H.R. 5503 — what changed
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2018
From Introduced in House to Reported in House.
20 sections amended, 7 added, and 2 removed between Introduced in House and Reported in House.
In this Act:
(1)
Administrator— The term Administrator means the Administrator of NASA.
(2)
Cis-lunar space— The term cis-lunar space means the region of space from the Earth out to and including the region around the surface of the Moon.
(3)
ISS— The term ISS means the International Space Station.
(4)
NASA— The term NASA means the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
(5)
removed
Near-Earth asteroid— The term near-Earth asteroid means an asteroid with a perihelion distance of less than 1.3 Astronomical Units from the Sun.
(5)
renumbered
was (8)
Near-Earth object— The term near-Earth object means an asteroid or comet with a perihelion distance of less than 1.3 Astronomical Units from the Sun.
(6)
renumbered
was (9)
Nonprofit organization— The term “nonprofit organization” means an organization determined by the Secretary of the Treasury to be an organization described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C. 501(c)(3)) which is exempt from taxation under section 501(a) of such Code.
(7)
renumbered
was (10)
Orion— The term Orion means the multipurpose crew vehicle described under section 303 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18323).
(8)
renumbered
was (11)
Space Launch System— The term Space Launch System has the meaning given the term in section 3 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18302).
Sec. 101
Fiscal year 2018
There are authorized to be appropriated to NASA for fiscal year 2018, $20,736,140,000, as follows:
(1)
For Science, $6,221,500,000, of which—
(A)
$1,921,000,000 is for Earth Science;
(B)
$2,227,900,000 is for Planetary Science;
(C)
$850,400,000 is for Astrophysics;
(D)
$533,700,000 is for the James Webb Space Telescope; and
(E)
$688,500,000 is for Heliophysics.
(2)
For Aeronautics, $685,000,000.
(3)
For Space Technology, $760,000,000.
(4)
For Exploration, $4,790,000,000, of which—
(A)
$1,350,000,000 is for Orion and associated program and other necessary support;
(B)
$2,150,000,000 is for the Space Launch System and associated program and other necessary support;
(C)
changed
$895,000,000 is for Exploration Ground Systems; Systems, including $350,000,000 for a second mobile launch platform and associated Space Launch System activities; and
(D)
$395,000,000 is for Exploration Research and Development.
(5)
For Space Operations, $4,751,500,000.
(6)
For Education, $100,000,000, of which—
(A)
changed
$18,000,000 is for the Experimental Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research; and
(B)
$40,000,000 is for the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program.
(7)
For Safety, Security, and Mission Services, $2,826,900,000.
(8)
For Construction and Environmental Compliance and Restoration, $562,240,000.
(9)
For Inspector General, $39,000,000.
Sec. 102
Fiscal year 2019
changed
There are authorized to be appropriated to NASA for fiscal year 2019, $20,736,140,000, $21,207,140,000, as follows:
(1)
For Deep Space Exploration Systems, $4,929,000,000, of which—
(A)
$4,040,000,000 is for Exploration Systems Development, of which—
(i)
changed
$2,150,000,000 $1,350,000,000 is for Orion and associated program and other necessary support;
(ii)
changed
$1,350,000,000 $2,150,000,000 is for the Space Launch System and associated program and other necessary support; and
(iii)
$540,000,000 is for Exploration Ground Systems; and
(B)
$889,000,000 is for Advanced Exploration Systems, of which—
(i)
$504,300,000 is for the Lunar Orbital Platform–Gateway and associated program and other necessary support;
(ii)
$116,500,000 is for Advanced Cislunar and Surface Capabilities; and
(iii)
$268,200,000 is for Exploration Advanced Systems.
(2)
For Exploration and Research Technology, $1,017,700,000, of which—
(A)
$108,500,000 is for Early Stage Innovation and Partnerships;
(B)
$216,500,000 if for Technology Maturation, of which $75,000,000 is for nuclear fission and cryogenic fluid management development;
(C)
$332,700,000 is for Technology Demonstration.
(D)
$140,000,000 is for Human Research Program; and
(E)
$205,000,000 is for Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer.
