NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton Roads, Virginia plays a vital role in boosting the local and state economy, according to NASA’s Fiscal Year 2023 Economic Impact Report. More than just a cornerstone of technological advancement, NASA Langley Hampton Roads supports 24,763 jobs and drives an economic output of $6.1 billion. Additionally, it contributes to the local economy through procurement activities exceeding $1.8 billion and significant investments in local Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Beyond its economic impact, the center is pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology and climate research, symbolizing Hampton Roads’ active contribution to addressing global challenges. The presence of NASA Langley in Hampton Roads is seen as a beacon of inspiration, driving innovation, community support and economic development, and positioning the region as a future leader in technology and research.
The Economic Impact of NASA Langley Research Center
By Tim Ryan
The influence of NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, reaches far beyond the boundaries of the Hampton Roads region. As one of the cornerstones of technological advancement, NASA Langley is driving a powerful economic impact throughout Virginia, reinforcing Hampton Roads as a key player in the space and aeronautics industry.
NASA’s Economic Impact in Virginia
According to NASA’s Fiscal Year 2023 Economic Impact Report, Langley Research Center plays a vital role in sustaining the local economy. NASA’s total impact in Virginia is immense, supporting 24,763 jobs across the state—including thousands directly tied to Langley—and driving an economic output of $6.1 billion. For every NASA job located in Virginia, an additional nine jobs are supported throughout the local economy, highlighting the extensive reach of NASA’s operations.
Contributions Beyond Employment
The Langley Research Center’s contributions are not limited to direct employment and research. NASA’s procurement activities in Virginia exceed $1.8 billion, creating opportunities for businesses ranging from cutting-edge technology firms to minority-owned enterprises. Notably, NASA has invested significantly in local Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and minority institutions, totaling more than $24.8 million. This commitment is part of NASA’s effort to ensure the benefits of innovation are felt across every corner of the community.
Technological Advancements and Research Initiatives
In addition to its economic contributions, NASA Langley is pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology and climate research. Initiatives like the Low-Earth Flight Test of an Inflatable Decelerator (LOFTID) and the Tropospheric Emissions: Monitoring of Pollution (TEMPO) instrument are being developed here, with the potential to revolutionize atmospheric re-entry technologies and provide high-resolution data on air pollutants across the United States. These projects are not just examples of Langley’s innovation but also symbols of how Hampton Roads is actively contributing to solving global challenges.
Building a Thriving Community
The impact of Langley extends beyond economics and technology; it is about building a thriving community, creating high-paying jobs, and ensuring that Hampton Roads remains at the forefront of aerospace and climate solutions. The center’s commitment to innovation and research creates a ripple effect that benefits the entire region—from students and educators to small business owners and tech entrepreneurs.
As Hampton Roads continues to grow, NASA Langley remains a beacon of inspiration, proving that innovation, community support, and economic development can all come together to propel the region forward. The region’s future as a leader in technology and research is promising, thanks in no small part to the powerful presence of NASA right here in Hampton.
Download the two page report here.
Question & Answer
How many jobs does NASA Langley Research Center support in Virginia?
NASA Langley Research Center supports 24,763 jobs in Virginia, driving an economic output of $6.1 billion.
What is the economic impact of NASA Langley in Virginia?
NASA Langley’s economic impact in Virginia is significant, with procurement activities exceeding $1.8 billion and investments in local Historically Black Colleges and Universities totaling more than $24.8 million.
What technological advancements are being developed at NASA Langley?
Initiatives like the Low-Earth Flight Test of an Inflatable Decelerator (LOFTID) and the Tropospheric Emissions: Monitoring of Pollution (TEMPO) instrument are being developed at NASA Langley, with the potential to revolutionize aerospace technology and climate research.
