NewSpace Sadler Report

What is the NewSpace Sadler Report?

The NewSpace Sadler Report is your essential guide to navigating the complexities and opportunities within the commercial space frontier. Each week, our expert team member Scott Sadler curates and analyzes critical developments across the industry, ensuring you receive unbiased, actionable intelligence directly to your inbox.

We cover everything from groundbreaking technological advancements and market trends to policy updates, investment insights, emerging opportunities, and in-depth company profiles. Whether you’re an industry professional, investor, policymaker, researcher, or simply a passionate space enthusiast, our report provides the clarity and foresight you need to make informed decisions.

Key Benefits:

• Stay informed on critical industry developments.
• Gain a competitive edge with expert analysis.
• Discover emerging technologies and market opportunities.
• Connect with the pulse of the NewSpace ecosystem.

Featured Report Summary

POTUS wants Senate recess cancelled; “major defense acquisition reform hearing” Wed; Modigliani, MacGregor: Merging NRO, SSC not “a positive step”

Several key developments are unfolding in U.S. space policy and defense. A significant defense acquisition reform hearing is on the horizon, with Acting Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Space Acquisition and Integration, Maj. Gen. Stephen Purdy, Jr., slated to discuss accelerating capability delivery. There’s also a presidential push to cancel the August Senate recess to confirm nominees, reflecting a broader administration focus on space. The President recently highlighted the reestablishment of the National Space Council and the creation of the Space Force, reiterating goals to return Americans to the Moon and eventually Mars. Additionally, the Secretary of Defense announced upcoming reforms to the DoD promotion system, aiming for less risk-averse and more warfighter-focused leadership.

A notable trend is the increasing reliance on SpaceX for crucial space operations. Despite governmental efforts to diversify, SpaceX’s dominance in rocket launches and satellite services remains indispensable for the Department of Defense and NASA. Another ongoing discussion involves a potential merger of the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) and Space Systems Command (SSC). Experts caution against this, pointing to distinct customer bases and potential inefficiencies, suggesting instead an optimization of existing Space Force acquisition organizations.

The concept of a “Golden Dome for America” missile defense system is a prominent and debated topic. This proposed space-based mega constellation would aim to provide comprehensive defense against missile threats, including hypersonics. While some proponents suggest it could be a cost-effective shield, critics raise concerns about its feasibility, cost, and clear definition. NASA also faces challenges with its budget and leadership, currently operating with an acting administrator and questions surrounding its future direction and its partnership with commercial entities like SpaceX.

Finally, congressional dynamics are at play, with several House vacancies and ongoing difficulties in funding the government, as top Democrats express reluctance to cooperate on appropriations. Key nominations for space-related positions, such as the Vice Chief of Space Operations and Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space Policy, are awaiting Senate confirmation, potentially slowed by a senator’s “hold.” The continued discussion about clearly defining the Space Force’s roles and missions amidst a shifting security environment and budget constraints underscores the complexities of establishing clear responsibilities for space operations.

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Insights from the Capital: Meet Scott Sadler

Scott Sadler is an accomplished communicator and leader with extensive experience in domestic, intelligence, and international affairs. He possesses deep expertise in crisis communications and has held senior roles across the Federal government, Capitol Hill, and two military theaters of operation.

A native of Mathews, Virginia, Mr. Sadler is a graduate of Christopher Newport University. He recently served as a key advisor to senior United States Air Force leaders, guiding communications during the successful establishment of the U.S. Space Force—the first new branch of the Armed Services since 1947. In 2022, he provided communications and messaging counsel to the President’s nominee for Chief of Space Operations during the U.S. Senate confirmation process. Additionally, he consulted directly with former House Armed Services Committee member Rep. Jim Cooper of Tennessee on a forthcoming book about the Space Force’s formation.

In 2012, Mr. Sadler deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan, where he served as senior communications and policy advisor to General John Allen, commander of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF HQ), and Brigadier General Stephen Twitty. His tour included providing critical crisis communications support during significant events such as the February 2012 Koran mishandling incident, the March 2012 alleged mass murder in Kandahar Province, and the April 2012 attack on Kabul, working closely with ISAF Afghan Ministers of Religious Affairs, Border and Tribal Affairs, Deputy Minister for Youth Affairs, and Public Affairs. During the U.S. military withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, Mr. Sadler personally facilitated the safe passage of his Afghan partner and their family, along with four unaccompanied children, from Kabul to the United States. Following a seven-week stay at Fort Bliss Army Base, he and his family resettled in Dallas, Texas.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Sadler served as deputy press secretary to the late U.S. Senator John W. Warner (R-VA), who was the former chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee.