The Commercial Spaceflight Federation (CSF) announced today individual and organization winners of awards in recognition of milestone accomplishments in commercial space. The 2022 winners are:

  • Senator John Hickenlooper (D-CO) for The Commercial Space Policy Award: recognizes a policymaker who has made significant and lasting contributions over the past year to the advancement of commercial space policy.
  • Blue Origin New Shepard Team for The Commercial Space Pioneer Award: recognizes outstanding technical contributions over the past year that has enabled commercial access to space.
  • Elon Musk, SpaceX, for The Commercial Space Business & Finance Award: recognizes an investor, financier, or benefactor of commercial space activities whose support has benefited the industry as a whole.
  • Jeff Foust, SpaceNews, for The Excellence in Commercial Space Journalism Award: recognizes a member of the media who has published critical stories on commercial space, contributed to expanding public awareness of the industry, and demonstrated the highest levels of journalistic integrity.
  • The Future Space Leaders Foundation for The Patti Grace Smith STEM Award: recognizes a student, teacher, or program who/that has demonstrated a commitment to scientific excellence and the expansion of knowledge for the next generation of commercial space pioneers.
  • Tim Hughes, SpaceX  and Clay Mowry, Voyager Space Holdings, for The James Kuzma Space Community Award: recognizes outstanding contributions to the commercial space industry through advocacy and community building.

“The CSF awards were established three years ago to recognize the accomplishments and commitments by individuals and companies that have contributed to the industry’s unprecedented growth and continued success,” said CSF President Karina Drees. “Their efforts have contributed to our collective commitment to democratize space for all.”

This year marks the inaugural recognition for outstanding advocacy contributions in recognition of long-time CSF Member, Jim Kuzma, who passed away on February 5, 2021. “On behalf of Jim’s colleagues at Space Florida, we are honored that CSF recognized his many contributions to the space community and the legacy he leaves behind,” said Jillianne Pierce, Director of Federal Government Relations at Space Florida. “We extend our sincerest congratulations to Clay and Tim.”

In congratulating the winners, Caryn Schenewerk, CSF Chair and Vice President for Regulatory and Government Affairs for Relativity Space said: “CSF received countless nominations this year, making the decision particularly challenging in narrowing down a slate of winners for what was a truly extraordinary year in commercial space.”

Winners will be recognized at the FAA/CSF Commercial Space Transportation Conference during a luncheon presentation on Thursday, February 17, 2022, in Washington, D.C, featuring a keynote address from Senator John Hickenlooper. CST2022 begins at 1 PM ET on Wednesday, February 16. 2022. Click here for the latest agenda and registration information.

CST2022 will strictly adhere to CDC and District of Columbia COVID regulations including requiring valid photo ID, proof of at least 2 vaccinations, and compliance with mask mandates. Onsite check-in required prior to CST2022 registration.

The Commercial Spaceflight Federation is the leading voice for the commercial spaceflight industry. Founded in 2006, CSF and its 90 members are laying the foundation for a sustainable space economy and democratizing access to space for scientists, students, civilians, and businesses. CSF members are responsible for the creation of thousands of high-tech jobs driven by billions of dollars in investment. Through the promotion of technology innovation, CSF is guiding the expansion of Earth’s economic sphere, bolstering U.S. leadership in aerospace, and inspiring America’s next generation of engineers and explorers.

Media Contact: Diane Smiroldo, 703-819-1963; diane@smiroldocommunications.com