Overview
Title
An Act To make revisions in title 51, United States Code, as necessary to keep the title current, and to make technical amendments to improve the United States Code.
ELI5 AI
H.R. 7339 is like fixing up and cleaning a big book about space rules to make them clear and updated, so everyone knows the latest ways to explore space without any confusion.
Summary AI
H.R. 7339 is a legislative proposal aimed at updating and modernizing title 51 of the United States Code. The bill makes necessary revisions and technical amendments to ensure the title remains current, focused on topics related to space and aeronautics. It includes redefining and reorganizing various sections to streamline legal references and align them with recent developments in space law and policy, as well as ensuring the legal language is up-to-date and without ambiguity.
Published
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Bill Statistics
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Language
Complexity
AnalysisAI
General Summary of the Bill
This Congressional bill authorizes revisions to Title 51 of the United States Code, which governs national and commercial space programs. Its main focus is on updating and modernizing the language and structure without altering the substantive meaning of existing laws. The bill proposes various amendments, introduces new sections, and repeals certain outdated provisions. It aims to streamline and enhance the administration of the United States’ space activities, including support for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, the development of aerospace infrastructure, and the coordination of space missions and technology. The bill mandates the continuation of initiatives like the Space Launch System, development of technologies for human exploration, and an emphasis on collaboration between federal agencies, international partners, and commercial entities.
Significant Issues
One significant issue identified in the bill is the lack of specific financial limits or priorities in the authorization of spending for developing new space technologies. This can lead to misallocation of resources and potential wasteful spending, impacting taxpayers broadly. The policy concerning fair and open competition in space transportation appears to omit specific guidelines, possibly leading to varying interpretations and implementation challenges.
Moreover, the bill sets a reporting threshold for programs with development costs exceeding $200 million. However, this threshold might allow major projects to proceed without detailed congressional reviews, reducing accountability. The language used across the bill, such as "to the extent practicable," is notably broad and can result in ambiguous implementations and a lack of clear accountability in various sections.
The ambitious goals articulated for human space exploration, such as sending humans to Mars, do not come with concrete oversight mechanisms. This absence could potentially lead to unchecked spending. Additionally, the bill mandates the continued use of existing contracts from previous space shuttle projects, which might limit the adoption of newer, potentially more efficient technologies.
Impact on the Public Broadly
For the general public, the bill's broad mandate concerning the development of space technologies and the exploration roadmap holds the promise of significant advancements in America's space capabilities. However, the lack of stringent financial oversight could translate into taxpayer money being spent inefficiently, a concern that affects the entire population. On the positive side, the emphasis on supporting STEM education and involving private sector innovations may lead to broader educational opportunities and economic benefits through technological advancements.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
The bill could have a positive impact on technology and aerospace industries by laying down guidelines for collaboration with NASA through Space Act Agreements. This opens avenues for public-private partnerships and potential contract opportunities. However, the lack of clear criteria in some sections might lead to perceived favoritism or competitiveness issues among businesses.
Contractors related to existing shuttle programs may benefit from the preference to utilize pre-existing contracts, maintaining their revenue streams. Yet, this approach might disadvantage newer firms that are developing innovative technologies, as they might find it harder to compete against entrenched entities.
Educational institutions could view the bill’s emphasis on STEM as a boon for resource allocation and program development, potentially attracting more students to these fields. Conversely, the provisions might be considered underdeveloped without specific guidelines for program transparency and evaluation.
The emphasis on international cooperation in space exploration could enhance global relations but also pose risks if partnership dependencies are not managed sustainably. Overall, the bill navigates a complex landscape of technological development and international collaboration, offering both opportunities and challenges to various stakeholders.
Financial Assessment
The bill, H.R. 7339, focuses on updating and modernizing Title 51 of the United States Code, which deals with space and aeronautics. In this process, various financial references are made, which warrant careful examination in light of the issues identified.
