Overview
Title
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 bill to update and tidy up the rules about space programs in the United States, making sure they use clear and modern language, but some parts might make it tricky to keep track of money spent or make sure things are done fairly.
Summary AI
H. R. 7339 is a bill to update and improve title 51 of the United States Code, which deals with national and commercial space programs. The bill focuses on making revisions to keep the code current, clarify existing laws, and enhance technical accuracy. These changes aim to streamline and modernize the language and structure without altering the original intent or effect of the laws.
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AnalysisAI
The proposed bill aims to revise and update Title 51 of the United States Code, which covers national and commercial space programs. It seeks to ensure that the legal code remains current and effective by making necessary technical amendments. These updates include changes to terminology, reorganization of sections, and adjustments to accommodate the evolving landscape of space exploration and technology. This bill also highlights the importance of integrating cybersecurity, supporting STEM education, and encouraging workforce diversity.
Significant Issues
One notable concern with this bill is the claim that rewording existing laws will not change their meaning. While the aim is to modernize and clarify, even minor alterations in language can lead to differing interpretations in the legal realm. This could potentially result in unexpected legal disputes down the road.
The bill further addresses cost reporting on programs expected to exceed $200 million. Setting such a high threshold might allow significant projects to avoid detailed scrutiny if they are just under this limit, potentially bypassing necessary oversight.
In terms of resource allocation, the bill proposes broad authorizations for developing technologies for space missions without clearly setting priorities or limits. This lack of specificity raises concerns about the efficient use of government resources and could lead to wasteful spending.
Additionally, the bill enforces limitations on international space agreements yet lacks detailed criteria or procedures. This insufficiency might result in ambiguity about whether certain agreements hinder U.S. activities in space, compromising both transparency and operational strategy.
Public Impact
For the general public, the changes proposed in this bill are likely to have indirect effects. Enhanced cybersecurity and improvements in space technology development are integral to national interests, protecting data, and ensuring the continued growth of space exploration and research.
However, the lack of clear definitions and oversight in specific sections might lead to inefficiencies or even financial mismanagement within the organizations involved. On a more positive note, the bill's emphasis on supporting STEM education and workforce diversity could lead to broader participation and innovation in space-related fields, ultimately benefiting economic and technological advancements.
Impact on Stakeholders
Various stakeholders, including government agencies, contractors, and private companies involved in space exploration, stand to be affected by this bill. The requirement for greater transparency and fair competition could hold companies to higher standards and foster an environment of equitable opportunity, although the lack of clear criteria might lead to disputes or inconsistent application of these rules.
For educational institutions and underrepresented communities, the bill’s focus on promoting STEM education and offering internships and fellowships could open new avenues for involvement and advancement in space and technology sectors. However, the absence of clear metrics for selecting candidates may hinder the fairness of these opportunities.
Ultimately, while the bill's intentions to modernize and streamline the legal framework are well-placed, careful consideration to address these significant issues will be crucial to fostering a robust and transparent space exploration landscape.
Financial Assessment
The bill H. R. 7339 encompasses several sections with implications for financial references, primarily in terms of cost estimates, budget reporting, and financial thresholds. It includes significant legislative changes to title 51 of the United States Code, impacting national and commercial space programs.
Cost Reporting and Oversight
In Section 30104, the bill mandates that for each program under the jurisdiction of the Administration, where development costs are expected to exceed $200,000,000, the Administrator must submit a report to Congress. This report should include a 5-year budget detailing the estimated development costs and an estimate of the life-cycle costs associated with the program.
This financial threshold of $200 million sets a significant bar for detailed reporting, which raises concerns as highlighted in the issues section. It may allow substantial projects with high financial implications to bypass detailed oversight, especially if they fall just below this threshold. This could reduce transparency in spending and limit Congress's ability to effectively monitor and regulate high-cost projects.
Development and Allocation of Resources
Section 71525 involves broad authorization for developing technologies and in-space capabilities beyond near-Earth missions. Notably, it does not specify precise limits or priorities, which could potentially lead to inefficient allocation of resources and wasteful spending. Future technological investments could risk spreading resources thinly without explicit guidance on prioritization. This lack of specificity could be financially detrimental, aligning with the issue of potential inefficient resource allocation.
Program Accountability and Reporting
Mentioned in Section 30105, the requirement for an annual report on program costs and control lacks mention of consequences for not meeting budget or schedule baselines. Without specific mentions of sanctions or accountability mechanisms, there is a risk that programs could exceed budgets or timelines without facing repercussions. This absence of accountability can lead to financial inefficiencies and unjustified overspending, reflecting a potentially critical oversight in financial governance.
Fair and Open Competition and Transparency
Section 51704 addresses the policy regarding fair and open competition in space transportation services. However, the section is criticized for lacking specific criteria or guidelines, which might lead to varied interpretations and potential ambiguity. Having clear financial guidelines for competition ensures that financial resources are allocated equitably and transparently. Furthermore, Section 51705 calls for transparency, requiring evidence-based support for costs and schedules. However, detailed mechanisms for accountability and standards are missing, which could lead to inconsistent implementations and undermine the transparency goal.
Overall, while H. R. 7339 seeks to update title 51, the financial implications of these legislative changes require careful scrutiny to ensure accountability, efficient resource allocation, and effective oversight. Adequate mechanisms and clarity in financial references are necessary to achieve the bill's intended objectives without fiscal inconsistencies.
Issues
The 'Purposes; Restatement Does Not Change Meaning or Effect of Existing Law' in Section 2 might be misleading as it claims to only reorganize and modernize the language without changing the meaning or effect. However, changes in wording can sometimes inadvertently alter interpretations, leading to potential legal ambiguities or disputes.
The 'Reports on estimated costs for certain programs' in Section 30104 sets a $200,000,000 threshold for reporting costs to Congress, which may be too high, allowing for significant projects with high financial implications to bypass detailed oversight if they fall just below this threshold.
The 'Development of technologies and in-space capabilities for beyond near-Earth space missions' in Section 71525 proposes broad authorization for technologies without specifying limits or priorities, risking inefficient allocation of resources and potential wasteful spending.
The 'Limitation on international agreements concerning outer space activities' in Section 30705 lacks specific definitions for non-legally binding agreements and does not outline procedures if required certifications reveal concerns, potentially limiting legal and operational transparency and oversight.
The 'Information security plan for cybersecurity' in Section 71753 lacks specific budget allocations and enforcement mechanisms, raising concerns about potential overspending and the effectiveness of cybersecurity measures.
The 'Management of national laboratory' in Section 70911 involves significant financial and operational responsibilities for managing the International Space Station as a national laboratory without specifying performance metrics or accountability measures, potentially leading to inefficiencies.
The 'Policy regarding fair and open competition for space transportation services' in Section 51704 lacks specific criteria or guidelines, which might result in varying interpretations and potential ambiguity, undermining equitable opportunities for competition.
The 'Internship and fellowship opportunities' in Section 49912 lacks clear definitions for 'qualified candidates' and details on the selection process, questioning the fairness and transparency of opportunities for women and underrepresented groups.
The 'Annual report on program cost and control' in Section 30105 does not mention consequences or sanctions for failing to meet budget or schedule baselines, potentially allowing programs to exceed budgets or timelines without accountability.
The 'Transparency' clause in Section 51705 requires evidence-based support for costs and schedules but lacks specific mechanisms for accountability, potentially leading to varying standards and implementation inconsistencies.
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.
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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.
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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.