NASSAU, Bahamas (CMC) — Bahamian tourism officials say they expect the country to become a key player in the rapidly growing space tourism sector as its first international rocket landing is set to take place on Tuesday next week, off the coast of The Exumas.

The global space tourism industry, SpaceX, said that its Falcon 9 rocket will launch from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

“About eight minutes after liftoff, Falcon 9’s first stage will land on SpaceX’s autonomous droneship, which will ensure environmental safety and protection. The droneship will be stationed off the coast of The Exumas in the Atlantic Ocean,” according to a statement issued by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism.

It said that Bahamian, Aisha Bowe, a former NASA scientist and STEMBoard founder and chief executive officer, worked with SpaceX to help establish space protocols in The Bahamas, advancing the nation’s travel space innovation.

“There is the possibility that residents of the area and visitors to The Bahamas may hear one or more sonic booms during the landing.  All aspects of the Florida launch and The Bahamas arrival are subject to weather and other conditions. The activity is being regulated and monitored by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Civil Aviation Authority Bahamas (CAAB),” the ministry said.

It said that The Bahamas will be the exclusive location for this first international event, showcasing the country’s unique position as the only destination where the public can witness Falcon 9 booster landings from a prime vantage point.

“This historic collaboration with SpaceX further reinforces our commitment to innovation and our dedication to expanding tourism offerings,” said Tourism, Investments and Aviation Minister, I Chester Cooper.

“This ground-breaking launch also writes another chapter in the annals of Bahamian history. We are seizing our space in this vibrant space industry.

“We are proud to be the first international destination to host such a ground-breaking event, which will undoubtedly draw attention to the beauty and versatility of our islands while contributing to the development of space tourism in our beloved destination,” said Cooper, who is also the deputy prime minister.

The authorities said that the Memorandum of Cooperation recently signed between CAAB and the FAA, which took effect on January 15 this year, agreed to establish and maintain a framework for the oversight and regulation of aerospace activity. The cabinet has approved 19 more landings throughout 2025, subject to regulatory approval.

“Our partnership with SpaceX exemplifies The Bahamas’ ongoing commitment to embracing innovative opportunities that enhance our world-renowned destination,” said, Latia Duncombe, director general of the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation.

“As the future of Astrotourism unfolds, The Bahamas is poised to become a premier destination where travellers can immerse themselves in this exciting and emerging sector.”

SpaceX will conduct quarterly STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and space-focused seminars that boost STEM education in The Bahamas, benefiting students and instructors. Additionally, SpaceX will give a US$1 million donation to the University of The Bahamas for STEM education.

“Seeing The Bahamas emerge as a key player in the future of space tourism fills me with immense pride. This event is not just about watching a rocket land, it’s about inspiring the next generation of Bahamians to see themselves as future engineers, astronauts and space leaders,” said Bowe.