Photo: NASA Archives

We are at a consequential moment in space. Space capabilities underpin our daily lives, our national security, our economy, and our ability to explore deep into the cosmos. Yet challenges to the domain and the international order are acute, and U.S. leadership in space is under strain. Actions and decisions now will determine whether space remains a peaceful and prosperous domain for the benefit of all on Earth.

This series puts space in focus—discussing key trends, challenges, and policy issues that will confront the next administration as well as offering recommendations for how to navigate them. Papers span all aspects of the space ecosystem, including national security space, civil and commercial space, international engagement, and the role of Congress. We drew upon a network of scholars from both the CSIS Aerospace Security Project and the broader space community. The authors include individuals who have served at the highest levels of government, offering a practitioner’s perspective on these issues. Their experience spans roles such as a member of Congress, the first assistant secretary of defense for space policy, the first deputy commander of U.S. Space Command, and senior officials from the National Security Council, National Space Council, NASA, and the defense and intelligence communities.

Consistent with the mission of CSIS, each piece aims to provide an objective discussion of key issues in a nonpartisan but policy-oriented, thought-provoking manner. These diverse papers are intentionally short in length for ease of reading. Our hope is that they are broadly read by officials in the next administration, concerned citizens, students, policymakers, industry representatives, and diplomats alike. 

—Kari Bingen and Audrey Schaffer, October 2024

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All Space in Focus: Key Issues for the Next Administration Content

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Tactically Responsive Space: An Emerging New Deterrence Tool

The specter of a potential Russian on-orbit, antisatellite nuclear weapon demands a new way of thinking about how space might be used by an adversary and an assessment of the ability of the U.S. Department of Defense to quickly respond to new threats on orbit.

Commentary by John Plumb — October 31, 2024

Don’t Stop Dreaming about Tomorrow

The next presidential administration must continue to leverage the power of public-private partnerships and grow international support all while proactively taking steps to unite the United States and the world.

Commentary by Mike Gold — October 31, 2024

Engaging China on Space with Eyes Wide Open

The next administration should find a way to engage China in a constructive, two-way dialogue on the responsible, peaceful, and safe use of space while investing in the means to protect U.S. interests and maintain the United States’ historic leadership in space.

Commentary by Audrey Schaffer and Kari A. Bingen — October 31, 2024

The Future of Space Policy in the Next Congress

Although presidential elections shine in the spotlight on November 5, 2024, 469 other politicians will also have ballots cast for them at the Federal level. Congress maintains the ultimate responsibility to authorize and appropriate funds for all government programs.

Commentary by Sarah Mineiro — October 31, 2024