H.R. 7273

[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 7273 Introduced in House (IH)]

<DOC>

119th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. R. 7273

To reauthorize the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and 
for other purposes.

_______________________________________________________________________

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

January 30, 2026

Mr. Babin (for himself, Ms. Lofgren, Mr. Haridopolos, and Mrs. Foushee) 
introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on 
Science, Space, and Technology

_______________________________________________________________________

A BILL

To reauthorize the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and 
for other purposes.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
United States of America in Congress assembled,

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``NASA 
Reauthorization Act of 2026''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as 
follows:

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. Definitions.
TITLE I--AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS

Sec. 101. Fiscal year 2026.
TITLE II--EXPLORATION

Sec. 201. Continuity of purpose for space exploration.
Sec. 202. Artemis program.
Sec. 203. Reaffirmation of the Space Launch System.
Sec. 204. Human-rated lunar landing capabilities.
Sec. 205. Advanced spacesuit capabilities.
TITLE III--SPACE OPERATIONS

Subtitle A--Policy

Sec. 301. Report on continued United States presence in low-Earth 
orbit.
Sec. 302. United States strategy for low-Earth orbit.
Sec. 303. Risk of losing access to low-Earth orbit.
Subtitle B--International Space Station

Sec. 311. International Space Station.
Sec. 312. Maintenance of service for International Space Station.
Sec. 313. Nongovernmental human missions on the International Space 
Station.
Sec. 314. United States deorbit capabilities.
Subtitle C--Future Activities and Other Provisions

Sec. 321. Commercial low-Earth orbit development.
Sec. 322. Report on suborbital crew missions.
Sec. 323. Orbital debris research and development.
Sec. 324. Lunar communications and navigation.
Sec. 325. Celestial time standardization.
TITLE IV--SPACE TECHNOLOGY

Sec. 401. SBIR phase II flexibility.
Sec. 402. Lunar power purchase agreement feasibility study.
Sec. 403. Cryogenic fluid valve technology review.
TITLE V--AERONAUTICS

Sec. 501. Definitions.
Sec. 502. Experimental aircraft demonstrations.
Sec. 503. Hypersonics research.
Sec. 504. Advanced materials and manufacturing technology.
Sec. 505. Unmanned aircraft systems and advanced air mobility.
Sec. 506. Advanced capabilities for emergency response operations.
Sec. 507. Hydrogen aviation.
Sec. 508. High-performance chase aircraft.
Sec. 509. Collaboration with academia.
Sec. 510. Decadal survey for national aeronautics research.
Sec. 511. Making advancements in commercial hypersonics.
TITLE VI--SCIENCE

Sec. 601. Maintaining a balanced science portfolio.
Sec. 602. Implementation of science mission cost-caps.
Sec. 603. Reexamination of decadal surveys.
Sec. 604. Landsat.
Sec. 605. Private earth observation data.
Sec. 606. Commercial satellite data.
Sec. 607. NASA data for agricultural applications.
Sec. 608. Planetary science portfolio.
Sec. 609. Planetary defense.
Sec. 610. Lunar discovery and exploration.
Sec. 611. Commercial lunar payload services.
Sec. 612. Planetary and lunar operations.
Sec. 613. Mars sample return.
Sec. 614. Hubble space telescope servicing.
Sec. 615. Great observatories mission and technology maturation.
Sec. 616. Nancy Grace Roman space telescope.
Sec. 617. Heliophysics research.
Sec. 618. Study on commercial space weather data.
Sec. 619. Geospace dynamics constellation.
Sec. 620. Technology development for wildland fire science, management, 
and mitigation.
Sec. 621. Implementation of recommendations by the National Wildland 
Fire Management and Mitigation Commission.
TITLE VII--STEM EDUCATION

Sec. 701. National space grant college and fellowship program.
Sec. 702. Skilled technical workforce education outreach.
TITLE VIII--POLICY OF NASA

Sec. 801. Major programs.
Sec. 802. NASA advisory council.
Sec. 803. NASA assessment of early cost estimates.
Sec. 804. Independent cost estimate.
Sec. 805. Authorization for the transfer to NASA of funds from other 
agencies for scientific or engineering 
research or education.
Sec. 806. Report on merits and options for establishing an institute 
relating to space resources.
Sec. 807. Reports to Congress.
Sec. 808. Contract flexibility.
Sec. 809. GAO report.
Sec. 810. NASA public-private talent program.
Sec. 811. Report on Space Act agreements.
Sec. 812. Mentoring.
Sec. 813. Restriction on Federal funds relating to certain space and 
scientific activities of the People's 
Republic of China.
Sec. 814. Rule of construction.

SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.

In this Act:
(1) Administrator.--The term ``Administrator'' means the 
Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration.
(2) Appropriate committees of congress.--The term 
``appropriate committees of Congress'' means--
(A) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate; and
(B) the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology 
of the House of Representatives.
(3) Cislunar space.--The term ``cislunar space'' means the 
region of space beyond low-Earth orbit out to and including the 
region around the surface of the Moon.
(4) Commercial provider.--The term ``commercial provider'' 
means any person providing space services or space-related 
capabilities, primary control of which is held by persons other 
than the Federal Government, a State or local government, or a 
foreign government.
(5) Deep space.--The term ``deep space'' means the region 
of space beyond low-Earth orbit, which includes cislunar space.
(6) ISS.--The term ``ISS'' means the International Space 
Station.
(7) NASA.--The term ``NASA'' means the National Aeronautics 
and Space Administration.
(8) 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).
(9) Space launch system.--The term ``Space Launch System'' 
means the Space Launch System authorized under section 302 of 
the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization 
Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18322).

TITLE I--AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS

SEC. 101. FISCAL YEAR 2026.

For fiscal year 2026, there are authorized to be appropriated to 
NASA $24,438,336,000, as follows:
(1) For Exploration, $7,783,000,000.
(2) For Space Operations, $4,175,000,000.
(3) For Science, $7,250,000,000.
(4) For Aeronautics, $935,000,000.
(5) For Space Technology, $920,500,000.
(6) For Education, $143,000,000.
(7) For Safety, Security, and Mission Services, 
$3,000,000,000.
(8) For Construction and Environmental Compliance and 
Restoration, $185,336,000.
(9) For Inspector General, $46,500,000.

