What Happened
Ambitious Space Policy Targets Rapid Expansion of Launch Capacity
The US has announced an ambitious space policy aiming to support over 1,000 launches and spacecraft returns to Earth annually by 2030. This goal represents a substantial increase from the current rate, with the average number of operations per day expected to exceed 2.74. The policy, outlined in National Security Presidential Memorandum No. 17, emphasizes the need for expanded space transportation infrastructure and standardized interfaces for rapid changes of launch vehicles and payloads. According to the plan, the Department of the Interior, Department of Transportation, and Department of Commerce will play key roles in implementing the necessary changes, as reported by Unknown Source.