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 a plan to make sure the rules about space stuff in the United States are updated and clear, fixing any mistakes and making sure everything is safe and fair. It makes changes to things like space technology and the space station, so they're up-to-date with new ideas and policies.

Summary AI

The bill H.R. 7339 aims to update and improve aspects of Title 51 of the United States Code, which deals with national space policy and related activities. It makes technical amendments to keep the title current and relevant by reorganizing, modernizing language, and resolving drafting errors across various sections. The revisions include changes to space technology development programs, the International Space Station operations, and commercial space initiatives, ensuring they align with the latest policies and objectives. Overall, the bill is a housekeeping measure to ensure the legal framework for U.S. space activities remains clear and up-to-date.

Published

2024-12-04
Congress: 118
Session: 2
Chamber: SENATE
Status: Referred in Senate
Date: 2024-12-04
Package ID: BILLS-118hr7339rfs

Bill Statistics

Size

Sections:
72
Words:
28,129
Pages:
139
Sentences:
623

Language

Nouns: 8,911
Verbs: 1,973
Adjectives: 1,314
Adverbs: 139
Numbers: 1,612
Entities: 1,698

Complexity

Average Token Length:
4.58
Average Sentence Length:
45.15
Token Entropy:
5.75
Readability (ARI):
26.01

AnalysisAI

General Summary of the Bill

This bill is designed to revise and update Title 51 of the United States Code, which pertains to National and Commercial Space Programs. The main objectives are to keep the title current by making necessary amendments, improving the organization of legal text, and ensuring language clarity. By covering various aspects of space activities, including funding, infrastructure, human space exploration, international agreements, and technological development, the bill seeks to enhance the legal framework governing U.S. space initiatives. It also addresses the technical amendments needed to keep laws consistent and relevant.

Summary of Significant Issues

One of the pivotal issues presented in the bill involves ambiguity in language and a lack of detail, particularly concerning funding and budget specifics. For instance, the threshold for reporting estimated costs on certain programs is set at $200 million, potentially allowing significant projects that fall just below this amount to escape detailed scrutiny, raising concerns about financial oversight. The language describing the restatement provisions is vague, potentially causing legal uncertainties about the impact of changes in existing laws.

Additionally, there are concerns regarding the lack of explicit guidelines or criteria, which could lead to issues such as favoritism or inconsistencies in applying scientific priorities. For example, the absence of clear criteria in the Commercial Crew Program and other sections could lead to financial inefficiencies and safety risks. Furthermore, the concentration of power without sufficient checks and balances, particularly in sections dealing with management and international agreements, could result in accountability issues.

Potential Impact on the Public

Broadly, the bill aims to streamline and modernize the legal framework governing America’s space activities, potentially increasing efficiency and adaptability to advancing technological and competitive landscapes. However, the lack of clear, detailed oversight and budget constraints could lead to inefficiencies and the risk of unchecked government spending, which could have indirect implications for taxpayers.

The public might also experience indirect benefits from enhanced space exploration capabilities, such as technological advancements and economic opportunities arising from the space sector's growth. However, these potential benefits might be hindered by policy ambiguities and inconsistent application standards.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders in the space industry, including contractors and private space enterprises, the bill could offer opportunities through expanded programs and missions. Nevertheless, ambiguity in funding and contracting criteria could also present challenges, especially for newer companies trying to compete in an evolving market dominated by established players.

Organizations involved in space research and education might see positive impacts through increased programs supporting STEM education and initiatives focused on international cooperation. However, they may face uncertainties in strategic planning owing to shifting priorities and policies not clearly outlined in the bill.

Regulatory bodies and government agencies tasked with implementing these policies could experience challenges related to the execution of unclear guidelines, potentially resulting in accountability issues and overlap in roles and responsibilities. Ensuring that international agreements do not impair U.S. activities in space might also require careful navigation to maintain diplomatic and strategic relationships.

Overall, while the bill presents a forward-thinking agenda for U.S. space policy, clear definitions, robust accountability measures, and transparency in the application of its provisions are necessary to fully realize the potential benefits and mitigate the risks to stakeholders involved.

Financial Assessment

The bill H.R. 7339 introduces several financial references and considerations that bear significance for both oversight and implementation of the identified objectives. The analysis below explores these monetary elements, contextualizing them within the framework of the issues identified.

