BOULDER — University of Colorado economists say a booming aerospace industry in Boulder will help the city weather the recession.

Thousands of people are employed by aerospace companies in Boulder County, home to companies like Ball Aerospace and Lockheed Martin. Boulder Economic Council Executive Director Frances Draper says the industry is a big spender and job creator.

A 2004 study by CU's Leeds School of Business showed that about 2,100 astronomers and aerospace engineers are employed in Boulder County but that only counted four of the largest companies.

Boulder also has federal labs like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the National Center for Atmospheric Research.