Trump signs policy targeting 1,000 US space launches a year by 2030
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President Donald Trump signed a new National Space Transportation Policy setting a goal of more than 1,000 US spacecraft launches and returns per year by 2030. The memorandum directs federal agencies to identify land for new launch sites and streamline permits within 90 days. The policy replaces a 2013 framework and prioritizes spectrum access, air traffic coordination, and workforce development.
Key Facts
- The policy sets a target of over 1,000 spacecraft launches and returns per year by 2030, compared with 178 such missions in 2025.
- Within 90 days, federal departments must identify available federal land for new launch and landing sites.
- SpaceX carried out 170 missions in 2025, placing about 2,500 satellites into orbit.
- The memorandum directs NASA to land American astronauts on the Moon before the end of 2028.
- The policy replaces the national space transportation framework adopted in 2013.
Launch Site Expansion
The new policy requires several federal departments to scout available federal land for new spacecraft launch and landing sites within 90 days. Approval processes for these facilities are to be accelerated, with environmental reviews and permits streamlined under the new rules. Access to wireless spectrum, air traffic coordination, and a stronger launch workforce are named as government priorities. Agencies are instructed to avoid activities that could discourage private companies competing in the same sector.
Industry Leadership
SpaceX remains the industry leader, having completed 170 missions in 2025 that placed about 2,500 satellites into orbit. Federal Aviation Administration officials said in May that SpaceX hopes to reach 10,000 flights annually within five years. SpaceX has separately proposed roughly 1 million satellites to capture solar energy and supply power to AI data centers. The US will consider requests from foreign companies to launch from American soil, with individual screening for security risk, investment value, and site availability.
Lunar and Mars Goals
The memorandum directs NASA to land American astronauts on the Moon again before the end of 2028. Early elements of a lunar base are to follow two years later, alongside continued study of robotic and eventual human missions to Mars. Michael Kratsios, the White House science and technology policy director, said the policy "meets this moment of explosive growth and positions America to lead the next era of space."
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Trump signs policy targeting 1,000 US space launches a year by 2030
