WASHINGTON — The U.S. State Department has revised an export control rule to clarify that spacecraft and their thrusters should not be classified as rocket engines, as some companies have been doing.

To continue reading this article:

Register now to read
3 free articles this month.

You’ll also receive our weekly Editor’s Choice, SpaceNews This Week and Opinions newsletters. Opt-out at any time.

Sign in to an existing account

Get unlimited access to SpaceNews.com, the SpaceNews app and our digital monthly magazine for less than $5 per week.

$280

Cancel anytime. Sales tax may apply. No refunds. Terms and conditions apply.

See all subscription options

Caleb Henry is a former SpaceNews staff writer covering satellites, telecom and launch. He previously worked for Via Satellite and NewSpace Global.He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science along with a minor in astronomy from Grove City College.