Rocket Lab’s exhibit at the 40th Space Symposium in Colorado Springs. Credit; Rocket Lab

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Space Force is changing how it evaluates risk for launch missions, using tiered mission assurance standards that could expand opportunities for newer commercial providers. 

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Sandra Erwin writes about military space programs, policy, technology and the industry that supports this sector. She has covered the military, the Pentagon, Congress and the defense industry for nearly two decades as editor of NDIA’s National Defense...