H.R. 4412 — what changed
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2014
From Introduced in House to Reported in House. 55 sections amended, 22 added, and 4 removed between Introduced in House and Reported in House.
Sec. 2 Definitions
In this Act:
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Administration— The term Administration “Administration” means the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
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Administrator— The term Administrator “Administrator” means the Administrator of the Administration.
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Orion crew capsule— The term Orion “Orion crew capsule refers to capsule” means the multipurpose crew vehicle described in section 303 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18323).
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Space Act Agreement—act agreement— The term Space “Space Act Agreement Agreement” means an agreement created under the authority to enter into “other transactions” under section 20113(e) of title 51, United States Code.
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Space Launch System—launch system— The term Space “Space Launch System refers to System” means the follow-on Government-owned civil launch system developed, managed, and operated by the Administration to serve as a key component to expand human presence beyond low-Earth orbit, as described in section 302 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18322).
Sec. 201 Space exploration policy
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Findings—Policy— Congress finds Human exploration deeper into the following:solar system shall be a core mission of the Administration. It is the policy of the United States that the goal of the Administration’s exploration program shall be to successfully conduct a crewed mission to the surface of Mars to begin human exploration of that planet. The use of the surface of the Moon, cis-lunar space, near-Earth asteroids, Lagrangian points, and Martian moons may be pursued provided they are properly incorporated into the Human Exploration Roadmap described in section 70504 of title 51, United States Code.
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Congress supports a human exploration program that is not critically dependent on the achievement of milestones by fixed dates and an exploration technology development program to enable lunar human and robotic operations, as described in paragraphs (1) and (2) of section 70502 of title 51, United States Code.
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Congress supports the expansion of permanent human presence beyond low-Earth orbit, in a manner involving international partners, commercial partners, and other not-for-profit partners where practical.
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Congress remains committed to ensuring that authorized budgets for the human space flight program should allow the Administration to maintain high safety standards.
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Exploration deeper into the solar system should be the core mission of the Administration.
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Congress strongly supports the development of the Space Launch System and the Orion crew capsule as the enabling elements for human exploration, advanced scientific missions, and national security priorities beyond low-Earth orbit.
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Policy—Vision for space exploration— It is the policy Section 20302 of the title 51, United States that the development of capabilities and technologies necessary for human missions to lunar orbit, the surface of the Moon, the surface of Mars, and beyond shall be Code, is amended by adding at the goal of end the Administration’s human space flight program.following:
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Vision for space exploration— Section 20302 of title 51, United States Code, is amended—
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by striking subsection (a) and inserting the following:
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“(a) In general—The Administrator shall establish a program to develop a sustained human presence on the Moon and the surface of Mars, including a robust precursor program that follows the stepping stone plan required in section 70504 to promote exploration, science, commerce, and United States preeminence in space. The Administrator is further authorized to develop and conduct appropriate international collaborations, commercial collaborations, and other not-for-profit collaborations in pursuit of such program, but the absence of such partnerships may not be justification for failure to pursue such program in a timely manner.”
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in subsection (b)—
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by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following:
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“(1) Returning Americans to the Moon.”
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by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following:
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“(2) Launching the first crewed mission of the fully integrated Orion crew capsule with the Space Launch System as close to 2020 as possible.”
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in paragraph (4), by striking “from Mars and” and inserting “from the Moon, Mars, and”; and
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by adding at the end the following:
“(c) Definitions—In this section:
added “(1) Orion crew capsule—The term “Orion crew capsule” means the multipurpose crew vehicle described in section 303 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18323).
added “(2) Space launch system—The term “Space Launch System” means the follow-on Government-owned civil launch system developed, managed, and operated by the Administration to serve as a key component to expand human presence beyond low-Earth orbit, as described in section 302 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18322).”
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“(1) Orion crew capsule—The term Orion crew capsule refers to the multipurpose crew vehicle described in section 303 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18323).
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“(2) Space Launch System—The term Space Launch System refers to the follow-on Government-owned civil launch system developed, managed, and operated by the Administration to serve as a key component to expand human presence beyond low-Earth orbit, as described in section 302 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18322).”
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was (5)
Key objectives— Section 202(b) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18312(b)) is amended—
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was (5)(3)
in paragraph (3), by striking “and” after the semicolon;
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was (5)(4)
in paragraph (4), by striking the period at the end and inserting “; and”; and
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was (5)(5)
by adding at the end the following:
added “(5) to accelerate the development of capabilities to enable a human exploration mission to the surface of Mars and beyond through the prioritization of those technologies and capabilities best suited for such a mission in accordance with the Human Exploration Roadmap under section 70504 of title 51, United States Code.”
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Use of non-United states human space flight transportation capabilities— Section 201(a) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18311(a)) is amended to read as follows:
added “(a) Use of non-United states human space flight transportation capabilities
added “(1) In general—NASA may not obtain non-United States human space flight capabilities unless no domestic commercial or public-private partnership provider that the Administrator has determined to meet safety and affordability requirements established by NASA for the transport of its astronauts is available to provide such capabilities.
added “(2) Definition—For purposes of this subsection, the term “domestic commercial provider” means a person providing space transportation services or other space-related activities, the majority control of which is held by persons other than a Federal, State, local, or foreign government, foreign company, or foreign national.”
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“(5) to accelerate the development of capabilities to enable a human exploration mission to the surface of Mars and beyond through the prioritization of those technologies and capabilities best suited for such a mission in accordance with the Mars Human Exploration Roadmap under section 70504 of title 51, United States Code.”
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Use Repeal of non-United States human space flight transportation capabilities—shuttle capability assurance— Section 201(a) 203 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18311(a)) 18313) is amended to read as follows:amended—
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“(a) Use of non-United States human space flight transportation capabilities
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“(1) In general—NASA may not obtain non-United States human space flight capabilities unless no domestic commercial or public-private partnership provider that the Administrator has determined to meet safety requirements established by NASA for the transport of its astronauts is available to provide such capabilities.
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“(2) Definition—For purposes of this subsection, the term domestic commercial provider means a person providing space transportation services or other space-related activities, the majority control of which is held by persons other than a Federal, State, local, or foreign government, foreign company, or foreign national.”
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Repeal of Space Shuttle capability assurance— Section 203 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18313) is amended—
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was (7)(3)
by striking subsection (b);
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was (7)(4)
in subsection (d), by striking “subsection (c)” and inserting “subsection (b)”; and
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was (7)(5)
by redesignating subsections (c) and (d) as subsections (b) and (c), respectively.
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Fullest commercial use of space—
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Report— Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on current and continuing efforts by the Administration to “seek and encourage, to the maximum extent possible, the fullest commercial use of space,” as described in section 20102(c) of title 51, United States Code.
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Elements— The report required under subsection (a) shall include—
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an assessment of the Administration’s efforts to comply with the policy;
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an explanation of criteria used to define compliance;
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a description of programs, policies, and activities the Administration is using, and will continue to use, to ensure compliance;
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an explanation of how the Administration could expand on the efforts to comply; and
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a summary of all current and planned activities pursuant to this policy.
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Barriers to fullest commercial use of space— Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on current and continuing efforts by the Administration to reduce impediments, bureaucracy, redundancy, and burdens to ensure the fullest commercial use of space as required in section 20102(c) of title 51, United States Code.
Sec. 202 Stepping stone approach to exploration
In general— Section 70504 of title 51, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
“70504. Stepping stone approach to exploration
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“(a) In general—In order to maximize the cost effectiveness of the long-term space exploration and utilization activities of the United States, the Administrator shall direct the Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate Directorate, or its successor division, to develop a Mars Human Exploration Roadmap to define the specific capabilities and technologies necessary to extend human presence to the surface of Mars and the mission sets and sequences of missions required to demonstrate such capabilities and technologies.
“(b) International participation—The President should invite the United States partners in the International Space Station program and other nations, as appropriate, to participate in an international initiative under the leadership of the United States to achieve the goal of successfully conducting a crewed mission to the surface of Mars.
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“(c) Roadmap requirements—In developing the Mars Human Exploration Roadmap, the Administrator shall—
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“(1) include the specific set of capabilities and technologies required that contribute to extend extending human presence to the surface of Mars and the mission sets and sequences of missions necessary to demonstrate the proficiency of these capabilities and technologies with an emphasis on using or not using the International Space Station, lunar landings, cis-lunar space, trans-lunar space, Lagrangian points, and the natural satellites of Mars, Phobos and Deimos, as testbeds, as necessary, and shall include the most appropriate process for developing such capabilities and technologies;
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“(2) describe those technologies already under include information on the phasing of planned intermediate destinations, Mars mission risk areas and potential risk mitigation approaches, technology requirements and phasing of required technology development across activities, the Federal Government or by nongovernment entities which meet or exceed management strategy to be followed, related International Space Station activities, and planned international collaborative activities, potential commercial contributions, and other activities relevant to the needs described achievement of the goal established in paragraph (1);section 201(a) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2014;
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“(3) provide a specific process for the evolution of the capabilities of the fully integrated Orion crew capsule with describe those technologies already under development across the Space Launch System and how these systems demonstrate Federal Government or by nongovernment entities which meet or exceed the capabilities and technologies needs described in paragraph (1);
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“(4) provide a description specific process for the evolution of the capabilities and technologies that could be demonstrated or research data that could be gained through the utilization of the International fully integrated Orion crew capsule with the Space Station Launch System and the status of how these systems demonstrate the development of such capabilities and technologies;technologies described in paragraph (1);
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“(5) describe provide a framework for international cooperation in the development of all technologies and capabilities required in this section, as well as an assessment description of the risks posed by relying on international partners for capabilities and technologies on that need to be demonstrated or research data that could be gained through the critical path utilization of development;the International Space Station and the status of the development of such capabilities and technologies;
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“(6) describe a process framework for utilizing nongovernmental entities international cooperation in the development of all technologies and capabilities required in this section, as well as an assessment of the risks posed by relying on international partners for future human exploration beyond trans-lunar space capabilities and specify what, if any, synergy could be gained from—technologies on the critical path of development;
added “(7) describe a process for utilizing nongovernmental entities for future human exploration beyond trans-lunar space and specify what, if any, synergy could be gained from—
“(A) partnerships using Space Act Agreements (as defined in section 2 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2014); or
“(B) other acquisition instruments;
added “(8) include in the Human Exploration Roadmap an addendum from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Advisory Council, and an addendum from the Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel, each with a statement of review of the Human Exploration Roadmap that shall include—
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“(7) include in the Roadmap an addendum from the NASA Advisory Council, and an addendum from the Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel, each with a statement of review of the Roadmap that shall include—
“(A) subjects of agreement;
“(B) areas of concern; and
“(C) recommendations; and
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“(8) include in the Roadmap an examination of the benefits of utilizing current Administration launch facilities for trans-lunar missions.
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“(d) Updates—The Administrator shall update such Roadmap at least every 4 years and “(9) include it in the budget for that fiscal year transmitted to Congress under section 1105(a) Human Exploration Roadmap an examination of title 31, and describe—the benefits of utilizing current Administration launch facilities for trans-lunar missions.
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“(1) the achievements and goals reached in the process of developing “(d) Updates—The Administrator shall update such capabilities Human Exploration Roadmap as needed but no less frequently than every 2 years and technologies during include it in the 4-year period prior budget for that fiscal year transmitted to the submission Congress under section 1105(a) of the Roadmap to Congress; andtitle 31, and describe—
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“(2) “(1) the expected goals and achievements and goals reached in the following 4-year period.process of developing such capabilities and technologies during the 2-year period prior to the submission of the update to Congress; and
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“(e) Definitions—The terms Orion crew capsule and Space Launch System have “(2) the meanings given such terms expected goals and achievements in section 20302.”the following 2-year period.
added “(e) Definitions—In this section, the terms “Orion crew capsule” and “Space Launch System” have the meanings given such terms in section 20302.”
Report—
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In general— Not later than 1 year 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit a copy of the Mars Human Exploration Roadmap developed under section 70504 of title 51, United States Code, to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
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Updates— The Administrator shall transmit a copy of each updated Mars Human Exploration Roadmap to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate not later than 7 days after such Human Exploration Roadmap is updated under section 70504(b)(6) of such title.updated.
Sec. 203 Space Launch System
Findings— Congress finds that—
the Space Launch System is the most practical approach to reaching the Moon, Mars, and beyond, and Congress reaffirms the policy and minimum capability requirements for the Space Launch System contained in section 302 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18322);
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the primary goal for the design of the fully integrated Space Launch System System, including an upper stage needed to go beyond low-Earth orbit, is to safely carry a total payload of 130 tons or more to low-Earth orbit to enable human space exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond over the course of the next century as required in section 302(c) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18322(c));18322(c)); and
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In order to promote safety and reduce programmatic risk, the Administrator shall budget for and undertake a robust ground test and uncrewed and crewed flight test of the 70-ton core element of and demonstration program for the Space Launch System fully integrated with and the Orion crew capsule as described in section 302(c)(1) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18322(c)(1)) is a necessary flight demonstration in shall budget for an overall program plan, subject operational flight rate sufficient to appropriations; andmaintain safety and operational readiness.
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the schedule of the 70-ton core element crewed flight demonstration in 2021 with the Space Launch System fully integrated with the Orion crew capsule as described in section 302(c)(1) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18322(c)(1)) is subject to appropriations.
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In general—Sense of Congress— As required in section 302(c)(2) of It is the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act sense of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18322(c)(2)), Congress that the Administration shall design President’s annual budget requests for the Space Launch System as a fully integrated vehicle capable and Orion crew capsule development, test, and operational phases should strive to accurately reflect the resource requirements of carrying a total payload each of 130 tons or more into low-Earth orbit those phases, consistent with the policy established in preparation for transit for missions beyond low-Earth orbit.section 201(a) of this Act.
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In general— Given the critical importance of a heavy-lift launch vehicle and crewed spacecraft to enable the achievement of the goal established in section 201(a) of this Act, as well as the accomplishment of intermediate exploration milestones and the provision of a backup capability to transfer crew and cargo to the International Space Station, the Administrator shall make the expeditious development, test, and achievement of operational readiness of the Space Launch System and the Orion crew capsule the highest priority of the exploration program.
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Progress report—
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In general— Using the President’s budget request for fiscal year 2014 and notional numbers requested therein as a baseline, not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate an estimate of—
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when the 70-ton core element of the Space Launch System fully integrated with the Orion crew capsule may be demonstrated as an operational capability;
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when the 130-ton Space Launch System fully integrated with the Orion crew capsule may be demonstrated as an operational capability;
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the projected annual operational costs through 2030 for the 130-ton Space Launch System fully integrated with the Orion crew capsule after its operational capability has been demonstrated; and
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the projected flight rate for the 130-ton Space Launch System fully integrated with the Orion crew capsule through 2030.
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Contingency funding estimates— If the Administrator determines that the uncrewed test flight of the 70-ton core element of the Space Launch System fully integrated with the Orion crew capsule will not occur on or before December 31, 2017, or that the crewed test flight of the 70-ton core element of the Space Launch System fully integrated with the Orion crew capsule will not occur on or before December 31, 2021, the report transmitted under paragraph (1) shall include an estimate of additional funds required through annual appropriations for fiscal years 2015 through 2021 which may be necessary to meet such goals in those years.
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Utilization Report—Government accountability office review— The Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense and the Director of National Intelligence, shall prepare a report that addresses the effort and budget required to enable and utilize a cargo variant of the 130-ton Space Launch System configuration described in section 302(c) of Not later than 270 days after the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18322(c)). This report shall also include consideration date of the technical requirements enactment of the scientific and national security communities related to such Space Launch System and shall directly assess this Act, the utility and estimated cost savings obtained by using such Space Launch System for national security and space science missions. The Administrator Comptroller General shall transmit such report to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate not later than 180 days after a report on the date Administration’s acquisition of enactment ground systems in support of this Act.the Space Launch System. The report shall assess the extent to which ground systems acquired in support of the Space Launch System are focused on the direct support of the Space Launch System and shall identify any ground support projects or activities that the Administration is undertaking that do not solely or primarily support the Space Launch System.
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Utilization report— The Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense and the Director of National Intelligence, shall prepare a report that addresses the effort and budget required to enable and utilize a cargo variant of the 130-ton Space Launch System configuration described in section 302(c) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18322(c)). This report shall also include consideration of the technical requirements of the scientific and national security communities related to such Space Launch System and shall directly assess the utility and estimated cost savings obtained by using such Space Launch System for national security and space science missions. The Administrator shall transmit such report to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act.
