Exploring the Unknown - NASA's History Office

— With respect to technologies generated in the performance of Government contracts,
U.S. Government agencies shall obtain only those rights necessary to meet
Government needs and mission requirements, as directed by Executive Order 12591.
• U.S. Government agencies may make unused capacity of space assets, services, and
infrastructure available for commercial space sector use.
— Private sector use of U.S. Government agency space assets, services, and infrastructure
shall be made available on a reimbursable basis consistent with OMB
Circular A-25 or appropriate legislation.
• Government agencies may make available to the private sector those assets which have
been determined to be excess to the requirements of the U.S. Government in accordance
with U.S. law and applicable international treaty obligations. Due regard shall
be given to the economic impact such transfer may have on the commercial space sector,
promoting competition, and the long-term public interest.
• The U.S. Government shall avoid regulating domestic space activities in a manner
that precludes or deters commercial space sector activities, except to the extent necessary
to meet international and domestic legal obligations, including those of the
Missile Technology Control Regime.
Document III-14
Document title: “Fact Sheet, National Space Policy,” The White House, National Science
and Technology Council, September 19, 1996.
Source: Documentary History Collection, Space Policy Institute, George Washington
University, Washington, D.C.
While this addresses a full range of space policy issues, it is also the first presidential space policy directive
that directly and specifically details the process by which the government can stimulate economic and
business activity from space programs. It reflects the end of the Cold War, the shrinking federal discretionary
budget, the maturity of some parts of the space program, and international competitive pressures.
[1] For Immediate Release September 19, 1996
Introduction
EXPLORING THE UNKNOWN 463
Fact Sheet
National Space Policy
(1) For over three decades, the United States has led the world in the exploration and use
of outer space. Our achievements in space have inspired a generation of Americans
and people throughout the world. We will maintain this leadership role by supporting
a strong, stable and balanced national space program that serves our goals in national
security, foreign policy, economic growth, environmental stewardship and scientific
and technical excellence. Access to and use of space is central for preserving peace
and protecting U.S. national security as well as civil and commercial interests. The
United States will pursue greater levels of partnership and cooperation in national
and international space activities and work with other nations to ensure the continued
exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes.