Space to grow: The OSC’s investments in a robust commercial space sector

At the inaugural Innovate Space: Finance Forum, Janice Starzyk, acting director of the Office of Space Commerce (OSC) provided an in-depth overview of the agency’s roles, responsibilities, and recent initiatives aimed at fostering the growth of the U.S. space industry. The OSC, established during the Reagan administration, serves as the primary advocate for the commercial space sector within the Department of Commerce, focusing on policy, advocacy, and regulatory functions.

The presentation highlighted the complexities of balancing regulatory functions with advocacy roles. The OSC must navigate the fine line between supporting industry growth and ensuring national security. This balance is particularly evident in the regulation of remote sensing technologies, which have significant intelligence implications.

The OSC’s efforts extend beyond regulatory and advocacy roles. The office is actively involved in setting standards for space data and situational awareness, working with international organizations to ensure interoperability and data sharing.

Export control was another key topic, with the OSC working to streamline regulations and facilitate the export of U.S. space technologies. The recent policy shift from a presumption of denial to a case-by-case review for certain exports marks a significant step forward, she said.

The presentation also touched on the broader role of the Department of Commerce in the space sector as agencies work in tandem with the OSC to support the space industry through export control, standards development, and economic analysis.

This presentation is one of a series of selections from the Innovate Space: Finance Forum. Click here to see more of those discussions and hear key insight from investors and industry leaders pioneering the new space economy.