Congressman Dave Weldon; and State Rep. Mike Haridopolos. The hangar was originally developed by the state as part of a joint NASA/SFA Reusable Launch Vehicle Support Complex at KSC. USA plans to use the state-developed 50,000-square-foot facility to store and maintain Space Shuttle ground equipment

Representatives of the NASA-Kennedy Space Center and the state of Florida prepare to cut the ribbon officially opening the Space Life Sciences Lab at a ceremony at the new lab. In the front row, from left, are Dr. Samuel Durrance, executive director of the Florida Space Research Institute; Jim Kennedy, director of the Kennedy Space Center; Frank T. Brogan, president of the Florida Atlantic University; The Honorable Toni Jennings, lieutenant governor of the state of Florida; and Catherine and Grier Kirkpatrick, children of the late Sen. George Kirkpatrick. In the back row, from left, are Debra Holliday, director for Facilities and Construction, Florida Space Authority; Dan LeBlanc, president and chief operating officer of Delaware North Companies Parks and Resorts at KSC, Inc.; Jose Perez-Morales, NASA Project Manager for the Space Life Sciences Lab; and Capt. Winston E. Scott, executive director of the Florida Space Authority. Completed in August, the facility encompasses more than 100,000 square feet and was formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory or SERPL. The state, through the Florida Space Authority, built the research lab which is host to NASA, NASA’s Life Sciences Services contractor Dynamac Corp., Bionetics Corp., and researchers from the University of Florida. Dynamac Corp. leases the facility. The Florida Space Research Institute is responsible for gaining additional tenants from outside the NASA community.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- KSC Director James W. Kennedy thanks the standing-room-only crowd for attending the ceremony to launch the new Florida quarter at the KSC Visitor Complex. The backdrop is a map of the United States, illustrating the state quarters issued to date. Also on stage are, from left, Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, U.S. Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore, Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Samuel W. Bodman, and NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe. The quarter celebrates Florida as the gateway to discovery -- a destination for explorers in the past, a launch site for space explorers of the future, and an inviting place for visitors today.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Florida Gov. Jeb Bush addresses the audience at a ceremony to launch the new Florida quarter, held at the KSC Visitor Complex. The Solid Rocket Booster/External Tank exhibit towers over a map of the United States set up on stage, illustrating the state quarters issued to date. Sharing the stage with him are, from left, U.S. Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore, Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Samuel W. Bodman, NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe, and KSC Director James W. Kennedy. The quarter celebrates Florida as the gateway to discovery -- a destination for explorers in the past, a launch site for space explorers of the future, and an inviting place for visitors today.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Dynamac employees (from left) Larry Burns, Debbie Wells and Neil Yorio carry boxes of hardware into the Space Life Sciences Lab (SLSL), formerly known as the Space Experiment Research and Processing Laboratory (SERPL). They are transferring equipment from Hangar L. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility being built for ISS biotechnology research. Developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida, NASA’s life sciences contractor will be the primary tenant of the facility, leasing space to conduct flight experiment processing and NASA-sponsored research. About 20 percent of the facility will be available for use by Florida’s university researchers through the Florida Space Research Institute.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- After the signing of a lease agreement between Spaceport Florida Authority (SFA) and United Space Alliance (USA) for the use of a hangar at Kennedy Space Center, (foreground left) Marcie Harris, USA site director, and (foreground right) Ed Gormel, Spaceport Florida executive director, hold a symbolic ribbon. Behind them are (left) Greg Popp, Spaceport Florida business manager, and (right) Congressman Dave Weldon. The hangar was originally developed by the state as part of a joint NASA/SFA Reusable Launch Vehicle Support Complex at KSC. USA plans to use the state-developed 50,000-square-foot facility to store and maintain Space Shuttle ground equipment

