Defense Systems
Lawmaker worried about DOD leadership shuffle
Rep. Jim Cooper (D-Tenn.) worries U.S. defenses in space could be at risk due to lack of permanent leadership at the Pentagon.
Science & Tech
The Coming Flood of Space Junk Can’t Be Stopped by Technology Alone
Giant nets may help, but nations must solve the problem with new rules down here on Earth.
Policy
‘Space Force’ Shrinks in House Proposal
A bipartisan amendment would trim several generals from the new space-focused component.
Policy
Space Force Clears Senate Committee After House Attempt to Stall
The Senate Armed Services Committee’s legislation “greatly increases the odds that we end up with some sort of a Space Force,” one expert says.
Science & Tech
Six New Technologies NRO Wants
The spy agency is offering up to half a million dollars for promising prototypes.
Policy
House Panel Rejects Space Force
The Pentagon’s arguments are unconvincing, a House Appropriations Committee subcommittee says.
Policy
CBO: Space Force Could Cost $3B Up Front, $1.3B Annually
The new independent analysis comes as lawmakers weigh the creation of a new branch of the military.
Ideas
DARPA Seeks Space Robots to Repair Satellites
The robots would service military, government, and commercial spacecraft more than 22,000 miles above the Earth.
Business
'Space Force' Windfall Unclear for Eager Defense Companies
At Space Symposium, satellite makers big and small say they’re seeing the Pentagon awarding contracts faster, but still aren’t sure what to expect.
Policy
Shanahan Touts Unity in Space-Force Pitch, But Disagreements Clearly Remain
It’s a key week for proponents of the Trump administration’s space reorganization — and their detractors.
Policy
Sorry, Florida, Looks Like You’re Not Getting US Space Command
Despite lobbying, Sunshine State left off shortlist for command’s new headquarters.
Science & Tech
Another Launch Startup Gets Work from US Air Force
New Zealand-based Rocket Lab will orbit a trio of satellites as Pentagon hunts for cheap ways to put sensors in space.
Policy
Space Force’s Projected Size Drifts Upward, Drawing Concern on Capitol Hill
Despite “lean” pledges, aides are skeptical about the size of the proposed branch and the number of generals who will lead it.
Ideas
The USAF Shouldn’t Narrow Competition for Its Satellite Launches
The service’s plan to reduce launch-contract eligibility from three providers to two would reduce incentives to innovate and keep costs down.
Science & Tech
Pentagon Wants to Test A Space-Based Weapon in 2023
Defense officials have asked for $304 million to fund research into space-based lasers, particle beams, and other new forms of missile defense next year.
Policy
Legislative Hurdle Delays US Space Command Stand-Up
Pentagon can’t move ahead until Congress repeals a provision in the 2019 defense authorization act.
Science & Tech
Pentagon Wants Satellites That Can Dodge Incoming Fire
As China and Russia move to weaponize space, the U.S. military is working to give its constellations a “fighting chance.”
Policy