Revisiting National Space Transportation Policy: It’s Not Just Rockets Anymore

National space transportation policy must evolve beyond traditional rocket-centric frameworks to ensure sustained U.S. leadership in space. As space activity rapidly expands—with increased launch cadence, commercial participation, and strategic competition—persistent challenges across decades require nuanced policy solutions. This paper analyzes historical U.S. space transportation policy drivers and decisions, identifies enduring and emerging challenges, and highlights the need for policy that balances national security, economic interests, global competition, and private-sector innovation. Authors argue that inclusive engagement across government and industry is crucial for resilient, future-focused space transportation.