Space Odyssey: Peru’s Ancient Astronomy Revived through New Spaceport

The ancient Peruvians were renowned for their observance of the stars, whether for religious or practical purposes. They used astronomy to establish calendars, define time, and plan cities. Now, with the upcoming construction of a spaceport in Piura, this age-old practice is set to receive a new lease on life.

The Spaceport project is an ambitious initiative that seeks to facilitate the launches of rockets and spacecraft for both orbital and suborbital flights. Its proximity to the equator means that fuel savings of up to 30% can be achieved, resulting in increased cargo capacity on these flights. The space station will consist of various components such as ground platforms, a control center, hangars for preparation and integration, as well as taxi and take-off runways – all located in a remote area far from the population.

This project is being led by the Private Investment Promotion Agency (Porinversión), with support from the Peruvian Air Force (FAP) and the Ministry of Defense. With an estimated investment of over S/1 billion dollars, it is part of the Multiannual Report on Investments in Public-Private Partnerships and Asset Projects (IMIAPP).

Apart from facilitating space tourism, this project aims to contribute significantly to technological research and education. Collaborations with NASA and the United States Space Command Commission have provided technical advice and knowledge exchange opportunities that can lead to technology development. This collaboration has already borne fruit last year when a team of young Peruvian researchers won first place in NASA’s International Space Apps Challenge with their project “Space Odyssey Planner.” The team emphasized the importance of promoting astronomy in education and highlighted how this space station could inspire a new generation of stargazers. In essence, just like their ancient ancestors did centuries ago, people will once again turn their gaze towards the stars.