Financial References and Allocations
One significant monetary element is in Section 30104, which mandates reporting for programs under the jurisdiction of the Administration where development costs are expected to exceed $200 million. For such programs, the Administrator is required to submit to Congress a detailed 5-year budget detailing estimated development and life-cycle costs. Although this element introduces a mechanism for financial oversight, the set threshold of $200 million could be high, potentially allowing some substantial projects to evade in-depth congressional scrutiny. This aligns with the issue raised about the potential for certain projects to bypass detailed oversight due to the high threshold.
Spending on Technology Development
Section 71525 touches on the development of technologies and in-space capabilities for missions beyond near-Earth space, authorizing spending as needed. However, there is no specificity regarding financial limits or prioritization for this development, leading to concerns about inefficient resource allocation or wasteful spending. Without clear financial guidelines or limits, there's a risk of unchecked expenses going into various technology projects without a rigorous prioritization framework.
Commercial Development and Competition
In Section 51704, there is mention of fostering fair and open competition for space transportation services. However, the bill lacks explicit financial criteria or guidelines to ensure such competition, which may lead to ambiguity or uneven interpretation. Without clear financial instructions, potential favoritism or unequal resource allocation could arise, contradicting the goals of fair competition.
Commitments to Existing Contracts
Another financial concern is highlighted in Section 71523, which mandates the continued use of existing contracts and resources from former space shuttle projects. This stipulation may lead to ongoing expenditures on potentially obsolete technologies instead of more modern, efficient alternatives. Such requirements could prevent optimal reallocation of funds toward more innovative projects.
Transparency and Financial Oversight
While Section 51705 emphasizes the need for transparency, it does not address the financial implications of achieving such transparency, particularly if associated costs lead to budget overruns or project delays. If the pursuit of transparency incurs significant costs, it might stand in the way of its actualization, especially without additional funding to support these efforts.
Each of these sections involves monetary elements that quite critically relate to the issues highlighted, such as inefficient resource use, lack of clear financial guidelines, and potential for unchecked expenditures. Addressing these financial references thoughtfully can enhance budgetary discipline and accountability across the different programs contemplated by the bill.
Issues
The bill authorizes spending for the development of technologies and in-space capabilities without specifying limits or priorities, which could lead to inefficient resource allocation and potentially wasteful spending. This relates to Section 71525.
The policy regarding fair and open competition for space transportation services lacks specific criteria or guidelines, which could lead to potential ambiguity or varying interpretations, as evidenced in Section 51704.
The requirement in Section 30104 for reporting programs over $200 million might have a threshold that is too high, possibly allowing significant projects to avoid detailed congressional oversight.
The broad language used throughout the bill, such as 'to the extent practicable,' could create ambiguous interpretations and lack of accountability, affecting sections like 51705 and others.
The enactment of Chapter 717 outlines ambitious goals for human space exploration through sections like 71721, but it does not provide clear financial limits or oversight mechanisms, potentially leading to unchecked or wasteful spending.
The bill's lack of specific criteria for ensuring 'equal access to Administration resources' in the Space Act Agreements could lead to potential favoritism or inequality, as seen in Section 71766.
The bill fails to define the roles and responsibilities of the various entities involved in information technology governance, as highlighted in Section 71751, potentially resulting in overlapping or inefficient practices.
The absence of a clear budget or financial plan for the development of the Extrasolar Planet Exploration Strategy could lead to wasteful spending, per Section 71733.
Section 71523 mandates the utilization of existing contracts and resources from previous space shuttle projects, potentially leading to continued expenditure on outdated technology without considering more efficient alternatives.
Certain sections, like 71763, lack details on educational and outreach activity prioritization, which can result in inconsistent implementation and effectiveness.
The bill's language around transparency, specifically in Section 51705, might conflict with its goals if achieving transparency incurs additional costs or delays.
The bill mandates significant changes and updates (e.g., Committee name changes) across various sections of existing legislation without clear rationale or explanation, as found in the Technical Amendments section.
The section on Workforce development for minority and underrepresented groups lacks specificity on how necessary steps will be identified or reported, which could lead to inefficiency or lack of accountability, as highlighted in Section 30506.
