The National Space Transportation Policy
What happened
National Security Presidential Memorandum 17, titled "The National Space Transportation Policy," was signed on August 20, 2026, by Donald Trump and published in the Federal Register on August 25, 2026. This policy directs various federal agencies to improve space launch and reentry infrastructure, streamline regulations, and ensure reliable access to spectrum for space activities. The goal is to support over 1,000 launches and reentries annually by 2030, covering orbits from suborbital to deep space.
Why it matters
This policy seeks to secure America's continued superiority in space by making space transportation more affordable, reliable, and safe. It aims to accelerate commercial space innovation and ensures the United States can access all relevant orbital regimes for both national security and economic interests.
Who it affects
- ›Federal agencies involved in space transportation
- ›Commercial space companies and users
- ›State, local, tribal, and territorial partners
- ›Global economy relying on space capabilities
- ›Industries requiring reliable spectrum access
The receipts are official. The summary is ours.
Read on Federal Register ↗Summaries are generated from the official text and may simplify or omit nuance. The official document is the source of truth.