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was (6)
Naming competition— Beginning not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act and concluding not later than 1 year after such date of enactment, the Administrator shall conduct a well-publicized competition among students in elementary and secondary schools to name the elements of the Administration’s exploration program, including—
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a name for the deep space human exploration program as a whole, which includes the Space Launch System, the Orion crew capsule, and future missions; and
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a name for the deep space human exploration program as a whole, which includes the Space Launch System, the Orion crew capsule, lunar landers, and future missions; and
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was (6)(4)
a name for the Space Launch System.
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Advanced booster competition—
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Report— Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Associate Administrator of the Administration shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report that—
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describes the estimated total development cost of an advanced booster for the Space Launch System;
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details any reductions or increases to the development cost of the Space Launch System which may result from conducting a competition for an advanced booster; and
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outlines any potential schedule delay to the Space Launch System 2017 Exploration Mission–1 launch as a result of increased costs associated with conducting a competition for an advanced booster.
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Competition— If the Associate Administrator reports reductions pursuant to paragraph (1)(B), and no adverse schedule impact pursuant to paragraph (1)(C), then the Administration shall conduct a full and open competition for an advanced booster for the Space Launch System to meet the requirements described in section 302(c) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18322(c)), to begin as soon as practicable after the development of the upper stage has been initiated.
Sec. 204 Orion crew capsule
In general— The Orion crew capsule shall meet the practical needs and the minimum capability requirements described in section 303 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18323).
Report— Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit a report to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate—
detailing those components and systems of the Orion crew capsule that ensure it is in compliance with section 303(b) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 18323(b));
detailing the expected date that the Orion crew capsule will be available to transport crew and cargo to the International Space Station; and
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certifying that the requirements of section 303(b)(3) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 18323(b)(3)) will be met by the Administration in time for the first crewed test flight in 2021.Administration.
Sec. 205 Space radiation
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Strategy and plan—
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In general— The Administrator shall develop a space radiation mitigation and management strategy and implementation plan to enable the achievement of the goal established in section 201 that includes key research and monitoring requirements, milestones, a timetable, and an estimate of facility and budgetary requirements.
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Report— Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Associate Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report that—
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Coordination— describes the estimated total development cost of an advanced booster The strategy shall include a mechanism for coordinating Administration research, technology, facilities, engineering, operations, and other functions required to support the Space Launch System;strategy and plan.
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Transmittal— details any reductions or increases Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit the strategy and plan to the development cost Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the Space Launch System which may result from conducting a competition for an advanced booster; andHouse of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
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outlines any potential schedule delay to the Space Launch System 2017 EM–1 launch as a result of increased costs associated with conducting a competition for an advanced booster.
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Competition—Space radiation research facilities— If The Administrator, in consultation with the Associate Administrator reports reductions pursuant to paragraph (2) heads of subsection (a), and no adverse schedule impact pursuant to paragraph (3), then the Administration other appropriate Federal agencies, shall conduct a full and open competition for an advanced booster for the Space Launch System to meet the requirements described in section 302(c) of assess the National Aeronautics national capabilities for carrying out critical ground-based research on space radiation biology and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18322(c)), to begin not later than 1 year after the Associate Administrator transmits shall identify any issues that could affect the report required under subsection (a).ability to carry out that research.
Sec. 206 Planetary protection for human exploration missions
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Study— The Administrator shall enter into an arrangement with the National Academies for a study to explore the planetary protection ramifications of potential future missions by astronauts such as to the lunar polar regions, near-Earth asteroids, the moons of Mars, and the surface of Mars.
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Scope— The study shall—
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collate and summarize what has been done to date with respect to planetary protection measures to be applied to potential human missions such as to the lunar polar regions, near-Earth asteroids, the moons of Mars, and the surface of Mars;
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identify and document planetary protection concerns associated with potential human missions such as to the lunar polar regions, near-Earth asteroids, the moons of Mars, and the surface of Mars;
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develop a methodology, if possible, for defining and classifying the degree of concern associated with each likely destination;
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assess likely methodologies for addressing planetary protection concerns; and
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identify areas for future research to reduce current uncertainties.
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Completion date— Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall provide the results of the study to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
Sec. 211 International Space Station
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Findings— Congress finds the following:
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The International Space Station is an ideal testbed for future exploration systems development, including long-duration space travel.
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Congress finds the following:
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The International Space Station is the ideal short-term testbed for future exploration systems development, including long-duration space travel.
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was (4)
The use of the private market to provide cargo and crew transportation services is currently the most expeditious process to restore domestic access to the International Space Station and low-Earth orbit.
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Government access to low-Earth orbit is paramount to the continued success of the International Space Station and National Laboratory.
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In general— The following is the policy of the United States:
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The United States International Space Station program shall have two primary objectives: supporting achievement of the goal established in section 201 of this Act and pursuing a research program that advances knowledge and provides benefits to the Nation. It shall continue to be the policy of the United States to, in consultation with its international partners in the International Space Station program, support full and complete utilization of the International Space Station.
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The International Space Station shall be utilized to the maximum extent practicable for the development of capabilities and technologies needed for the future of human exploration beyond low-Earth orbit and shall be considered in the development of the Human Exploration Roadmap developed under section 70504 of title 51, United States Code.
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The Administrator shall, in consultation with the International Space Station partners—
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take all necessary measures to support the operation and full utilization of the International Space Station; and
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seek to minimize, to the extent practicable, the operating costs of the International Space Station.
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Reliance on foreign carriers for crew transfer is unacceptable, and the Nation’s human space flight program must acquire the capability to launch United States astronauts on United States rockets from United States soil as soon as is safe and practically possible, whether on Government-owned and operated space transportation systems or privately owned systems that have been certified for flight by the appropriate Federal agencies.
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Reaffirmation of policy— Congress reaffirms—
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its commitment to the development of a commercially developed launch and delivery system to the International Space Station for crew missions as expressed in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2005 (Public Law 109–155), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2008 (Public Law 110–422), and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (Public Law 111–267);
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that the Administration shall make use of United States commercially provided International Space Station crew transfer and crew rescue services to the maximum extent practicable;
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that the Orion crew capsule shall provide an alternative means of delivery of crew and cargo to the International Space Station, in the event other vehicles, whether commercial vehicles or partner-supplied vehicles, are unable to perform that function; and
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the policy stated in section 501(b) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18351(b)) that the Administration shall pursue international, commercial, and intragovernmental means to maximize International Space Station logistics supply, maintenance, and operational capabilities, reduce risks to International Space Station systems sustainability, and offset and minimize United States operations costs relating to the International Space Station.
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Assured access to low-earth orbit— Government-assured access to low-Earth orbit Section 70501(a) of title 51, United States Code, is paramount amended to the continued success of the International Space Station and National Laboratory.read as follows:
added “(a) Policy statement—It is the policy of the United States to maintain an uninterrupted capability for human space flight and operations in low-Earth orbit, and beyond, as an essential instrument of national security and the capability to ensure continued United States participation and leadership in the exploration and utilization of space.”
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Repeals—
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Use of space shuttle or alternatives— Chapter 701 of title 51, United States Code, and the item relating to such chapter in the table of chapters for such title, are repealed.
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Shuttle pricing policy for commercial and foreign users— Chapter 703 of title 51, United States Code, and the item relating to such chapter in the table of chapters for such title, are repealed.
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Shuttle privatization— Section 50133 of title 51, United States Code, and the item relating to such section in the table of sections for chapter 501 of such title, are repealed.
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Extension criteria report— Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the feasibility of extending the operation of the International Space Station that includes—
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criteria for defining the International Space Station as a research success;
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any necessary contributions to enabling execution of the Human Exploration Roadmap developed under section 70504 of title 51, United States Code;
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cost estimates for operating the International Space Station to achieve the criteria required under paragraph (1);
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cost estimates for extending operations to 2024 and 2030;
added
an assessment of how the defined criteria under paragraph (1) respond to the National Academies Decadal Survey on Biological and Physical Sciences in Space; and
added
an identification of the actions and cost estimate needed to deorbit the International Space Station once a decision is made to deorbit the laboratory.
added
Strategic plan for international space station research—
added
In general— The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, in consultation with the Administrator, academia, other Federal agencies, the International Space Station National Laboratory Advisory Committee, and other potential stakeholders, shall develop and transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a strategic plan for conducting competitive, peer-reviewed research in physical and life sciences and related technologies on the International Space Station through at least 2020.
added
Plan requirements— The strategic plan shall—
added
be consistent with the priorities and recommendations established by the National Academies in its Decadal Survey on Biological and Physical Sciences in Space;
added
provide a research timeline and identify resource requirements for its implementation, including the facilities and instrumentation necessary for the conduct of such research; and
added
identify—
added
criteria for the proposed research, including—
added
a justification for the research to be carried out in the space microgravity environment;
added
the use of model systems;
added
the testing of flight hardware to understand and ensure its functioning in the microgravity environment;
added
the use of controls to help distinguish among the direct and indirect effects of microgravity, among other effects of the flight or space environment;
added
approaches for facilitating data collection, analysis, and interpretation;
added
procedures to ensure repetition of experiments, as needed;
added
support for timely presentation of the peer-reviewed results of the research;
added
defined metrics for the success of each study; and
added
how these activities enable the Human Exploration Roadmap described in section 70504 of title 51, United States Code;
added
instrumentation required to support the measurements and analysis of the research to be carried out under the strategic plan;
added
the capabilities needed to support direct, real-time communications between astronauts working on research experiments onboard the International Space Station and the principal investigator on the ground;
added
a process for involving the external user community in research planning, including planning for relevant flight hardware and instrumentation, and for utilization of the International Space Station, free flyers, or other research platforms;
added
the acquisition strategies the Administration plans to use to acquire any new capabilities which are not operational on the International Space Station as of the date of enactment of this Act and which have an estimated total life cycle cost of $10,000,000 or more, along with a justification of any anticipated use of less than full and open competition and written approval therefor from the Administration’s Assistant Administrator for Procurement; and
added
defined metrics for success of the research plan.
added
Report—
added
In general— Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the progress of the organization chosen for the management of the International Space Station National Laboratory as directed in section 504 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18354).
added
Specific requirements— The report shall assess the management, organization, and performance of such organization and shall include a review of the status of each of the 7 required activities listed in section 504(c) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 18354(c)).
removed
Acquiring and maintaining an operational domestic commercial crew transportation service by the year 2017 is of the utmost importance for the future viability of the International Space Station and National Laboratory.
Sec. 212 Barriers impeding enhanced utilization of the ISS’s National Laboratory by commercial companies
changed
In general—Sense of congress— The following It is the policy sense of the United States:Congress that—
changed
The enhanced utilization of the International Space Station shall Station’s National Laboratory requires a full understanding of the barriers impeding such utilization and actions needed to be utilized taken to remove or mitigate them to the maximum extent practicable for the development of capabilities and technologies needed for the future of human exploration beyond low-Earth orbit.practicable; and
changed
The Administrator shall, in consultation with doing so will allow the International Space Station partners—Administration to encourage commercial companies to invest in microgravity research using National Laboratory research facilities.
removed
take all necessary measures to support the operation and full utilization of the International Space Station; and
removed
seek to minimize, to the extent practicable, the operating costs of the International Space Station.
removed
Reliance on foreign carriers for crew transfer is unacceptable, and the Nation’s human space flight program must acquire the capability to launch United States astronauts on United States rockets from United States soil as soon as is safe and practically possible, whether on Government-owned and operated space transportation systems or privately owned systems that have been certified for flight by the appropriate Federal agencies.
changed
Reaffirmation of policy—Assessment— Congress reaffirms—The Administrator shall enter into an arrangement with the National Academies for an assessment to—
changed
its commitment to the development identify barriers impeding enhanced utilization of a commercially developed launch and delivery system to the International Space Station for crew missions as expressed in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2005 (Public Law 109–155), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2008 (Public Law 110–422), and the Station’s National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (Public Law 111–267);Laboratory;
changed
that the Administration shall recommend ways to encourage commercial companies to make greater use of United States commercially provided the International Space Station crew transfer and crew rescue services to the maximum extent practicable; Station’s National Laboratory, including corporate investment in microgravity research; and
changed
the policy stated in section 501(b) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18351(b)) identify any legislative changes that the Administration shall pursue international, commercial, and intragovernmental means to maximize International Space Station logistics supply, maintenance, and operational capabilities, reduce risks to International Space Station systems sustainability, and offset and minimize United States operations costs relating to the International Space Station.may be required.
changed
Assured access to low-Earth orbit—Transmittal— Section 70501(a) Not later than one year after the date of title 51, United States Code, is amended enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit to read as follows:the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate the results of the assessment described in subsection (b).
removed
“(a) Policy statement—It is the policy of the United States to maintain an uninterrupted capability for human space flight and operations in low-Earth orbit, and beyond, as an essential instrument of national security and the capability to ensure continued United States participation and leadership in the exploration and utilization of space.”
removed
Repeals—
removed
Use of space shuttle or alternatives— Chapter 701 of title 51, United States Code, and the item relating to such chapter in the table of chapters for such title, are repealed.
removed
Shuttle pricing policy for commercial and foreign users— Chapter 703 of title 51, United States Code, and the item relating to such chapter in the table of chapters for such title, are repealed.
removed
Shuttle privatization— Section 50133 of title 51, United States Code, and the item relating to such section in the table of sections for chapter 501 of such title, are repealed.
removed
Extension criteria report— Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the feasibility of extending the operation of the International Space Station that includes—
removed
criteria for defining the International Space Station as a research success;
removed
cost estimates for operating the International Space Station to achieve the criteria in paragraph (1);
removed
cost estimates for extending operations to 2020, 2025, and 2030; and
removed
an assessment of how the defined criteria under paragraph (1) respond to the National Academies Decadal Survey on Biological and Physical Sciences in Space.
removed
Strategic plan for International Space Station research—
removed
In general— The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, in consultation with the Administrator, academia, other Federal agencies, the International Space Station National Laboratory Advisory Committee, and other potential stakeholders, shall develop and transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a strategic plan for conducting competitive, peer-reviewed research in physical and life sciences and related technologies on the International Space Station through at least 2020.
removed
Plan requirements— The strategic plan shall—
removed
be consistent with the priorities and recommendations established by the National Academies in its Decadal Survey on Biological and Physical Sciences in Space;
removed
provide a research timeline and identify resource requirements for its implementation, including the facilities and instrumentation necessary for the conduct of such research; and
removed
identify—
removed
criteria for the proposed research, including—
removed
a justification for the research to be carried out in the space microgravity environment;
removed
the use of model systems;
removed
the testing of flight hardware to understand and ensure its functioning in the microgravity environment;
removed
the use of controls to help distinguish among the direct and indirect effects of microgravity, among other effects of the flight or space environment;
removed
approaches for facilitating data collection, analysis, and interpretation;
removed
procedures to ensure repetition of experiments, as needed;
removed
support for timely presentation of the peer-reviewed results of the research; and
removed
defined metrics for the success of each study;
removed
instrumentation required to support the measurements and analysis of the research to be carried out under the strategic plan;
removed
the capabilities needed to support direct, real-time communications between astronauts working on research experiments onboard the International Space Station and the principal investigator on the ground;
removed
a process for involving the external user community in research planning, including planning for relevant flight hardware and instrumentation, and for utilization of the International Space Station, free flyers, or other research platforms;
removed
the acquisition strategies the Administration plans to use to acquire any new capabilities which are not operational on the International Space Station as of the date of enactment of this Act and which have an estimated total life cycle cost of $10,000,000 or more, along with a justification of any anticipated use of less than full and open competition and written approval therefor from the Administration’s Assistant Administrator for Procurement; and
removed
defined metrics for success of the research plan.
removed
Report—
removed
In general— Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the progress of the organization chosen for the management of the International Space Station National Laboratory as directed in section 504 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18354).
removed
Specific requirements— The report shall assess the management, organization, and performance of such organization and shall include a review of the status of each of the 7 required activities listed in section 504(c) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 18354(c)).
Sec. 213 Utilization of International Space Station for science missions
added The Administrator shall utilize the International Space Station for Science Mission Directorate missions in low-Earth orbit wherever it is practical and cost effective to do so.
removed
In general— The Administration shall consider the ramifications of and create contingencies as the sequestration adopted in the Budget Control Act of 2011 (Public Law 112–25) continues to reduce the Administration’s overall budget.
removed
Report—
removed
In general— Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report containing 5 distinct options for the final stages of the commercial crew program.
removed
Requirements— These options shall include—
removed
a strategy that assumes an appropriation of $500,000,000 over the next 3 fiscal years;
removed
a strategy that assumes an appropriation of $600,000,000 over the next 3 fiscal years;
removed
a strategy that assumes an appropriation of $700,000,000 over the next 3 fiscal years;
removed
a strategy that assumes an appropriation of $800,000,000 over the next 3 fiscal years; and
removed
a strategy that has yet to be considered previously in any budget submission but that the Administration believes could ensure the flight readiness date of 2017 for at least one provider or significantly decreases the overall program lifecycle cost.
removed
Inclusions— Each strategy shall include the contracting instruments the Administration will employ to acquire the services in each phase of development or acquisition, the number of commercial providers the Administration will include in the program, and the estimated flight readiness date in each scenario.