TITLE II--EXPLORATION

SEC. 201. CONTINUITY OF PURPOSE FOR SPACE EXPLORATION.

(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) NASA continues to make progress in developing and 
testing the Space Launch System, Orion, and associated ground 
systems, including through the successful completion of the 
Artemis I mission in November 2022 and through continued 
preparations for the Artemis II crewed flight demonstration 
mission.
(2) The number of spacefaring countries is increasing, and 
foreign countries have expanded activities for space 
exploration efforts, including efforts to explore and utilize 
the Moon through human and robotic missions.
(3) A strong and ambitious space exploration program 
conducted with international and commercial partners is 
important to maintaining United States leadership in space and 
enhancing United States international competitiveness.
(4) Clear mission objectives that tie to concrete, long-
term programmatic goals provide a measure to ensure 
accountability, enhance public support for exploration 
missions, and provide a clear signal of commitment to both 
international and domestic partners.
(b) Continuity of Existing Capabilities and Programs.--
(1) As part of the human exploration activities of the 
Administration, including progress on Artemis missions and 
activities, the Administrator shall continue development of 
space exploration elements pursuant to section 10811 of the 
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act 
of 2022 (Public Law 117-167; 51 U.S.C. 20302).
(2) The Administrator shall leverage the private sector for 
logistical services to the extent practical, consistent with 
the Moon to Mars architecture requirements and in accordance 
with section 50131 of title 51, United States Code.
(3) Congress reaffirms the sense of Congress to maintain 
continuity of purpose as described in section 201 of the 2017 
NASA Transition Authorization Act (Public Law 115-10; 131 Stat. 
21).

SEC. 202. ARTEMIS PROGRAM.

(a) Sense of Congress.--The following is the sense of Congress:
(1) Exploration of outer space, including exploration of 
the lunar surface and cislunar space, provides benefits and 
economic opportunity, including by inspiring future generations 
and expanding the science, technology, engineering, and 
mathematics workforce needed to sustain United States 
leadership in science, space, and technology.
(2) The lunar south pole is home to shadowed craters that 
may contain water ice and other volatiles. Understanding the 
nature of lunar polar volatiles, such as water ice, would 
advance science related to the origin and evolution of 
volatiles in the inner solar system and could facilitate the 
long-term future of space exploration. Water ice lunar 
resources have the potential to become an enabling component of 
future space exploration missions throughout the solar system, 
including crewed missions to Mars.
(3) Other countries have demonstrated technological 
advances and successful robotic missions for lunar exploration 
and have announced credible plans for long-term human 
exploration of the Moon that include the intent to establish 
lunar bases.
(4) United States leadership of and measurable progress on 
the exploration of deep space is essential for guiding 
development of norms related to operations on and around the 
Moon and for other space destinations.
(5) It is in the national interest of the United States to 
hold a leadership role in discussions of future norms governing 
activities in space, including those on the lunar surface and 
in cislunar space.
(b) In General.--In carrying out activities to enable Artemis 
missions under the Moon to Mars Program set forth in section 10811 of 
the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 
2022 (Public Law 117-167), the Administrator shall--
(1) use relevant elements set forth in section 
10811(b)(2)(B) of the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration Authorization Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-167);
(2) continue to ensure that the elements under paragraph 
(1) enable the human exploration of Mars, consistent with 
section 10811(b)(2)(C)(i) of the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration Authorization Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-167);
(3) engage with international partners, as appropriate, in 
a manner that is consistent with section 10811(b)(2)(C) the 
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act 
of 2022 (Public Law 117-167), and that increases redundancy, 
efficiency, and cost savings; and
(4) leverage capabilities provided by United States 
commercial providers, as appropriate and practicable.
(c) United States Commercial Provider Capabilities in Support of 
Lunar Exploration Efforts.--The Administrator may enter into agreements 
with United States commercial providers or engage in public-private 
partnerships to procure capabilities and services to support the human 
exploration of the Moon or cislunar space.

SEC. 203. REAFFIRMATION OF THE SPACE LAUNCH SYSTEM.

(a) Space Launch System.--
(1) Development and cadence objectives.--Congress 
reaffirms--
(A) support for the full development of 
capabilities of the Space Launch System as set forth in 
section 302(c) of the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 
18322(c)); and
(B) its commitment to the flight rate of the 
integrated Space Launch System and Orion crew vehicle 
missions set forth in section 10812(b) of the National 
Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act 
of 2022 (Public Law 117-167; 51 U.S.C. 20301 note).
(2) Other uses.--The Administrator shall assess the demand 
for the Space Launch System by entities other than NASA and 
shall break out such demand according to the relevant Federal 
agency or nongovernment sector. This assessment may--
(A) estimate cost and schedule savings from reduced 
transit times and the potential for increased returns 
enabled by the unique capabilities of the Space Launch 
System;
(B) describe any barriers or challenges that could 
impede use of the Space Launch System by entities other 
than NASA; and
(C) identify potential actions and costs associated 
with overcoming barriers and challenges described in 
subparagraph (B).
(b) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress a report describing the following:
(1) NASA's progress towards achieving the flight rate 
referred to in subsection (a)(1)(B) and the expected launch of 
the integrated Space Launch System and Orion crew vehicle 
missions after which such cadence shall be achieved.
(2) The results of the assessment conducted pursuant to 
subsection (a)(2).

SEC. 204. HUMAN-RATED LUNAR LANDING CAPABILITIES.