(3)
For Low-Earth Orbit and Spaceflight Operations, $4,624,600,000, of which—
(A)
$1,462,200,000 is for the International Space Station;
(B)
$2,108,700,000 is for Space Transportation;
(C)
$903,700,000 is for Space Flight Support; and
(D)
$150,000,000 is for Commercial Low-Earth Orbit Development.
(4)
changed
For Science, $6,152,600,000, $6,623,600,000, of which—
(A)
changed
$1,450,000,000 $1,921,000,000 is for Earth Science;
(B)
$2,636,500,000 is for Planetary Science;
(C)
$1,375,400,000 is for Astrophysics; and
(D)
$690,700,000 is for Heliophysics.
(5)
For Aeronautics, $685,000,000.
(6)
For Education, $100,000,000, of which—
(A)
$18,000,000 is for the Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research; and
(B)
changed
$40,000,000 is for National Space Grant.Grant College and Fellowship Program.
(7)
For Safety, Security, and Mission Services, $2,749,700,000.
(8)
For Construction and Environmental Compliance and Restoration, $438,200,000.
(9)
For Inspector General, $39,300,000.
Sec. 201
Space facilities beyond low-Earth orbit
(a)
Sense of congress— It is the sense of Congress that space facilities for use beyond low-Earth orbit play a significant role in NASA’s long-term pursuit of its exploration goals under section 202(a) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18312(a)).
(b)
Crewed and crew-Tended space facilities report—
(1)
In general— Not later than 90 days 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 potential development of space facilities for use beyond low-Earth orbit.
(2)
Contents— The report required under paragraph (1) shall include a description of—
(A)
how each such space facility can advance, enable, or complement human exploration of the Solar System, including of the atmosphere and the surface of celestial bodies;
(B)
changed
the role of the space facility as a staging, logistics, and operations hub in an exploration architecture;
(C)
changed
how the space facility could can support the research, development, testing, validation, operation, and launch of space exploration systems and technologies;
(D)
opportunities and strategies for commercial operation or public-private partnerships that protect taxpayer interests and foster competition; and
(E)
the role of such a space facility in making, developing, and refining the case for further crewed and uncrewed exploration investments.
(a)
Findings— Congress finds the following:
(1)
changed
The ISS is a valuable national asset that can continue to produce worthwhile scientific research and valuable technology.
(2)
The ISS mission should be to carry out microgravity research and development, research in support of deep space human exploration, and low-Earth orbit commercialization.
(3)
added
In addition to the priorities under paragraph (2), the United States has a larger and broader need and use for further microgravity research.
(4)
renumbered
was (2)(5)
The ISS is the best platform currently available to conduct certain types of research needed for NASA’s deep space human exploration program with such research currently scheduled to be completed by the end of fiscal year 2024.
(5)
renumbered
was (2)(6)
The ISS transition report, submitted pursuant to section 50111(c)(2) of title 51, United States Code, provides an explanation of NASA’s plans to foster the development of private industry capabilities and private demand with a goal of ending direct NASA support for ISS operations by the end of fiscal year 2024.
(6)
renumbered
was (2)(7)
The plans laid out in the ISS transition report are conditionally flexible and require feedback to inform next steps. In addition, the feasibility of ending direct NASA support for ISS operations by the end of fiscal year 2024 is dependent on many factors, some of which are indeterminate until the Administration carries out the initial phases of the ISS transition plan.
(7)
renumbered
was (2)(8)
The value of any in-space facility, such as the ISS, depends both on its contributions to further expansion of human presence throughout the solar system, pursuant to section 202 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18312) and to making existing presence self-sustaining.
(8)
renumbered
was (2)(9)
As the United States moves towards a commitment to a human presence off the surface of the Earth, other Government agencies should seek to benefit from and capitalize upon the ongoing human presence in space.
(b)
changed
In general— The Administration shall support the Johnson Space Center as a center of innovation and leadership in developing human operations, including on surfaces of celestial bodies, beyond Earth, to the cis-lunar region, the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
(1)
changed
In general— NASA shall continue operation of the International Space Station ISS for such time as Congress authorizes its operations.
(2)
International agreements— NASA shall pursue international agreements to provide maximum flexibility for ISS utilization.