Sec. 214 International Space Station cargo resupply services lessons learned
added Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit a report to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate that—
removed
In general— The Administration shall carry out its flight readiness demonstration, in which one or more commercial crew partner companies safely transports United States astronauts to the International Space Station, by December 31, 2017.
changed
Report— Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act and every 90 days thereafter until the Administration carries out its flight readiness demonstration, identifies the Administrator shall transmit lessons learned to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of date from the Senate a report—Commercial Resupply Services contract;
removed
describing the current status of the Commercial Crew program, including all funding paid to any partner company throughout the life of the program detailed by specific dollar amounts provided for each milestone completed for each partner company;
removed
specifying the accomplishments and milestones completed in the 90 days prior to the date of transmission of the report under any phase of the program and all dollar amounts provided for each of those milestones;
removed
identifying those accomplishments and milestones that were expected to be completed in the 90 days prior to the date of transmission of such report under any phase of the program but that were not completed in that timeframe;
removed
setting forth the accomplishments and milestones that are expected to be completed in the 90-day period following the transmission of such report under any phase of the program; and
removed
containing a statement of flight readiness under subsection (c).
changed
Statement of Flight Readiness— The statement indicates whether changes are needed to the manner in which the Administration procures and manages similar services upon the expiration of flight readiness required by subsection (b)(5) shall include—the existing Commercial Resupply Services contract; and
removed
either—
removed
a certification by the Administrator that the Administration is on schedule to comply with subsection (a); or
removed
an explanation as to why the Administration is not on schedule to comply with subsection (a) and why the Administration did not develop an acquisition strategy based on existing budget authority; and
removed
a certification by the Administrator that all deviations from the Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel recommendations have been reported in accordance with section 215.
changed
Authorization of funds— Not later than 60 days after the issuance of the explanation described in subsection (c)(2), identifies any lessons learned from the Administrator shall provide, and begin implementation of, a new acquisition strategy that ensures Commercial Resupply Services contract that at least 1 company will should be prepared applied to provide the procurement and management of commercially provided crew transport transfer services by December 31, 2017.to and from the International Space Station.
Sec. 215 Commercial crew program
changed
Importance—Sense of congress— It is the sense of Congress reaffirms that once developed and certified to meet the importance Administration’s safety and reliability requirements, United States commercially provided crew transportation systems offer the potential of serving as the Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel in providing advice primary means of transporting American astronauts and international partner astronauts to and from the Administrator International Space Station and serving as International Space Station emergency crew rescue vehicles. At the same time, the budgetary assumptions used by the Administration in its planning for the Commercial Crew Program have consistently assumed significantly higher funding levels than have been authorized and appropriated by Congress. It is the sense of Congress that credibility in accordance with the duties prescribed Administration’s budgetary estimates for the Commercial Crew Program can be enhanced by an independently developed cost estimate. Such credibility in section 31101 of title 51, United States Code.budgetary estimates is an important factor in understanding program risk.
changed
Initial report—Objective— Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment The objective of this Act, the Administrator Administration’s Commercial Crew Program shall report be to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of assist the House development of Representatives at least one crew transportation system to carry Administration astronauts safely, reliably, and the Committee on Commerce, Science, affordably to and Transportation of the Senate on from the extent International Space Station and to which serve as an emergency crew rescue vehicle as soon as practicable within the funding levels authorized. The Administration has followed, intends to follow, or does shall not intend to follow the advice use any considerations beyond this objective in the 2012 Annual Report of the Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel.overall acquisition strategy.
changed
Annual reports—Safety— Section 31101 of title 51, United States Code, is amended by striking subsection (e) Consistent with the findings and inserting recommendations of the following:Columbia Accident Investigation Board, the Administration shall—
added
ensure that, in its evaluation and selection of contracts for the development of commercial crew transportation capabilities, safety is the highest priority; and
added
seek to ensure that minimization of the probability of loss of crew shall be an important selection criterion of the Commercial Crew Transportation Capability Contract.
added
Cost minimization— The Administrator shall strive through the competitive selection process to minimize the life cycle cost to the Administration through the planned period of commercially provided crew transportation services.
added
Transparency— Transparency is the cornerstone of ensuring a safe and reliable commercial crew transportation service to the International Space Station. The Administrator shall, to the greatest extent practicable, ensure that every commercial crew transportation services provider has provided evidence-based support for their costs and schedule.
added
Independent cost and schedule estimate—
added
Requirement— Not later than 30 days after the Federal Acquisition Regulation-based contract for the Commercial Crew Transportation Capability Contract is awarded, the Administrator shall arrange for the initiation of an Independent Cost and Schedule Estimate for—
added
all activities associated with the development, test, demonstration, and certification of commercial crew transportation systems;
added
transportation and rescue services required by the Administration for International Space Station operations through calendar year 2020 or later if Administration requirements so dictate; and
added
the estimated date of operational readiness for the program each assumption listed in paragraph (2) of this subsection.
added
Assumptions— The Independent Cost and Schedule Estimate shall provide an estimate for each of the following scenarios:
added
An appropriation of $600,000,000 over the next 3 fiscal years.
added
An appropriation of $700,000,000 over the next 3 fiscal years.
added
An appropriation of $800,000,000 over the next 3 fiscal years.
added
The funding level assumptions over the next 3 fiscal years that are included as part of commercial crew transportation capability contract awards.
added
Transmittal— Not later than 180 days after initiation of the Independent Cost and Schedule Estimate under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall transmit the results of the Independent Cost and Schedule Estimate to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
added
Implementation strategies—
added
Report— Not later than 60 days after the completion of the Independent Cost and Schedule Estimate under subsection (f), the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report containing 4 distinct implementation strategies based on such Independent Cost and Schedule Estimate for the final stages of the commercial crew program.
added
Requirements— These options shall include—
added
a strategy that assumes an appropriation of $600,000,000 over the next 3 fiscal years;
added
a strategy that assumes an appropriation of $700,000,000 over the next 3 fiscal years;
added
a strategy that assumes an appropriation of $800,000,000 over the next 3 fiscal years; and
added
a strategy that has yet to be considered previously in any budget submission but that the Administration believes could ensure the flight readiness date of 2017 for at least one provider.
added
Inclusions— Each strategy shall include the contracting instruments the Administration will employ to acquire the services in each phase of development or acquisition and the number of commercial providers the Administration will include in the program.
removed
“(e) Panel annual report—The Panel shall submit an annual report to the Administrator and to Congress. The Panel shall include in such report an evaluation of the Administration’s management and culture related to safety. Each annual report shall include an evaluation of the extent to which the Administration follows the Panel’s advice.
removed
“(f) Administrator annual report—Not later than 30 days after each annual report by the Panel under subsection (e), the Administrator shall report to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the extent to which the Administration has followed, intends to follow, or does not intend to follow the Panel’s advice.”
Sec. 216 Space communications
changed
Plan— The Administrator shall develop a plan, in consultation with relevant Federal agencies, for updating the Administration’s space communications and navigation architecture for both low-Earth orbital operations and deep space exploration operations so that it is capable of meeting the Administration’s communications needs over the next 20 years. The plan shall include lifecycle cost estimates, milestones, estimated performance capabilities, and 5-year funding profiles. The plan shall also include an estimate of the amounts of any reimbursements the Administration is likely to receive from other Federal agencies during the expected life of the upgrades described in the plan. At a minimum, the plan shall include a description of the following:
changed
Projected Deep Space Network requirements Steps to sustain the existing space communications and navigation network and infrastructure and priorities for how resources will be applied and cost estimates for the next 20 years, including those in support maintenance of human existing space exploration missions.communications network capabilities.
changed
Upgrades needed to support Deep Space Network space communications and navigation network and infrastructure requirements, including cost estimates and schedules.schedules and an assessment of the impact on missions if resources are not secured at the level needed.
changed
Cost estimates Projected space communications and navigation network requirements for the maintenance next 20 years, including those in support of existing Deep Space Network capabilities.human space exploration missions.
changed
Projected Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System requirements for the next 20 years, including those in support of other relevant Federal agencies.agencies, and cost and schedule estimates to maintain and upgrade the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System to meet projected requirements.
changed
Cost and schedule estimates to maintain and upgrade Steps the Administration is taking to meet future space communications requirements after all Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System to meet projected requirements.third-generation communications satellites are operational.
Steps the Administration is taking to mitigate threats to electromagnetic spectrum use.
Schedule— The Administrator shall transmit the plan developed under this section to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act.
Sec. 301 Science portfolio
Balanced and adequately funded activities— Section 803 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (124 Stat. 2832) is amended to read as follows:
changed
“803. Overall science portfolio; Sense portfolio—sense of the Congress
“Congress reaffirms its sense, expressed in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010, that a balanced and adequately funded set of activities, consisting of research and analysis grants programs, technology development, small, medium, and large space missions, and suborbital research activities, contributes to a robust and productive science program and serves as a catalyst for innovation and discovery.”
changed
Decadal surveys— In proposing the funding of programs and activities for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for each fiscal year, the Administrator shall, shall to the greatest extent practicable, practicable follow guidance provided in the current decadal surveys from the National Academies’ Space Studies Board.
Sec. 302 Radioisotope power systems
added
Sense of congress— It is the sense of Congress that conducting deep space exploration requires radioisotope power systems, and establishing continuity in the production of the material needed to power these systems is paramount to the success of these future deep space missions. It is further the sense of Congress that Federal agencies supporting the Administration through the production of such material should do so in a cost effective manner so as not to impose excessive reimbursement requirements on the Administration.
added
Analysis of requirements and risks— The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy and the Administrator, in consultation with other Federal agencies, shall conduct an analysis of—
added
the requirements of the Administration for radioisotope power system material that is needed to carry out planned, high priority robotic missions in the solar system and other surface exploration activities beyond low-Earth orbit; and
added
the risks to missions of the Administration in meeting those requirements, or any additional requirements, due to a lack of adequate radioisotope power system material.
added
Contents of analysis— The analysis conducted under subsection (b) shall—
added
detail the Administration’s current projected mission requirements and associated timeframes for radioisotope power system material;
added
explain the assumptions used to determine the Administration’s requirements for the material, including—
added
the planned use of advanced thermal conversion technology such as advanced thermocouples and Stirling generators and converters; and
added
the risks and implications of, and contingencies for, any delays or unanticipated technical challenges affecting or related to the Administration’s mission plans for the anticipated use of advanced thermal conversion technology;
added
assess the risk to the Administration’s programs of any potential delays in achieving the schedule and milestones for planned domestic production of radioisotope power system material;
added
outline a process for meeting any additional Administration requirements for the material;
added
estimate the incremental costs required to increase the amount of material produced each year, if such an increase is needed to support additional Administration requirements for the material;
added
detail how the Administration and other Federal agencies will manage, operate, and fund production facilities and the design and development of all radioisotope power systems used by the Administration and other Federal agencies as necessary;
added
specify the steps the Administration will take, in consultation with the Department of Energy, to preserve the infrastructure and workforce necessary for production of radioisotope power systems and ensure that its reimbursements to the Department of Energy associated with such preservation are equitable and justified; and
added
detail how the Administration has implemented or rejected the recommendations from the National Research Council’s 2009 report titled “Radioisotope Power Systems: An Imperative for Maintaining U.S. Leadership in Space Exploration”.
added
Transmittal— Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit the results of the analysis to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
removed
Section 30504 of title 51, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
removed
“30504. Assessment of science mission extensions
removed
“(a) Assessment—The Administrator shall carry out biennial reviews within each of the Science divisions to assess the cost and benefits of extending the date of the termination of data collection for those missions that exceed their planned mission lifetime. The assessment shall take into consideration how extending existing missions impacts the start of future missions.
removed
“(b) Consultation and Consideration of Potential Benefits of Instruments on Missions—When deciding whether to extend a mission that has an operational component, the Administrator shall consult with any affected Federal agency and shall take into account the potential benefits of instruments on missions that are beyond their planned mission lifetime.
removed
“(c) Costs—If a mission is extended based on consultation required under subsection (b), the full costs of the extension shall be paid for by the operational agency or agencies.
removed
“(d) Report—The Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, at the same time as the submission to Congress of the President’s annual budget request, a report detailing any assessment required by subsection (a) that was carried out during the previous year.”
Sec. 303 Congressional declaration of policy and purpose
added Section 20102(d) of title 51, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
added “(10) The direction of the unique competence of the Administration to the search for life’s origin, evolution, distribution, and future in the Universe. In carrying out this objective, the Administration may use any practicable ground-based, airborne, or space-based technical means and spectra of electromagnetic radiation.”
removed
Analysis of Requirements and Risks— The Administrator, in consultation with other Federal agencies, shall conduct an analysis of—
removed
the requirements of the Administration for radioisotope power system material that is needed to carry out planned, high priority robotic missions in the solar system and other surface exploration activities beyond low-Earth orbit; and
removed
the risks to missions of the Administration in meeting those requirements, or any additional requirements, due to a lack of adequate radioisotope power system material.
removed
Contents of analysis— The analysis conducted under subsection (a) shall—
removed
detail the Administration’s current projected mission requirements and associated timeframes for radioisotope power system material;
removed
explain the assumptions used to determine the Administration’s requirements for the material, including—
removed
the planned use of Advanced Stirling Radioisotope Generator technology;
removed
the status of and timeline for completing development and demonstration of the Advanced Stirling Radioisotope Generator technology, including the development of flight readiness requirements; and
removed
the risks and implications of, and contingencies for, any delays or unanticipated technical challenges affecting or related to the Administration’s mission plans for the anticipated use of Advanced Stirling Radioisotope Generator technology;
removed
assess the risk to the Administration’s programs of any potential delays in achieving the schedule and milestones for planned domestic production of radioisotope power system material;
removed
outline a process for meeting any additional Administration requirements for the material;
removed
estimate the incremental costs required to increase the amount of material produced each year, if such an increase is needed to support additional Administration requirements for the material;
removed
detail how the Administration and other Federal agencies will manage, operate, and fund production facilities and the design and development of all radioisotope power systems used by the Administration and other Federal agencies as necessary;
removed
specify the steps the Administration will take, in consultation with the Department of Energy, to preserve the infrastructure and workforce necessary for production of radioisotope power systems; and
removed
detail how the Administration has implemented or rejected the recommendations from the National Research Council’s 2009 report titled “Radioisotope Power Systems: An Imperative for Maintaining U.S. Leadership in Space Exploration”.
removed
Transmittal— Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit the results of the analysis to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
Sec. 304 University class science missions
added
Sense of congress— It is the sense of Congress that principal investigator-led small orbital science missions, including CubeSat class, University Explorer (UNEX) class, Small Explorer (SMEX) class, and Venture class, offer valuable opportunities to advance science at low cost, train the next generation of scientists and engineers, and enable participants in the program to acquire skills in systems engineering and systems integration that are critical to maintaining the Nation’s leadership in space and to enhancing the United States innovation and competitiveness abroad.
added
Review of principal investigator-led small orbital science missions— The Administrator shall conduct a review of the science missions described in subsection (a). The review shall include—
added
the status, capability, and availability of existing small orbital science mission programs and the extent to which each program enables the participation of university scientists and students;
added
the opportunities such mission programs provide for scientific research;
added
the opportunities such mission programs provide for training and education, including scientific and engineering workforce development, including for the Administration’s scientific and engineering workforce; and
added
the extent to which commercial applications such as hosted payloads, free flyers, and data buys could provide measurable benefits for such mission programs, while preserving the principle of independent peer review as the basis for mission selection.
added
Report— Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the review required under subsection (b) and on recommendations to enhance principal investigator-led small orbital science missions conducted by the Administration in accordance with the results of the review required by subsection (b).
removed
Section 20102(d) of title 51, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
removed
“(10) The direction of the unique competence of the Administration to the search for life’s origin, evolution, distribution, and future in the Universe. In carrying out this objective, the Administration may use any practicable ground-based, airborne, or space-based technical means and spectra of electromagnetic radiation.”
