Work can be done in the winter, but it's more expensive and difficult.

A bigger problem than difficult construction is Alaska Aerospace's financial footing. This spring, Parnell asked the Legislature for, and received, $8 million in operating funds for the corporation.

At the time, several legislators mentioned they would be reluctant to approve more funding for the corporation without the interest of private industry.

At last week's summit in Anchorage, that interest showed up.

Representatives from Lockheed, Orbital, rocket engine maker ATK and Boeing flew to Anchorage, as did at least 10 Alaska legislators and representatives of the University of Alaska.

Summit organizer Sen. Gary Stevens, R-Kodiak, was pleased with the turnout and the ideas floated by attendees.

"The opportunities sound really great, and I was pleased to hear what everybody else was thinking," he said.

Campbell agreed, saying the meeting was a good chance for the aerospace industry to see Alaska is taking it seriously and for legislators to see that industry is looking at Alaska on equal terms.

Austerman said he was most interested in the reassurance that industry is interested in the Kodiak Launch Complex.

"They're interested in doing business in Alaska," he said.

Until that interest turns physical, however, Alaska Aerospace has its dreams in the clouds and its feet standing still.