(3)
Low-Earth Orbit— NASA shall pursue a step-wise transition of low-Earth orbit human spaceflight operations from a Government-directed activity to a model where private industry is responsible for how to meet and execute NASA’s requirements.
(4)
Transition report— NASA shall carry out activities in fiscal year 2019 as proposed in the ISS transition report, delivered pursuant to section 50111(c) of title 51, United States Code.
(d)
changed
Reporting— In addition to the biennial reporting requirement under section 50111(c) of title 51, United States Code, the Administrator shall brief the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate quarterly, beginning on the date that is 3 months 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, on the status of, and all progress, changes, and other developments related to carrying out the plans in the ISS transition report.
(e)
changed
Authorized Funding— Subject to the availability of appropriations, the Administrator shall make available at least $150,000,000 for fiscal year 2019 for commercial low-Earth orbit development out of the LEO Low Earth Orbit and Spaceflight Operations account.
Sec. 203
Human spaceflight research
(a)
Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that—
(1)
added
in line with the National Space Council Policy Directive 1, as implemented by the President’s memo of December 11, 2017, the United States should lead the return of humans to the Moon for long-term exploration and utilization, followed by human missions to Mars and other destinations;
(2)
renumbered
was (2)(3)
the benefits derived from the peaceful use of space depend on the extent to which ground-based space infrastructure, facilities, and research are well-integrated; and
(3)
added
NASA Johnson Space Center has the expertise and facilities to support the development of the major technological innovations necessary to enable and support the nation’s ongoing commitment to human spaceflight, exploration, and continued human presence in space.
(2)
removed
NASA Johnson Space Center (hereinafter referred to as “JSC”) has the expertise and facilities to support the development of the major technological innovations necessary to enable and support the nation’s ongoing commitment to human spaceflight, exploration, and continued human presence in space.
(b)
Johnson Space Center research office—
(1)
changed
Establishment— The Administrator shall establish a research office at JSC Johnson Space Center to build upon the Center’s existing expertise in human space flight missions for future challenges.
(2)
changed
Research director— The head of the research office shall be the research director, who shall report directly to the Director of JSC.Johnson Space Center.
(3)
Duties— The research director shall have, at a minimum, the following duties:
(A)
Oversee a research portfolio focused on human space flight.
(B)
Recommend infrastructure and equipment necessary to carry out a research mission.
(C)
Oversee professional development and continuing education, as necessary and appropriate, for the civil workforce as the research and innovation focus of the center increases.
(4)
Scope of research— The research office shall focus on aspects of research that are directly relevant to the endeavor of human space flight, including problems of human spaceflight and robotics supporting human space exploration.
(5)
changed
Support for human spaceflight activities— JSC Johnson Space Center shall, consistent with its primary responsibilities to NASA and other government customers, endeavor to make the fullest possible use of its facilities and infrastructure to support all U.S. human spaceflight activities, including those of the private sector.
(c)
changed
Report— Not later than 180 days after the enactment of this Act, NASA and JSC Johnson Space Center 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 NASA’s progress on, and other developments related to, carrying out the requirements of this section.
(d)
Authorized Funding— Subject to the availability of appropriations, the Administrator shall make available at least $15,000,000 in fiscal year 2019 out of the Exploration Research and Technology account to carry out this section.
Sec. 204
Critical path redundancy for human spaceflight
(a)
Findings— Congress finds that NASA, in cooperation with private sector and international partners, has facilitated the development of a wide array of cargo and crew transportation options for operations in low-Earth orbit and beyond.
(b)
Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that the availability of a multitude of launch vehicles and crew and cargo vehicles provides critical path redundancy.
(c)
added
GAO report on metrics for logistical and transport redundancy—
(1)
added
In general— Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States 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 that contains an evaluation of appropriate technical benchmarks and metrics on the suitability and performance, including cost, reliability, and availability of—
(c)
removed
Logistical and transport redundancy— Not later than 3 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives a report that contains an evaluation of the suitability and performance, including cost, reliability, and availability, of—
(A)
renumbered
was (4)(3)
all available crew and cargo vehicles for destinations in low-Earth orbit, cis-lunar space, and beyond; and
(B)
added
all available launch vehicles that are capable of deploying more than 20 tons to low-Earth orbit and beyond, to support exploration and scientific missions, particularly to outer planets.
