Some Space Force employees informed congressional auditors they didn’t use or purchase commercial space data, citing concerns that they were seemingly unaware were already being addressed The Government Accountability Office recommended the secretary of the Air Force increase awareness and engagement with the working group, it shared Thursday following a review of the Space Force’s purchases and use of commercial space data and services.

The GAO noted some officials are missing opportunities” to use this data, after they cited “licensing costs, perceived use restrictions and concerns over long-term data access” as reasons to avoid purchasing it-despite the working group already addressing those issues. Many of those concerns “could have been addressed with discussions at the working group,” the GAO wrote, but some Space Force officials were left out of the talks or unaware the working group existed.

For related coverage, explore our detailed analysis on Technology and Digital Systems.

Core Findings and Detailed Timeline

$76.8 million. That’s how much the Space Force Joint Commercial Operations Cell spent on data and services from the Global Data Marketplace from January 2023 through September 2025.

The Space Force purchases data, such as satellite imagery, used The commercial space sector has grown rapidly in recent years, introducing more data and services the DOD, other federal agencies and foreign governments can use to monitor enemies.

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Because the information is not classified, it can be shared easier with allies and partners, according to the GAO. The Senate Armed Services Committee previously expressed concern that the DOD has fallen behind in utilizing commercial space data and requested the GAO to investigate.

Because the information is not classified, it can be shared easier with allies and partners, according to the GAO.

Broader Implications and Future Outlook

The Senate Armed Services Committee previously expressed concern that the DOD has fallen behind in utilizing commercial space data and requested the GAO to investigate.

Some Space Force employees informed congressional auditors they didn’t use or purchase commercial space data, citing concerns that they were seemingly unaware were already being addressed The Government Accountability Office recommended the secretary of the Air Force increase awareness and engagement with the working group, it stated Thursday following a review of the Space Force’s purchases and use of commercial space data and services.