Trump’s 2028 Space Plan: Ensuring American Space Superiority Amid Global Competition

The order, titled “Ensuring American Space Superiority,” instructs the Pentagon and U.S. intelligence agencies to develop a comprehensive space security strategy. It also calls for greater efficiency among private space contractors and promotes demonstrations of missile-defense systems under Trump’s “Golden Dome” initiative.

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Changes to Space Policy Leadership

The directive restructures national space policy coordination under White House science adviser Michael Kratsios. While it initially appeared to eliminate the National Space Council, administration officials clarified that the council will continue under the Office of Science and Technology Policy, with the president serving as chair instead of the vice president.

Renewed Push for a 2028 Moon Landing

Trump’s 2028 moon-landing target echoes his first-term directive that aimed for a 2024 return—an objective many experts viewed as unrealistic due to delays in NASA’s Space Launch System and SpaceX’s Starship. The current timeline aligns with goals set during the Obama administration and supports NASA’s Artemis program, which seeks to establish a sustained human presence on the moon.

Plans for a Permanent Lunar Presence

The executive order also calls for the creation of early components of a permanent lunar outpost by 2030, including nuclear-powered infrastructure. This push comes amid growing competition with China, which plans its first crewed moon landing by 2030.

Moon Versus Mars Debate in Washington

Although Trump has spoken publicly about Mars missions—aligned with SpaceX founder Elon Musk’s long-term vision—Congress has emphasized continued focus on the moon, urging NASA leadership to protect investments already made in lunar exploration. This stance follows significant budget and workforce cuts at NASA, which have threatened numerous scientific programs.

Starship’s Role in Meeting the Deadline

Isaacman has indicated he supports pursuing both lunar and Mars missions, but with priority given to returning to the moon to maintain U.S. leadership. Achieving the 2028 goal will largely depend on progress with SpaceX’s Starship lunar lander, which some former NASA officials have criticized for slow development.