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An aerial photo of the recently completed Space Life Sciences Lab at KSC. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida. The Lab was the site of a tour by Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, Center Director Jim Kennedy, U.S. Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore and Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Samuel W. Bodman. The tour followed the launching ceremony at the KSC Visitor Complex for the new Florida quarter issued by the U.S. Mint. The ceremony was emceed by Kennedy and included remarks by O’Keefe, Bush, Fore and Bodman.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A large crowd attends the launching ceremony for the new Florida quarter, held at the KSC Visitor Complex. Emceed by Center Director Jim Kennedy, the event included comments by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe and Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Samuel W. Bodman. The coin was also officially presented by U.S. Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore to Florida Gov. Jeb Bush. On the stage, a map of the United States, illustrating the state quarters issued to date, is framed between the orbiter mockup and SRB-external tank exhibit. The quarter celebrates Florida as the gateway to discovery -- a destination for explorers in the past, a launch site for space explorers of the future, and an inviting place for visitors today.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Florida Gov. Jeb Bush thanks KSC Director James W. Kennedy (right) for hosting the ceremony to launch the new Florida quarter at the KSC Visitor Complex. The backdrop is a map of the United States, illustrating the state quarters issued to date. Also on stage are, from left, U.S. Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore, Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Samuel W. Bodman, and NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe. The quarter celebrates Florida as the gateway to discovery -- a destination for explorers in the past, a launch site for space explorers of the future, and an inviting place for visitors today.

iss064e015920 (Dec. 27, 2020) --- Cape Canaveral, Florida (home to NASA's Kennedy Space Center), is pictured from the International Space Station as it orbited 261 miles above the Sunshine State.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Equipment is moved to a secure location in preparation for the arrival of Hurricane Jeanne, expected to impact Central Florida Sunday. This is the fourth hurricane in 45 days to make landfall somewhere in the state.

iss072e069330 (Oct. 16, 2024) --- St. John's River in Jacksonville, Florida, is pictured from the International Space Station as it orbited 258 miles above the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of the Sunshine State.

iss069e060917 (Aug. 15, 2023) --- NASA's Kennedy Space Center and its two launch complexes 39A and 39B on Florida's Atlantic coast are pictured from the International Space Station as it orbited 262 miles above the Sunshine State.

ISS042E256277 (02/14/2015) --- US Astronaut Terry Virts took this picture of Florida in the United States on Feb. 14, 2015 while he was on the International Space Station. Virts is a Flight Engineer with Expedition 42.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A worker secures tanks in preparation for the arrival of Hurricane Jeanne, expected to impact Central Florida Sunday. This is the fourth hurricane in 45 days to make landfall somewhere in the state.

iss064e014866 (Dec. 22, 2020) --- This oblique view looks southward along the United States east coast towards the Florida panhandle. The International Space Station was orbiting 262 miles above Delaware when this photograph was taken.

iss071e001300 (April 6, 2024) --- Fort Pierce, Florida, and its surrounding suburbs are pictured from the International Space Station as it orbited 258 miles above The Sunshine State's Atlantic coast.

iss073e0134179 (May 20, 2025) --- South Florida, the Bahamas, and Cuba are prominently featured in this photograph from the International Space Station as it orbited 261 miles above the Sunshine State.

iss066e156707 (March 3, 2022) --- Orlando, Florida, with Orlando International Airport at right, is pictured from the International Space Station as it orbited 260 miles above the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of the Sunshine State.

iss063e084779 (Sept. 4, 2020) --- Tampa, Florida on Tampa Bay is pictured from the International Space Station as it orbited on a southeastern trek above the Sunshine State and into the Atlantic Ocean.

iss065e007903 (April 28, 2021) --- This portion of Englewood County, Florida, is on the Sunshine State's southern coast on the Gulf of Mexico. The International Space Station was orbiting 262 miles above on a southeastern trek at the time this photograph was taken.

iss071e130773 (May 27, 2024) --- Tampa, Florida, and its surrounding suburbs on Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico are pictured from the International Space Station as it orbited 261 miles above the Sunshine State.

