‘spaceport america’ by foster + partners in new mexico, USA
following up on our previous coverage of the project, here are some images of the completed ‘spaceport america‘ by internationally-recognized firm foster + partners in new mexico, USA. the first commercial space terminal in the world, the new 11,148 m2 facility will offer opportunities for tourists to travel into space. a dedication ceremony for the ‘virgin galactic gateway to space‘ was recently held to celebrate the milestone event.
approach
lying low within the desert-like landscape of new mexico, the organic form of the terminal and hangar rises out of the ground to form an undulating and continuous roof form. the main entrance is created by a deep channel that cuts into the center of the design. retaining walls on either side of the approach lines an exhibition space that highlights the history of space exploration.
exterior view
using local materials and regional construction techniques, the project was a practice in sustainability, seeking to make a minimal impact on the environment. the dug-in design benefits from natural thermal mass effect, buffering the building from the extreme climates of new mexico. a series of skylights enable the interior to be naturally illuminated while the westerly wind facilitates ventilation.
to read more about the spaceport, click here for our previous coverage of the project.
facade
during dedication ceremony image courtesy virgin galactic gateway to space image © mark greenberg
image courtesy virgin galactic gateway to spaceimage © mark greenberg
aerial viewimage © mark greenberg
rendered fly-by view image courtesy foster + partners, vyonyx ltd
elevation image courtesy foster + partners
hangar image courtesy foster + partners
entrance image courtesy foster + partners
interior view of spaceport terminal image courtesy foster + partners
