Trump orders creation of US space academy for military use

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday to create a United States Space Academy, according to a visit to Johnson Space Center in Houston. This institution will serve the United States Space Force, NASA, and the civilian spaceflight industry, the president stated. Comparing the new academy to existing military academies at West Point and Annapolis, Trump emphasized that it will attract, train, and graduate the finest individuals for our nation.

Alongside NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman, Trump signed the order during the visit. The president also acknowledged the Artemis II crew for their moon mission earlier this year. While the academy's location remains undetermined, Texas Senator Ted Cruz has expressed support for placing it in his state. Trump mentioned plans for a 2028 Mars mission utilizing a nuclear-powered interplanetary spacecraft.

As part of his first term, Trump established the Space Force as a distinct military branch. Trump arrived in Houston on Thursday for a Republican fundraiser, ahead of the November midterm elections.