Uplift Aerospace Trains Next Generation of Astronauts

In 2018, Josh Hanes, a Utah native with a degree in physics, founded Uplift Aerospace, a startup focused on space mission logistics and training space tourists. The company has rapidly expanded, offering space-related training programs such as spacesuit experiences, zero-G flights, and emergency egress training.

Based in Park City, Utah, Uplift Aerospace extends beyond traditional aerospace objectives, aiming to make space more accessible to all. The company offers astronaut training that includes not just the basic requirements, but unique experiences designed to engage the public. This includes donning space suits, spacecraft egress training, and zero-gravity simulations. The goal is to foster a community-driven space program that encourages participation and dreams of space exploration among the public.

In addition to its focus on logistics and training, Uplift Aerospace provides manufacturing services to develop innovative products in space. Through collaborations with NASA, Blue Origin, Virgin Galactic, and academic institutions, Uplift is committed to pushing the boundaries of space accessibility. Recently, Uplift trained its first commercial astronaut class and secured contracts for a future Blue Origin mission.

As part of their educational outreach, Uplift Aerospace has launched Starborn Academy, an immersive multi-week STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education program for students aged 11 and up. The program combines VR technology with real-life astronaut training, offering students hands-on experiences in space exploration, engineering, life sciences, and sustainability. Designed by experts in STEM, aerospace, and VR, the curriculum aligns with international STEM standards and aims to develop students' critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical skills. The highest-performing student will have the chance to participate in an astronaut training retreat in 2025.

A recent highlight for Adeline Wright, a student at Bryant Middle School of Salt Lake City School District, was being chosen to visit the Virgin Galactic astronaut launch. She and her father had the incredible opportunity to join the Virgin Galactic team during the event, where they met astronauts, engineers, and scientists. Adeline was invited because she was the top-performing student in the Uplift Aerospace Starborn Academy program, a sixi-week STEM initiative for SLCSE-Bryant students. During their visit, Adeline and her father toured Spaceport America and watched the rocket launch astronauts into space. A special moment of the trip was when Adeline had the chance to meet Richard Branson and even play a game of chess with him.

Starborn Academy is part of a broader collaboration between Salt Lake City Corporation, Uplift Aerospace, Salt Lake City School District, and the Salt Lake Education Foundation. This initiative, launched under the Tech Lake City Initiative, seeks to improve pathways to tech education and employment for Salt Lake City residents, particularly those from historically marginalized communities. The program aims to increase student engagement and performance in STEM subjects, with the long-term goal of connecting students with local industries such as biotech, aerospace, and fintech.

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall praised the initiative as a way to raise the next generation of scientists, inventors, and engineers. She highlighted that Salt Lake City is a hub for innovation in aerospace, and programs like Starborn Academy help students connect with thriving local sectors. 

James Yapias, Director of the Salt Lake Education Foundation, emphasized the importance of partnerships between educational institutions, community organizations, and businesses in creating opportunities for students to pursue careers in space exploration. 

Josh Hanes, CEO of Uplift Aerospace, expressed pride in contributing to the local community through the Starborn Academy, showcasing the company's commitment to inspiring students through space education.

Sponsorship opportunities for theStarborn Academy range from supporting individual students to entire classrooms or schools. The program continuously monitors student progress to ensure optimal learning outcomes, aiming to increase retention and performance in STEM subjects while equalizing access to quality education. By partnering with industry leaders and offering an engaging VR experience, the academy prepares students for future STEM careers, fostering curiosity and passion for fields like engineering, robotics, and environmental stewardship.

Uplift Aerospace's innovative approach to space exploration and education exemplifies its mission to make space more accessible while inspiring the next generation of STEM professionals. Through programs like the Starborn Academy, the company is not only training future astronauts, but also fostering a community-driven space movement that emphasizes inclusivity and hands-on learning. By partnering with industry leaders and educational institutions, Uplift Aerospace is helping to bridge the gap between classroom education and real-world applications, offering students unique opportunities to develop critical skills and connect with cutting-edge industries. As they continue to push the boundaries of aerospace technology and education, Uplift Aerospace stands as a leader in cultivating the future of space exploration and inspiring young minds to dream big.