Conference 7.286::space

19.0. "Approving Private Space Projects" by CASTOR::RABAHY () Wed Oct 31 1984 13:21

Associated Press Tue 30-OCT-1984 18:52                         Reagan-Satellite

   Reagan Signs Legislation Easing Private Space Projects
   WASHINGTON (AP) - President Reagan on Tuesday signed legislation
that streamlines the government approval process for private
launches of space satellites.
   The bill puts the Transportation Department in charge of a
``one-stop shop'' for the needed approvals. The secretary must make
a determination on applications within six months.
   In a written statement, the president said the bill will
``signal to private launch operators that this administration
stands behind their efforts to open up this new area of space
exploration.''
   He said that the new law ``is a milestone in our efforts to
address the need of private companies interested in launching
payloads to have ready access to space.''
   Corporations trying to orbit communications satellites could
become prime customers for private launch companies since NASA
plans to stop using rockets to launch satellites.
   NASA, which needs room on the space shuttle for Defense
Department payloads and science projects, does not have room to
handle the estimated 200 private communications satellite launches
planned between 1986 and 1995.
   U.S. firms sought the legislation so they could compete with
foreigners for the projected $10 billion launch business.
   In addition, Reagan signed a joint resolution on cooperative
Eas-West space ventures.
   In a separate statement, Reagan said ``we are prepared to work
with the Soviets on cooperation in space in programs which are
mutually beneficial and productive.''
   He said the United States had offered to carry out with the
Soviets ``a joint simulated space rescue mission.''