Maritime Launch Services names Melissa Quinn Vice President, Spaceport Operations

Maritime Launch Services Inc., the Canadian-owned firm developing the nation’s first commercial orbital launch complex, announced the appointment of Melissa Quinn as Vice President, Spaceport Operations. Quinn will assume responsibility for building out the operational team at Spaceport Nova Scotia and steering the site from its development phase to full launch readiness.

Quinn joins Maritime Launch from strategic partner MDA Space, where she accumulated more than a decade of experience in international spaceport management and commercial launch programs. Previously, she served as the Head of Spaceport Cornwall in the United Kingdom. Under her leadership, Cornwall secured the United Kingdom’s first spaceport license and delivered the facilities needed for the country’s inaugural licensed orbital launch attempt. Her work there involved extensive coordination with regulators, comprehensive sustainability planning, and sustained community outreach.

Based in Nova Scotia, Quinn will work closely with provincial and federal regulators, indigenous groups, and the surrounding communities to ensure that the spaceport’s development aligns with environmental standards and local interests. The facility is being designed as a dual-use launch site, capable of supporting both commercial satellite operators and government payloads, including defense and scientific missions.