A foundational, accessible overview ofspace policy in the United States Thisbook provides readers with the first comprehensive overview of major spacepolicies in the United States and a framework through which to analyze them. Itexamines all facets of space policy--civilian, military, and commercial--andpresents this material accessibly for use by readers at multiple levels, from undergraduatecourses to government practitioners making and implementing policy. Thefirst section offers a history of space exploration, focusing on the USwithin a global context. The second section looks at the actors andinstitutions involved in setting space policy in a government based on theseparation of powers, including the president, Congress, NASA, and theDepartment of Defense. The book concludes with chapters on the differentsectors of space policy, as well as questions this field will face in the future. Aspolicymakers and business leaders become increasingly aware of the everydaysystems that depend on space technologies, such as communications, mapping, andweather monitoring, and as space becomes a more visible arena for commercialcompetition, potential humanitarian gain, and military threats, Space Policyfor the Twenty-First Century helps students and professionals navigate thecomplexity of space as a policy area.