(a) Reaffirmation.--Congress reaffirms that the Moon to Mars 
program set forth in section 10811 of the National Aeronautics and 
Space Administration Authorization Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-167; 51 
U.S.C. 20302 note.; 136 Stat. 1732) shall include human-rated lunar 
landing systems.
(b) Human-Rated Lunar Landing Capabilities.--
(1) In general.--The Administrator shall carry out the 
following:
(A) Support the development and demonstration of, 
and shall obtain, human-rated lunar landing 
capabilities, including lunar ascent capabilities, to 
further the goals of the human exploration roadmap 
under section 432 of the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration Transition Authorization Act of 2017 
(Public Law 115-10; 51 U.S.C. 20302 note) and the Moon 
to Mars Program set forth in section 10811 of the 
National Aeronautics and Space Administration 
Authorization Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-167).
(B) Ensure that such human-rated lunar landing 
capabilities meet all relevant requirements, including 
requirements of the Moon to Mars program, and for 
human-rating and certification.
(C) Ensure any commercial provider from which the 
Administrator obtains human-rated lunar landing 
capabilities is a United States commercial provider.
(2) Implementation.--In carrying out paragraph (1)(A)--
(A) the Administrator may include uncrewed lunar 
landing services; and
(B) the Administrator shall, subject to the 
availability of appropriations for such purpose, seek 
to obtain such capabilities from not fewer than two 
commercial providers.
(c) Report.--The Administrator shall submit to the appropriate 
committees of Congress the following:
(1) Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment 
of this Act, a report--
(A) identifying the contribution over the past five 
years, and the planned contribution for 2026 through 
2030, of government personnel, expertise, technologies 
and infrastructure utilized and to be utilized in 
support of design, development, or operation of human 
lunar landing capabilities under this section; and
(B) setting forth details and the associated costs 
of such government support, broken out according to the 
areas of contribution specified in subparagraph (A), as 
part of any development initiative for obtaining human 
lunar landing capabilities.
(2) Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment 
of this Act, a report that sets forth, for any agreement with a 
United States commercial provider for human lunar landing 
capabilities, the following:
(A) The total value of the agreement when awarded.
(B) If different from the amount in subparagraph 
(A), the total value of the agreement as of the date of 
the enactment of this Act, and an explanation for any 
change in value, as well as an identification of 
whether NASA or the commercial partner is responsible 
for meeting the change in value.
(C) The dollar amount invested and to be invested 
by the Administration, and the dollar amount invested 
and to be invested by the commercial partner.
(D) The full requirements, including human-rating 
and safety requirements, for human lunar landing 
capabilities under the agreement when awarded.
(E) If different from the amount specified in 
subparagraph (C), the full requirements, including 
human-rating and certification requirements, for the 
human lunar landing capabilities under the agreement as 
of the date of the enactment of this Act and an 
explanation for any changes in requirements.
(F) A description of milestone and associated 
payments provided for in the agreement, including the 
following:
(i) An identification of all milestones 
under the agreement.
(ii) The value of the associated payment 
for each milestone identified under clause (i).
(iii) An identification of completed 
milestones and the date of completion.
(iv) An identification of milestones which 
have not yet been completed and an estimated 
schedule for completion.
(v) The value of all NASA payments under 
the agreement, outlays as of the date of the 
enactment of this Act, and the amount which as 
of the date of the enactment of this Act has 
not yet been paid.
(vi) A description of any changes in 
milestones and associated payments between the 
date of contract award and the date of the 
enactment of this Act.
(G) Any cost, schedule, and performance challenges 
as of the date of the enactment of this Act in provider 
performance of the agreement.
(H) A detailed justification of compliance with 
section 30301 of title 51, United States Code.
(I) A detailed certification and justification of 
compliance with section 50503 of title 51, United 
States Code.
(3) Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment 
of this Act, in consultation with any United States commercial 
provider that is party to an agreement with NASA for human 
lunar landing capabilities under this section, a report on any 
steps the Administrator and such providers are taking to carry 
out the following:
(A) Address cost, schedule, and performance 
challenges faced by each commercial provider in 
development and performance of human lunar landing 
capabilities described in paragraph (2)(G).
(B) Facilitate the timely availability of human 
lunar landing capabilities of each provider to support 
the schedule of Artemis missions in effect as of the 
date of the enactment of this Act, as applicable to 
each provider.
(4) Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment 
of this Act, a report on any alternative approaches, and 
implementation plans for any Artemis mission, including an 
estimate of needed budgetary resources, for a human lunar 
landing capability that meets NASA human-rating and 
certification requirements in the event challenges referred to 
in paragraph (3)(A) cannot be overcome or the timeline 
specified in paragraph (3)(B) cannot be met.

SEC. 205. ADVANCED SPACESUIT CAPABILITIES.

(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) Space suits and associated extravehicular activity 
(EVA) technologies are critical exploration technologies that 
are necessary for crewed missions to low-Earth orbit and future 
human deep space exploration efforts, including to the lunar 
vicinity and surface of the Moon.
(2) The NASA civil service workforce at the Johnson Space 
Center provides unique capabilities to design, integrate, and 
validate Space Suits and associated EVA technologies.
(3) Maintaining a strong NASA core competency in the 
design, development, manufacture, and operation of space suits 
and related technologies allows NASA to be an informed 
purchaser of competitively awarded commercial space suits and 
subcomponents.
(4) According to a 2018 NASA Office of Inspector General 
(OIG) report, current EVAs space suits, the Extravehicular 
Mobility Units (EMUs), were developed in the late 1970s, are 
reaching the end of their useful life, have experienced 
multiple maintenance issues that threaten astronaut lives, and 
no longer accommodate the varying sizes of a diverse astronaut 
corps.
(5) The same NASA OIG report found that ``manufacturers of 
several critical suit components, including the very fibers of 
the suits, have now gone out of business'', which further 
reinforces the importance of NASA's role in maintaining a space 
suit core competency and limiting the risk posed by outsourcing 
key national capabilities.
(6) The private sector currently is developing space suit 
capabilities.
(7) Testing space suits and related technologies on the ISS 
could reduce risk and improve safety of such suits and 
technologies.
(b) In General.--The Administrator shall obtain advanced spacesuit 
capabilities necessary to achieve the goals of NASA's human spaceflight 
exploration programs.
(c) Eligibility.--Any commercial provider from which the 
Administrator obtains advanced spaceflight capabilities must be a 
United States commercial provider, as set forth in section 203(c) of 
this Act.
(d) Preserving Spacesuit Expertise.--
(1) In carrying out subsection (b), NASA shall maintain the 
internal expertise necessary to develop space suits for both 
extravehicular activity and surface operations, including 
through partnerships with the private sector.
(2) The Johnson Space Center shall continue to manage 
NASA's spacesuit and extravehicular activity programs.
(e) Report.--Not later than 180 days from the date of the enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate 
committees of Congress a report--
(1) describing NASA's plans for--
(A) in-space testing of advanced spacesuit 
capabilities, including--
(i) space suit tests which must be 
conducted in microgravity in low-Earth orbit; 
and
(ii) space suit tests that must be 
conducted on the ISS before decommissioning of 
the ISS;
(B) transitioning from existing spacesuits in use 
on the ISS to use of advanced spacesuit capabilities;
(C) future use of advanced spacesuit capabilities 
by government astronauts with any nongovernmental 
platform in low-Earth orbit that is certified for use 
by the Administration for government astronauts (as 
such term is defined in section 50902(4) of title 51, 
United States Code); and
(D) disposition of retired spacesuits used on the 
Space Shuttle or the ISS; and
(2) including--
(A) a detailed justification of compliance with 
section 30301 of title 51, United States Code; and
(B) a detailed certification and justification of 
compliance with section 50503 of title 51, United 
States Code.
(f) Assessment of Extravehicular Mobility Units Used on the ISS.--
(1) No later than 45 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall enter into an arrangement 
with an independent science and technical engineering 
organization to review the technical status and performance of 
the Administration's existing extravehicular mobility units 
(``EMUs''), to analyze the data associated with all mishaps, 
anomalies, and off-nominal events related to the EMUs used by 
government astronauts on the ISS over the last 10 years, and to 
make recommendations to the Administrator, based on the results 
of such assessment.
(2) The Administrator shall ensure that the entity carrying 
out the assessment in paragraph (1) consults with relevant 
industry contractors regarding the Administration's EMUs and 
EMU capabilities, and coordinates with the NASA Astronaut 
Office in carrying out such assessment.
(3) The Administrator shall transmit the results of the 
assessment in paragraph (1) to the appropriate committees of 
Congress as soon as practicable and no later than 270 days 
after the date of enactment of this Act.

