WASHINGTON, DC 20301 -1000
JUL - 7 2021
MEMORANDUM FOR SECRETARIES OF THE MILITARY DEPARTMENTS
CHAIRMAN OF THE JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF
UNDER SECRET ARIES OF DEFENSE
CHIEFS OF THE MILITARY SERVICES
COMMANDERSOFTHECOMBATANTCOMMANDS
GENERAL COUNSEL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
DIRECTORS OF DEFENSE AGENCIES

## Subject: Tenets Of Responsible Behavior In Space

The Department of Defense has been a leader in space operations since the dawn of the space age. Throughout its history, the Department has pursued its space mission while ensuring and maintaining the safety, security, stability, and sustainability of the domain. As more actors come to space, the domain is changing, with an increased risk of collisions, as well as of miscalculations or misunderstandings. It is incumbent on the Department to continue space leadership through demonstrating and acknowledging responsible behavior in space.

Unless otherwise directed, DoD Components will conduct space operations consistent with the following Tenets of Responsible Behavior:

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Operate in, from, to, and through space with due regard to others and in a professional
manner.
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Limit the generation of long-lived debris.
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A void the creation of harmful interference.
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Maintain safe separation and safe trajecto.ry.
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Communicate and make notifications to enhance the safety and stability of the
domain.
Commander, U.S. Space Command, will collaborate with DoD stakeholders to develop and coordinate guidance regarding these tenets and associated specific behaviors for DoD
operations in the space area ofresponsibility, and recommend them to the Secretary of Defense for approval. The Under Secretary of Defense for Policy will lead DoD activities to advance S.