Synopsis
Overview
The document provides a comprehensive exploration of U.S. space policies, focusing on their application to satellite missions that deviate from conventional models. It offers a policy compliance roadmap for various satellite missions, addressing challenges in the evolving space industry and aiding mission managers in obtaining launch approval.
Evolution of the Space Enterprise
The space sector has diversified, involving numerous stakeholders like small businesses, universities, and even primary schools. This diversification, especially the rise of small satellites, has altered the traditional single payload launch paradigm, leading to a complex landscape of policy applicability and compliance.
Exclusions
The document does not delve into U.S. export control regulations, instead referring readers to specific resources for more information on this topic.
International and National Policies
Key policies include the Outer Space Treaty of 1967 and the National Space Policy of the United States of America. These policies emphasize the responsibility of nations for their space activities and cover aspects like debris mitigation and spectrum protection. The National Space Transportation Policy outlines authorities for military, civil, and commercial space launches.
Responsibilities of Launch Providers vs. Satellite Owners
Launch providers are responsible for launch policy, but not for the satellites they launch. Compliance is enforced through the satellite owner’s parent agency. Therefore, a satellite’s compliance depends on its owning agency, whether it’s NASA, DOD, or a commercial entity.
Special Considerations for Foreign Launches of U.S. Government Satellites
There are specific requirements and laws that govern the use of foreign launch services for U.S. government satellites, including ownership and manufacturing tests.
Determining Satellite Ownership
Ownership is crucial in determining policy applicability. It depends on who has control authority post-launch, often defined by funding sources. However, there are gray areas, especially with satellites sponsored by multiple entities.
Orbital Debris Policy
The U.S. National Space Policy mandates compliance with Orbital Debris Mitigation Standard Practices (ODMSP). This policy covers debris generation, collision risks, and disposal of space objects, with specific guidelines for different space operations.
DOD Policy
The Department of Defense’s policy echoes ODMSP and includes specific requirements for documentation and compliance, applicable to all DOD missions.
Commercial Satellite Compliance
Commercial satellites must adhere to national orbital debris mitigation guidelines enforced by the FCC. This includes disposal methods and management of pressure vessels at end-of-life.
FAA Policy
The FAA regulates launch and reentry operations but not satellites or space activities. Its regulations focus on safety, including limiting debris generation and potential human casualties.
Policy Compliance Process
Agencies must demonstrate compliance with their respective debris mitigation policies. This often involves submitting specific reports and plans, and compliance is crucial for obtaining necessary approvals.
Ambiguities and Recommendations in Orbital Debris Policy
Questions arise about the FCC’s role in enforcing orbital debris policy, especially for small satellites and CubeSats. Concerns include propulsion requirements, security risks, and financial barriers for new entrants.
Spectrum Usage Policy
The NTIA and FCC regulate spectrum usage, with distinct processes for federal and non-federal entities. The ITU plays a role in international spectrum management.
Policy Compliance for Spectrum Usage
The NTIA manages federal spectrum usage, while the FCC handles non-federal entities. There are different stages and requirements for filing for spectrum use.
Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
Cybersecurity policies vary based on the type of spacecraft and its use. DOD-owned spacecraft have stringent encryption requirements. Non-DOD federal spacecraft and commercial/private spacecraft have different levels of cybersecurity obligations.
Ambiguities in Cybersecurity Policy
There are ambiguities regarding the classification of spacecraft as DOD for cybersecurity policy application, the definition of national security space systems, and the cybersecurity protection of non-DOD spacecraft command and control capabilities.
Imaging Policy
Policies for remote sensing from space differ for Earth-imaging and non-Earth imaging and between commercial and government-owned satellites. Specific guidelines and compliance processes are outlined for different types of satellites.
Optical Communication
Free-space optical communication (FSO), or lasercom, is becoming increasingly popular. The FAA and the Laser Clearinghouse (LCH) regulate terrestrial and space-based laser communications, respectively. The document discusses the need for streamlined policy guidelines due to the growing use of lasercom in space.