TITLE III--SPACE OPERATIONS

Subtitle A--Policy

SEC. 301. REPORT ON CONTINUED UNITED STATES PRESENCE IN LOW-EARTH 
ORBIT.

Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this 
Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress a report containing an accounting of 
the following:
(1) The five, ten, and twenty-year United States objectives 
for low-Earth orbit activities.
(2) The type and extent of capabilities using low-Earth 
orbit platforms the Federal Government requires to support such 
United States objectives.
(3) A description of the Federal Government's current and 
planned future compliance with the following:
(A) The policy on maintaining an uninterrupted 
capability for human space flight and operations in 
low-Earth orbit, in accordance with section 70501(a)(1) 
of title 51, United States Code.
(B) Section 201(b) of the National Aeronautics and 
Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 
U.S.C. 18311(b)) regarding United States human space 
flight capabilities.
(4) The preparedness of the United States to continue to 
satisfy the statutory direction referred to in paragraph (3) 
under the planned approach to deorbit the ISS by not later than 
the end of calendar year 2031.

SEC. 302. UNITED STATES STRATEGY FOR LOW-EARTH ORBIT.

(a) Strategy.--Not later than 210 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in consultation with the 
National Space Council, Office of Science and Technology Policy, or 
other appropriate interagency coordinating body, shall submit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress a strategy for a robust and 
resilient architecture to advance NASA and other relevant Federal 
Government research, development, and operational requirements in low-
Earth orbit. Such architecture should--
(1) include a mix of crewed and uncrewed platforms;
(2) consider an incremental approach to achieving the full 
suite of capabilities necessary to satisfy research, 
development, and operational requirements for NASA activities 
in low-Earth orbit;
(3) consider the requirements described in subsection (b); 
and
(4) sustain and promote United States leadership and 
international partnerships in carrying out low-Earth orbit 
activities.
(b) Requirements.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress and make available to relevant 
United States commercial industry entities, an accounting of the 
research, development, and operational requirements for NASA activities 
in low-Earth orbit, including any requirements that could affect the 
design, development, instrumentation, or long-term operations of future 
United States commercial low-Earth orbit platforms and supporting 
capabilities. In preparing such accounting, the Administrator may 
consider the requirements of other relevant Federal agencies.

SEC. 303. RISK OF LOSING ACCESS TO LOW-EARTH ORBIT.

Not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this 
Act, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of 
Congress a report that evaluates the risk posed by a potential gap in 
access to a low-Earth orbit platform on science and technology research 
and development conducted by NASA and private entities. The report 
shall describe the following:
(1) The NASA science and exploration programs that may be 
adversely affected by the lack of a United States presence in 
low-Earth orbit.
(2) The effects that such a gap would have on the 
following:
(A) The United States competitiveness in science 
and technology.
(B) The development of the United States-based 
commercial space industry.
(3) Potential options and associated costs for preventing 
such a gap, including the following:
(A) Implementing the strategy described in section 
306.
(B) Supporting the operation of the ISS beyond 
2030.
(C) Increasing investment in and accelerating 
development of commercial space stations.
(D) Working with international partners to 
establish alternative means for conducting research in 
low-Earth orbit.

Subtitle B--International Space Station

SEC. 311. INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) the ISS is a unique facility that provides the United 
States with capabilities in space that are currently unmatched; 
NASA continues to make productive use of the ISS;
(2) the ISS serves several functions, including 
establishing the United States as a leader in space activities, 
acting as a beacon of international cooperation, and conducting 
cutting-edge microgravity and observational research in low-
Earth orbit;
(3) NASA must complete certain objectives on the ISS to 
facilitate deep space exploration efforts, including carrying 
out human research and demonstrating exploration-related 
technologies; and
(4) reducing crew size or cargo deliveries, or reducing 
sustaining engineering capabilities, would reduce the 
scientific output of the ISS and potentially increase the risk 
to the ISS and its crew.
(b) Full Utilization.--
(1) Sense of congress.--It is the sense of Congress that, 
to ensure the greatest return on investments made by the United 
States and the ISS partners in the development, assembly, and 
operations of the ISS, the Administrator should maximize the 
utilization and productivity of the ISS with respect to the 
priorities set forth in section 10816 of the National 
Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2022 
(Public Law 117-167; 51 U.S.C. 70901 note), which include 
research of the human research program, risk reduction 
activities relevant to exploration technologies, the 
advancement of United States leadership of basic and applied 
space life and physical sciences, and other research and 
development essential to Moon to Mars program activities.
(2) Amendment.--Section 502(a) of the National Aeronautics 
and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (Public Law 
111-267; 42 U.S.C. 18352(a)), is amended by striking ``take 
steps to''.

