Advanced Space Architectures Program: Championing Innovation in Next-Generation In-Space Operations
Summary
America’s leadership in space exploration and utilization could greatly accelerate by using a fundamentally different approach to in-space operations than that which exists today. Most of today’s spacecraft are locked into their launch configurations, with little or no ability to be updated or serviced once in space. But by leveraging recent and emerging capabilities to manufacture, assemble, and service spacecraft in space, we can dramatically improve the cost-effectiveness, productivity, and resiliency of our space systems.
To achieve this, the Biden-Harris Administration should launch a new Advanced Space Architectures Program (ASAP) to enable a new generation of in-space operations. ASAP would operate under a public-private consortium model to leverage government investment, engage a broad community, and bring in the support of international partners. In this memo, we propose two specific missions that the next administration could undertake early to initiate the ASAP program and demonstrate its efficacy. Initiating ASAP as soon as possible will help the new administration’s mission to build back better: for our economy, for science and exploration, for international leadership in mitigating the climate crisis, and for the security of our nation.
The increasing frequency of extreme weather events, which caused over $200 billion in global economic losses in 2023, is disrupting global supply chains and exacerbating migration pressures, particularly for the U.S. Investing in climate resilience abroad offers a significant opportunity for U.S. businesses in technology, engineering, and infrastructure, while also supporting job creation at home.
A new initiative targeting service investment to build resilience in low-capacity communities would help build capacity at the local level, train a new generation of service-oriented professionals, and ensure that federal funding gets to the communities that need it most.
The federal government spends billions every year on wildfire suppression and recovery. Despite this, the size and intensity of fires continues to grow, increasing costs to human health, property, and the economy as a whole.
Congress and the incoming Trump Administration should work together to reinforce the U.S. position in the regions, recognizing the role Antarctica in particular may have in a changing global order and its significance for sea-level rise.