The commercial remote sensing regulatory affairs (CRSRA), is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Office of Space Commerce. The organization oversees licensing and regulation of private remote sensing space systems under U.S. jurisdiction. Remote sensing from space, through satellites and other spacecraft, is an integral part of the space economy.
To operate private remote sensing systems under U.S. control, companies must obtain a license from the CRSRA. The office regulates these systems to protect national security while promoting continued innovation in the commercial sector. In recent years, the CRSRA has updated its regulatory approach to enable companies to fully leverage advancements in remote sensing capabilities.
Key actions the CRSRA has taken include:
- Overhauling the licensing structure in 2020 to create a tiered system with varying restrictions based on system capabilities
- Eliminating significant restrictions in August 2023 by allowing enhanced data services and distribution
- Streamlining the license application process and reducing average approval time
- Emphasizing that enabling industry growth in remote sensing will support U.S. leadership in the expanding space economy
Remote sensing supports diverse applications across sectors like agriculture, transportation, disaster response and more. By adapting regulations to enable industry innovation, while still protecting public interests, the CRSRA plays a vital role in realizing the potential of space to benefit life on Earth. Its oversight helps maximize the advantages the growing space economy provides.
Through licensing, compliance and promoting an innovative industry, the CRSRA division fosters continued development of the space economy and ensures the U.S. leverages advancements in commercial remote sensing capabilities.
