Trump Signs Order Targeting 1,000 Annual Space Launches by 2030

Donald Trump signed a memorandum on August 20, 2026, to expand United States space transportation capabilities, setting a target of at least 1,000 annual launches and re-entries by 2030. The policy implements a commercial-first approach, directing federal agencies to incentivize private-sector co-development of infrastructure and expedite environmental reviews and permitting.

The directive mandates the identification of a new federal re-entry site within 90 days and instructs agencies to avoid activities that compete with commercial space transportation unless national security or public safety requires it. It also calls for the integration of space activities into air traffic control modernization and the designation of priority airspace for launch corridors.

NASA is tasked with facilitating commercial transportation to the moon and robotic access to Mars, with specific goals to return astronauts to the moon by 2028 and establish initial moon base elements by 2030. Michael Kratsios, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Director, stated the policy positions America to lead the next era of space.