Commercial Space Launch Act 1984

The Commercial Space Launch Act was enacted on October 30, 1984, to facilitate commercial space launches and promote economic growth through the utilization of space technology. The law encourages private sector launches and associated services while regulating them to ensure compliance with international obligations and protect public health and safety interests. It establishes the Secretary of Transportation as the primary authority for issuing licenses and overseeing launch operations. The Act also requires liability insurance for licensed launches and permits the acquisition of government-owned launch property by the private sector.