(2)
added
Inclusion in NASA analysis— The Administrator shall consider the Comptroller General’s report findings on benchmarks and metrics as part of NASA’s analysis of logistical and transport redundancy.
(2)
removed
all available launch vehicles that are capable of delivering more than 20 tons to, or beyond, low-Earth orbit to support exploration and scientific missions, particularly to outer planets.
Sec. 206
Mobile launch platform and interim cryogenic propulsion stage
added
added
Consistent with NASA’s appropriation for fiscal year 2018, the Administrator shall pursue the following:
(1)
added
The expeditious development of a new-build, second Mobile Launch Platform specifically designed to support the launch of Space Launch System configurations that use the Exploration Upper Stage.
(2)
added
The procurement of a second Interim Cryogenic Propulsion Stage.
(a)
added
Finding— Congress finds that human exploration of Mars is an important objective in NASA’s human exploration agenda.
(b)
added
Prioritization— The Administrator shall prioritize timelines for fulfillment of the engineering, science, and safety requirements to reduce mission risk and ensure mission completion when evaluating human exploration of Mars by 2033, if not sooner.
(a)
Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that—
(1)
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; and
(2)
to the greatest extent practicable, the United States should foster the development of U.S. private sector remote sensing capabilities and analyses that can satisfy the public interest in long-term continuous collection of medium-resolution land remote sensing data.
(b)
Continuous land remote sensing data collection—
(1)
In general— Subchapter IV of chapter 601 of title 51, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
“60135. Continuous land remote sensing data collection
“(a) Policy—It is the policy of the United States to—
“(1) ensure, to the greatest extent practicable, the continuous collection of space-based, medium-resolution observations of the Earth’s land cover;
“(2) ensure that the collected data are made available in such ways as to facilitate the widest possible use; and
changed
“(3) foster, to the greatest extent practicable, foster practicable the development of U.S. private sector remote sensing capabilities and analyses that can satisfy the public interest in long-term continuous collection of medium-resolution land remote sensing data.
“(b) Coordination—The National Space Council, in consultation with other relevant Federal agencies, shall coordinate United States Government activities described under paragraphs (1) through (3) of subsection (a).”
(2)
Conforming amendment— The table of sections for subchapter IV of chapter 601 of title 51, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
Sec. 306
Goddard Institute for Space Studies Inspector General report
changed
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 containing the results of NASA’s implementation of the recommendations identified in the report published by the NASA Office of Inspector General on April 5, 2018, titled “NASA’s Management of GISS: The Goddard Institute for Space Studies”.
Sec. 322
Space nuclear power
(a)
Finding— Congress finds that in-space nuclear fission power complements the use of Plutonium-238 radioisotope thermoelectric generators (in this section referred to as “RTG”) for spacecraft power needs.
(b)
Policy— It is the policy of the United States—
(1)
to continue the development of in-space nuclear fission technology, as necessary, for purposes including—
(A)
in-space power generation for advanced in-space propulsion;
(B)
onboard power generation to replace or supplement RTG systems;
(C)
power generation on the surface of celestial bodies;
(D)
extraction and processing of in situ resources; and
(E)
nuclear thermal and nuclear electric propulsion able to transport crew or cargo among Earth and other celestial bodies much more rapidly than is practical with non-nuclear systems;
(2)
that research and development of in-space nuclear fission power should be carried out as part of a portfolio that appropriately balances development of power systems at different sizes and maturities, with an emphasis on early development of mature, operational systems; and
(3)
that NASA should continually seek to streamline the process for space launch approval of nuclear materials, eliminate redundant and unneeded processes, and regularize the process for efficient, regular functioning, and toward that end, the Administrator should update the launch approval process and seek to establish a licensing process for private nuclear power sources in space.
(c)
Space nuclear power report—
(1)
In general— Not later than 180 days 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, produced in consultation with industry and academia, on the use and role of nuclear fission power in space.
