Senators Britt, Tuberville Lead Resolution Honoring 65 Year History of Marshall Space Flight Center

U.S. Senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville applauded the Senate’s unanimous vote on a resolution honoring the 65‑year legacy of NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville. The Senate resolution, which Tuberville led and Britt supported, reaffirms support for the Center’s mission, programs, and workforce.

In the House, Representative Dale Strong (R-AL5) led the companion resolution, which the entire Alabama House delegation supported.

“I couldn’t be prouder to recognize the 65th anniversary of Marshall Space Flight Center along with our entire Alabama delegation. The U.S. space program is vitally important, and Alabama and MSFC continue to play an integral role in redefining the boundaries of human imagination and the heights of human achievement,” Senator Britt said during the announcement.

Britt added, “As the incredible men and women at MSFC continue to make historic leaps that fuel a new age of American excellence in space exploration, I will continue to ensure that this groundbreaking work is supported now and long into the future.” That same sentiment was echoed by representatives across the state delegation.

The resolution marks the anniversary of July 1, 1960, when nearly 4,000 Army Ballistic Missile Agency staff moved from Redstone Arsenal to take on NASA roles. That day also saw about 1,900 acres transferred to NASA, marking the birth of the Marshall Space Flight Center.

Over the past 65 years, Marshall has spearheaded every NASA rocket used to carry humans into space. It continues to lead efforts to return Americans to the Moon. The center has broken ground in propulsion systems, materials science, advanced manufacturing, life support systems, and nearly every other facet of space exploration.

The sister resolution in the House was introduced by Representative Dale Strong and is still awaiting final approval.

Senator Britt has also played a key part in securing major funding for Marshall through the recently signed “One Big Beautiful Bill.” The measure includes $4.1 billion for two Space Launch System rockets for Artemis IV and Artemis V missions, and $1 billion in upgrades for manned spaceflight centers — including $100 million set aside for Marshall itself.

Local and state leaders have shared that pride too. As Rep. Strong put it, “From the Apollo missions to the Shuttle program, and now to the Space Launch System and everything in between, the United States’ leadership in space cannot happen without Marshall Space Flight Center.”

MSFC Director Joseph Pelfrey added, “Together, we are making history, driving American excellence, and reaching for the stars — and we’re just getting started.”

The resolution and the earmarked funding reflect Marshall’s lasting impact on Alabama and the nation. With continued federal support, the Rocket City stands ready to lift off into its next chapter of innovation and discovery.