SEC. 312. MAINTENANCE OF SERVICE FOR INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION.

(a) In General.--Subject to appropriations for such purpose, the 
Administrator shall maintain a flight cadence necessary to support the 
health and safety of the ISS crew and the full and productive 
utilization of the ISS through its operational lifetime, consistent 
with the certification date of the ISS. In maintaining such flight 
cadence, the Administrator shall seek to carry out not less than the 
average annual cadence for the immediately preceding three fiscal years 
of crew and cargo flights on United States vehicles certified under 
NASA's Commercial Crew and Cargo Program as of the date of the 
enactment of this Act.
(b) Waiver.--The Administrator may waive the requirement under 
subsection (a) upon submission of a written determination to Congress 
that--
(1) the health and safety of the ISS requires a reduction 
in flights; or
(2) the ISS has concluded its operational lifetime.

SEC. 313. NONGOVERNMENTAL HUMAN MISSIONS ON THE INTERNATIONAL SPACE 
STATION.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) nongovernmental human missions on the ISS carried out, 
as appropriate, pursuant to NASA policies and procedures, and 
other Federal Government laws and regulations, can provide 
lessons and learning experiences for both government and 
nongovernment entities to inform the development of future 
commercial low-Earth orbit platforms and a low-Earth orbit 
economy; and
(2) the Administrator should share lessons learned from 
nongovernmental human missions on the ISS to advance the 
commercial human spaceflight industry, to promote the safety of 
future commercial low-Earth orbit platforms, and to inform the 
evolution of policies guiding such activities in low-Earth 
orbit.
(b) Nongovernmental Human Missions on the ISS.--The Administrator 
may enter into one or more agreements to enable one or more United 
States commercial providers to conduct nongovernmental human missions 
on the ISS pursuant to NASA policies and procedures, and Federal 
Government laws and regulations.
(c) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States 
shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report 
containing information relating to the following:
(1) The number of nongovernmental human missions on the ISS 
planned.
(2) The number of nongovernmental human missions on the ISS 
completed.
(3) The extent to which commercial entities carrying out 
nongovernmental human missions on the ISS fully reimburse costs 
incurred by NASA in association with any nongovernmental 
missions carried out on the ISS.
(4) The extent to which nongovernmental human missions on 
the ISS impact the priorities specified in section 10816 of the 
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act 
of 2022 (Public Law 117-167; 51 U.S.C. 70901 note).
(5) The impact, if any, to operations of or activities on 
the ISS that are not related to nongovernmental human missions 
on the ISS.
(6) The extent to which any nongovernmental human mission 
on the ISS--
(A) conforms with section 20102 of title 51, United 
States Code;
(B) adheres to the requirements of section 50131 of 
title 51, United States Code; and
(C) is consistent with the national security or 
foreign policy interests of the United States.
(7) Any other issues related to nongovernmental human 
missions on the ISS that the Comptroller General determines are 
appropriate for review as part of undertaking the report in 
subsection (c).

SEC. 314. UNITED STATES DEORBIT CAPABILITIES.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) the ISS is aging and eventually will need to be 
deorbited safely and disposed of in a controlled manner; and
(2) to protect the safety of the public, and to avoid 
interfering with other space operators or objects, NASA plans 
to deorbit and disposition the ISS through a controlled 
atmospheric reentry over an uninhabited region.
(b) Acquisition of ISS Deorbit Capabilities.--
(1) In general.--The Administrator shall acquire ISS 
deorbit capabilities from one or more United States commercial 
providers.
(2) Implementation.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the 
Administrator shall, to the greatest extent practicable, not 
reduce or deprioritize NASA activities conducted on and in 
support of the ISS to support the acquisition of United States 
deorbit capabilities.
(c) Costs.--
(1) Independent cost estimate.--For the deorbit 
capabilities described in subsection (b), the Administrator 
shall obtain, not later than 30 days after the date of the 
enactment of the Act, an independent life-cycle cost estimate 
for such deorbit capabilities and shall report the results of 
such estimate and a five-year budget profile to the appropriate 
committees of Congress.
(2) Report.--
(A) In general.--Not later than one year after the 
date of the enactment of this Act, the Administrator 
shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress 
a report detailing the Administration's plan for the 
financial, logistical, and operational responsibilities 
associated with the deorbit capability.
(B) Further reports.--The Administrator shall 
annually submit to the appropriate committees of 
Congress a report, to accompany the President's budget 
request, containing a description of the annual and 
cumulative lifecycle expenditures for the preceding 
year on activities related to the deorbit of the ISS 
and how such costs are shared among the ISS partners.

Subtitle C--Future Activities and Other Provisions

SEC. 321. COMMERCIAL LOW-EARTH ORBIT DEVELOPMENT.

(a) In General.--The Administrator is authorized to enter into 
agreements with one or more United States commercial providers to 
enable the development and certification of, and procure capabilities 
related to, a United States private, low-Earth orbit platform or 
platforms, and to use such platform or platforms and related 
capabilities to--
(1) further the strategy under section 302(a);
(2) sustain the priorities described in section 10816 of 
the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization 
Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-167; 51 U.S.C. 70901 note) and the 
activities under the Human Exploration Roadmap pursuant to 
section 432(b)(2)(J) of the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration Transition Authorization Act of 2017 (Public Law 
115-10); and
(3) satisfy the requirements described in section 302(b).
(b) Anchor Tenancy.--Not later than November 15, 2026, the 
Administrator shall provide to the appropriate committees of Congress 
the following:
(1) The results of a survey and assessment of the market 
for capabilities and services that may be provided through 
future United States commercial low-Earth orbit platforms that 
shall be prepared by an independent entity with appropriate 
expertise.
(2) A detailed justification of compliance with section 
30301 of title 51, United States Code.
(3) A detailed certification and justification of 
compliance with section 50503 of title 51, United States Code.
(c) Use of United States Launch and Reentry Services.--As a term of 
an agreement entered into under to subsection (a), the Administrator 
shall include a requirement for the use of United States commercially-
provided launch and reentry services to support all Administration 
activities under the agreement, in accordance with section 50131 of 
title 51, United States Code, as applicable.
(d) Safety.--Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate 
Committees of Congress a determination on the applicability of 
Administration human rating processes, certification, and requirements 
for platforms used for services under this section and the 
circumstances and arrangements under which such processes, 
certification, and requirements would apply.

