The Bahamas is set to make history as the first international site for a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket landing, scheduled for February 18 off the coast of The Exumas. This milestone event, a collaboration between SpaceX and Bahamian authorities, underscores the nation’s growing role in space tourism and innovation.

The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, and approximately eight minutes later, its first-stage booster will land on an autonomous droneship positioned in Bahamian waters. Residents and visitors may experience sonic booms as the rocket re-enters the atmosphere.

This initiative was made possible through the efforts of Bahamian-American rocket scientist Aisha Bowe, a former NASA engineer and the CEO of STEMBoard. Bowe played a pivotal role in coordinating space protocols between SpaceX and The Bahamas, laying the foundation for the country’s entry into the aerospace industry.

“This event is not just about a rocket landing,” said Bowe. “It’s about inspiring the next generation of Bahamians to see themselves as future engineers, astronauts, and space leaders.”

The landing will be streamed live on SpaceX’s website and The Bahamas’ Tourism Today Facebook page, providing a global audience with a front-row view of this historic event.

A Growing Partnership in Space Tourism

The Bahamas’ involvement with SpaceX is part of a broader agreement between the Civil Aviation Authority Bahamas (CAAB) and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to regulate aerospace activities. The Bahamian government has already approved 19 more SpaceX landings for 2025, pending regulatory approval.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism I. Chester Cooper hailed the initiative as a major boost to the country’s space tourism sector.

“This historic collaboration with SpaceX reinforces our commitment to innovation and expands our tourism offerings,” said Cooper. “We are seizing our space in this vibrant industry.”

SpaceX will also contribute to STEM education in The Bahamas, donating $1 million to the University of The Bahamas and hosting quarterly seminars to encourage students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

“As the future of astrotourism unfolds, The Bahamas is poised to become a premier destination where travelers can immerse themselves in this exciting and emerging sector,” added Latia Duncombe, Director General of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation.

The Bahamas, known for its world-class beaches and luxury tourism, is now making its mark in the space industry, proving that innovation and exploration have no bounds.

For more details and live coverage of the landing, visit www.spacex.com/launches or follow The Bahamas’ official tourism pages on social media.

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