Trump’s Space Order Targets Moon by 2028 and Nuclear Power in Orbit

The White House announced Thursday a sweeping new space directive aimed at securing U.S. supremacy in the next era of space — economically, militarily, and technologically.

President Donald Trump’s executive order, titled “Ensuring American Space Superiority,” outlines an aggressive timeline: sending Americans to the Moon by 2028, establishing the initial components of a permanent lunar base by 2030, and positioning the Moon as both a stepping stone for Mars missions and a commercial development hub.

Administration officials characterize this initiative as critical for preserving American leadership amid rapid advancements by nations such as China in space exploration.

The directive identifies space as a national security priority, mandating new missile defense systems, expanded surveillance capabilities from low-Earth orbit to the Moon’s vicinity, and preparations to detect and neutralize potential nuclear weapons in orbit.

Additionally, the administration directs the Department of Defense and intelligence agencies to modernize their acquisition of space technologies with an emphasis on speed, adaptability, and greater commercial partnerships.

Commercial space ventures are central to the strategy. The order sets a target for $50 billion in private investment within U.S. space markets by 2028 and aims to boost launch frequency through infrastructure improvements and regulatory changes.

A key component involves transitioning from government-operated platforms to privately managed space stations, with plans to replace the International Space Station by the end of the decade.

The order also includes provisions for deploying nuclear power systems in space, such as a lunar surface reactor scheduled for launch by 2030. Officials state that nuclear energy is vital for sustaining human presence beyond Earth where solar power may be insufficient.

The directive addresses growing orbital congestion by requiring enhanced space traffic management, debris mitigation strategies, and the establishment of global standards for navigation and timing systems — all designed to ensure U.S.-led international norms.

Implementation deadlines are stringent. Agencies must review underperforming or cost-overrun projects within months, streamline procurement processes, and submit coordinated plans to the president.

Several existing space policies are being terminated or revised to facilitate a more commercially driven and security-oriented approach.

While supporters argue that space competition is intrinsically linked to economic growth and national defense, critics warn of the enormous costs and risks associated with such ambitious goals, particularly as Congress retains control over federal funding.