Donald Trump signs executive order outlining new US space policy

In terms of business, the executive order aims to create a commercial route to replace the International Space Station by 2030 and modernise launch infrastructure. A fact-sheet released by the White House said that the order aims in increasing private sector involvement in low-Earth orbit operations is the goal of this action.

The Assistant to the President for Science and Technology has been tasked with coordinating national space policy efforts. Federal departments and agencies have been directed to work together on implementation, including streamlining procurement, executing space security strategies and ensuring an appropriate workforce.

The administration said expanding space capabilities would support civilian applications such as precision agriculture, improved weather forecasting, satellite-enabled broadband connectivity, and positioning, navigation and timing services.

The order reiterates the role of private enterprise in expanding the US space economy, linking space investment to job creation, especially in aerospace manufacturing.

It also refers to Trump-era earlier initiatives, including the creation of the US Space Force, Space Policy Directives issued during his first term, and executive actions promoting space resource utilisation.