Author: Audrey M. Schaffer

Audrey M. Schaffer is a senior associate (non-resident) with the Aerospace Security Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, D.C. Audrey M. Schaffer is an internationally recognized expert in space policy with experience across the civil, commercial, and national security space sectors. She is currently the vice president of strategy and policy at Slingshot Aerospace, a leading space domain awareness company committed to accelerating space safety, sustainability, and security. She also is a member of the Secure World Foundation Advisory Committee. Before joining the private sector, Ms. Schaffer served in the U.S. government for over 15 years, holding positions in the Executive Office of the President, Department of Defense (DOD), Department of State, and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). She most recently was the director for space policy on the National Security Council staff. During her time in government, Ms. Schaffer led DOD efforts to establish in law the U.S. Space Force as a new branch of the armed forces; developed the U.S. policy to refrain from destructive, direct-ascent anti-satellite missile testing; represented the United States in negotiating the first-ever UN guidelines for space sustainability; and drafted numerous national and departmental space policies and strategies, including guidance approved by the president. Ms. Schaffer holds a BS in aerospace engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and an MA in international science and technology policy from the George Washington University. She began her career as a presidential management fellow and is a recipient of the Secretary of Defense Medal for Meritorious Civilian Service.