Senator Ashley Moody and NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced Monday that Kennedy Space Center will host the Max Power Expo and Airshow in November 2026. The event will be held on the Shuttle runway and is expected to draw more than 50,000 out-of-county visitors, according to the Space Coast Office of Tourism. 'Florida truly is the launchpad of American space innovation,' Moody said during the announcement. 'When America shoots for the stars, it launches from Florida.'
The three-day event will include a tech expo, air show, and high-profile speakers. The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will headline the air show, which the Tourism Development Council (TDC) says could be one of the largest in the region's history. The event is part of a national series celebrating the United States' 250th anniversary. 'This is a chance to showcase the work of our engineers and scientists pushing American space exploration forward,' Moody added.
Max Power will take place on the same site where the Space Shuttle once landed, a location chosen to emphasize Florida's central role in space history. The event is backed by NASA and will feature exhibits highlighting advancements in aerospace technology. The TDC estimates the event will generate significant economic activity for the Space Coast, though exact figures have not been released.
Moody has long advocated for the Space Coast, citing a 500% increase in rocket launches since 2016. She previously pushed for the Secure U.S. Leadership in Space Act, which aims to strengthen public-private partnerships in the industry. The legislation, she said, is critical to maintaining American leadership in space innovation. 'I'll keep fighting to ensure our infrastructure keeps pace with our ambitions,' Moody said.