(2)
Contents— The report required under paragraph (1) shall include—
(A)
an assessment of the prospects for in-space nuclear fission reactors, describing particular roles and missions for which nuclear power is uniquely well-suited;
(B)
a description of the convergence between NASA’s existing Plutonium-238 RTG programs and ongoing nuclear thermal propulsion and nuclear power generation development programs;
(C)
a detailed plan for encouraging convergence between NASA’s various nuclear power and propulsion efforts;
(D)
an identification of key infrastructure and facilities needed for the development of in-space nuclear fission power reactors;
(E)
an identification of particular legal issues, including regulatory challenges, that must be addressed for the use of nuclear fission power systems;
(F)
changed
how small in-space nuclear fission reactors can complement or replace existing and planned radioisotope thermal generator capabilities; andcapabilities;
(G)
changed
information on very low cost, high reliability designs that can be made operational quickly.quickly; and
(H)
added
a cost analysis, including long-term and security costs, of the use of highly enriched uranium versus low-enriched uranium in power generation in space applications, including surface power and in-space propulsion.
(d)
changed
Demonstration— NASA should demonstrate a nuclear electric power reactor for use in space using existing authorized funding levels and within a schedule made possible by appropriated funding.
Sec. 404
Experimental plane program
(a)
Policy— It is the policy of the United States to maintain the role of the United States as a world leader in aeronautical science and technology.
(b)
changed
Objective— A One of the fundamental objective objectives of NASA aeronautics research is the steady progression and expansion of high-speed flight research and capabilities, including the science and technology of critical underlying disciplines and competencies, the most important of which are computational-based analytical and predictive tools and methodologies, aero thermodynamics, high-speed flight propulsion, high-temperature structures and materials, and flight controls.
Sec. 405
Hypersonic Technology project
(a)
Findings— Congress finds that—
(1)
the development of new hypersonic flight technologies is important to the United States;
(2)
though hypersonic flight technologies are likely to be applied to enhance defense systems in the near-term, in the long-term, application of such technologies may expand to include improved access-to-space capabilities that benefit NASA; and
(3)
NASA maintains specialized facilities and experts who will focus on research areas that explore challenges in hypersonic flight.
(b)
changed
Policy— In carrying out the Hypersonic Technology project, Project, NASA should focus research and development efforts on high-speed propulsion systems, reusable vehicle technologies, high-temperature materials, and systems analysis.
(c)
changed
Authorized funding— Subject to the availability of appropriations, the Administrator shall make available at least $30,000,000 for fiscal year 2019 for the Hypersonic Technology project.Project from the Aeronautics account.
added
The Administrator shall submit to the Committee a report on the development of the Low-Boom Flight Demonstration aircraft, including the following:
(1)
added
NASA’s planned coordination with other executive agencies to ensure developmental and operational testing infrastructure availability during flight demonstration.
(2)
added
NASA’s acquisition strategy to ensure availability of chase aircraft for flight demonstration.
Sec. 501
Commercial supply of space products
(a)
In general— Subchapter II of chapter 501 of title 51, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
“50117. Commercial supply of space products
changed
“(a) In general—In planning and carrying out space exploration missions, the Administrator shall, to the greatest extent practicable, prioritize the acquisition and use of space products provided by a United States commercial provider or through a public-private partnership with a United States commercial provider.provide.
“(b) Space product defined—In this section, the term space product means a tangible good, including a finished good, or commodity, including a propellant, water, oxygen, or gas, that—
“(1) is required for space exploration activities; and
“(2) originates in outer space.
“(c) Commodities used in space
changed
“(1) List of commodities—In planning a space exploration mission, the Administrator shall create a list of commodities to be used during such mission. The list shall include specification of each commodity, anticipated quantity, and the location and the timeframe of need.
“(2) Commodity cost basis—For each commodity listed pursuant paragraph (1), NASA shall establish a commodity cost basis that shall represent the lesser of—
“(A) the estimated cost to procure the commodity on Earth and deliver the commodity to the location of use; and
“(B) the estimated cost for the Government to procure the equivalent commodity that is a space product.
“(3) Publication—The Administrator shall annually publish the information compiled under paragraphs (1) and (2) during the previous calendar year.
