Trump Signs Order to Boost Space Industry

In a significant move aimed at enhancing the United States’ competitiveness in the commercial space industry, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order titled “Enabling Competition in the Commercial Space Industry” at the White House this Wednesday. The signing was attended by U.S. Transportation Secretary and acting NASA Administrator Sean P. Duffy, who emphasized the Department of Transportation’s pivotal role in fostering innovation within the space sector.

The Executive Order seeks to streamline commercial license and permit approvals for U.S.-based space operators, significantly reducing regulatory barriers that previously hindered rapid innovation and expansion. By expediting environmental reviews and cutting unnecessary red tape, the order aims to facilitate the construction of new spaceports across the country, thereby increasing the cadence of commercial space launches and novel space activities by 2030.

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford expressed strong support for the Executive Order, highlighting its importance in ensuring that the U.S. continues to lead the global space economy. The order will also promote new space endeavors, such as in-space manufacturing and orbital refueling, through a streamlined framework designed to bolster American space competitiveness.

Key measures within the order include the establishment of a new advisory position in the Office of the Secretary of Transportation, tasked with promoting innovation and deregulation in the commercial space industry. Additionally, the FAA’s associate administrator for Commercial Space Transportation will transition into a senior executive role, while the Office of Space Commerce will be elevated within the Office of the Commerce Secretary.

As the United States seeks to maintain its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving space industry, the Executive Order represents a pivotal step towards dismantling regulatory barriers and supporting the next wave of space innovation. For further information, the full Executive Order details are available on NASA’s official website.