Policy & Politics
Op-ed | The U.S. Space Force must be independent but not insular
The Space Force cannot be insular, aloof, or detached from clear and present security challenges and joint needs in the terrestrial domains.
Senate appropriators add $22M for small launch, approve Space Force and Space Development Agency requests
The $22 million for Tactically Responsive Space Launch was added to the Air Force’s Research, Development, Test and Evaluation account.
Air Force nominee Barrett calls for assertive U.S. posture on space, says Space Force is a ‘key imperative’
Barrett voiced strong support for the Trump administration’s proposal to establish a Space Force.
Senate defense appropriators support DoD space request, propose ‘tactical responsive launch’ program
The SAC-D fully funded the $1.2 billion request for the National Security Space Launch program.
White House pushes back on Senate language on Space Force, missile defense satellites
The White House is unhappy with the Senate language because it doesn’t give DoD full legal authority to establish a space service.
Lunar exploration providing new impetus for space resources legal debate
Efforts by space agencies and companies to send missions to the moon and use water ice and other resources there have renewed debate about the international legal regime regarding such resources.
Aerojet Rocketdyne watching how political changes could affect its business
As aerospace companies enjoy increased Pentagon and NASA spending, at least one executive is mindful of potential changes should a new president be elected in 2020.
Air Force space commander warns the military needs better intelligence
If satellites in orbit become targets during a conflict, will U.S. forces have adequate intelligence to prevent and thwart attacks?
Air Force contends Space Force should not have separate acquisition office
Roper: An independent acquisition office for space could create more problems than it would solve.
Air Force changes message on Space Force amid criticism it stifled debate
A change in the rhetoric about space is being accelerated in response to damaging media coverage about the Air Force suppressing speech.
Esper affirms support for U.S. Space Command and for an independent Space Force
Esper: 'I’m excited for tomorrow’s activation of the United States Space Command.'
NASA inspector general asks Congress for Europa Clipper launch flexibility
NASA’s inspector general says the agency could save nearly $1 billion if Congress gives it the ability to choose the best launch vehicle for a mission to Jupiter’s moon Europa, rather than mandating the use of the Space Launch System.
Senator seeks change in hosted payload launch policy
A Florida senator is asking the White House to revise existing policy regarding the launch of government hosted payloads on commercial satellites, a move some in the industry fear could further restrict the use of such payloads.
Op-ed | It’s time for a 21st century licensing system for space
The FAA’s former commercial space transportation describes what he thinks a 21st century licensing system should look like — at the very top level — and offers some ideas on the best way to implement such a regime.
DoD acquisitions chief: Pentagon unlikely to change Air Force launch procurement strategy
Ellen Lord, undersecretary of defense for acquisition and sustainment, said DoD supports Air Force plans for Phase 2 Launch Service Procurement.
No legal stones left unturned in the battle for U.S. Air Force launch contracts
SpaceX and Blue Origin both have already taken legal action against the Air Force, arguing that it has failed to create a level playing field for them and other companies to be able to challenge heavily favored ULA.