Sec. 305 Assessment of science mission extensions
changed
The Administrator shall utilize the International Space Station and commercial services for Science Mission Directorate missions in low-Earth orbit wherever it Section 30504 of title 51, United States Code, is practical and cost effective amended to do so.read as follows:
added “30504. Assessment of science mission extensions
added “(a) Assessment—The Administrator shall carry out biennial reviews within each of the Science divisions to assess the cost and benefits of extending the date of the termination of data collection for those missions that exceed their planned missions’ lifetime. The assessment shall take into consideration how extending missions impacts the start of future missions.
added “(b) Consultation and consideration of potential benefits of instruments on missions—When deciding whether to extend a mission that has an operational component, the Administrator shall consult with any affected Federal agency and shall take into account the potential benefits of instruments on missions that are beyond their planned mission lifetime.
added “(c) Report—The Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, at the same time as the submission to Congress of the Administration’s annual budget request for each fiscal year, a report detailing any assessment required by subsection (a) that was carried out during the previous year.”
Sec. 311 Decadal cadence
changed In carrying out section 301(b), the Administrator shall seek to ensure to the extent practicable a steady cadence of large, medium, and small astrophysics missions.
Sec. 312 Extrasolar planet exploration strategy
changed
Strategy— The Administrator shall enter into an arrangement with the National Academies to develop a science strategy for the study and exploration of extrasolar planets, including the use of TESS, the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite, the James Webb Space Telescope, WFIRST, a potential Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope mission, or any other telescope, spacecraft, or instrument as appropriate. Such strategy shall—
outline key scientific questions;
identify the most promising research in the field;
changed
indicate the extent to which the mission priorities in existing decadal surveys address the key extrasolar planet research goals; andgoals;
changed
make recommendations with respect to optimal identify opportunities for coordination with international partners, commercial partners, and other not-for-profit partners.partners; and
added
make recommendations on the above as appropriate.
Use of strategy— The Administrator shall use the strategy to—
inform roadmaps, strategic plans, and other activities of the Administration as they relate to extrasolar planet research and exploration; and
provide a foundation for future activities and initiatives.
changed
Report to Congress—congress— Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the National Academies shall transmit a report to the Administrator, and to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, containing the strategy developed under subsection (a).
Sec. 313 James Webb Space Telescope
changed
It is the sense of Congress that the James Webb Space Telescope program is significant to our understanding of the history of the universe, including galaxies, stars, and planetary systems, and should continue to receive priority of funding in accord with the recommendation of the most recent decadal survey for Astronomy and Astrophysics of the National Academies’ Space Studies Board.that—
added
the James Webb Space Telescope will revolutionize our understanding of star and planet formation and how galaxies evolved, and advance the search for the origins of the universe;
added
the James Webb Space Telescope will enable American scientists to maintain their leadership in astrophysics and other disciplines;
added
the James Webb Space Telescope program is making steady progress towards a launch in 2018;
added
the on-time and on-budget delivery of the James Webb Space Telescope is a high congressional priority; and
added
maintaining this progress will require the Administrator to ensure that integrated testing is appropriately timed and sufficiently comprehensive to enable potential issues to be identified and addressed early enough to be handled within the James Webb Space Telescope’s development schedule prior to launch.
Sec. 314 National Reconnaissance Office telescope donation
changed
The Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall ensure that transmit a report to the development Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate outlining the cost of the Administration’s potential plan for developing the Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope continues while as described in the James Webb Space 2010 National Academies’ astronomy and astrophysics decadal survey, including an alternative plan for the Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope is completed.2.4, which includes the donated 2.4-meter aperture National Reconnaissance Office telescope. Due to the budget constraints on the Administration’s science programs, this report shall include—
added
an assessment of cost efficient approaches to develop the Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope;
added
a comparison to the development of mission concepts that exclude the utilization of the donated asset;
added
an assessment of how the Administration’s existing science missions will be affected by the utilization of the donated asset described in this section; and
added
a description of the cost associated with storing and maintaining the donated asset.
Sec. 315 Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope
added
Sense of congress— It is the sense of Congress that the Administrator, to the extent practicable, should make progress on the technologies and capabilities needed to position the Administration to meet the objectives of the Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope mission, as outlined in the 2010 National Academies’ astronomy and astrophysics decadal survey, in a way that maximizes the scientific productivity of meeting those objectives for the resources invested. It is further the sense of Congress that the Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope mission has the potential to enable scientific discoveries that will transform our understanding of the universe.
removed
Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit a report to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate outlining the cost of the Administration’s potential plan for developing the Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope as described in the most recent astronomy and astrophysics decadal survey, including an alternative plan for the Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope 2.4, which includes the donated 2.4-meter aperture National Reconnaissance Office telescope. Due to the budget constraints on the Administration’s science programs, this report shall include—
changed
Continuity of development— an assessment of affordable approaches to develop The Administrator shall ensure that the concept definition and pre-formulation activities of a Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope;Telescope mission continue while the James Webb Space Telescope is being completed.
removed
a comparison to the development of mission concepts that exclude the utilization of the donated asset;
removed
an assessment of how the Administration’s existing science missions will be affected by the utilization of the donated asset described in this section; and
removed
a description of the cost associated with storing and maintaining the donated asset.
Sec. 316 Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy
addedadded The Administrator shall not use any funding appropriated to the Administration for fiscal year 2014 for the shutdown of the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy or for the preparation therefor.
Sec. 321 Decadal cadence
changed
In carrying out section 301(b), the Administrator shall ensure, seek to ensure to the greatest extent practicable, practicable that the Administration carries out a balanced set of planetary science programs in accordance with the priorities established in the most recent decadal survey for planetary science. Such programs shall include, at a minimum—
a Discovery-class mission at least once every 24 months;
a New Frontiers-class mission at least once every 60 months; and
changed
at least one Flagship-class mission per decadal survey period, starting with including a Europa mission with a goal of launching by 2021.
Sec. 322 Near-Earth objects
Findings— Congress makes the following findings:
changed
Near-Earth objects pose a serious and credible threat to humankind, as many scientists believe that a major asteroid or comet was responsible for the mass extinction of the majority of the Earth’s species, including the dinosaurs, nearly approximately 65,000,000 years ago.
Similar objects have struck the Earth or passed through the Earth’s atmosphere several times in the Earth’s history and pose a similar threat in the future.
Several such near-Earth objects have only been discovered within days of the objects’ closest approach to Earth, and recent discoveries of such large objects indicate that many large near-Earth objects remain to be discovered.
changed
The efforts taken to date undertaken by the Administration for detecting and characterizing the hazards of near-Earth objects must should continue to seek to fully determine the threat posed by such objects to cause widespread destruction and loss of life.
changed
Definition— For purposes of this section, the term near-Earth object “near-Earth object” means an asteroid or comet with a perihelion distance of less than 1.3 Astronomical Units from the Sun.
changed
Near-Earth object survey— The Administrator shall continue to discover, detect, track, catalogue, and characterize the physical characteristics of near-Earth objects equal to or greater than 140 meters in diameter in order to assess the threat of such near-Earth objects to the Earth, pursuant to the George E. Brown, Jr. Near-Earth Object Survey Act (42 U.S.C. 16691). It shall be the goal of the Survey program to achieve 90 percent completion of its near-Earth object catalogue (based on statistically predicted populations of near-Earth objects) by 2020.
Warning and mitigation of potential hazards of near-Earth objects— Congress reaffirms the policy set forth in section 20102(g) of title 51, United States Code (relating to detecting, tracking, cataloguing, and characterizing asteroids and comets).
changed
Program Report—report— The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy and the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, an initial report that provides—
recommendations for carrying out the Survey program and an associated proposed budget;
analysis of possible options that the Administration could employ to divert an object on a likely collision course with Earth; and
a description of the status of efforts to coordinate and cooperate with other countries to discover hazardous asteroids and comets, plan a mitigation strategy, and implement that strategy in the event of the discovery of an object on a likely collision course with Earth.
changed
Annual reports— The Subsequent to the initial report the Administrator shall annually transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report that provides—
changed
a summary of all activities carried out pursuant to subsection (c) since the date of enactment of this Act; Act, including the progress toward achieving 90 percent completion of the survey described in subsection (c); and
a summary of expenditures for all activities carried out pursuant to subsection (c) since the date of enactment of this Act.
added
Study— The Administrator, in collaboration with other relevant Federal agencies, shall carry out a technical and scientific assessment of the capabilities and resources to—
added
accelerate the survey described in subsection (c); and
added
expand the Administration’s Near-Earth Object Program to include the detection, tracking, cataloguing, and characterization of potentially hazardous near-Earth objects less than 140 meters in diameter.
added
Transmittal— Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit the results of the assessment carried out under subsection (g) to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
Sec. 323 Near-Earth objects public-private partnerships
changed
Strategy—Sense of Congress— The Administrator shall enter into an arrangement with It is the National Academies to develop a science strategy for astrobiology sense of Congress that would outline key scientific questions, identify the most promising research in Administration should seek to leverage the field, and indicate capabilities of the extent private sector and philanthropic organizations to which the mission priorities maximum extent practicable in existing decadal surveys address carrying out the search for life’s origin, evolution, distribution, and future Near-Earth Object Survey program in order to meet the Universe.goal of the Survey program.
changed
Use of strategy—Report— The Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall use transmit to the strategy developed under subsection (a) in planning and funding research Committee on Science, Space, and other activities Technology of the House of Representatives and initiatives in the field Committee on Commerce, Science, Transportation of astrobiology. The strategy shall include recommendations for coordination with international partners.the Senate a report describing how the Administration can expand collaborative partnerships to detect, track, catalogue, and categorize near-Earth objects.
removed
Report to Congress— Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the National Academies shall transmit a report to the Administrator, and to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, containing the strategy developed under subsection (a).
Sec. 324 Research on near-earth object tsunami effects
added
Report on potential tsunami effects from near-earth object impact— The Administrator, in collaboration with the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and other relevant agencies, shall prepare a report identifying and describing existing research activities and further research objectives that would increase our understanding of the nature of the effects of potential tsunamis that could occur if a near-Earth object were to impact an ocean of Earth.
added
Transmittal— Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit the report required and prepared under subsection (a) to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
removed
Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report describing how the Administration can expand collaborative public-private partnerships to study life’s origin, evolution, distribution, and future in the Universe.
Sec. 325 Astrobiology strategy
added
added
Strategy— The Administrator shall enter into an arrangement with the National Academies to develop a science strategy for astrobiology that would outline key scientific questions, identify the most promising research in the field, and indicate the extent to which the mission priorities in existing decadal surveys address the search for life’s origin, evolution, distribution, and future in the Universe. The strategy shall include recommendations for coordination with international partners.
added
Use of strategy— The Administrator shall use the strategy developed under subsection (a) in planning and funding research and other activities and initiatives in the field of astrobiology.
added
Report to congress— Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the National Academies shall transmit a report to the Administrator, and to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, containing the strategy developed under subsection (a).
Sec. 326 Astrobiology public-private partnerships
addedadded Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, Transportation of the Senate a report describing how the Administration can expand collaborative partnerships to study life’s origin, evolution, distribution, and future in the Universe.
Sec. 327 Assessment of Mars architecture
added
added
Assessment— The Administrator shall enter into an arrangement with the National Academies to assess—
added
the Administration’s revised post-2016 Mars exploration architecture and its responsiveness to the strategies, priorities, and guidelines put forward by the National Academies’ planetary science decadal surveys and other relevant National Academies Mars-related reports;
added
the long-term goals of the Administration’s Mars Exploration Program and such program’s ability to optimize the science return, given the current fiscal posture of the program;
added
the Mars architecture’s relationship to Mars-related activities to be undertaken by agencies and organizations outside of the United States; and
added
the extent to which the Mars architecture represents a reasonably balanced mission portfolio.
added
Transmittal— Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit the results of the assessment to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
Sec. 331 Decadal cadence
changed In carrying out section 301(b), the Administrator shall seek to ensure to the extent practicable a steady cadence of large, medium, and small heliophysics missions.
Sec. 332 Review of space weather
changed
Review— The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, in consultation with the Administrator, the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Director of the National Science Foundation, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Energy, and the Secretary heads of Homeland Security, other relevant Federal agencies, shall enter into an arrangement with the National Academies to provide a comprehensive study that reviews current and planned ground-based and space-based space weather monitoring requirements and capabilities. capabilities, identifies gaps, and identifies options for a robust and resilient capability. The study shall inform the process of identifying national needs for future space weather monitoring monitoring, forecasts, and mitigation. The National Academies shall give consideration to international and private sector efforts and collaboration. collaboration that could potentially contribute to national space weather needs. The study shall also review the current state of research capabilities in observing, modeling, and prediction and provide recommendations to ensure future advancement of predictive capability.
changed
Report to Congress—congress— Not later than 1 year 14 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the National Academies shall transmit a report containing the results of the study provided under subsection (a) to the Administrator, Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, and to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, containing the results of the study provided under subsection (a).Senate.
Sec. 333 Deep Space Climate Observatory
removed
removed
Integrating sensors— The Administrator may not integrate or fund the development of any sensor on the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) that is not aligned with the spacecraft’s original space weather mission requirements.
removed
Algorithms— The Administration may not develop or implement algorithms, or any other applications or products, that—
removed
are not aligned with the Deep Space Climate Observatory mission’s intended space weather requirements; or
removed
enable “Earth at noon” images from the spacecraft.
Sec. 341 Goal
changed
In general—Sense of congress— Recognizing It is the contributions sense of Congress that the Administration is being asked to undertake important Earth science activities in an environment of increasingly constrained fiscal resources, and remote sensing have made that any transfer of additional responsibilities to society over the last 50 years, Administration, such as climate instrument development and measurements that are currently part of the Administration shall continue to develop first-of-a-kind instruments that, once proved, can portfolio of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, should be transitioned accompanied by the provision of additional resources to other agencies for operations.allow the Administration to carry out the increased responsibilities without adversely impacting its implementation of its existing Earth science programs and priorities.
changed
Amendment—General— Section 60501 of title 51, United States Code, is amended by inserting “In order to accomplish this goal, the The Administrator shall conduct research and development on new sensors and instruments continue to carry out a balanced Earth science program that will mitigate the risks associated with the development of operational systems and long-term data continuity requirements by other agencies. The Administration shall not be responsible for the development of operational includes Earth science systems, including satellite, sensor, or instrument development, acquisition, and operations, as well as product development research, Earth systematic missions, competitive Venture class missions, other missions and data analysis, unless such work is conducted on a reimbursable basis that accounts for the full cost of mission operations, technology development, and applied sciences, consistent with the work. The Administrator shall use recommendations and priorities established in the Joint Agency Satellite Division structure, or a direct successor thereto, to manage this process on a fully reimbursable basis.” after “Earth observations-based research program.”.National Academies’ Earth Science Decadal Survey.
added
Collaboration— The Administrator shall collaborate with other Federal agencies, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, non-government entities, and international partners, as appropriate, in carrying out the Administration’s Earth science program. The Administration shall continue to develop first-of-a-kind instruments that, once proved, can be transitioned to other agencies for operations.
added
Reimbursement— Whenever responsibilities for the development of sensors or for measurements are transferred to the Administration from another agency, the Administration shall seek, to the extent possible, to be reimbursed for the assumption of such responsibilities.
Sec. 342 Decadal cadence
changed
In carrying out section 301(b), 341(b), the Administrator shall seek to ensure to the extent practicable a steady cadence of large, medium, and small Earth science missions.
Sec. 343 Venture class missions
changed
Section 60502(a) of title 51, United States Code, It is amended by inserting “Operational responsibility the sense of Congress that the Administration’s Venture class missions provide opportunities for innovation in the Earth science or space weather missions or sensors may not be transferred from any other Federal agency program, offer low-cost approaches for high-quality competitive science investigations, enable frequent flight opportunities to engage the Administration, except Earth science and applications community, and serve as specifically authorized by law.” after “execute a training ground for students and young scientists. It is further the transitions.”.sense of Congress that the Administration should seek to increase the number of Venture class projects to the extent practicable as part of a balanced Earth science program.