“(d) Exceptions—The Administrator shall not be required to prioritize the acquisition of space products for the purposes described in subsection (a) if, on a case-by-case basis—
“(1) the Administrator determines that—
“(A) cost-effective space products that meet specific mission requirements would not be reasonably available from United States commercial providers when required;
“(B) the use of space products from United States commercial providers poses an unacceptable mission risk; or
“(C) the use of space products is inconsistent with international agreements for international collaborative efforts relating to science and technology; or
“(2) the Secretary of the Air Force determines that the use of space commodities from United States commercial providers is inconsistent with national security objectives.
“(e) Agreements with foreign entities—Nothing in this section shall prevent the Administrator from planning or negotiating agreements with foreign governmental entities for the provision of space products.”
(b)
Conforming amendment— Subchapter II of chapter 501 of title 51, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
Sec. 502
Space services and in-space infrastructure
(a)
changed
In general—Sense of Congress— Subchapter II It is the sense of chapter 501 Congress that there exist many commercial opportunities with a wide array of title 51, United States Code, is further amended by adding at providers and partners that will allow for more effective use of taxpayer investments in the end pursuit of the following:long-term goals of NASA, as described in section 202(a) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18312(a)), including expanding permanent human presence beyond low-Earth orbit.
removed
“50118. Commercial provision of services
removed
“(a) In general—In planning and carrying out space exploration missions, the Administrator shall, to the greatest extent practicable, acquire services to be carried out in outer space by a United States commercial provider or through a public-private partnership with a United States commercial provider to support such missions.
removed
“(b) Exceptions—The Administrator shall not be required to acquire services under subsection (a) from a United States commercial provider or through a public-private partnership with a United States commercial provider if, on a case-by-case basis—
removed
“(1) the Administrator determines that—
removed
“(A) cost-effective services that meet specific mission requirements would not be reasonably available from United States commercial providers when required;
removed
“(B) the use of such services from United States commercial providers poses an unacceptable mission risk; or
removed
“(C) the use of such services is inconsistent with international agreements for international collaborative efforts relating to science and technology; or
removed
“(2) the Secretary of the Air Force determines that the use of services from United States commercial providers is inconsistent with national security objectives.
removed
“(c) Agreements with foreign entities—Nothing in this section shall prevent the Administrator from planning or negotiating agreements with foreign governmental entities for the provision of support services to be carried out in outer space.”
(b)
changed
Conforming amendment—Report— Subchapter II Not later than 120 days after the date of chapter 501 enactment of title 51, United States Code, is further amended by adding at this Act, the end Administrator shall submit to the following: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 various commercial opportunities and options for the procurement of in-space services or use of in-space infrastructure for exploration and other NASA missions.
Sec. 503
Preference for launch vehicles manufactured in the United States
added
It is the sense of Congress that the Administrator should, to the greatest extent possible, with respect to entering into contracts for commercial space data and services, provide weighed preference, selection points, and other incentives for the use of launch vehicles that are manufactured in the United States.
(a)
removed
In general— Subchapter II of chapter 501 of title 51, United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end the following:
removed
“50119. Commercial in-space infrastructure
removed
“(a) In general—In planning and carrying out space exploration missions, the Administrator shall, to the greatest extent practicable, make use of commercial in-space infrastructure to support such missions.
removed
“(b) Commercial in-Space infrastructure—In this section, the term commercial in-space infrastructure means infrastructure that is—
removed
“(1) owned, managed, or built by a United States commercial provider or through a public-private partnership with a United States commercial provider; and
removed
“(2) located more than 320,000 kilometers from the Earth’s surface.
removed
“(c) Exceptions—The Administrator shall not be required to use commercial in-space infrastructure if, on a case-by-case basis—
removed
“(1) the Administrator determines that—
removed
“(A) cost-effective infrastructure that meets specific mission requirements would not be reasonably available from United States commercial providers when required;
removed
“(B) the use of commercial in-space infrastructure poses an unacceptable mission risk; or
removed
“(C) the use of commercial in-space infrastructure is inconsistent with international agreements for international collaborative efforts relating to science and technology; or
removed
“(2) the Secretary of the Air Force determines that the use of commercial in-space infrastructure is inconsistent with national security objectives.
removed
“(d) Agreements with foreign entities—Nothing in this section shall prevent the Administrator from planning or negotiating agreements with foreign governmental entities for the use infrastructure in support of United States civil government activities in outer space.”