SEC. 322. REPORT ON SUBORBITAL CREW MISSIONS.

Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this 
Act, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of 
Congress a report on the costs, benefits, risks, training requirements, 
and policy or legal implications, including liability matters, of 
launching United States Government personnel on commercial suborbital 
vehicles.

SEC. 323. ORBITAL DEBRIS RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that NASA's 
research and development activities related to understanding and 
mitigating the hazards posed by orbital debris are critical to ensuring 
the continued safe operation of NASA missions, including the safety of 
humans living and working in space, and such activities further enable 
scientific and technological advances that can be leveraged by the 
broader space operations community to foster a sustainable space 
environment.
(b) Research and Development.--The Administrator shall, to the 
extent practicable, conduct research and development to advance 
scientific understanding and technological capabilities related to 
orbital debris characterization and mitigation.
(c) Considerations.--In conducting the research and development 
described in subsection (b), the Administrator may consider activities 
that--
(1) improve the characterization and modeling of the space 
environment, including the characterization and modeling of 
objects of both natural and anthropogenic origins that cannot 
be directly characterized by ground-based measurements;
(2) leverage space weather research and development 
elements within NASA's Heliophysics program, to the extent 
appropriate and in accordance with the priorities established 
in the most recent solar and space physics decadal survey;
(3) support the application of relevant research, tools, 
and technologies to advance orbital debris characterization and 
mitigation and the transfer of such research, tools, and 
technologies to stakeholders, as appropriate and practicable; 
and
(4) involve coordination with other relevant Federal 
entities that have a shared interest in technologies and 
research advanced under this section.

SEC. 324. LUNAR COMMUNICATIONS AND NAVIGATION.

(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) Reliable communication and navigation capabilities are 
essential for sustainable human and robotic exploration of the 
Moon, Mars, and other deep space destinations.
(2) Fostering the development of commercial capabilities 
can accelerate the deployment of lunar communication and 
navigation services that could support the Artemis program, and 
the Moon to Mars program.
(b) Authorization.--The Administrator is authorized to ensure the 
availability of a robust and resilient lunar communications and 
navigation architecture that will support NASA's human and robotic 
lunar exploration activities and requirements.
(c) Study and Plan.--To inform the development in subsection (a), 
the Administrator shall develop a study and prepare a plan to--
(1) ensure the availability of interoperable communication 
and navigation services for NASA missions on the lunar surface 
and in cislunar space;
(2) coordinate with the private sector, other Federal 
agencies, and, as appropriate, international partners, to 
establish technical standards in accordance with section 12(d) 
of the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 
(Public Law 104-113), protocols, and interface requirements for 
lunar communications and navigation services and systems, 
including relevant information technology and cybersecurity 
standards and practices;
(3) support NASA lunar activities;
(4) leverage NASA's space technology research, development, 
and demonstration activities related to space communications 
and navigation; and
(5) evaluate the opportunities, benefits, feasibility, 
challenges, and possible risks of using commercial cislunar 
communication and navigation services, as appropriate, by 
United States commercial providers.

SEC. 325. CELESTIAL TIME STANDARDIZATION.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) United States leadership of a sustained presence on the 
Moon and in deep space exploration is important for advancing 
science, exploration, commercial growth, and international 
partnership;
(2) the Artemis and Moon to Mars programs of the National 
Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) will involve 
governmental, commercial, academic, and international partners 
where there is a need for interoperability between systems;
(3) the use of Coordinated Universal Time has challenges 
when used beyond Earth at other celestial bodies, due to 
relativistic effects;
(4) the United States should lead in developing time 
standardization for the Moon and other celestial bodies other 
than Earth to support interoperability and safe and sustainable 
operations; and
(5) development of such standardization will advance United 
States leadership in standards setting for global 
competitiveness, and will benefit other spacefaring countries 
and entities.
(b) Development of Celestial Time Standardization.--The 
Administrator of NASA, in consultation with the Director of the Office 
of Science and Technology Policy, shall carry out the following:
(1) Enable the development of celestial time 
standardization, including by leading the study and definition 
of a coordinated lunar time.
(2) Develop a strategy to implement a coordinated lunar 
time that would support future operations and infrastructure on 
and around the Moon.
(3) In carrying out paragraphs (1) and (2)--
(A) coordinate with relevant Federal entities, 
including the Department of Commerce, the Department of 
Defense, the Department of State, and the Department of 
Transportation; and
(B) consult with--
(i) relevant private sector entities;
(ii) relevant academic entities; and
(iii) relevant international standards 
setting bodies and international partners.
(4) Incorporate the following features of a coordinated 
lunar time, to the extent practicable, in the development of 
the strategy developed pursuant to paragraph (2):
(A) Traceability to Coordinated Universal Time.
(B) Accuracy sufficient to support precision 
navigation and science.
(C) Resilience to loss of contact with Earth.
(D) Scalability to space environments beyond the 
Earth-Moon system.
(c) Report.--Not later than two years after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of NASA shall submit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress a report describing the strategy 
developed pursuant to subsection (b)(2), including relevant plans, 
timelines, and resources required for the implementation of a 
coordinated lunar time pursuant to such strategy.

TITLE IV--SPACE TECHNOLOGY

SEC. 401. SBIR PHASE II FLEXIBILITY.

Section 9 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 638) is amended in 
subsection (cc) by striking ``and the Department of Education'' and 
inserting ``the Department of Education, and the National Aeronautics 
and Space Administration''.

SEC. 402. LUNAR POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENT FEASIBILITY STUDY.