Sec. 344 Assessment
added The Administrator shall carry out a scientific assessment of the Administration’s Earth science global datasets for the purpose of identifying those datasets that are useful for understanding regional changes and variability, and for informing applied science research. The Administrator shall complete and transmit the assessment to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology in the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act.
removed
Amendments— Section 60505 of title 51, United States Code, is amended—
removed
in the section heading, by inserting “and other Federal agencies” after “Atmospheric Administration”;
removed
in subsection (a)—
removed
by striking “and the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration” and inserting “, the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the heads of other relevant Federal agencies”; and
removed
by striking “the two agencies” and inserting “each of those agencies”;
removed
in subsection (b)—
removed
by striking “and the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration” and inserting “, the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the heads of other relevant Federal agencies”;
removed
by striking “Committee on Science and Technology” and inserting “Committee on Science, Space, and Technology”; and
removed
by striking “and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration” and inserting “, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and other relevant Federal agencies”; and
removed
in subsection (d), by striking “Administration Earth science mission” and all that follows through the period and inserting “Earth science mission or Earth observing system to or from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, any other Federal agency, or the Administration, or to or from other stakeholders, until the plans required under subsection (c) have been approved by the Administrator, the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the heads of other relevant Federal agencies, and until financial resources have been identified to support the transition or transfer in the President’s annual budget request for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Administration, or other relevant agencies. Operational responsibility for Earth science programs may not be transferred from any other Federal agency to the Administration, except as specifically authorized by law.”.
removed
Conforming amendment— The item relating to section 60505 in the table of sections for chapter 605 of title 51, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
Sec. 345 Joint Polar Satellite System climate sensors
removed
removed
The Administration shall not be responsible for the development of Joint Polar Satellite System climate sensors, including the Total Solar Irradiance Sensor (TSIS–2), the Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite–Limb (OMPS–L), or the Clouds and Earth Radiant Energy System (CERES–C). Any effort by the Administration related to this work shall be conducted on a fully reimbursable basis and executed by the Administration’s Joint Agency Satellite Division or a direct successor thereto.
Sec. 346 Land imaging
removed
removed
Reaffirmation of Policy— Congress reaffirms the finding in section 2(1) of the Land Remote Sensing Policy Act of 1992 (15 U.S.C. 5601(1)), which states that “The continuous collection and utilization of land remote sensing data from space are of major benefit in studying and understanding human impacts on the global environment, in managing the Earth’s natural resources, in carrying out national security functions, and in planning and conducting many other activities of scientific, economic, and social importance.”.
removed
Continuous Land Remote Sensing Data Collection— The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall take steps in consultation with other relevant Federal agencies to ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, the continuous collection of space-based, medium-resolution observations of the Earth’s land cover, and to ensure that the data are made available in such ways as to facilitate the widest possible use.
removed
Definition of land imaging capabilities— The Administrator may not initiate the definition of requirements for land imaging capabilities unless such work is conducted on a fully reimbursable basis and executed by the Administration’s Joint Agency Satellite Division or a direct successor thereto.
Sec. 347 Sources of Earth science data
removed
removed
Acquisition— The Administrator shall, to the extent possible and while satisfying the scientific or educational requirements of the Administration and, where appropriate, of other Federal agencies and scientific researchers, acquire, where cost effective, space-based and airborne Earth remote sensing data, services, distribution, and applications from non-Federal providers.
removed
Treatment as Commercial Item Under Acquisition Laws— Acquisitions by the Administrator of the data, services, distribution, and applications referred to in subsection (a) shall be carried out in accordance with applicable acquisition laws and regulations (including chapters 137 and 140 of title 10, United States Code). For purposes of such laws and regulations, such data, services, distribution, and applications shall be considered to be commercial items. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to preclude the United States from acquiring, through contracts with commercial providers, sufficient rights in data to meet the needs of the scientific and educational community or the needs of other government activities.
removed
Safety Standards— Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the Federal Government from requiring compliance with applicable safety standards.
removed
Report— Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Act, the Administrator shall submit a report to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the Administration’s efforts to carry out this section.
Sec. 401 Sense of Congress
It is the sense of Congress that—
changed
a robust aeronautics research portfolio will help maintain the United States status as a leader in aviation;aviation, enhance the competitiveness of the United States in the world economy and improve the quality of life of all citizens;
changed
aeronautics research is essential to the Administration’s mission; andmission, continues to be an important core element of the Administration’s mission and should be supported;
changed
the Administrator should coordinate and consult with relevant Federal agencies and the private sector to minimize duplication and leverage resources.resources; and
added
carrying aeronautics research to a level of maturity that allows the Administration’s research results to be transitioned to the users, whether private or public sector, is critical to their eventual adoption.
Sec. 402 Aeronautics research goals
added The Administrator shall ensure that the Administration maintains a strong aeronautics research portfolio ranging from fundamental research through integrated systems research with specific research goals, including the following:
removed
In general— The Administrator, in consultation with the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration and other Federal agencies, shall direct research and technological development to facilitate the safe integration of unmanned aerial systems into the National Airspace System, including—
removed
positioning and navigation systems;
removed
sense and avoid capabilities;
removed
secure data and communication links;
removed
flight recovery systems; and
removed
human systems integration.
changed
Roadmap—Enhance airspace operations and safety— The Administrator Administration’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate shall update a roadmap for unmanned aerial systems address research and development and transmit this roadmap to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology needs of the House of Representatives Next Generation Air Transportation System and identify critical gaps in technology which must be bridged to enable the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation implementation of the Senate not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act.Next Generation Air Transportation System so that safety and productivity improvements can be achieved as soon as possible.
changed
Cooperative unmanned aerial Improve air vehicle activities—performance— Section 31504 of title 51, United States Code, is amended by inserting “Operational flight data derived from these cooperative agreements The Administration’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate shall be made available, in appropriate and usable formats, conduct research to improve aircraft performance and minimize environmental impacts. The Associate Administrator for the Administration Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate shall consider and pursue concepts to reduce noise, emissions, and fuel consumption while maintaining high safety standards, and shall conduct research related to the Federal Aviation Administration for impact of alternative fuels on the development safety, reliability and maintainability of regulatory standards.” after “in remote areas.”.current and new air vehicles.
added
Strengthen aviation safety— The Administration’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate shall proactively address safety challenges associated with current and new air vehicles and with operations in the Nation’s current and future air transportation system.
added
Demonstrate concepts at the system level— The Administration’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate shall mature the most promising technologies to the point at which they can be demonstrated in a relevant environment and shall integrate individual components and technologies as appropriate to ensure that they perform in an integrated manner as well as they do when operated individually.
Sec. 403 Unmanned aerial systems research and development
changed
Consultation—In general— The Administrator, in overseeing the Administration’s Integrated Systems Research Program’s work on composite materials, shall consult consultation with relevant the Administrator of the Federal agencies Aviation Administration and partners in industry other Federal agencies, shall carry out research and technological development to accelerate facilitate the safe development and certification processes for new composite materials and design methods while maintaining rigorous inspection integration of new composite materials.unmanned aerial systems into the National Airspace System, including—
added
positioning and navigation systems;
added
sense and avoid capabilities;
added
secure data and communication links;
added
flight recovery systems; and
added
human systems integration.
changed
Report—Roadmap— Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the The Administrator shall transmit update a report roadmap for unmanned aerial systems research and development and transmit this roadmap to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate detailing the Administration’s work on new composite materials and not later than 180 days after the coordination efforts among Federal agencies.date of enactment of this Act.
added
Cooperative unmanned aerial vehicle activities— Section 31504 of title 51, United States Code, is amended by inserting “Operational flight data derived from these cooperative agreements shall be made available, in appropriate and usable formats, to the Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration for the development of regulatory standards.” after “in remote areas.”.
Sec. 404 Research program on composite materials used in aeronautics
added
Purpose of research— The Administrator shall continue the Administration’s cooperative research program with industry to identify and demonstrate more effective and safe ways of developing, manufacturing, and maintaining composite materials for use in airframes, subsystems, and propulsion components.
added
Consultation— The Administrator, in overseeing the Administration’s work on composite materials, shall consult with relevant Federal agencies and partners in industry to accelerate safe development and certification processes for new composite materials and design methods while maintaining rigorous inspection of new composite materials.
added
Report— Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit a report to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate detailing the Administration’s work on new composite materials and the coordination efforts among Federal agencies.
removed
Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in consultation with other Federal agencies, shall develop and transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a research and development roadmap for hypersonic aircraft research with the objective of exploring hypersonic science and technology using air-breathing propulsion concepts, through a mix of theoretical work, basic and applied research, and development of flight research demonstration vehicles. The roadmap shall prescribe appropriate agency contributions, coordination efforts, and technology milestones.
Sec. 405 Hypersonic research
changed
Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator Administrator, in consultation with other Federal agencies, shall develop and transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a roadmap that allows for flexible funding profiles, for supersonic aeronautics research and development roadmap for hypersonic aircraft research with the objective of developing exploring hypersonic science and demonstrating, in technology using air-breathing propulsion concepts, through a relevant environment, airframe mix of theoretical work, basic and propulsion technologies to minimize the environmental impact, including noise, applied research, and development of supersonic overland flight in an efficient and economical manner. research demonstration vehicles. The roadmap shall include—prescribe appropriate agency contributions, coordination efforts, and technology milestones.
removed
a status report on the Administration’s existing research on supersonic flight;
removed
a list of specific technological, environmental, and other challenges that must be overcome to minimize the environmental impact, including noise, of supersonic overland flight;
removed
a research plan to address such challenges, as well as a project timeline for accomplishing relevant research goals; and
removed
a plan for coordination with stakeholders, including relevant government agencies and industry.
Sec. 406 Supersonic research
changed
In general—Findings— The Administrator shall, in consultation with other Federal agencies, review at least annually the alignment and timing of the Administration’s research and development activities in support of the NextGen airspace management modernization initiative, and shall make any necessary adjustments by reprioritizing or retargeting the Administration’s research and development activities in support of the NextGen initiative.Congress finds that—
added
the ability to fly commercial aircraft over land at supersonic speeds without adverse impacts on the environment or on local communities could open new global markets and enable new transportation capabilities; and
added
continuing the Administration’s research program is necessary to assess the impact in a relevant environment of commercial supersonic flight operations and provide the basis for establishing appropriate sonic boom standards for such flight operations.
changed
Annual reports—Roadmap for supersonic research— The Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall report develop and transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate annually regarding the progress of the Administration’s a roadmap that allows for flexible funding profiles for supersonic aeronautics research and development activities in support with the objective of developing and demonstrating, in a relevant environment, airframe and propulsion technologies to minimize the NextGen airspace management modernization initiative, environmental impact, including details noise, of consultation with the Federal Aviation Administration supersonic overland flight in an efficient and any adjustments made to research activities.economical manner. The roadmap shall include—
added
the baseline research as embodied by the Administration’s existing research on supersonic flight;
added
a list of specific technological, environmental, and other challenges that must be overcome to minimize the environmental impact, including noise, of supersonic overland flight;
added
a research plan to address such challenges, as well as a project timeline for accomplishing relevant research goals;
added
a plan for coordination with stakeholders, including relevant government agencies and industry; and
added
a plan for how the Administration will ensure that sonic boom research is coordinated as appropriate with relevant Federal agencies.
Sec. 407 Research on NextGen airspace management concepts and tools
added
In general— The Administrator shall, in consultation with other Federal agencies, review at least annually the alignment and timing of the Administration’s research and development activities in support of the NextGen airspace management modernization initiative, and shall make any necessary adjustments by reprioritizing or retargeting the Administration’s research and development activities in support of the NextGen initiative.
added
Annual reports— The Administrator shall report to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate annually regarding the progress of the Administration’s research and development activities in support of the NextGen airspace management modernization initiative, including details of technologies transferred to relevant Federal agencies for eventual operation implementation, consultation with other Federal agencies, and any adjustments made to research activities.
removed
Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in consultation with other Federal agencies, shall prepare and transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a plan for research relating to rotorcraft and other runway-independent air vehicles, with the objective of developing and demonstrating improved safety, noise, and environmental impact in a relevant environment. The plan shall include specific goals for the research, a timeline for implementation, metrics for success, and guidelines for collaboration and coordination with industry and other Federal agencies.
Sec. 408 Rotorcraft research
addedadded Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in consultation with other Federal agencies, shall prepare and transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a roadmap for research relating to rotorcraft and other runway-independent air vehicles, with the objective of developing and demonstrating improved safety, noise, and environmental impact in a relevant environment. The roadmap shall include specific goals for the research, a timeline for implementation, metrics for success, and guidelines for collaboration and coordination with industry and other Federal agencies.
Sec. 409 Transformative aeronautics research
addedadded It is the sense of Congress that the Administrator, in looking strategically into the future and ensuring that the Administration’s Center personnel are at the leading edge of aeronautics research, should encourage investigations into the early-stage advancement of new processes, novel concepts, and innovative technologies that have the potential to meet national aeronautics needs. The Administrator shall continue to ensure that awards for the investigation of these concepts and technologies are open for competition among Administration civil servants at its Centers, separate from other awards open only to non-Administration sources.
Sec. 410 Study of United States leadership in aeronautics research
added
added
Study— The Administrator shall enter into an arrangement with the National Academies for a study to benchmark the position of the United States in civil aeronautics research compared to the rest of the world. The study shall—
added
seek to define metrics by which relative leadership in civil aeronautics research can be determined;
added
ascertain how the United States compares to other countries in the field of civil aeronautics research and any relevant trends; and
added
provide recommendations on what can be done to regain or retain global leadership, including—
added
identifying research areas where United States expertise has been or is at risk of being overtaken;
added
defining appropriate roles for the Administration;
added
identifying public-private partnerships that could be formed; and
added
estimating the impact on the Administration’s budget should such recommendations be implemented.
added
Report— Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall provide the results of the study to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
Sec. 501 Sense of Congress
added It is the sense of Congress that space technology is critical to—
added
enabling a new class of Administration missions beyond low-Earth orbit;
added
developing technologies and capabilities that will make the Administration’s missions more affordable and more reliable; and
added
improving technological capabilities and promoting innovation for the Administration and the Nation.
removed
Findings— Congress finds the following:
removed
The Space Technology Mission Directorate created by the Administration is lacking an organic statutory authorization and in need of congressional direction.
removed
In order to appropriately prioritize the Administration’s resources to accomplish its goals and purposes, the Space Technology Mission Directorate needs to be reorganized as provided in the amendments made by this section.
removed
Projects, programs, and activities currently within the Exploration Research and Development program should continue as planned as part of the Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate.
removed
Space technology program—
removed
Amendment— Section 70507 of title 51, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
removed
“70507. Space Technology Program authorized
removed
“(a) Program authorized—The Administrator shall establish, within the office of the Administrator, a Space Technology Program to pursue the development of technologies that enable exploration of the solar system or advanced space science throughout the various elements of the Administration.
removed
“(b) Small business programs—The Administrator shall organize and manage the Administration’s Small Business Innovation Research program and Small Business Technology Transfer program within the Space Technology Program.
removed
“(c) Nonduplication certification—The Administrator shall include in the budget for each fiscal year, as transmitted to Congress under section 1105(a) of title 31, a certification that no project, program, or mission undertaken by the Space Technology Program is independently under development by any other office or directorate of the Administration.”
removed
Table of sections amendment— The item relating to section 70507 in the table of sections for chapter 705 of title 51, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
Sec. 502 Space Technology Program
added
Amendment— Section 70507 of title 51, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
added “70507. Space Technology Program authorized
added “(a) Program authorized—The Administrator shall establish a Space Technology Program to pursue the research and development of advanced space technologies that have the potential of delivering innovative solutions and to support human exploration of the solar system or advanced space science. The program established by the Administrator shall take into consideration the recommendations of the National Academies’ review of the Administration’s Space Technology roadmaps and priorities, as well as applicable enabling aspects of the Human Exploration Roadmap specified in section 70504. In conducting the space technology program established under this section, the Administrator shall—
added “(1) to the maximum extent practicable, use a competitive process to select projects to be supported as part of the program;
added “(2) make use of small satellites and the Administration’s suborbital and ground-based platforms, to the extent practicable and appropriate, to demonstrate space technology concepts and developments; and
added “(3) undertake partnerships with other Federal agencies, universities, private industry, and other spacefaring nations, as appropriate.
added “(b) Small business programs—The Administrator shall organize and manage the Administration’s Small Business Innovation Research program and Small Business Technology Transfer Program within the Space Technology Program.
added “(c) Nonduplication certification—The Administrator shall include in the budget for each fiscal year, as transmitted to Congress under section 1105(a) of title 31, a certification that no project, program, or mission undertaken by the Space Technology Program is duplicative of any other project, program, or mission conducted by another office or directorate of the Administration.”
added
Collaboration, coordination, and alignment— The Administrator shall ensure that the Administration’s projects, programs, and activities in support of technology research and development of advanced space technologies are fully coordinated and aligned and that results from such work are shared and leveraged within the Administration. Projects, programs, and activities being conducted by the Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate in support of research and development of advanced space technologies and systems focusing on human space exploration should continue in that Directorate. The Administrator shall ensure that organizational responsibility for research and development activities in support of human space exploration not initiated as of the date of enactment of this Act is established on the basis of a sound rationale. The Administrator shall provide the rationale in the report specified in subsection (d).
added
Report— Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall provide to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report comparing the Administration’s space technology investments with the high-priority technology areas identified by the National Academies in the National Research Council’s report on the Administration’s Space Technology Roadmaps. The Administrator shall identify how the Administration will address any gaps between the agency’s investments and the recommended technology areas, including a projection of funding requirements.
added
Annual report— The Administrator shall include in the Administration’s annual budget request for each fiscal year the rationale for assigning organizational responsibility for, in the year prior to the budget fiscal year, each initiated project, program, and mission focused on research and development of advanced technologies for human space exploration.
added
Table of sections amendment— The item relating to section 70507 in the table of sections for chapter 705 of title 51, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
removed
The Administrator shall utilize the International Space Station and commercial services for Space Technology Demonstration missions in low-Earth orbit wherever it is practical and cost effective to do so.
