Policy and Geopolitical Implications of Launch-on-Demand Capabilities

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

9-17-2019

Abstract

With the growing capability and frequency of spacecraft launch operations, as well as the accelerated research and development of high-altitude hypersonic vehicles, the prospect of rocket-based cargo mobility requires new legal and policy strategies to contend the implications of projecting air power to any global theater within one hour via a vehicle based in the continental U.S.. This paper will explore the challenges posed by a sub-orbital “launch-on-demand” capability by not only air and space law, but also national policy and geopolitical perceptions. Citing contemporary legal and process-based requirements for space launch and atmospheric reentry operations, this paper will advocate an evolution of national policy to enable a launch-on-demand capability to deliver personnel and cargo to con-tested theaters of operation in support of U.S. core competencies of global reach and rapid global mobility.

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Copyright © 2019 Advanced Maui Optical and Space Surveillance Technologies Conference (AMOS)

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Source Publication

2019 Advanced Maui Optical and Space Surveillance Technologies Conference (AMOS)

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