(a) Study.--The Administrator may enter into an arrangement with an 
independent entity with appropriate expertise to conduct a study 
evaluating the feasibility of using power purchase agreements to 
facilitate the private sector development and deployment of lunar 
surface power capabilities.
(b) Contents.--The study conducted under subsection (a) may include 
the following:
(1) An identification of facilities and technical 
capabilities needed to support lunar surface power production.
(2) A description and assessment of the types and technical 
readiness of technologies that could be used to provide the 
United States with access to lunar surface power, and an 
estimated timeline of availability of such technologies.
(3) A demand forecast for lunar surface power capabilities, 
including the following:
(A) Forecasted demand of both governmental and 
nongovernmental users.
(B) To support the following:
(i) Near-term exploration activities.
(ii) Long-duration activities.
(iii) Capabilities allowing activities 
throughout the lunar night.
(4) An identification of lessons learned from Federal 
Government experience with power purchase agreements, including 
a description of any relevant Federal Government use of power 
purchase agreements, and a description of how such lessons 
learned could inform or be applied to future United States 
lunar power purchase agreements.
(5) Potential policy and legal issues associated with lunar 
power purchase agreements between providers and the United 
States Government, international partners, and other private 
sector entities.
(c) Coordination.--In conducting the study under this section, the 
Administrator may consult with the following:
(1) The Lunar Surface Innovation Consortium.
(2) The Department of Energy, the Department of Commerce, 
and other Federal agencies, as determined appropriate by the 
Administrator.
(3) International partners.
(4) Relevant private sector entities.
(d) Report.--Not later than 24 months after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress a report that describes the results 
of the study conducted pursuant to subsection (a).

SEC. 403. CRYOGENIC FLUID VALVE TECHNOLOGY REVIEW.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that advancing 
cryogenic fluid valve technology would support the Administration's 
efforts to improve cryogenic fluid management and improve space vehicle 
reliability and efficiency.
(b) Technology and Research Review.--Not later than 90 days after 
the date of the enactment of this Act, subject to the availability of 
appropriations, the Administrator shall enter into an agreement with an 
independent research and development center or other independent 
nonprofit organization, as determined appropriate by the Administrator, 
to conduct a review of cryogenic fluid valve technology in accordance 
with this section. The organization shall review recent advances in 
technologies related to cryogenic fluid valve use in space applications 
and assess opportunities to improve cryogenic fluid valve technologies, 
including support for research and development activities to advance 
materials engineering for cryogenic fluid valves.
(c) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the organization conducting the review shall 
submit to the Administrator and the appropriate committees of Congress 
a report detailing the results of the review conducted under this 
section.

TITLE V--AERONAUTICS

SEC. 501. DEFINITIONS.

In this title:
(1) Advanced air mobility; aam.--The terms ``advanced air 
mobility'' and ``AAM'' mean a transportation system that is 
comprised of urban air mobility and regional air mobility using 
manned or unmanned aircraft.
(2) Regional air mobility.--The term ``regional air 
mobility'' means the movement of passengers or property by air 
between 2 points using an airworthy aircraft that--
(A) has advanced technologies, such as distributed 
propulsion, vertical takeoff and landing, powered lift, 
nontraditional power systems, or autonomous 
technologies;
(B) has a maximum takeoff weight of greater than 
1,320 pounds; and
(C) is not urban air mobility.
(3) Unmanned aircraft.--The term ``unmanned aircraft'' 
means an aircraft that is operated without the possibility of 
direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft.
(4) Unmanned aircraft system.--The term ``unmanned aircraft 
system'' means an unmanned aircraft and associated elements 
(including communication links and the components that control 
the unmanned aircraft) that are required for the operator to 
operate safely and efficiently in the national airspace system.
(5) Urban air mobility.--The term ``urban air mobility'' 
means the movement of passengers or property by air between 2 
points in different cities or 2 points within the same city 
using an airworthy aircraft that--
(A) has advanced technologies, such as distributed 
propulsion, vertical takeoff and landing, powered lift, 
nontraditional power systems, or autonomous 
technologies; and
(B) has a maximum takeoff weight of greater than 
1,320 pounds.
(6) UTM.--The term ``UTM'' means an unmanned aircraft 
system traffic management system or service.

SEC. 502. EXPERIMENTAL AIRCRAFT DEMONSTRATIONS.

(a) Study.--Not later than one year after the date of the enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator, in consultation with industry and 
academia, shall conduct a study of NASA's administration of past and 
ongoing NASA experimental aircraft demonstrator projects.
(b) Future Demonstrations.--The study under subsection (a) shall 
include an identification of flight research activities, systems, 
capabilities, and technologies that could be viable candidates for 
experimental aircraft demonstrator projects. Such activities, systems, 
capabilities, and technologies may include technological advancements 
related to structures, aerodynamics, propulsion, controls, and 
autonomous capabilities. The study shall include a description of 
criteria and performance metrics used to determine the readiness of an 
activity, system, capability, or technology for incorporation into an 
experimental aircraft demonstrator project.
(c) Lessons Learned.--The study under subsection (a) also shall 
include an assessment of lessons learned from NASA's administration of 
past and ongoing experimental aircraft demonstration projects over the 
last decade, including the projects set forth under section 10831 of 
the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 
2022 (Public Law 117-167). Such assessment shall include--
(1) a quantitative assessment of each experimental aircraft 
demonstration project's ability to meet cost, schedule and 
performance goals, as defined at the time of project 
confirmation;
(2) the extent to which each project's objectives or 
performance goals were changed or descoped, and the rationale 
for such change or descoping;
(3) the extent to which the system, capability, or 
technology that was the subject of each project was matured as 
a result of its demonstration on an experimental aircraft 
demonstrator; and
(4) the extent to which each project has contributed, or is 
likely to contribute in the future, to advancing the 
capabilities of and innovation in the United States aircraft 
and aviation industries.