Sec. 503 Utilization of the International Space Station for technology demonstrations
addedadded The Administrator shall utilize the International Space Station and commercial services for space technology demonstration missions in low-Earth orbit whenever it is practical and cost effective to do so.
Sec. 601 Education
added
Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that—
added
the Administration’s missions are an inspiration for Americans and in particular for the next generation, and that this inspiration has a powerful effect in stimulating interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (in this section referred to as “STEM”) education and careers;
added
the Administration’s Office of Education and mission directorates have been effective in delivering Administration educational content because of the strong engagement of Administration scientists and engineers in the Administration’s education and outreach activities; and
added
the Administration should be a central partner in contributing to the goals of the National Science and Technology Council’s Federal Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education 5-Year Strategic Plan.
renumbered
was (2)
In general— The Administration shall continue its education and outreach efforts to—
added
increase student interest and participation in STEM education;
removed
increase student interest and participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (“STEM”) education;
renumbered
was (2)(4)
improve public literacy in STEM;
renumbered
was (2)(5)
employ proven strategies for improving student learning and teaching;
renumbered
was (2)(6)
provide curriculum support materials; and
renumbered
was (2)(7)
create and support opportunities for professional development for STEM teachers.
removed
Organization— In order to ensure the inspiration and engagement of children and the general public, the Administration shall continue its STEM education and outreach activities within the Science, Aeronautics Research, Space Operations, and Exploration Mission Directorates. Funds devoted to education and public outreach shall be maintained in the Directorates, and the consolidation of these activities into the Education Directorate is prohibited.
changed
Prohibition—Organization— The In order to ensure the inspiration and engagement of children and the general public, the Administration may not implement any proposed shall continue its STEM education and outreach-related changes proposed in outreach activities within the budget for fiscal year 2014 transmitted to Congress under section 1105(a) of title 31, United States Code.Science, Aeronautics Research, Space Operations, and Exploration Mission Directorates.
added
Continuation of education and outreach activities and programs— The Administrator shall continue to carry out education and outreach programs and activities through the Office of Education and the Administration mission directorates and shall continue to engage, to the maximum extent practicable, Administration and Administration-supported researchers and engineers in carrying out those programs and activities.
renumbered
was (5)
Continuation of space grant program— The Administrator shall continue to operate the National Space Grant College and Fellowship program through a national network consisting of a State-based consortium in each State that provides flexibility to the States, with the objective of providing hands-on research, training, and education programs, with measurable outcomes, to enhance America’s STEM education and workforce.
renumbered
was (6)
Reaffirmation of policy— Congress reaffirms its commitment to informal science education at science centers and planetariums as set forth in section 616 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2005 (51 U.S.C. 40907).
Sec. 602 Independent review of the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program
Sense of congress— It is the sense of Congress that the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program, which was established in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 1988 (42 U.S.C. 2486 et seq.), has been an important program by which the Federal Government has partnered with State and local governments, universities, private industry, and other organizations to enhance the understanding and use of space and aeronautics activities and their benefits through education, fostering of interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary space research and training, and supporting Federal funding for graduate fellowships in space-related fields, among other purposes.
Review— The Administrator shall enter into an arrangement with the National Academies for—
changed
a review of the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program, including its structure and capabilities for supporting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education and training consistent with the National Science and Technology Council’s Federal Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education 5–Year 5-Year Strategic Plan; and
recommendations on measures, if needed, to enhance the Program’s effectiveness and mechanisms by which any increases in funding appropriated by Congress can be applied.
changed
National Space Grant College space grant college and Fellowship Program fellowship program amendments—
Purposes— Section 40301 of title 51, United States Code, is amended—
by striking “and” at the end of paragraph (5);
by striking the period at the end of paragraph (6) and inserting “; and”; and
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
changed
“(7) support outreach to primary and secondary schools to help support STEM engagement and learning at the K–12 K-12 level and to encourage K–12 K-12 students to pursue postsecondary degrees in fields related to space.”
changed
Regional consortium— Section 40306(a) 40306 of title 51, United States Code, is amended—
added
in subsection (a)—
renumbered
was (4)(3)(3)
by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) as paragraphs (3) and (4), respectively; and
renumbered
was (4)(3)(4)
by inserting after paragraph (1) the following new paragraph:
“(2) Inclusion of 2-year institutions—A space grant regional consortium designated in paragraph (1)(B) may include one or more 2-year institutions of higher education.”
added
in subsection (b)(1), by striking “paragraphs (2)(C) and (3)(D)” and inserting “paragraphs (3)(C) and (4)(D)”.
Sec. 701 Asteroid Retrieval Mission
changed
In General—Asteroid retrieval report— Consistent with Not later than 180 days after the policy stated in section 201(b), date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator may not fund shall provide to the development Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of an asteroid retrieval mission to send a robotic spacecraft to a near-Earth asteroid for rendezvous, retrieval, the House of Representatives and redirection the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of that asteroid to lunar orbit for exploration by astronauts.the Senate a report on the proposed Asteroid Retrieval Mission. Such report shall include—
removed
Asteroid survey— The Administration may not pursue a program to search for asteroids of 20 meters or less in diameter unless the survey program described in section 322(c) is at least 90 percent complete.
removed
Report— Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall provide to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the proposed Asteroid Retrieval Mission. Such report shall include—
renumbered
was (4)(3)
a detailed budget profile, including cost estimates for the development of all necessary technologies and spacecraft required for the mission;
renumbered
was (4)(4)
a detailed technical plan that includes milestones and a specific schedule;
renumbered
was (4)(5)
a description of the technologies and capabilities anticipated to be gained from the proposed mission that will enable future human missions to Mars which could not be gained by lunar missions;
added
a description of the technologies and capabilities anticipated to be gained from the proposed mission that will enable future planetary defense missions, against impact threats from near-Earth objects equal to or greater than 140 meters in diameter, which could not be gained by robotic missions; and
added
a complete assessment by the Small Bodies Assessment Group and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Advisory Council of how the proposed mission is in the strategic interests of the United States in space exploration.
added
Mars flyby report— Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, an independent, private systems engineering and technical assistance organization contracted by the Human Exploration Operations Mission Directorate shall transmit to the Administrator, the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report analyzing the proposal for a Mars Flyby human spaceflight mission to be launched in 2021. Such report shall include—
added
a technical development, test, fielding, and operations plan using the Space Launch System and other systems to successfully mount a Mars Flyby mission by 2021;
added
a description of the benefits in scientific knowledge and technologies demonstrated by a Mars Flyby mission to be launched in 2021 suitable for future Mars missions; and
added
an annual budget profile, including cost estimates, for the development test, fielding, and operations plan to carry out a Mars Flyby mission through 2021 and comparison of that budget profile to the 5-year budget profile contained in the President’s Budget request for fiscal year 2015.
added
Assessment— Not later than 60 days after transmittal of the report specified in subsection (b), the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate an assessment by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Advisory Council of whether the proposal for a Mars Flyby Mission to be launched in 2021 is in the strategic interests of the United States in space exploration.
added
Crewed mission— The report transmitted under subsection (b) may consider a crewed mission with the Space Launch System in cis-lunar space prior to the Mars Flyby mission in 2021.
removed
a description of the technologies and capabilities anticipated to be gained from the proposed mission that will enable future planetary defense missions, against impact threats from near-Earth objects equal to or greater than 140 meters in diameter, which could not be gained by current or planned missions; and
removed
a complete review by the Small Bodies Assessment Group and the NASA Advisory Council that includes a recommendation to Congress on the feasibility of the mission as proposed by the Administration.
Sec. 702 Termination liability
Findings— Congress makes the following findings:
The International Space Station, the Space Launch System, and the Orion crew capsule will enable the Nation to continue operations in low-Earth orbit and to send its astronauts to deep space. The James Webb Space Telescope will revolutionize our understanding of star and planet formation and how galaxies evolved and advance the search for the origins of our universe. As a result of their unique capabilities and their critical contribution to the future of space exploration, these systems have been designated by Congress and the Administration as priority investments.
removed
While the Space Launch System and the Orion programs, currently under development, have made significant progress, they have not been funded at levels authorized, and as a result congressionally authorized milestones will be delayed by several years.
removed
Although the James Webb Space Telescope is making steady progress towards its scheduled 2018 launch, it confronts a number of challenging integration tests that will stress a congressionally imposed development cost cap.
renumbered
was (2)(6)
In addition, contractors are currently holding program funding, estimated to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars, to cover the potential termination liability should the Government choose to terminate a program for convenience. As a result, hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars are unavailable for meaningful work on these programs.
renumbered
was (2)(7)
According to the Government Accountability Office, the Administration procures most of its goods and services through contracts, and it terminates very few of them. In fiscal year 2010, the Administration terminated 28 of 16,343 active contracts and orders—a termination rate of about 0.17 percent.
added
Providing processes requiring congressional notification on termination of these high-priority programs would enable contractors to apply taxpayer dollars to making maximum progress in meeting the established technical goals and schedule milestones of these programs.
removed
Providing processes requiring congressional action on termination of these high-priority programs would enable contractors to apply taxpayer dollars to making maximum progress in meeting the established technical goals and schedule milestones of these programs.
changed
NASA Administration termination liability—
General rule— Termination liability costs for a covered program shall be provided only pursuant to this subsection.
Prohibition on reserving funds— The Administrator may not reserve funds from amounts appropriated for a covered program, or require the reservation of funds by the prime contractor, for potential termination liability costs with respect to a covered program.
changed
Intent of Congress—congress— It is the intent of Congress that funds authorized to be appropriated for covered programs be applied in meeting established technical goals and schedule milestones.
Application of prior reserved funds— Funds that have been reserved before the date of enactment of this Act for potential termination liability shall be promptly used to make maximum progress in meeting the established goals and milestones of the covered program.
changed
Notification— The Administrator shall notify the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate not later than at least 120 days in advance of initiating termination for convenience or termination for cause of a prime contract on a covered program.
Supplemental appropriation request—
Request— If the Administrator initiates termination of a prime contract on a covered program pursuant to paragraph (5), and sufficient unobligated appropriations are not available to cover termination liability costs in the appropriations account that is funding the prime contract being terminated, the Administrator shall provide to Congress a notification that an authorization of appropriations is necessary not later than 120 days in advance of the proposed contract termination settlement for the covered program.
changed
Intent of Congress—congress— It is the intent of Congress to provide additional authorization for appropriations as may be necessary to pay termination liability costs on prime contracts for covered programs if Congress deems it appropriate that the Administration terminate such prime contracts. The Administration shall be responsible for applying these additional funds for payment of all allowable and reasonable negotiated termination liability costs if the Administration terminates a prime contract for a covered program. If the Administration terminates a prime contract for a covered program for the convenience of the Federal Government, then the Federal Government is responsible for payment of all allowable and reasonable negotiated termination liability costs on the prime contract.
Reporting— Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, and every 6 months thereafter for the duration of the prime contracts on covered programs, the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report that provides—
the estimated termination liability costs for each of the prime contracts; and
the basis for how such estimate was determined.
Definitions— For purposes of this section:
changed
Covered program— The term covered program “covered program” means the International Space Station, the Space Launch System, the Orion crew capsule, and the James Webb Space Telescope.
changed
Prime contract— The term prime contract “prime contract” means a contract entered directly between a person or entity and the Federal Government for the performance of all or the majority of the responsibilities for developing, integrating, fielding, operating, or sustaining a covered program.
changed
Prime contractor— The term prime contractor “prime contractor” means a person or entity contracting directly with the Federal Government on a covered program.
changed
Termination liability costs— The term termination “termination liability costs costs” means any costs incurred by a prime contractor, or by any subcontractor of a prime contractor, for which the Federal Government is liable as a result of termination of a prime contract by the Administrator.
Sec. 704 Project and program reserves
added
Sense of congress— It is the sense of Congress that the judicious use of program and project reserves provides the Administration’s project and program managers with the flexibility needed to manage projects and programs to ensure that the impacts of contingencies can be mitigated.
added
Report— Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report describing—
added
the Administration’s criteria for establishing the amount of reserves held at the project and program levels;
added
how such criteria relate to the agency’s policy of budgeting at a 70-percent confidence level; and
added
the Administration’s criteria for waiving the policy of budgeting at a 70-percent confidence level and alternative strategies and mechanisms aimed at controlling program and project costs when a waiver is granted.
removed
To ensure that the establishment, maintenance, and allotment of project and program reserves contribute to prudent management, not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report describing the Administration’s criteria for establishing the amount of reserves at the project and program levels and how such criteria complement the Administration’s policy of budgeting at a 70-percent confidence level.
Sec. 705 Independent reviews
changed
Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report describing the Administration’s procedures for conducting independent reviews of projects and programs at lifecycle milestones and how the Administration ensures the independence of the individuals who conduct those reviews prior to their assignment.describing—
added
the Administration’s procedures for conducting independent reviews of projects and programs at lifecycle milestones and how the Administration ensures the independence of the individuals who conduct those reviews prior to their assignment;
added
the internal and external entities independent of project and program management that conduct reviews of projects and programs at life cycle milestones; and
added
how the Administration ensures the independence of such entities and their members.
Sec. 706 Commercial technology transfer program
added Section 50116(a) of title 51, United States Code, is amended by inserting “, while protecting national security” after “research community”.
removed
Cost Sharing— To the extent that the Administrator determines practicable, the funds provided by the Government under a funded Space Act Agreement shall not exceed the total amount provided by other parties to the Space Act Agreement.
removed
Need— A funded Space Act Agreement may be used only when the use of a standard contract, grant, or cooperative agreement is not feasible or appropriate, as determined by the Associate Administrator for Procurement.
removed
Public Notice and Comment— The Administrator shall make available for public notice and comment each proposed Space Act Agreement at least 30 days before entering into such agreement, with appropriate redactions for proprietary, sensitive, or classified information.
removed
Transparency— The Administrator shall publicly disclose on the Administration’s website and make available in a searchable format all Space Act Agreements, with appropriate redactions for proprietary, sensitive, or classified information, not later than 60 days after such agreement is signed.
removed
Authorization— The Administrator may not enter into a funded Space Act Agreement for an amount in excess of $50,000,000 unless such agreement has been specifically authorized by law.
removed
Annual report—
removed
Requirement— Not later than 90 days after the end of each fiscal year, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the use of Space Act Agreement authority by the Administration during the previous fiscal year.
removed
Contents— The report shall include for each Space Act Agreement in effect at the time of the report—
removed
an indication of whether the agreement is a reimbursable, nonreimbursable, or funded Space Act Agreement;
removed
a description of—
removed
the subject and terms;
removed
the parties;
removed
the responsible—
removed
mission directorate;
removed
center; or
removed
headquarters element;
removed
the value;
removed
the extent of the cost sharing among Federal Government and non-Federal sources;
removed
the time period or schedule; and
removed
all milestones; and
removed
an indication of whether the agreement was renewed during the previous fiscal year.
removed
Anticipated agreements— The report shall also include a list of all anticipated reimbursable, nonreimbursable, and funded Space Act Agreements for the upcoming fiscal year.
removed
Cumulative program benefits— The report shall also include, with respect to the Space Act Agreements covered by the report, a summary of—
removed
the technology areas in which research projects were conducted under such agreements;
removed
the extent to which the use of the Space Act Agreements—
removed
has contributed to a broadening of the technology and industrial base available for meeting Administration needs; and
removed
has fostered within the technology and industrial base new relationships and practices that support the United States; and
removed
the total amount of value received by the Federal Government during the fiscal year pursuant to such Space Act Agreements.
