StacksVerified U.S. federal law reference

51 U.S.C. § 70103 — Commercial payloads on space launch system

Verified against govinfo.gov as of June 20, 2026View official text on govinfo.gov
  1. (a)DefinitionsIn this section:
    1. (1)Launch vehicleThe term “launch vehicle” means any vehicle constructed for the purpose of operating in, or placing a payload in, outer space.
    2. (2)PayloadThe term “payload” means an object which a person undertakes to place in outer space by means of a launch vehicle, and includes subcomponents of the launch vehicle specifically designed or adapted for that object.
  2. (b)In GeneralCommercial payloads may not be accepted for launch as primary payloads on the space launch system unless the Administrator determines that—
    1. (1)the payload requires the unique capabilities of the space launch system; or
    2. (2)launching of the payload on the space launch system is important for either national security or foreign policy purposes.