ISS041-E-003579 (13 Sept. 2014) --- Though clouds over Florida in this Expedition 41 picture from the International Space Station cover most of the state, their adherence to the outline of the peninsula give away the identity of the state. Also, the Cape Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center areas are cloud-free at frame center. Heavy clouds cover the bordering states. Russian cosmonaut Maxim Suraev, Expedition 41 commander, and two flight engineers -- NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman and European Space Agency astronaut Alexander Gerst -- continue their work aboard the orbital outpost as they await three more flight engineers to join them in a couple of weeks.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Members of the United States Air Force 45th Space Wing Honor Guard and more than a dozen 9/11 first responders take part in "The National 9/11 Flag" stitching ceremony in the Debus Conference Facility at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The contributions of NASA, Kennedy Space Center and the state of Florida were stitched into the fabric of the American Flag, which was recovered near ground zero following the World Trade Center attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. The "New York Says Thank You Foundation" is taking the flag on a cross-country journey to be restored to its original 13-stripe design using pieces of fabric from American flags destined for retirement in all 50 states. Once the flag is restored, it will become a permanent collection of the National September 11 Memorial Museum being built at the World Trade Center site. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the KSC Space Life Sciences Lab, NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe (far right) learns about some of the experiments being conducted. At far left is former astronaut Winston Scott; next to him is U.S. Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida. The tour followed the launching ceremony at the KSC Visitor Complex for the new Florida quarter issued by the U.S. Mint. The ceremony was emceed by Center Director Jim Kennedy and included remarks by O’Keefe, Bush, Fore and Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Samuel W. Bodman.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seminole Native American Veterans serve as color guard during a pre-launch Native American ceremony at the Rocket Garden in the KSC Visitor Complex. David Nunez, U.S. Navy, carries the State of Florida Flag; David Stephen Bowers, U.S. Army, carries the Flag of the United States of America; Charles Billie Hiers, U.S. Marine Corps., carries the Seminole Tribe of Florida Flag. The ceremony was part of several days' activities commemorating John B. Herrington as the first tribally enrolled Native American astronaut to fly on a Shuttle mission. Herrington is a Mission Specialist on STS-113.

ISS040-E-018729 (24 June 2014) --- One of the Expedition 40 crew members aboard the Earth-orbiting International Space Station photographed this image featuring the peninsular portion of the state of Florida. Lake Okeechobee stands out in the south central part of the state. The heavily-populated area of Miami can be traced along the Atlantic Coast near the bottom of the scene. Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center are just below center frame on the Atlantic Coast. The Florida Keys are at the south (left) portion of the scene and the Gulf Coast, including the Tampa-St. Petersburg area, is near frame center.

ISS040-E-018725 (24 June 2014) --- One of the Expedition 40 crew members aboard the Earth-orbiting International Space Station photographed this image featuring most of the peninsular portion of the state of Florida. Lake Okeechobee stands out in the south central part of the state. The heavily-populated area of Miami can be traced along the Atlantic Coast near the bottom of the scene. Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center are in lower right portion of the image on the Atlantic Coast. The Florida Keys are at the south (left) portion of the scene and the Gulf Coast, including the Tampa-St. Petersburg area, is near frame center.

Former Florida State Sen. Tony Hill speaks during an Astronauts Memorial Foundation tribute honoring U.S. Air Foce Maj. Robert Lawrence. Looking on is State Rep. Thad Altman, president of the AMF. Selected in 1967 for the Manned Orbiting Laboratory Program, Lawrence was the first African-American astronaut. He lost his life in a training accident 50 years ago. The ceremony took place in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- This state-developed 50,000-square-foot hangar at Kennedy Space Center is being leased by United Space Alliance (USA) to store and maintain Space Shuttle ground equipment. The hangar was originally developed by the state as part of a joint NASA_ Spaceport Florida Authority (SFA) Reusable Launch Vehicle Support Complex at Kennedy Space Center. A ceremony at the site included the signing of a lease agreement between SFA and USA