Sec. 707 National Aeronautics and Space Administration Advisory Council
added
Study— The Administrator shall enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Public Administration to assess the effectiveness of the NASA Advisory Council and to make recommendations to Congress for any change to—
added
the functions of the Council;
added
the appointment of members to the Council;
added
qualifications for members of the Council;
added
duration of terms of office for members of the Council;
added
frequency of meetings of the Council;
added
the structure of leadership and Committees of the Council; and
added
levels of professional staffing for the Council.
added
Consultation and advice— Section 20113(g) of title 51, United States Code, is amended by inserting “and Congress” after “advice to the Administration”.
added
Sunset— Subsection (b) shall expire on September 30, 2014.
removed
Section 70702(a) of title 51, United States Code, is amended by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the following:
removed
“(3) any other space vehicle carrying humans that is owned by the Federal Government or that is being used pursuant to a contract or Space Act Agreement, as defined in section 2 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2014 with the Federal Government; or”
Sec. 708 Cost estimation
added
Sense of congress— It is the sense of Congress that realistic cost estimating is critically important to the ultimate success of major space development projects. The Administration has devoted significant efforts over the past five years to improving its cost estimating capabilities, but it is important that the Administration continue its efforts to develop and implement guidance in establishing realistic cost estimates.
added
Guidance and criteria— The Administrator shall provide to programs and projects and in a manner consistent with the Administration’s Space Flight Program and Project Management Requirements—
added
guidance on when an Independent Cost Estimate and Independent Cost Assessment should be used; and
added
the criteria to be used to make such a determination.
added
Report— Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report—
added
describing efforts to enhance internal cost estimation and assessment expertise;
added
describing the mechanisms the Administration is using and will continue to use to ensure that adequate resources are dedicated to cost estimation;
added
listing the steps the Administration is undertaking to advance consistent implementation of the joint cost and schedule process;
added
identifying criteria used by programs and projects in determining when to conduct an Independent Cost Estimate and Independent Cost Assessment; and
added
listing—
added
the costs of each individual Independent Cost Estimate or Independent Cost Assessment activity conducted in fiscal year 2011, fiscal year 2012, and fiscal year 2013;
added
the purpose of the activity;
added
identification of the primary Administration unit or outside body that conducted the activity; and
added
key findings and recommendations.
added
Updated report— Subsequent to submission of the report under subsection (c), for each subsequent year, the Administrator shall provide an update of listed elements in conjunction with subsequent congressional budget justifications.
removed
Section 50116(a) of title 51, United States Code, is amended by inserting “, while protecting national security” after “research community”.
Sec. 709 Avoiding organizational conflicts of interest in major Administration acquisition programs
changed
Finding—Revised regulations required— Congress finds that orbital debris poses serious risks to Not later than 270 days after the operational space capabilities date of enactment of this Act, the United States and that an international consensus and strategic plan is needed to mitigate Administrator shall revise the growth of orbital debris wherever possible, as well as Administration Supplement to the status of any orbital debris mitigation concepts Federal Acquisition Regulation to provide uniform guidance and technological options that have been developed or funded recommend revised requirements for organizational conflicts of interest by any Federal agency contractors in the past 5 years, or that otherwise show significant promise, major acquisition programs in the near-term, order to mitigate orbital debris.address elements identified in subsection (b).
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Elements— The revised regulations required by subsection (a) shall, at a minimum—
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Reports—
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Coordination— Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall provide the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate with a report on the status of efforts to coordinate with countries within the Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee to mitigate the effects and growth of orbital debris as required by section 1202(b)(1) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18441(b)(1)).
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Mitigation strategy— Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall provide the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation address organizational conflicts of the Senate with interest that could potentially arise as a report on the status of the orbital debris mitigation strategy required under section 1202(b)(2) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18441(b)(2)).result of—
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lead system integrator contracts on major acquisition programs and contracts that follow lead system integrator contracts on such programs, particularly contracts for production;
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the ownership of business units performing systems engineering and technical assistance functions, professional services, or management support services in relation to major acquisition programs by contractors who simultaneously own business units competing to perform as either the prime contractor or the supplier of a major subsystem or component for such programs;
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the award of major subsystem contracts by a prime contractor for a major acquisition program to business units or other affiliates of the same parent corporate entity, and particularly the award of subcontracts for software integration or the development of a proprietary software system architecture; or
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the performance by, or assistance of, contractors in technical evaluations on major acquisition programs;
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ensure that the Administration receives advice on systems architecture and systems engineering matters with respect to major acquisition programs from objective sources independent of the prime contractor;
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require that a contract for the performance of systems engineering and technical assistance functions for a major acquisition program contains a provision prohibiting the contractor or any affiliate of the contractor from participating as a prime contractor or a major subcontractor in the development of a system under the program; and
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establish such limited exceptions to the requirement in paragraphs (2) and (3) as may be necessary to ensure that the Administration has continued access to advice on systems architecture and systems engineering matters from highly-qualified contractors with domain experience and expertise, while ensuring that such advice comes from sources that are objective and unbiased.
Sec. 710 Facilities and infrastructure
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Establishment—Sense of congress— Subchapter II of chapter 201 of title 51, United States Code, It is amended by adding at the end the following new section:sense of Congress that—
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the Administration must reverse the deteriorating condition of its facilities and infrastructure, as this condition is hampering the effectiveness and efficiency of research performed by both the Administration and industry participants making use of Administration facilities, thus reducing the competitiveness of the United States aerospace industry;
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the Administration has a role in providing laboratory capabilities to industry participants that are economically viable as commercial entities and thus are not available elsewhere;
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to ensure continued access to reliable and efficient world-class facilities by researchers, the Administration should seek to establish strategic partnerships with other Federal agencies, academic institutions, and industry, as appropriate; and
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decisions on whether to dispose of, maintain, or modernize existing facilities must be made in the context of meeting future Administration and other Federal agencies’ laboratory needs, including those required to meet the activities supporting the Human Exploration Roadmap required by section 70504 of title 51, United States Code.
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“20118. NASA Advisory Council
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“(a) Establishment—There shall be established a NASA Advisory Council (in this section referred to as “the Council”) for the Administration in accordance with this section, not later than 9 months after the date of enactment of this section.
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“(b) Membership and appointment—The Council shall consist of 11 members to be appointed as follows:
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“(1) 5 members shall be appointed by the President.
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“(2) 2 members shall be appointed by the President pro tempore of the Senate.
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“(3) 1 member shall be appointed by the minority leader of the Senate.
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“(4) 2 members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
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“(5) 1 member shall be appointed by the minority leader of the House of Representatives.
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“(c) Qualifications—The persons appointed as members of the Council shall be—
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“(1) former astronauts or scientists or engineers eminent in the fields of human spaceflight, planetary science, space science, Earth science, aeronautics, or disciplines related to space exploration and aeronautics, including other scientific, engineering, or business disciplines;
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“(2) selected on the basis of established records of distinguished service; and
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“(3) so selected as to provide representation of the views of engineering, science, and aerospace leaders in all areas of the Nation.
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“(d) Terms—The term of office of each member of the Council shall be 6 years.
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“(e) Meetings—The Council shall meet two times annually at minimum and at such other times as the Chairman may determine, but the Chairman shall also call a meeting whenever one-third of the members so request in writing. The Council shall adopt procedures governing the conduct of its meetings, including delivery of notice and a definition of a quorum, which in no case shall be less than one-half plus one of the members of the Council.
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“(f) Chairman and vice chairman—The Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Council shall be elected by a majority vote of the Council for a two-year term. A member may serve as Chairman and Vice Chairman for up to three terms. The Vice Chairman shall perform the duties of the Chairman in his absence. If a vacancy occurs in the chairmanship or vice chairmanship, the Council shall elect a member to fill such vacancy.
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“(g) Staff—The Administrator shall support the Council with professional staff to provide for the performance of such duties as may be prescribed by the Council.
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“(h) Committees—The Council is authorized to appoint from among its members such committees as it deems necessary and to assign to committees so appointed such survey and advisory functions as the Council deems appropriate to assist it in exercising its powers and functions.
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“(i) Functions
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“(1) Budget proposal
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“(A) Review of proposal—Not later than October 15 of each year, the Council shall have reviewed the Administration’s proposed budget for the next fiscal year and shall provide to the President their advice based on the best professional judgment of a majority of members. Portions of Council meetings in which the Council considers the budget proposal for the next fiscal year may be closed to the public until the Council submits the proposal to the President and Congress.
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“(B) Advice to congressional committees—Not later than 14 days following the President’s budget submittal to Congress for the next fiscal year, the Council shall provide to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate their advice based on the best professional judgment of a majority of members.
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“(2) Advice to the President and Congress—The Council shall report their findings, advice, and recommendations to the President and Congress on matters of particular policy interest on space exploration and aeronautics based on the best professional judgment of a majority of members.”
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Table of sections—Policy— The table of sections for chapter 201 of title 51, United States Code, It is amended by adding at the end policy of the items for subchapter II United States that the following new item:Administration maintain reliable and efficient facilities and that decisions on whether to dispose of, maintain, or modernize existing facilities be made in the context of meeting future Administration needs.
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Consultation and advice—Plan— Section 20113(g) The Administrator shall develop a plan that has the goal of title 51, United States Code, is amended by inserting “and Congress” after “advice positioning the Administration to have the Administration”.facilities, laboratories, tools, and approaches necessary to address future Administration requirements. Such plan shall identify—
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future Administration research and development and testing needs;
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a strategy for identifying facilities that are candidates for disposal, that is consistent with the national strategic direction set forth in—
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the National Space Policy;
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the National Aeronautics Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation Infrastructure Plan;
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National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Acts; and
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the Human Exploration Roadmap specified in section 70504 of title 51, United States Code;
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a strategy for the maintenance, repair, upgrading, and modernization of the Administration’s laboratories, facilities, and equipment;
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criteria for prioritizing deferred maintenance tasks and also for upgrading or modernizing laboratories, facilities, and equipment and implementing processes, plans, and policies for guiding the Administration’s Centers on whether to maintain, repair, upgrade, or modernize a facility and for determining the type of instrument to be used;
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an assessment of modifications needed to maximize usage of facilities that offer unique and highly specialized benefits to the aerospace industry and the American public; and
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implementation steps, including a timeline, milestones, and an estimate of resources required for carrying out the plan.
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Policy— Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall establish and make publically available a policy that guides the Administration’s use of existing authorities to out-grant, lease, excess to the General Services Administration, sell, decommission, demolish, or otherwise transfer property, facilities, or infrastructure. This policy shall establish criteria for the use of authorities, best practices, standardized procedures, and guidelines for how to appropriately manage property, infrastructure, and facilities.
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Transmittal— Not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit the plan developed under subsection (c) to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
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Establishment of capital fund— The Administrator shall establish a capital fund for the modernization of facilities and laboratories. The Administrator shall ensure to the maximum extent practicable that all financial savings achieved by closing outdated or surplus facilities at an Administration Center shall be made available to that Center for the purpose of modernizing the Center’s facilities and laboratories and for upgrading the infrastructure at the Center.
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Report on capital fund— Expenditures and other activities of the fund established under subsection (f) shall require review and approval by the Administrator and the status, including the amounts held in the capital fund, shall be reported to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate in conjunction with the Administration’s annual budget request justification for each fiscal year.
Sec. 711 Detection and avoidance of counterfeit electronic parts
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Regulations—
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In general— Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall revise the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Supplement to the Federal Acquisition Regulation to address the detection and avoidance of counterfeit electronic parts.
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Contractor responsibilities— The revised regulations issued pursuant to paragraph (1) shall provide that—
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Administration contractors who supply electronic parts or products that include electronic parts are responsible for detecting and avoiding the use or inclusion of counterfeit electronic parts or suspect counterfeit electronic parts in such products and for any rework or corrective action that may be required to remedy the use or inclusion of such parts; and
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the cost of counterfeit electronic parts and suspect counterfeit electronic parts and the cost of rework or corrective action that may be required to remedy the use or inclusion of such parts are not allowable costs under Administration contracts, unless—
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the covered contractor has an operational system to detect and avoid counterfeit parts and suspect counterfeit electronic parts that has been reviewed and approved by the Administration or the Department of Defense;
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the covered contractor provides timely notice to the Administration pursuant to paragraph (4); or
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the counterfeit electronic parts or suspect counterfeit electronic parts were provided to the contractor as Government property in accordance with part 45 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation.
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Suppliers of electronic parts— The revised regulations issued pursuant to paragraph (1) shall—
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require that the Administration and Administration contractors and subcontractors at all tiers—
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obtain electronic parts that are in production or currently available in stock from the original manufacturers of the parts or their authorized dealers, or from suppliers who obtain such parts exclusively from the original manufacturers of the parts or their authorized dealers; and
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obtain electronic parts that are not in production or currently available in stock from suppliers that meet qualification requirements established pursuant to subparagraph (C);
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establish documented requirements consistent with published industry standards or Government contract requirements for—
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notification of the Administration; and
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inspection, testing, and authentication of electronic parts that the Administration or an Administration contractor or subcontractor obtains from any source other than a source described in subparagraph (A);
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establish qualification requirements, consistent with the requirements of section 2319 of title 10, United States Code, pursuant to which the Administration may identify suppliers that have appropriate policies and procedures in place to detect and avoid counterfeit electronic parts and suspect counterfeit electronic parts; and
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authorize Administration contractors and subcontractors to identify and use additional suppliers beyond those identified pursuant to subparagraph (C) provided that—
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the standards and processes for identifying such suppliers comply with established industry standards;
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the contractor or subcontractor assumes responsibility for the authenticity of parts provided by such suppliers as provided in paragraph (2); and
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the selection of such suppliers is subject to review and audit by appropriate Administration officials.
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Timely notification— The revised regulations issued pursuant to paragraph (1) shall require that any Administration contractor or subcontractor who becomes aware, or has reason to suspect, that any end item, component, part, or material contained in supplies purchased by the Administration, or purchased by a contractor or subcontractor for delivery to, or on behalf of, the Administration, contains counterfeit electronic parts or suspect counterfeit electronic parts, shall provide notification to the applicable Administration contracting officer within 30 calendar days.
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Report— Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on current and continuing efforts to implement more effective cost-estimation practices.
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Elements—Report— The report required under Not later than 120 days after the revised regulations specified in subsection (a) have been implemented, the Administrator shall include—submit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report updating the Administration’s actions to prevent counterfeit electronic parts from entering the supply chain as described in its October 2011 report pursuant to section 1206(d) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18444(d)).
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Definition— In this section, the term “electronic part” means a discrete electronic component, including a microcircuit, transistor, capacitor, resistor, or diode that is intended for use in a safety or mission critical application.
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a list of steps the Administration is undertaking to advance consistent implementation of the joint cost and schedule level (JCL) process; and
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a description of mechanisms the Administration is using and will continue to use to ensure that adequate resources are dedicated to cost estimation.
Sec. 712 Space Act Agreements
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Cost Sharing— To the extent that the Administrator determines practicable, the funds provided by the Government under a funded Space Act Agreement shall not exceed the total amount provided by other parties to the Space Act Agreement.
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Regulations—
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In general— Not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall revise the NASA Supplement to the Federal Acquisition Regulation to address the detection and avoidance of counterfeit electronic parts.
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Contractor responsibilities— The revised regulations issued pursuant to paragraph (1) shall provide that—
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Administration contractors who supply electronic parts or products that include electronic parts are responsible for detecting and avoiding the use or inclusion of counterfeit electronic parts or suspect counterfeit electronic parts in such products and for any rework or corrective action that may be required to remedy the use or inclusion of such parts; and
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the cost of counterfeit electronic parts and suspect counterfeit electronic parts and the cost of rework or corrective action that may be required to remedy the use or inclusion of such parts are not allowable costs under Agency contracts, unless
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the covered contractor has an operational system to detect and avoid counterfeit parts and suspect counterfeit electronic parts that has been reviewed and approved by the Administration or the Department of Defense;
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the covered contractor provides timely notice to the Administration pursuant to paragraph (4); or
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the counterfeit electronic parts or suspect counterfeit electronic parts were provided to the contractor as Government property in accordance with part 45 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation.