(b)
removed
Conforming amendment— Subchapter II of chapter 501 of title 51, United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end the following:
Sec. 504
Studies on industrial base
changed
It is No funds may be obligated or expended by the sense Administrator for purposes of Congress carrying out a Bureau of Industry and Security survey of the United States aerospace industrial base until the date that is 30 days after the date on which the Administrator should, submits to the greatest extent possible, with respect to entering into contracts for commercial space data Committee on Science, Space, and services, provide weighed preference, selection points, Technology of the House of Representatives and other incentives for the use Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of launch vehicles that are manufactured in the United States.Senate a written notification that includes—
(1)
added
the proposed subject matter of such survey;
(2)
added
a description of the information to be required of survey respondents; and
(3)
added
any penalties proposed to be assessed by the Federal Government against respondents for noncompliance with survey requirements.
Sec. 505
Enhanced-use leasing
(a)
added
Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that—
(1)
added
NASA possesses a variety of unique and world-class facilities;
(2)
added
NASA is developing and using many different methods to offset the cost of maintaining and operating such facilities;
(3)
added
nongovernmental entities, States, and local governments may be able to use such facilities in a manner that is cost-effective; and
(4)
added
agreements between NASA and nongovernmental entities, States, and local governments regarding the use of such facilities may offset a portion of the spending of NASA.
removed
No funds may be obligated or expended by the Administrator for purposes of carrying out a Bureau of Industry and Security survey of the United States aerospace industrial base until the date that is 30 days after the date on which the Administrator submits 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 written notification that includes—
(b)
changed
Extension of authority To lease non-Excess property— the proposed subject matter Section 20145(g) of such survey;title 51, United States Code, is amended by striking “December 31, 2018” and inserting “December 31, 2020”.
(c)
changed
Condition on use of funds— a description For any year for which funds are made available under section 20145 of title 51, United States Code, (as amended by subsection (b)), no funds may be expended by the information Administrator under such section after January 31 unless the Administrator submits, before such date, to be required the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of survey respondents; andthe House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate the annual report required under such section for the prior year.
(3)
removed
any penalties proposed to be assessed by the Federal Government against respondents for noncompliance with survey requirements.
Sec. 506
Satellite servicing
added
The Administrator shall continue to restructure NASA investments in the development of satellite servicing technologies to reduce the overall cost to NASA and align with NASA needs for exploration.
(a)
removed
In General— The Administrator shall develop and implement a plan to more effectively and efficiently, taking into account NASA’s spectrum requirements, share electromagnetic spectrum assigned to NASA with United States nongovernmental entities operating or proposing to operate space objects.
(b)
removed
Report— Not later than 180 days 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 plan developed under subsection (a).
Sec. 507
Enhanced-use leasing
removed
(a)
removed
Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that—
(1)
removed
NASA possesses a variety of unique and world-class facilities;
(2)
removed
NASA is developing and using many different methods to offset the cost of maintaining and operating such facilities;
(3)
removed
nongovernmental entities may be able to use such facilities in a manner that is cost-effective; and
(4)
removed
agreements between NASA and nongovernmental entities regarding the use of such facilities may offset a portion of the spending of NASA.
(b)
removed
Extension of authority To lease non-Excess property— Section 20145(g) of title 51, United States Code, is amended by striking “December 31, 2018” and inserting “December 31, 2020”.
(c)
removed
Condition on use of funds— For any year for which funds are made available under section 20145 of title 51, United States Code, (as amended by subsection (b)), no funds may be expended by the Administrator under such section after January 31 unless Administrator submits, before such date, 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 annual report required under such section for the prior year.
Sec. 508
Satellite servicing technologies
removed
removed
The Administrator shall continue to restructure NASA investments in the development of satellite servicing technologies to reduce the overall cost to NASA and align with NASA needs for exploration.
Sec. 603
Reports to Congress
(a)
In general— Chapter 301 of title 51, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
“30105. Concurrent reports
changed
“For any report that the Administration submits to the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives or the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate, the Administrator shall concurrently submit such report to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee of the Senate.”
