Summary
Establishes a national policy to lead in space exploration, defend U.S. interests in space, and grow the commercial space industry.
What problem does this solve?
The United States faces growing competition and new threats in space from other nations. This order creates a focused national policy to maintain American leadership and security in space through exploration, defense, and commercial growth.
Who does this affect?
- Commercial space industry
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
- U.S. defense and intelligence agencies
What does this order do?
Return Americans to the moon by 2028
Directs the U.S. to send astronauts back to the Moon by 2028 through the Artemis Program to show American leadership and prepare for future Mars missions.
Establish a permanent lunar outpost by 2030
Calls for creating the first parts of a permanent base on the Moon by 2030 to ensure a lasting American presence in space.
Develop new missile defense technology by 2028
Requires the development of new missile defense technologies by 2028 to better protect the country from air and missile attacks.
Replace the International Space Station with a commercial alternative
Encourages the private sector to create a commercial replacement for the International Space Station by 2030.
Deploy nuclear power on the moon
Aims to use nuclear power in space by putting reactors on the Moon and in orbit, with a lunar surface reactor ready for launch by 2030.
Attract $50 billion in private space investment
Seeks to bring in at least $50 billion of new private investment into American space markets by 2028 through policy changes and new facilities.
Revokes the National Space Council
Cancels a previous executive order, effectively dissolving the National Space Council.
Allows fees for space traffic data
Changes a previous policy to allow for charging user fees for space traffic management data, which was previously provided for free.
What is the real world impact?
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Prioritizes military and commercial interests in space
Shifts focus to national security and economic growth by developing space-based missile defense, countering threats, and attracting private investment. This could direct resources away from purely scientific missions.
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Allows for charging fees for previously free government data
Changes a policy to allow the government to charge commercial users for space traffic management data. This could create a new revenue stream but may also increase costs for private space companies.
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Asserts American dominance in a new frontier
Aims to establish the U.S. as the undisputed leader in space exploration, technology, and security. The order sets ambitious goals like returning to the Moon and building a lunar base to demonstrate national strength.
When does this start?
This order goes into effect on December 18, 2025, and sets several deadlines for government agencies to create plans and take action.
Guidance on space nuclear power
Within 60 days, guidance must be issued to create a National Initiative for American Space Nuclear Power.
Plans for space exploration and defense
Within 90 days, NASA must submit a plan for space exploration and the Secretary of War must report on any gaps in missile defense technology.
Update to space transportation policy
Within 120 days, revisions to the National Space Transportation Policy must be proposed.
Reforms to agency purchasing processes
Within 180 days, the Department of Commerce and NASA must reform their processes for buying space-related goods and services.
New space security strategy
Within 180 days, a new space security strategy must be put in place to address threats and protect U.S. interests in space.