Scott Pace

The global positioning system : assessing national policies

Abstract : The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a U.S. military space system operated by the U.S. Air Force. The space segment of GPS consists of a constellation of 24 satellites that broadcast precise time signals. When the satellites are in view of a suitable GPS receiver, these signals aid position-location, navigation, and precision timing. GPS was developed by the U.S. Department of Defense and deployed over two decades at a cost of over

The global positioning system: policy issues for an information technology

10 billion. The U.S. armed forces are increasingly reliant on its signals for a variety of purposes from navigation to munitions guidance. However, over the past 10 years, GPS has evolved far beyond its military origins. It is now a worldwide information resource supporting a wide range of civil, scientific, and commercial functions, from air traffic control to the Internet. GPS has also spawned a substantial commercial industry in the United States and abroad with rapidly growing markets for related products and services.

The Space Policy of the New U.S. Administration

Abstract This article, based on the executive summary of a RAND Corporation study, analyses the policy issues facing the USA in the use of its Global Positioning System (GPS), in terms of both national security and commercial applications. Foreign policy issues, including how to react to the emergence of non-US (Russian, European and Inmarsat-sponsored) alternatives to the GPS are also examined. The article concludes with a series of recommendations for policy makers. Reprinted by permission.

US space transportation policy: History and issues for a new administration☆

The new U.S. Administration under President Obama is conducting a review of space policy and it is too soon to tell what major changes will result. However, it is possible to identify the major policy issues being considered and likely development based on past statements and actions taken by the Administration so far in 2009. Specific study groups that have been publicly identified include space protection, international cooperation, acquisition reform and national space strategy. Presidential policy remains in force until the President or his successor changes it and thus there is a high degree of interest in the on-going White House policy review being led by staff to the National Security Council.

Space: Emerging Options for National Power.

Abstract The new US administration faces complex questions on the future role of the USA in space, and tough decisions on how to pay for it. Decisions made now on space transportation will have a strong impact on US space leadership for the next decade. The author discusses the history and current state of space transportation planning, and considers the key issues which will confront the new administration.