(b)
Conforming amendment— The table of sections for chapter 301 of title 51, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
Sec. 606
Human space exploration risk
(a)
Findings— Congress finds the following:
(1)
American leadership in the peaceful exploration and use of outer space has been a long-standing priority for the United States.
(2)
changed
The reestablishment of the National Space Council in 2017 by the President Trump demonstrates the strategic importance of outer space to the Nation.
(3)
The December 2017 National Security Strategy of the United States establishes the broad strategic importance of outer space exploration and use for the United States.
(b)
Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that—
(1)
exploration and use of outer space is a matter of broad, national strategic importance; and
(2)
space exploration decision-making and requirement-setting in such a strategic context is complex, especially with respect to setting appropriate priorities and levels of risk tolerance.
(c)
Report on inherent justifiable risk—
(1)
In general— Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the National Space Council, or its designee, shall submit to Congress and make available to the public a report relating the broad strategic national importance of space to the inherent, justifiable risk of the exploration and use of space.
(2)
Policy and strategy— The Administrator shall engage with appropriate members of the private sector, academia, and nonprofit organizations on a policy and strategy of enterprise-level engineering and operational risk management to present in the report that addresses inherent, justifiable risks of loss of life that may occur in space exploration and use.
(3)
Contents— The report required under paragraph (1) shall—
(A)
clarify the broad strategic case and value of space;
(B)
address inherent, justifiable risks of loss of life that may occur in space exploration and use; and
(C)
discuss enterprise- and architecture-level approaches for exploration risk management.
Sec. 607
NASA launch support and infrastructure modernization program
added
(a)
added
Launch support and infrastructure modernization— The Administrator shall continue the program established under section 305 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18325) for launch support and infrastructure modernization for launch sites and ranges at NASA facilities that support the International Space Station mission.
(b)
added
Leverage of infrastructure investments— Such program should, to the greatest extent practicable, leverage current and planned State government infrastructure investments at NASA facilities to support these and other missions and use funding available under this program to collaborate on relevant infrastructure projects.
Sec. 608
Reaffirmations on orbital debris
added
(a)
added
Reaffirmation of findings— Congress reaffirms the findings under section 839(a) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Transition Authorization Act of 2017 (Public Law 115–10) that—
(1)
added
orbital debris poses serious risks to the operational space capabilities of the United States;
(2)
added
an international commitment and integrated strategic plan are needed to mitigate the growth of orbital debris wherever possible; and
(3)
added
the delay in the Office of Science and Technology Policy's submission of a report on the status of international coordination and development of orbital debris mitigation strategies is inconsistent with such risks.
(b)
added
Reaffirmation of sense of Congress— Congress reaffirms the sense of Congress under section 840(a) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Transition Authorization Act of 2017 (Public Law 115–10) that—
(1)
added
orbital debris in low-Earth orbit poses significant risks to spacecraft;
(2)
added
such orbital debris may increase due to collisions between existing debris objects; and
(3)
added
understanding options to address and remove orbital debris is important for ensuring safe and effective spacecraft operations in low-Earth orbit.
Sec. 609
Federal-State partnerships
added
(a)
added
Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that, as State and local governments have invested hundreds of millions of dollars in new infrastructure and operations at Administration space facilities to meet the needs of civil, national security, and commercial space activities, the Administration should seek to leverage such investments and the resources and capabilities of State and local governments.
(b)
added
Report— Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to Congress a report describing—
(1)
added
existing partnerships with State and local governments at Administration facilities;
(2)
added
past and current investments and partnerships in facility infrastructure and operations with State and local government that benefitted Federal, State, and commercial users;
(3)
added
the contracting mechanisms used and the average response time from a facility infrastructure partnership proposal to approval by the Administration;
(4)
added
current or prospective opportunities for Federal-State matching grant funding to support shared infrastructure;
(5)
added
the benefits and challenges associated with Federal-State infrastructure partnerships; and
(6)
added
how, if at all, the Administration should expand Federal-State partnerships to better meet the needs of civil, national security, and commercial space activities.
Sec. 610
Security management of foreign national access
added
added
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 when the agency has implemented the information technology security recommendations from the National Academy of Public Administration on foreign national access management.