Aerospace Security Project

Leading source of analysis and expertise on the policy and technology issues shaping the future of aerospace security

The Aerospace Security Project (ASP) is a trusted resource for policymakers, offering insightful thoughts and in-depth analyses on policy issues, operational concepts, technology trends, and economic drivers in the space and air domains. Our mission is to educate and inform policymakers and the public, conduct independent research and analysis, and convene experts with broad perspectives to advance creative and practical solutions that address the security challenges facing the United States and our allies and partners. ASP also fosters the next generation of scholars in national security space and air power policy through fellowship and internship opportunities.

Part of the Defense and Security Department at CSIS, ASP is led by Senior Fellow Kari A. Bingen and includes a distinguished group of expert affiliates spanning national security, civilian, commercial, and international aerospace issues.

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Aerospace Security

Leading source of analysis and expertise on the policy and technology issues shaping the future of aerospace security.

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Learn more about our network of experts, staff, and non-resident affiliates who contribute to the Aerospace Security Project's analysis.

Kari A. Bingen

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Photo: marian/Getty Images

Photo: marian/Getty Images

Where Is the Space Force Budget for Commercial Services?

The U.S. Space Force has emphasized the need to integrate and use commercial space services for years, yet the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget does not show a strong sign that funding will match the rhetoric.

Commentary by Clayton Swope — April 8, 2026

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Photo: GLOLABLMARITIMETRAFFIC.ORG (MARITIME TRAFFIC MAP); NASA EARTH OBSERVATORY (WILDFIRE MAP); MARIT JENTOFT NILSEN/NASA (SOIL MOISTURE MAP); DJALALXJAY/SKETCHFAB (SATELLITE); 1EXPERT/ADOBE STOCK (EARTH)

Photo: GLOLABLMARITIMETRAFFIC.ORG (MARITIME TRAFFIC MAP); NASA EARTH OBSERVATORY (WILDFIRE MAP); MARIT JENTOFT NILSEN/NASA (SOIL MOISTURE MAP); DJALALXJAY/SKETCHFAB (SATELLITE); 1EXPERT/ADOBE STOCK (EARTH)

Golden Insights: Creating Value from Commercial Earth Observation Data

April 8, 2026 • 2:00 – 2:45 pm EDT
Hosted by Aerospace Security Project
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Where Is the Space Force Budget for Commercial Services?

The U.S. Space Force has emphasized the need to integrate and use commercial space services for years, yet the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget does not show a strong sign that funding will match the rhetoric.

Commentary by Clayton Swope — April 8, 2026

We Are Going Back to the Moon to Stay

NASA's plan to establish a base on the Moon is part of a strategic competition with China. The United States needs to be in it for the long game.

Commentary by Audrey Schaffer — March 31, 2026

Cracking the Code on the Lunar Economy

To build a sustainable lunar economy, the United States must move beyond government-led models and adopt a commercially driven approach, treating the Moon as a real estate project anchored by public-private partnerships and an international Lunar Development Authority.

Commentary by Charles Miller — March 31, 2026

Artemis and the Economics of a Permanent Moonbase

Apollo proved we could go. Artemis must prove we can stay. That will require not just new technology, but a new approach to cost, partnerships, and political durability.

Commentary by Alexander MacDonald — March 31, 2026

Why Go Back to the Moon?

As the United States prepares to return humans to the Moon, the case rests on three strategic drivers: its role as a gateway to deep space, its valuable natural resources, and the growing risk of ceding leadership in space to China.

Commentary by Clayton Swope — March 31, 2026

Beyond Artemis: Why the Moon Matters for the Future of Space Operations

Returning to the Moon is not just about exploration. It is about extending space operations beyond Earth orbit, developing the capabilities, norms, and infrastructure needed to sustain activity in cislunar space, and shaping the future of how we operate in space.

Commentary by Tahara Dawkins — March 31, 2026