Sections
Sections are presented as they are annotated in the original legislative text. Any missing headers, numbers, or non-consecutive order is due to the original text.
1. Table of contents Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines the contents of a bill, listing six sections: the table of contents, purposes and restatement of the law, revisions to title 51 of the U.S. Code, technical amendments, transitional and savings provisions, and repeals.
2. Purposes; RESTATEMENT DOES NOT CHANGE MEANING OR EFFECT OF EXISTING LAW Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines that the Act's main goals are to update title 51 of the United States Code and make minor technical fixes. It emphasizes that reorganizing and modernizing the law's language does not change its original meaning or impact.
3. Revision of title 51, United States Code Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The document extensively revises parts of Title 51 of the United States Code, which deals with national and commercial space programs. The changes include renaming chapters, redesigning sections according to updated policies and capabilities in human and space exploration, and promoting efficient management and collaboration in space-related activities, while also updating committee names and reflecting new focuses like supporting STEM education and workforce diversity.
Money References
- “For each program under the jurisdiction of the Administration for which development costs are expected to exceed $200,000,000, the Administrator shall submit to Congress, at the time of submission of the President's annual budget— “(1) a 5-year budget detailing the estimated development costs of the program; and “(2) an estimate of the life-cycle costs associated with the program.
30104. Reports on estimated costs for certain programs Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Administrator to report to Congress if a program's development costs are expected to exceed $200 million. This report, submitted with the President's annual budget, must include a 5-year budget of estimated development costs and an estimation of the program's total life-cycle costs.
Money References
- For each program under the jurisdiction of the Administration for which development costs are expected to exceed $200,000,000, the Administrator shall submit to Congress, at the time of submission of the President's annual budget— (1) a 5-year budget detailing the estimated development costs of the program; and (2) an estimate of the life-cycle costs associated with the program. ---
30105. Annual report on program cost and control Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Administrator to submit an annual report by April 30 to specific Senate and House committees, detailing any NASA programs from the previous year that went over budget by 15% or were delayed by more than two years. It also mandates the report to include corrective plans for managing costs and schedules for these programs.
30122. Consideration of decadal surveys Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires that when the President's budget request is submitted to Congress, the Administration must consider the latest decadal surveys from the National Academies' Space Studies Board.
30123. Two-year budget request with third-year estimate Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the President to send Congress a budget request every year. This request should cover the next two fiscal years, and it should also include budget estimates for the third fiscal year.
30311. Counterfeit parts Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section mandates that the Administrator create a program to identify and decrease counterfeit electronic parts in the supply chain, requiring employee training, an internal database for tracking counterfeit parts, and reporting mechanisms. It also requires changing procurement policies to buy from approved manufacturers, with criteria set for determining trusted manufacturers, such as secure labels and testing certifications.
30505. Information security Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines information security measures and defines "information infrastructure" as the framework of electronic systems and networks that store and transmit data. It requires regular updates and assessments of a security system to manage risks, and mandates an educational program for employees and contractors to enhance security awareness, with rewards for high achievement.
30506. Workforce development for minority and underrepresented groups Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section of the bill requires the Administrator to address any barriers identified in an independent assessment related to developing a space science and engineering workforce for minority and underrepresented groups, which was originally prepared under the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010.
30705. Limitation on international agreements concerning outer space activities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In Section 30705, the bill outlines the necessary steps the U.S. government must take before entering any non-legally binding international agreements concerning outer space activities. It requires specific certifications by the President, Secretary of Defense, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Director of National Intelligence to ensure such agreements do not restrain U.S. activities in space or national security. Regular updates and notifications to certain congressional committees are also mandated, especially if these negotiations or agreements could impact U.S. military or intelligence operations in space.
Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section indicates that chapters 317 through 397 in the document are intentionally left blank or are not used.
31501. Policy and plan Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the United States' policy for maintaining and developing facilities and infrastructure to support future government needs, particularly in aerospace. It requires the creation of a plan detailing strategies for maintaining, upgrading, or disposing of facilities, and mandates the establishment of a public policy on managing property, with a deadline for reporting this plan to Congress.
Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The sections labeled as Chapters 411 through 497 are currently set aside and do not contain any content or regulations at this time.
40901. Aeronautics research goals Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the goals for aeronautics research, emphasizing the need for the Administration's Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate to enhance airspace capacity, improve environmental sustainability by reducing noise, emissions, and fuel consumption, and address aviation safety in the current and future air transportation system.
40902. Research collaboration Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section mandates that the Administrator continue collaboration with the Department of Defense to manage shared research and development infrastructure and work with the Federal Aviation Administration to improve air transportation technology through the Next Generation Air Transportation Program.
40903. Goal for Administration space technology Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section emphasizes the importance of maintaining a space technology foundation within the Administration that aligns with mission directorate investments and supports long-term needs. It aims to complement mission-funded research and, when necessary, provide support to multiple users.
40904. National space technology policy Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines a national space technology policy that the President must develop in consultation with various Federal agencies by 2020. This policy will set goals for space technology development, assign responsibilities to different agencies, and consider military, commercial, and research needs, while also coordinating with academic and industry experts.
40905. Commercial Reusable Suborbital Research Program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Commercial Reusable Suborbital Research Program is established to support scientific research and technology development by providing funding for payloads and flight opportunities to suborbital altitudes. The program aims to enhance suborbital facilities' capabilities, and the Administrator is required to submit an annual progress report to congressional committees.
49910. Programs to support STEM education Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines programs to boost STEM education, which stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It requires the development of programs aimed at increasing interest and participation in STEM, improving public understanding, providing learning resources, and offering professional development for teachers. Additionally, it encourages integrating cybersecurity education into these programs.
49911. Supporting women’s involvement in the fields of aerospace and space exploration Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section instructs the Administrator to promote the engagement of women and girls in studying and pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, especially focusing on aerospace and space exploration. This is to be achieved by supporting specific initiatives such as NASA GIRLS and NASA BOYS, Aspire to Inspire, and the Summer Institute in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Research.
49912. Internship and fellowship opportunities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section mandates that by October 1, 2018, the Administrator must establish a system to attract qualified women and individuals who are underrepresented in STEM and computer science for internships and fellowships related to aerospace at the Administration.
51701. Commercial development of cargo transportation capabilities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section mandates that the Administrator supports the Commercial Resupply Services program, which helps commercial companies develop reliable transportation to send cargo and supplies to the International Space Station. This includes funding efforts for flight tests, speeding up development, and building the necessary infrastructure.
51702. Commercial development of crew transportation capabilities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines guidelines for developing commercial crew transportation systems, emphasizing human rating requirements, revision of procurement practices for efficiency and accountability, leveraging government capabilities, ensuring flight safety and readiness, and integrating crew rescue capabilities for the International Space Station.
51703. Commercial Crew Program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Commercial Crew Program is focused on developing and certifying systems to transport U.S. government astronauts to and from the International Space Station safely and affordably. The program prioritizes astronaut safety by meeting strict safety requirements, incorporates lessons learned from past incidents, and aims to reduce overall costs through competitive selection.
51704. Policy regarding fair and open competition for space transportation services Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The policy of the United States is to promote competition in the development and availability of space transportation services. The Administrator is encouraged to use fair and open competitions for contracts that allow federal access to and from the International Space Station, aiming to minimize costs and follow certain regulations.
51705. Transparency Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Administrator is required to make certain that companies participating in the Commercial Crew Program and the Commercial Resupply Services Program provide clear and factual details about their expenses and timelines, while avoiding any extra costs or delays.
60507. Interagency collaboration implementation approach Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy will create a system to improve how different government agencies work together on Earth observation projects. This system includes a strategy that is updated every three years with input from outside experts and covers the roles of each agency, cost-sharing plans, and a long-term plan for climate observation from space.
60508. Transitioning experimental research to operations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Administrator to work with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the United States Geological Survey to create a formal plan for turning research discoveries into operational tools. This plan may involve setting up an interagency office to manage the transition.
60509. Decadal Survey missions implementation for Earth observation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Administrator is required to carry out missions outlined by the National Research Council's Earth Science Decadal Survey, using the funding designated for the Earth Science Mission Directorate.
