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New England’s first comprehensive space industry expo is coming to UNH this fall.

UNH is partnering with the N.H. Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA) and the NH Aerospace & Defense Consortium (NHADC) to launch the two-day  (NE STTAR Expo) October 28 and 29, 2026.

"New Hampshire is vital to the space industry in a variety of ways — from researching solar storms to building rocket components,” UNH President Elizabeth Chilton said. “I look forward to convening key leaders, institutions, and businesses from across the region and showcasing the many ways that UNH is contributing to the aerospace industry.”

The NE STTAR Expo connects suppliers, manufacturers, procurement leaders and researchers to foster collaboration, strategic dialogue, and innovation across space flight and aviation, autonomous systems, propulsion, materials science, and advanced manufacturing. Attendees will gain access to industry-leading exhibits, keynote sessions, live demonstrations, technology showcases, and networking opportunities designed to accelerate partnerships, education, and strengthen the space ecosystem throughout the northeastern U.S. and beyond.

“New Hampshire is home to one of the most advanced aerospace and space manufacturing ecosystems in the world,” said Executive Director Randy Makee. “We are excited to bring together businesses, researchers, industry leaders and students to push the limits of how the aerospace and space industry can continue to grow and prosper in New Hampshire and beyond.”

Aerospace and defense-related industries encompass about 300 companies across the Granite State with 10,500 direct employees, according to BEA data. Their combined economic output of about $7.5 billion represents 3.6% — and growing to 4% — of the state’s gross domestic product. 

“New Hampshire continues to punch above its weight class in high-tech innovation, and our growing aerospace sector is proof of that. The NE STTAR Expo highlights the incredible talent, research, and manufacturing strength we have right here in the Granite State,” said Lucy Lange. “This event connects our innovative businesses and researchers and inspires the next generation of Granite Staters to pursue rewarding careers in space, technology, and advanced manufacturing.”

UNH is a national leader in space research, working to understand both near-Earth space and the distant universe through mission leadership, data analysis, instrument development, theory, and simulation. From space plasma physics to rocket ship instrumentation, UNH research and graduate education ranges from the ionosphere to the Earth's magnetosphere, from the local solar system and out to the farthest reaches of the universe.

Day one of the Expo will be an Industry Day, with opportunities to hear from keynote speakers, learn at industry-leading exhibits and technology demonstrations, connect with suppliers, manufacturers, and procurement leaders and build partnerships with researchers and academic institutions. 

The second day is Education and Career Day at the Northeast STTAR Expo, designed to inspire and connect the next generation of talent. Industry and academic professionals will engage with students ranging from middle school through graduate programs by sharing career journeys, industry insights, and emerging opportunities across the rapidly evolving space sector. Through an interactive career fair, educational sessions, and UNH facility tours, attendees will gain exposure to academic pathways at UNH and career possibilities within the growing space economy. The experience is intended to spark meaningful conversations, provide hands-on learning opportunities, and help students envision their future in the space industry. Both days of the event will be anchored at the Memorial Union Building. 

Sponsorships for the expo are now being accepted, and registration is now open.