#United States #NASA #Air Products #Lehigh Valley #Liquid Hydrogen

Air Products Secures Major NASA Contracts

Air Products, recognized as a leading supplier of hydrogen globally, announced a significant milestone in its collaboration with NASA. The company has secured contracts worth over $140 million to supply liquid hydrogen to essential NASA facilities, including the Kennedy Space Center and the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. As one of the major players in the industrial gas market, Air Products has been instrumental in supporting NASA’s missions since the inception of the U.S. space program.

Francesco Maione, President of Air Products Americas, expressed pride in the company’s longstanding relationship with NASA, which dates back to 1957. “From the initial Apollo 11 moon landing to the upcoming Artemis II moon mission, Air Products has consistently fulfilled the critical industrial gas needs that NASA requires,” Maione stated. This contract will see Air Products deliver approximately 36.5 million pounds of liquid hydrogen to facilities in Florida, Alabama, and Mississippi, effectively bolstering NASA’s operations.

This recent contract marks another step in the enduring relationship between NASA and Air Products, which has included the supply of essential gases for numerous high-profile missions, such as Apollo, the Space Shuttle, and the Orion spacecraft. Air Products has not only provided industrial gases for actual space launches but has also been a reliable partner in NASA’s engine testing programs at various centers, including the Stennis Space Center in Mississippi.

A notable achievement for Air Products was the completion of filling the world’s largest hydrogen sphere at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in 2025. This impressive structure stands at 90 feet tall and 83 feet in diameter, requiring over 50 trailer loads of liquid hydrogen—totaling more than 730,000 gallons. The hydrogen sphere serves as a crucial storage facility, which is vital for strategic hydrogen supply needs at NASA.

In addition to directly aiding NASA, Air Products is increasingly involved in supporting the privatization of space missions and launches. The rise of private space exploration companies has created a demand for industrial gases used in rocket and satellite manufacturing, testing, and launching, highlighting the crucial role of Air Products in the evolving landscape of space exploration.

With over 85 years of experience in the industrial gases sector, Air Products remains a key player not just in the space industry but across various sectors, including energy and emerging markets. The company prides itself on its commitment to generating a cleaner future and supporting critical industries with its range of essential gases. Its extensive experience and robust supply chain capabilities ensure that it can meet world-scale liquid hydrogen demands reliably and safely.

The latest contracts symbolize not only a monetary transaction but also the continuation of a partnership that has withstood the test of time, enhancing the capabilities of NASA as it prepares for future explorations and initiatives. Air Products’ involvement plays a fundamental role in the groundbreaking work NASA undertakes, making it a notable contributor to the current and future endeavors of space exploration.

As the company moves forward, it aims to leverage its expertise in clean hydrogen technologies to support the transition to low-carbon energy solutions while continuing to excel in traditional industrial markets. Air Products sustains a dynamic presence in approximately 50 countries, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and progress in multiple sectors. For further information on Air Products and its initiatives, visit their official website or follow their journey on various social media platforms.