60510. Instrument testbeds and venture class missions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Administrator is encouraged to find new ways to use instruments in space by testing them early or including them in joint missions, utilizing platforms like the International Space Station. Furthermore, they should consider using smaller and more cost-effective systems to overcome obstacles related to larger space missions.
70908. Continuation of the International Space Station Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The policy of the United States is to fully support the use of the International Space Station (ISS) until at least September 30, 2030. To achieve this, the administration will work with international and commercial partners to maintain and financially support the ISS, use the station to develop new space exploration technologies, and if feasible, utilize it for scientific missions in low-Earth orbit.
70909. Maximum utilization of the International Space Station Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines how the United States plans to fully utilize the International Space Station now that construction is finished. It emphasizes innovative use of the U.S. segment designated as a national laboratory, international cooperation to advance space exploration beyond near-Earth space, and collaboration with domestic research programs and commercial entities.
70910. Operation, maintenance, and maximum utilization of United States segment Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Administrator is required to ensure that the U.S. segment of the International Space Station is operated, maintained, and fully utilized safely and effectively until at least September 30, 2030. Research facilities on the station must be managed according to a specific section, except for those related to exploration, which will be handled separately to avoid conflicts.
70911. Management of national laboratory Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The document describes a plan for the U.S. government to partner with a nonprofit organization to manage the International Space Station's (ISS) national laboratory, which will oversee research projects, coordinate with various agencies and organizations, and ensure significant access to ISS resources for its research, while also setting rules and guidelines for scientific use and conducting outreach and education activities. The nonprofit must focus solely on managing the ISS national laboratory, and the plan guarantees that at least 50% of U.S. research capacity on the ISS is dedicated to national laboratory experiments through 2030, with potential for more if extra capacity is not needed for administrative research.
70912. Primary objectives of International Space Station program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The primary objectives of the International Space Station program are to meet the long-term goals outlined in section 71512 and to conduct research that increases knowledge and benefits the United States.
71501. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section provides definitions for terms related to space, such as cis-lunar space, which is the area between Earth and the Moon; deep space, which is beyond cis-lunar space; near-Earth space, which includes areas up to geo-synchronous orbit; and the Space Launch System, a government-owned launch system for missions beyond low-Earth orbit.
71511. Human space flight policy Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the policy for using non-U.S. human space flight services, specifying that the U.S. government can only use foreign services if no domestic options are available and the foreign provider meets certain safety and legal standards. It also reaffirms the U.S. commitment to maintain ongoing human space flight capabilities for national security and leadership in space exploration.
71512. Goals and objectives Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the long-term goals and key objectives of the United States' human space flight and exploration plans. It focuses on extending human presence beyond low-Earth orbit with international cooperation, sustaining low-Earth orbit capabilities, decreasing reliance on Earth resources, maximizing the benefits of space exploration, and setting the path toward human missions to Mars and beyond.
71521. Space Launch System as follow-on launch vehicle to the space shuttle Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The United States policy mandates the development of a Space Launch System (SLS) to succeed the space shuttle, with capabilities to explore space beyond low-Earth orbit. This system must lift at least 130 tons, support the International Space Station if needed, and be adaptable for future advancements.
71522. Multipurpose crew vehicle Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section mandates the development of a multipurpose crew vehicle that can be used from no later than 2016 with the Space Launch System, emphasizing human safety features from the Orion project. This vehicle must be capable of performing missions beyond low-Earth orbit, conducting in-space operations, providing an alternative transport to the International Space Station if needed, and evolving with new technologies and commercial efforts.
71523. Utilization of existing workforce and assets in development of Space Launch System and multipurpose crew vehicle Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Administrator is required to use existing resources, like contracts and workforce, from space shuttle and Orion and Ares 1 projects for developing the Space Launch System and multipurpose crew vehicle. They should also minimize infrastructure changes, focus on cost-effectiveness, ensure contractor support continues, and aim to complete certain test facilities by set deadlines.
