Space Resources Policy (E.O. 13914)

Summary

Encourages countries to support companies that want to find and use resources like water and minerals on the Moon, Mars, and other places in space.

What problem does this solve?

Companies were unsure if they could legally collect and use resources from space because of confusing international agreements. This order clarifies that the U.S. supports the right to recover and use space resources and will work with other countries to create clear rules.

What does this order do?

Establishes U.S. policy on space resources

States that Americans have the right to explore, recover, and use resources in outer space. The U.S. will encourage international support for public and private companies to do so.

Rejects the Moon Agreement

Declares that the United States is not part of the 1979 Moon Agreement and does not view it as a necessary or effective guide for space activities. The U.S. will object to any attempt to treat it as international law.

Denies that space is a 'global commons'

Clarifies that the United States does not view outer space as a global commons, meaning it is not considered a shared resource for all humanity under a collective management system.

Directs negotiation of international agreements

Requires the Secretary of State to negotiate bilateral and multilateral agreements with other countries to ensure safe and sustainable operations for recovering and using space resources.

Who does this affect?

Commercial space companies
U.S. government agencies (State Department, NASA, Department of Commerce)
Foreign governments and international bodies

What is the real world impact?

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Creates a clear path for space business

Establishes a firm U.S. policy to give private companies the confidence to invest in the technology needed to mine resources on the Moon and other celestial bodies. This supports long-term space exploration goals.

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Rejects certain international rules

Formally rejects the 1979 Moon Agreement, which suggests space resources are a shared global property. The order states that the U.S. does not see space as a 'global commons,' which could create conflict with countries that support the agreement.

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Positions the U.S. as a leader in space commerce

Aims to shape international norms around space mining to favor a U.S.-led, commercial-friendly approach. This could give American companies a competitive advantage in the emerging space economy.

When does this start?

This order became effective on April 6, 2020, and includes a deadline for a report to the President.

Report on international support efforts

Requires the Secretary of State to report to the President on activities to encourage international support for space resource recovery no later than 180 days after April 6, 2020.