The Center for Security Policy today released a major paper outlining a comprehensive approach to U.S. space policy and programs designed to assure long-term American access to and exploitation of outer space.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center Issues Major Paper On US Space Policy And Programs

Extension and expanded exploitation of space must be pursued through the development and deployment of new technology over the near- to medium-term.

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"I think it lowers the barriers to entry for satellite launch, and for the exploration and exploitation of space technology, for smaller companies, university centers, " he said.

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By diverting time and resources towards manned moon landings, the US government may have delayed useful exploitation of space by decades (a similar argument can be made against the original transcontinental railroad).

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It will be a joint venture between the European Space Agency (Esa) and the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (Eumetsat).

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