71524. Launch support and infrastructure modernization program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines a program led by the Administrator aimed at updating facilities at the Kennedy Space Center for handling and launching the Space Launch System. This program focuses on improving infrastructure, enhancing operational capabilities, supporting various types of vehicles, and investing in measures that advance both civil and national security objectives, with the goal of reducing costs and improving safety.
71525. Development of technologies and in-space capabilities for beyond near-Earth space missions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Administrator is authorized to develop and invest in new technologies for missions beyond Earth's orbit, focusing on areas like propulsion, life support, and in-space operations. They may also use the International Space Station to test these technologies and must coordinate with other space projects.
71541. Technology development Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Administrator to make sure that the Science Mission Directorate runs a continuous program to develop technology for space and Earth science. This program must be in line with a broader NASA technology strategy and should connect with other technology efforts as outlined in laws and plans.
71542. Suborbital research activities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section defines a Suborbital Research Program within the Science Mission Directorate, requiring the designation of a responsible official for strategic planning and integration with existing programs. It emphasizes student involvement and mandates an annual report to Congress on suborbital missions and student participation.
71543. In-space servicing Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section explains that the Administrator must ensure that plans are in place for robotic or human servicing and repair of future large scientific spacecraft in Earth orbit or at a Lagrangian point, as much as possible. These plans should include considering the need for servicing in space technology investments and designs for space missions.
71544. Ongoing restoration of radioisotope thermoelectric generator material production Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section mandates that the Administrator of NASA, alongside the Secretary of Energy, should work together starting in 2011 to resume and maintain the production of materials needed for radioisotope thermoelectric generators, which are crucial for space and scientific missions. The funding for this initiative is authorized by a 2010 NASA act and will be provided to the Department of Energy to reestablish the necessary production facilities.
71545. Coordinated approach for robotic missions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the head of NASA to make sure different mission directorates work together with both US and international partners on planning robotic missions to the Moon, Mars, and other areas in space.
71546. Near-Earth object survey and policy with respect to threats posed Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Congress has reaffirmed its policy on tracking asteroids and comets near Earth. It requires setting up a policy by September 30, 2012, to notify government agencies about any threats and to designate an agency responsible for protecting the U.S. and working with other countries on this matter.
71701. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section provides definitions for key terms used in the chapter, including the "appropriate committees of Congress" responsible for certain oversight functions, "cis-lunar space" as the space region near the Moon, "deep space" as areas beyond Earth's immediate surroundings, "Orion" as a type of space vehicle, and "Space Launch System" as defined in another section.
71711. Space launch system, Orion, and exploration ground systems Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Congress has reaffirmed the requirements for the Space Launch System and mandates its continued development for human space exploration beyond low-Earth orbit, including missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. The Administrator is tasked with assessing the Space Launch System's utility for additional uses, considering cost savings and benefits for science and other government needs.
71721. Human exploration roadmap Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section mandates the NASA Administrator to create a detailed human exploration roadmap focusing on expanding human presence beyond low-Earth orbit with the ultimate goal of reaching Mars in the 2030s. This plan includes identifying necessary technologies, fostering international and commercial partnerships, assessing health risks, and setting key timelines and goals, and it requires periodic updates to Congress.
71731. Policy on maintaining balanced space science portfolio Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The United States aims to maintain a balanced approach to space science missions by supporting a consistent number of large, medium, and small projects whenever possible.
71732. Mission priorities for planetary science Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the creation of a balanced schedule for planetary science missions, such as Discovery, New Frontiers, and Flagship missions, in line with the latest Planetary Science Decadal Survey. It allows adjustments to mission priorities and timelines if necessary due to changes in budget forecasts.
71733. Extrasolar planet exploration strategy Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines a plan for studying and exploring planets outside our solar system. The Administrator is tasked with working with the National Academies to create a science strategy using various space telescopes. The strategy will guide future research efforts and partnerships, and a report on this strategy must be submitted to Congress.
71734. Astrobiology strategy Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill section outlines that the Administrator must work with the National Academies to create a strategy for astrobiology research, highlighting key scientific questions and coordinating with international partners. This strategy will guide planning and funding of astrobiology projects, and a report containing the strategy must be submitted to Congress within 18 months after March 21, 2017.
