ODAA, OSIDA Celebrate Historic Artemis II Launch, Highlights Contributions from Oklahoma-Based Frontier Electronic Systems
NASA’s Space Launch System rocket successfully launched Wednesday, April 1, 2026, from Operations and Support Building II at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Oklahoma-based Frontier Electronic Systems supported the mission by manufacturing more than 20 components for the Orion spacecraft. Image Credit: NASA/Bill Ingalls
OKLAHOMA CITY — As NASA’s Artemis II mission journeys toward the Moon—the first crewed journey beyond Earth’s orbit in more than 50 years—the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA) are proud to spotlight the contributions of Oklahoma-based Frontier Electronic Systems (FES). The Stillwater company is an important part of the mission’s supply chain, providing more than 20 flight-critical components for the Orion spacecraft and the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket.
Following a successful launch on April 1, 2026, Artemis II’s mission will carry four astronauts aboard Orion (the crewed capsule) on a 10-day mission around the Moon to prove safety, navigation, and human capability for future lunar landings. Much of the hardware produced by FES in Stillwater serves as the primary interface between the crew and their spacecraft.
“Oklahoma has always been a pioneer in flight and space exploration,” said Grayson Ardies, OSIDA CEO. “Today, FES proves our state’s aerospace industry is more than just a heritage; it is a critical engine for NASA’s return to the Moon. From critical flight controls to life-supporting electronics, Oklahoma’s contributions are integral to this mission.”
Frontier Electronic Systems’ Impact on the Artemis II Mission
Precision Flight Controls: FES manufactured the rotational and translational hand controllers that the crew will use to pilot Orion during the mission.
Cockpit Interface Tools: The cursor control devices and switch interface panels produced by FES allow the crew to navigate flight data and command the ship's systems.
Safety and Propulsion Electronics: FES provided electronic control boards and systems for the Launch Abort System (LAS) at the rocket’s tip, and thruster electronics at the base of the SLS core stage.
The Future of Space in Oklahoma
The Artemis II mission coincides with a period of unprecedented growth for Oklahoma’s space sector. The recent merger of the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Agency into ODAA has enhanced efforts to make space industry growth a priority as well as highlighting the Oklahoma Air and Space Port in western Oklahoma a national hub for horizontal launches and microgravity research.
Partnerships with companies like Dawn Aerospace, which plans to operate its Mk-II Aurora spaceplane from Oklahoma by 2027, further solidify the state's position as a leader in the “New Space” economy.
For more information on Oklahoma’s aerospace industry and the ODAA, visit oklahoma.gov/aerospace. OSIDA’s website is available here: spaceport.ok.gov