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Suppliers of electronic parts— The revised regulations issued pursuant to paragraph (1) shall—
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require that the Administration and Administration contractors and subcontractors at all tiers—
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obtain electronic parts that are in production or currently available in stock from the original manufacturers of the parts or their authorized dealers, or from suppliers who obtain such parts exclusively from the original manufacturers of the parts or their authorized dealers; and
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obtain electronic parts that are not in production or currently available in stock from suppliers that meet qualification requirements established pursuant to subparagraph (C);
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establish documented requirements consistent with published industry standards or Government contract requirements for—
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notification of the Administration; and
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inspection, testing, and authentication of electronic parts that the Administration or an Administration contractor or subcontractor obtains from any source other than a source described in subparagraph (A);
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establish qualification requirements, consistent with the requirements of section 2319 of title 10, United States Code, pursuant to which the Administration may identify suppliers that have appropriate policies and procedures in place to detect and avoid counterfeit electronic parts and suspect counterfeit electronic parts; and
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authorize Administration contractors and subcontractors to identify and use additional suppliers beyond those identified pursuant to subparagraph (C), provided that—
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the standards and processes for identifying such suppliers comply with established industry standards;
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the contractor or subcontractor assumes responsibility for the authenticity of parts provided by such suppliers as provided in paragraph (2); and
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the selection of such suppliers is subject to review and audit by appropriate Administration officials.
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Timely notification— The revised regulations issued pursuant to paragraph (1) shall require that any Administration contractor or subcontractor who becomes aware, or has reason to suspect, that any end item, component, part, or material contained in supplies purchased by the Administration, or purchased by a contractor or subcontractor for delivery to, or on behalf of, the Administration, contains counterfeit electronic parts or suspect counterfeit electronic parts, shall provide notification to the applicable Administration contracting officer within 30 calendar days.
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Definitions—Need— In this section, A funded Space Act Agreement may be used only when the term electronic part means a discrete electronic component, including use of a microcircuit, transistor, capacitor, resistor, standard contract, grant, or diode that cooperative agreement is intended for use in a safety not feasible or mission critical application.appropriate, as determined by the Associate Administrator for Procurement.
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Public Notice and Comment— The Administrator shall make available for public notice and comment each proposed Space Act Agreement at least 30 days before entering into such agreement, with appropriate redactions for proprietary, sensitive, or classified information.
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Transparency— The Administrator shall publicly disclose on the Administration’s website and make available in a searchable format each Space Act Agreement, with appropriate redactions for proprietary, sensitive, or classified information, not later than 60 days after such agreement is signed.
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Annual report—
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Requirement— Not later than 90 days after the end of each fiscal year, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the use of Space Act Agreement authority by the Administration during the previous fiscal year.
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Contents— The report shall include for each Space Act Agreement in effect at the time of the report—
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an indication of whether the agreement is a reimbursable, nonreimbursable, or funded Space Act Agreement;
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a description of—
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the subject and terms;
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the parties;
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the responsible—
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mission directorate;
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center; or
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headquarters element;
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the value;
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the extent of the cost sharing among Federal Government and non-Federal sources;
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the time period or schedule; and
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all milestones; and
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an indication of whether the agreement was renewed during the previous fiscal year.
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Anticipated agreements— The report shall also include a list of all anticipated reimbursable, nonreimbursable, and funded Space Act Agreements for the upcoming fiscal year.
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Cumulative program benefits— The report shall also include, with respect to the Space Act Agreements covered by the report, a summary of—
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the technology areas in which research projects were conducted under such agreements;
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the extent to which the use of the Space Act Agreements—
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has contributed to a broadening of the technology and industrial base available for meeting Administration needs; and
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has fostered within the technology and industrial base new relationships and practices that support the United States; and
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the total amount of value received by the Federal Government during the fiscal year pursuant to such Space Act Agreements.
Sec. 713 Human spaceflight accident investigations
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None of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2014 or any fiscal year thereafter for the Administration may be used to enter into a contract with any offeror or any Section 70702(a) of its principals if the offeror certifies, pursuant to the Federal Acquisition Regulation, that title 51, United States Code, is amended by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the offeror or any of its principals—following:
added “(3) any other orbital or suborbital space vehicle carrying humans—
added “(A) that is owned by the Federal Government; or
added “(B) that is being used pursuant to a contract or Space Act Agreement, as defined in section 2 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2014, with the Federal Government for carrying a researcher or payload funded by the Federal Government; or”
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within a three-year period preceding this offer has been convicted of or had a civil judgment rendered against it for—
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commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a public (Federal, State, or local) contract or subcontract;
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violation of Federal or State antitrust statutes relating to the submission of offers; or
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commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, tax evasion, violating Federal criminal tax laws, or receiving stolen property;
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are presently indicted for, or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity with, commission of any of the offenses enumerated in paragraph (1); or
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within a three-year period preceding this offer, has been notified of any delinquent Federal taxes in an amount that exceeds $3,000 for which the liability remains unsatisfied.
Sec. 714 Fullest commercial use of space
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Report— Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on current and continuing efforts by the Administration to “seek and encourage, to the maximum extent possible, the fullest commercial use of space,” as described in section 20102(c) of title 51, United States Code.
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Elements— The report required under subsection (a) shall include—
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an assessment of the Administration’s efforts to comply with the policy;
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an explanation of criteria used to define compliance;
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a description of programs, policies, and activities the Administration is using, and will continue to use, to ensure compliance;
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an explanation of how the Administration could expand on the efforts to comply; and
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a summary of all current and planned activities pursuant to this policy.
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Barriers to fullest commercial use of space— Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on current and continuing efforts by the Administration to reduce impediments, bureaucracy, redundancy, and burdens to ensure the fullest commercial use of space as required by section 20102(c) of title 51, United States Code.
Sec. 715 Orbital debris
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Findings— Congress finds that orbital debris poses serious risks to the operational space capabilities of the United States and that an international commitment and integrated strategic plan are needed to mitigate the growth of orbital debris wherever possible. Congress finds the delay in the Office of Science and Technology Policy’s submission of a report on the status of international coordination and development of mitigation strategies to be inconsistent with such risks.
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Reports—
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Coordination— Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall provide the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate with a report on the status of efforts to coordinate with countries within the Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee to mitigate the effects and growth of orbital debris as required by section 1202(b)(1) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18441(b)(1)).
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Mitigation strategy— Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall provide the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate with a report on the status of the orbital debris mitigation strategy required under section 1202(b)(2) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18441(b)(2)).
Sec. 716 Review of orbital debris removal concepts
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Sense of congress— It is the sense of Congress that the amount of orbital debris in low-Earth orbit poses risks for human activities and robotic spacecraft and that this debris may increase due to collisions between existing debris objects. Understanding options to address and remove orbital debris is important for ensuring safe and effective spacecraft operations in low-Earth orbit.
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Review— The Administrator, in collaboration with other relevant Federal agencies, shall solicit and review concepts and technological options for removing orbital debris from low-Earth orbit. The solicitation and review shall also address the requirements for and feasibility of developing and implementing each of the options.
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Transmittal— Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall provide a report to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the solicitation and review required under subsection (b).
Sec. 717 Use of operational commercial suborbital vehicles for research, development, and education
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Policy— The Administrator shall develop a policy on the use of operational commercial reusable suborbital flight vehicles for carrying out scientific and engineering investigations and educational activities.
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Plan— The Administrator shall prepare a plan on the Administration’s use of operational commercial reusable suborbital flight vehicles for carrying out scientific and engineering investigations and educational activities. The plan shall—
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describe the purposes for which the Administration intends to use such vehicles;
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describe the processes required to support such use, including the criteria used to determine which scientific and engineering investigations and educational activities are selected for a suborbital flight;
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describe Administration, space flight operator, and supporting contractor responsibilities for developing standard payload interfaces and conducting payload safety analyses, payload integration and processing, payload operations, and safety assurance for Administration-sponsored space flight participants, among other functions required to fly Administration-sponsored payloads and space flight participants on operational commercial suborbital vehicles;
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identify Administration-provided hardware, software, or services that may be provided to commercial reusable suborbital space flight operators on a cost-reimbursable basis, through agreements or contracts entered into under section 20113(e) of title 51, United States Code; and
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describe the United States Government and space flight operator responsibilities for liability and indemnification with respect to commercial suborbital vehicle flights that involve Administration-sponsored payloads or activities, Administration-supported space flight participants, or other Administration-related contributions.
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Assessment of capabilities and risks— The Administrator shall assess and characterize the potential capabilities and performance of commercial reusable suborbital vehicles for addressing scientific research, including research requiring access to low-gravity and microgravity environments, for carrying out technology demonstrations related to science, exploration, or space operations requirements, and for providing opportunities for educating and training space scientists and engineers, once those vehicles become operational. The assessment shall also characterize the risks of using potential commercial reusable suborbital flights to Administration-sponsored researchers and scientific investigations and flight hardware.
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Transmittal— Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit the plan and assessment described in subsections (b) and (c) to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
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Annual progress reports— In conjunction with the Administration’s annual budget request justification for each fiscal year, the Administrator shall transmit a report to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate describing progress in carrying out the Commercial Reusable Suborbital Research Program, including the number and type of suborbital missions planned in each fiscal year.
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Indemnification and liability— The Administrator shall not proceed with a request for proposals, award any contract, commit any United States Government funds, or enter into any other agreement for the provision of a commercial reusable suborbital vehicle launch service for an Administration-sponsored spaceflight participant until transmittal of the plan and assessment specified in subsections (b) and (c), the liability issues associated with the use of such systems by the United States Government have been addressed, and the liability and indemnification provisions that are planned to be included in such contracts or agreements have been provided to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
Sec. 718 Fundamental space life and physical sciences research
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Sense of congress— It the sense of Congress that fundamental, discovery-based space life and physical sciences research is critical for enabling space exploration, protecting humans in space, and providing societal benefits, and that the space environment facilitates the advancement of understanding of the life sciences and physical sciences. Space life and physical science research contributes to advancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics research, and provides careers and training opportunities in academia, Federal laboratories, and commercial industry. Congress encourages the Administrator to augment discovery-based fundamental research and to establish requirements reflecting the importance of such research in keeping with the priorities established in the National Academies’ decadal survey entitled “Recapturing a Future for Space Exploration: Life and Physical Sciences Research for a New Era”.
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Budget request— The Administrator shall include as part of the Administration’s annual budget request for each fiscal year a budget line for fundamental space life and physical sciences research, devoted to competitive, peer-reviewed grants, that is separate from the International Space Station Operations account.
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Strategic plan—
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Development— The Administrator, in consultation with academia, other Federal agencies, and other potential stakeholders, shall develop a strategic plan for carrying out competitive, peer-reviewed fundamental space life science and physical sciences and related technology research, among other activities, consistent with the priorities in the National Academies’ decadal survey described in subsection (a).
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Transmittal— Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit the strategic plan developed under paragraph (1) to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
Sec. 719 Restoring commitment to engineering research
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Sense of congress— It is the sense of Congress that engineering excellence has long been a hallmark of the Administration’s ability to make significant advances in aeronautics and space exploration. However, as has been noted in recent National Academies reports, increasingly constrained funding and competing priorities have led to an erosion of the Administration’s commitment to basic engineering research. This research provides the basis for the technology development that enables the Administration’s many challenging missions to succeed. If current trends continue, the Administration’s ability to attract and maintain the best and brightest engineering workforce at its Centers as well as its ability to remain on the cutting edge of aeronautical and space technology will continue to erode and will threaten the Administration’s ability to be a world leader in aeronautics research and development and space exploration.
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Plan— The Administrator shall develop a plan for restoring a meaningful basic engineering research program at the Administration’s Centers, including, as appropriate, collaborations with industry, universities, and other relevant organizations. The plan shall identify the organizational approach to be followed, an initial set of basic research priorities, and a proposed budget.
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Report— Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit the plan specified in subsection (b) to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
Sec. 720 Liquid rocket engine development program
addedadded The Administrator shall consult with the Secretary of Defense to ensure that any next generation liquid rocket engine made in the United States for national security space launch objectives can contribute, to the extent practicable, to the space programs and missions carried out by the Administration.
Sec. 721 Remote satellite servicing demonstrations
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Sense of congress— It is the sense of Congress that—
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the Administration plays a key role in demonstrating the feasibility of using robotic technologies for a spacecraft that could autonomously access, inspect, repair, and refuel satellites;
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demonstrating this feasibility would both assist the Administration in its future missions and provide other Federal agencies and private sector entities with enhanced confidence in the feasibility to robotically refuel, inspect, repair, and maintain their satellites in both near and distant orbits; and
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the capability to refuel, inspect, repair, and maintain satellites robotically could add years of functional life to satellites.
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Report— Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit a report to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate describing the Administration’s—
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activities, tools, and techniques associated with the ultimate goal of autonomously servicing satellites using robotic spacecraft;
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efforts to coordinate its technology development and demonstrations with other Federal agencies and private sector entities that conduct programs, projects, or activities on on-orbit satellite inspection and servicing capabilities;
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efforts to leverage the work of these Federal agencies and private sector entities into the Administration’s plans;
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accomplishments to date in demonstrating various servicing technologies;
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major technical and operational challenges encountered and mitigation measures taken; and
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demonstrations needed to increase confidence in the use of the technologies for operational missions, and the timeframe for these demonstrations.
Sec. 722 Information technology governance
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Sense of congress— It is the sense of Congress that information security is central to the Administration’s ability to protect information and information systems vital to its mission.
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Study— The Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a study to assess the effectiveness of the Administration’s Information Technology Governance. The study shall include an assessment of—
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the resources available for overseeing Administration-wide information technology operations, investments, and security measures and the Chief Information Officer’s visibility into and access to those resources;
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the effectiveness of the Administration’s decentralized information technology structure, decisionmaking processes and authorities and its ability to enforce information security; and
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the impact of providing the Chief Information Officer approval authority over information technology investments that exceed a defined monetary threshold and any potential impacts of the Chief Information Officer having such authority on the Administration’s missions, flights programs and projects, research activities, and Center operations.
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Report— Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall transmit a report detailing the results of the study conducted under subsection (b) to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
Sec. 723 Strengthening Administration security
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Findings— Congress makes the following findings:
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Following the public disclosure of security and export control violations at its research centers, the Administration contracted with the National Academy of Public Administration to conduct an independent assessment of how the Administration carried out Foreign National Access Management practices and other security matters.
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The assessment by the National Academy of Public Administration concluded that “NASA networks are compromised”, that the Administration lacked a standardized and systematic approach to export compliance, and that individuals within the Administration were not held accountable when making serious, preventable errors in carrying out Foreign National Access Management practices and other security matters.
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Report— Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administration shall report to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on how it plans to address each of the recommendations made in the security assessment by the National Academy of Public Administration.
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Review— Within one year of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall report to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate its assessment of how the Administration has complied with the recommendations of the National Academy of Public Administration.
Sec. 724 Prohibition on use of funds for contractors that have committed fraud or other crimes
addedadded None of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2014 or any fiscal year thereafter for the Administration may be used to enter into a contract with any offeror or any of its principals if the offeror certifies, pursuant to the Federal Acquisition Regulation, that the offeror or any of its principals—
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within a three-year period preceding this offer has been convicted of or had a civil judgment rendered against it for—
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commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a public (Federal, State, or local) contract or subcontract;
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violation of Federal or State antitrust statutes relating to the submission of offers; or
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commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, tax evasion, violating Federal criminal tax laws, or receiving stolen property;
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are presently indicted for, or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity with, commission of any of the offenses enumerated in paragraph (1); or
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within a three-year period preceding this offer, has been notified of any delinquent Federal taxes in an amount that exceeds $3,000 for which the liability remains unsatisfied.
Sec. 725 Protection of Apollo landing sites
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Assessment— The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, in consultation with all relevant agencies of the Federal Government and other appropriate entities and individuals, shall carry out a review and assessment of the issues involved in protecting and preserving historically important Apollo Program lunar landing sites and Apollo program artifacts residing on the lunar surface, including those pertaining to Apollo 11 and Apollo 17. The review and assessment shall, at a minimum, include determination of what risks to the protection and preservation of those sites and artifacts exist or may exist in the future, what measures are required to ensure such protection and preservation, the extent to which additional domestic legislation or international treaties or agreements will be required, and specific recommendations for protecting and preserving those lunar landing sites and artifacts.
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Report— Not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director shall transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate the results of the assessment required under subsection (a).
Sec. 726 Astronaut occupational healthcare
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In General— The National Academies’ Institute of Medicine report “Health Standards for Long Duration and Exploration Spaceflight: Ethics Principles, Responsibilities, and Decision Framework” found that the Administration has ethical responsibilities for and should adopt policies and processes related to health standards for long duration and exploration spaceflights that recognize those ethical responsibilities. In particular, the report recommended that the Administration “provide preventative long-term health screening and surveillance of astronauts and lifetime health care to protect their health, support ongoing evaluation of health standards, improve mission safety, and reduce risks for current and future astronauts”.
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Response— The Administration shall prepare a response to the National Academies report recommendation described in subsection (a). The response shall include the estimated budgetary resources required for the implementation of those recommendations, and any options that might be considered as part of the response.
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Transmittal— The response required under subsection (b) shall be transmitted to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act.