The United States Space Force and the Future of American Space Policy: Legal and Policy Implications

The creation of the U.S. Space Force triggered an outpouring of responses ranging from ridicule and derision, to applause and relief, to fear and concern. It also raised questions about the future of conflict in outer space. Through an exploration of the legal context of military space activities, the history of American military space policy, and Great Power space interactions during and after the Cold War, The United States Space Force and the Future of American Space Policy ultimately concludes that the U.S. Space Force is a natural outgrowth of American space policy, but is no more likely to threaten space security than previous activity in the space domain.