Financial Reporting and Oversight

The bill mandates that for any program with expected development costs exceeding $200,000,000, the Administrator must submit a 5-year budget detailing the estimated development costs, along with an estimate of the program's life-cycle costs. This reporting requirement is designed to ensure transparency and allow for detailed Congressional oversight. However, the issue highlighted is that this $200,000,000 threshold might be too high, potentially allowing significant projects to proceed without the same level of scrutiny if their costs fall just below this benchmark. This gap could lead to financial inefficiencies or budgeting issues if smaller projects accumulate unforeseen costs.

Lack of Specific Funding Details

Several sections within the bill refer to ambitious technological developments without clearly outlining the necessary financial implications or specific budgetary allocations. For instance, in developing technologies for missions beyond near-Earth, Section 71525 is notably silent on precise funding requirements. This lack of detail could result in unchecked spending or a lack of financial oversight, particularly in complex areas such as space technology where costs can easily escalate without proper management.

Commercial Space Initiatives and Accountability

The bill addresses commercial development of space transportation capabilities in various sections, such as Sections 51701 and 51702. However, it fails to provide detailed accountability frameworks or financial evaluation criteria, particularly in Section 51703 related to the Commercial Crew Program. This lack might facilitate safety risks and financial inefficiencies, as there is no stringent benchmark for ensuring that commercial partners meet safety and cost-effectiveness standards. The absence of explicit financial guidelines could lead to projects extending beyond budget without repercussions or necessary corrective actions.

Competition and Fairness in Space Transportation Services

While the bill acknowledges the need for competition in Section 51704, specifics on how funds are to be allocated to ensure fair and open competition are lacking. This opens up potential for favoritism or opaque practices that could financially favor certain entities over others, leading to a misuse of resources and discrepancies in cost efficiency.

Counterfeit Parts Program

Section 30311 acknowledges the need for a program to manage counterfeit electronic parts but does not specify funding provisions. The absence of clear financial backing raises concerns about whether the program can effectively implement a prevention system against counterfeits, potentially stymying its success due to resource limitations.

Conclusion

The financial aspects detailed in H.R. 7339 represent a series of broad strokes rather than precise budgeting details. While the bill lays foundational elements for various programs, it leaves significant gaps regarding financial allocations and oversight mechanisms. These unresolved issues could result in inefficiencies, unchecked spending, and lack of accountability, necessitating closer scrutiny and adjustments to address the concerns identified.

Issues

  • The threshold of $200,000,000 for reporting on estimated costs for certain programs (Section 30104) may be too high, allowing significant projects to proceed without detailed oversight if they fall just below this mark, which could potentially lead to financial inefficiencies.

  • The language used to define 'restatement does not change meaning or effect of existing law' in Section 2 is vague and could lead to ambiguities or misunderstandings about the impact of the changes, which may affect the legal interpretations of existing laws.

  • The lack of specified budgetary or funding details in various sections, such as those on developing technologies for beyond near-Earth missions (Section 71525), might lead to unchecked or potentially wasteful spending and increases the risk of financial oversight issues.

  • The section on Commercial Crew Program (Section 51703) does not adequately address potential accountability issues or specify clear criteria for safety and cost evaluations, which may lead to safety risks and financial inefficiencies.

  • There is potential for favoritism or lack of transparency in the policies regarding fair and open competition for space transportation services (Section 51704) due to the lack of specific guidelines or criteria.

  • The consideration of decadal surveys (Section 30122) lacks detail on which recommendations should be prioritized, leaving room for interpretation and potentially inconsistent application of scientific priorities.

  • The Management of national laboratory section (Section 70911) may lead to a concentration of power and lack of checks and balances in the hands of designated liaisons, which could affect the accountability and efficiency of the International Space Station's management.

  • In the section on the policy regarding international agreements concerning outer space activities (Section 30705), the lack of clear definitions and procedures may result in legal ambiguities, impacting international relations and compliance with other existing legislations.

  • The Section 30311 addressing counterfeit parts does not specify a budget or funding for the program, which may lead to budgetary constraints or challenges in implementing an effective counterfeiting prevention system.

  • The annual report on program cost and control (Section 30105) lacks mentions of potential penalties or corrective actions for programs exceeding budgets or timelines, which might result in continuous budget overruns without accountability.

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 given text is a revision of Title 51 from the United States Code, which relates to National and Commercial Space Programs. It includes reorganizing, redesignating, and amending various sections and chapters to update policies on funding, infrastructure, human space exploration, and international agreements. The text specifies changes such as adding new chapters, modifying chapter headings, redesignating sections, and updating terminology related to NASA's programs, policies, and technology development objectives.

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.