The nation's lead launch center and first spaceport, the John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC) performs preflight tests and prepares and launches manned and unmanned space vehicles for NASA.

KSC develops new technologies that support its three major missions: Launch and Vehicle Processing Systems, Payload and Payload Carrier Systems and Landing and Recovery Systems. KSC also prioritizes new work commitments to the development of technologies that support the creation and operation of new spaceport facilities for Earth, in space and on other planets.

KSC has identified five primary Spaceport Technology Center Development Initiatives that directly support its systems: Fluids and Fluid Systems; Materials Evaluation; Process Engineering; Command, Control, and Monitor Systems; and Range Systems.

The KSC Technology Transfer Office facilitates the transfer and commercialization of NASA-sponsored research and technology, including the industrial use of unique NASA R&D capabilities and facilities. These efforts -building upon the agency's rich history of technology transfer and partnership with U.S. industry - serve to primarily support the NASA mission needs, enhance mission technology capabilities and quality of life.

The office also hosts the KSC Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer Research (STTR) programs, which provide significant opportunities for small, high technology U.S. firms and research institutions to benefit using federal research and development funds while providing KSC with needed research.