Enabling Competition In The Commercial Space Industry

Purpose: The Executive Order aims to enhance American leadership and competitiveness in space by increasing the efficiency of commercial space operations and development.

Historical Context:

• The U.S. landed the first humans on the Moon in 1969.
• The country has become a hub for space companies due to its infrastructure.

Objectives:

• Foster new space-based industries and exploration capabilities.
• Ensure U.S. operators can efficiently launch and reenter airspace.

Policy Goals:

• Create a competitive marketplace for space launches.
• Increase the frequency of commercial space launches by 2030.

Actions Directed:

• Secretary of Transportation:

  • Expedite environmental reviews for launch and reentry licenses.
  • Reevaluate regulations under Part 450 of title 14 to address specific requirements for various types of vehicles.
  • Report on actions taken within 120 days.

• Secretary of Commerce:

  • Assess states’ compliance with the Coastal Zone Management Act and its impact on spaceport infrastructure within 180 days.
  • Align agency review processes for spaceport development to reduce duplication.

• Environmental Reviews:

  • Expedite administrative reviews for spaceport infrastructure development.
  • Establish categorical exclusions for actions related to spaceport development that do not significantly impact the environment.

• Mission Authorizations:

  • Propose a new process for individualized mission authorizations for activities under the Outer Space Treaty within 150 days.

Innovation and Leadership:

• Establish a position to advise on innovation in commercial space transportation.
• Elevate the Office of Space Commerce into the Office of the Secretary.

Administrative Notes:

• The order does not affect existing legal authorities or budgetary functions.
• Implementation is subject to laws and appropriations.