Encouraging International Support for the Recovery and Use of Space Resources
This executive order directs the United States to actively pursue international backing for the exploration, recovery, and use of space resources (such as water and minerals) by both public and private actors. It reiterates the administration’s view that outer space is not a global commons and emphasizes the importance of legal clarity for commercial space activity, noting uncertainties around the Moon Agreement and related international law. The order tasks the Secretary of State, with help from other federal agencies, to pursue international statements and agreements on safe and sustainable space-resource operations, and to report back within 180 days on these efforts. It also states that existing authorities and budget processes are unaffected, and that the order itself does not create any enforceable rights.
Key Points
- 1Policy aim: Encourage international support forUS public and private efforts to recover and use resources in outer space, aligned with U.S. law and Space Policy Directive-1.
- 2Moon Agreement stance: The United States is not a party to the Moon Agreement and does not view it as controlling customary international law; the Secretary of State is directed to object to its treatment as such.
- 3Diplomatic outreach: The Secretary of State (with relevant cabinet Secretaries) must seek and negotiate joint statements and bilateral/multilateral arrangements with foreign states on safe and sustainable space-resource operations.
- 4Reporting requirement: Within 180 days, the Secretary of State must report back to the President on activities undertaken under the order.
- 5General provisions: The order does not alter statutory authorities, budgetary processes, or create enforceable rights; it must be implemented consistent with law and appropriations.