71735. Collaboration Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Administration is tasked with developing unique instruments that can be used by other agencies after being tested. When it takes over sensor development or measurement duties from another agency, it should aim to get reimbursed for this responsibility when possible.
71741. Space technology infusion Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The United States government has a policy to develop space technologies that support NASA's main missions, encourage early-stage innovation, and broaden the aerospace industry. One key goal is to create propulsion technologies that can significantly cut down the travel time for humans going to Mars.
71742. Space technology program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines a Space Technology Program managed by the Administrator to develop advanced space technologies for exploration and science missions. It emphasizes using competitive processes, involving small businesses, preventing project duplication, and ensuring collaboration with various entities.
71751. Information technology governance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the responsibilities of the Administrator to ensure effective management and oversight of information technology within the Administration. It emphasizes the roles of the Chief Information Officer and others in overseeing IT and security operations, aiming to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and ensure informed investment decisions while improving coordination across various departments.
71752. Information technology strategic plan Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text requires the Administrator to create a strategic plan for managing information technology that aligns with specific legal requirements and addresses the Administration's IT goals. This plan should include ways to improve efficiency, security, and coordination of IT resources, and must be submitted to Congress, especially highlighting any high-risk projects and cybersecurity threats.
71753. Information security plan for cybersecurity Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text sets out requirements for the development and implementation of an Administration-wide information security plan to enhance cybersecurity. The plan must align with federal standards, include risk management strategies, and assign responsibilities, ensuring frequent updates to protect important systems and information.
71761. Collaboration among mission directorates Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Administrator is tasked with promoting a team-based approach among different mission divisions within the organization. This involves coordinating efforts, spotting areas of overlap, making the most of diverse perspectives to achieve the best results, and using resources and funds more efficiently.
71762. Administration launch capabilities collaboration Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill requires the Administrator to develop a plan for acquiring both crewed and uncrewed launch services. This plan should improve how the Launch Services Program and the Commercial Crew Program communicate and work together.
71763. Education and outreach Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Administrator is required to continue efforts to engage with the public and provide educational opportunities for students through all the mission areas of the Administration, as much as possible.
71764. Leveraging commercial satellite servicing capabilities across mission directorates Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Administrator is tasked with identifying which satellites in specific mission areas can benefit from servicing technologies and collaborating across different mission departments to see how private companies can use these technologies for service improvements or to enhance their technical abilities.
71765. Flight opportunities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section mandates that the Administrator should continue and potentially expand efforts to develop technology payloads for scientific research and new capabilities. It also stipulates that the Administrator must provide financial resources for flight testing, payload development, and related hardware, and reaffirms the policy that encourages providing flight opportunities for payloads to achieve microgravity environments and suborbital altitudes.
71766. Space Act Agreements Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section titled "Space Act Agreements" outlines guidelines for NASA's collaborations under these agreements, focusing on maximizing external contributions to fulfill NASA's goals, ensuring fair access and transparency, and maintaining confidentiality. It mandates annual reports to Congress summarizing the details, cost-sharing, and outcomes of such agreements, along with plans for future agreements, while emphasizing public disclosure and competitive selection where necessary.
4. Technical amendments Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section makes technical changes to multiple titles of the United States Code, adjusting various references to bring them up-to-date and ensure consistency throughout. These amendments update citations to reflect current laws and restructure certain sections for clarity and accuracy.
5. Transitional and savings provisions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In this part of the bill, it explains that certain old laws will be updated or replaced with new laws, and these changes apply to laws that were made on or before January 5, 2023. If there’s a new law made after that date that changes an old law, it will automatically change the new version too. Additionally, things like regulations or actions taken under old laws will continue to be valid under the new ones.
6. Repeals Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines the repeal of several specific provisions of law related to various acts, including those related to NASA, the National Defense Authorization, and aerospace education. These repeals only apply to areas not affecting existing rights, duties, penalties, or ongoing proceedings as of the enactment date of this new law.