SEC. 503. HYPERSONICS RESEARCH.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) basic and applied hypersonics research--
(A) is critical for enabling the development of 
advanced high-speed aeronautical and space systems; and
(B) can improve understanding of technical 
challenges related to high-speed and reusable vehicle 
technologies, including those related to propulsion, 
noise, advanced materials, and entry, descent, and 
landing operations;
(2) investments in hypersonics research are critical to 
sustaining United States global leadership in space and 
aeronautics; and
(3) NASA efforts to study hypersonics research should 
complement research supported by the Department of Defense and, 
when appropriate, be conducted in partnership with universities 
and industry.
(b) Hypersonics Research.--The Administrator, in coordination with 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration and the 
Secretary of the Department of Defense, and in consultation with 
industry and academia, shall continue to carry out basic and applied 
hypersonics research.
(c) Hypersonics Research Roadmap.--Not later than 180 days after 
the date of the enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in 
consultation with the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration and the Secretary of the Department of Defense, and with 
industry and academic institutions, shall update the hypersonics 
research roadmap required under section 603 of the National Aeronautics 
and Space Administration Transition Authorization Act of 2017 (Public 
Law 115-10; 51 U.S.C. 20302 note). In updating the research roadmap, 
the Administrator may consider advancements in--
(1) system level design, analysis, and validation of 
hypersonics aircraft technologies;
(2) propulsion capabilities and technologies;
(3) vehicle technologies, including vehicle flow physics 
and vehicle thermal management associated with aerodynamic 
heating;
(4) advanced materials, including materials capable of 
withstanding high temperatures and demonstrating durable 
materials, and efforts to create models and simulate use of 
such materials; and
(5) other areas of hypersonics research as determined 
appropriate by the Administrator.
(d) Report and Briefing.--Not later than one year after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall--
(1) transmit the updated research roadmap under subsection 
(c) to the appropriate committees of Congress; and
(2) provide a briefing on the research conducted under 
subsection (b), including how such research aligns with the 
updated research roadmap under subsection (c).

SEC. 504. ADVANCED MATERIALS AND MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY.

Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act 
and annually thereafter, the Administrator shall submit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress a report on the status of NASA 
activities pursuant to subsections (e) and (f) of section 10831 of the 
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2022 
(Public Law 117-167; 51 U.S.C. 40102 note; relating to the advanced 
materials and manufacturing technology program and research 
partnerships, respectively), as well as other NASA activities.

SEC. 505. UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS AND ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY.

(a) Finding.--Congress finds that research and development related 
to autonomous aviation is vital to ensure United States competitiveness 
as the National Airspace System evolves from trajectory-based 
operations to collaborative and highly automated operations.
(b) Collaboration.--The Administrator shall, in collaboration with 
the Administrator of Federal Aviation Administration, the heads of 
other relevant Federal agencies, and appropriate representatives of 
academia and industry, continue its research on unmanned aircraft 
systems and advanced air mobility, including research related to UTM 
and autonomous capabilities, as practicable.
(c) Brief.--Not later than 18 months after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the appropriate 
committees of Congress on the progress of the research under subsection 
(b).

SEC. 506. ADVANCED CAPABILITIES FOR EMERGENCY RESPONSE OPERATIONS.

(a) In General.--The Administrator shall leverage NASA-developed 
tools and technologies to conduct research and development activities 
under the Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations 
(ACERO) project, or appropriate successor project or projects, to 
improve aerial responses to wildfires.
(b) Goals.--The research and development activities conducted under 
subsection (a) may include the following:
(1) Advanced aircraft technologies and airspace management 
efforts to assist in the management, deconfliction, and 
coordination of aerial assets during wildfire response efforts.
(2) Information sharing and real-time data exchange for 
wildfire response teams.
(3) Development of an interoperable platform to provide 
situational awareness of aerial assets during wildfire 
response.
(4) Establishment of a multi-agency concept of operations, 
which may involve Federal, State, and local government 
agencies, to enable coordination of aerial activities for 
wildfire response.
(c) Collaboration.--In carrying out this section, the 
Administrator--
(1) may coordinate and collaborate with other Federal, 
State, and local government agencies, regional organizations, 
and commercial partners and academic institutions involved in 
wildfire management; and
(2) shall, to the maximum extent practicable, consult with 
the heads of other Federal departments and agencies to avoid 
duplication of activities.
(d) Prohibition.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided in this subsection, the 
Administrator may not procure an unmanned aircraft system to 
conduct activities described in this section if such unmanned 
aircraft system is manufactured or assembled by a covered 
foreign entity.
(2) Exemption.--The Administrator may waive the prohibition 
under paragraph (1) on a case-by-case basis if the 
Administrator--
(A) determines that the procurement of an unmanned 
aircraft system is--
(i) in the national interest of the United 
States; and
(ii) necessary for the sole purpose of 
improving aerial responses to wildfires; and
(B) notifies the appropriate committees of Congress 
not later than 30 days after a determination in the 
affirmative under subparagraph (A).
(e) Annual Reports.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act and annually thereafter until December 31, 2031, 
the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of 
Congress a report describing the activities, including results, carried 
out pursuant to this section. Each such report, at minimum, shall 
contain the following:
(1) A description of any research and development 
activities.
(2) A description of the Administrator's activities 
pursuant to subsection (c).
(3) An identification of any topics related to improvement 
of aerial responses to wildfires that could benefit from 
further research.
(4) A description of any continuing efforts under this 
section.
(5) Any other information determined appropriate by the 
Administrator.
(f) Definition.--In this section, the term ``covered foreign 
entity'' has the meaning given such term in section 1832 of the 
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 
118-31).

SEC. 507. HYDROGEN AVIATION.

(a) In General.--Subject to the availability of appropriations for 
such purpose, and taking into consideration the strategy developed 
under and research conducted pursuant to section 1019 of the FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 2024 (Public Law 118-63), the Administrator may 
carry out research on emerging technologies related to hydrogen 
aviation.
(b) Report.--Not later than two years after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress a report on NASA research activities 
under subsection (a) and any associated findings.

SEC. 508. HIGH-PERFORMANCE CHASE AIRCRAFT.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) NASA programs benefit from and rely upon high-
performance chase aircraft for providing research and mission 
support; and
(2) NASA currently faces maintenance challenges related to 
its aging high-performance aircraft fleet, which is resulting 
in increased program costs.
(b) Briefing.--Not later than 60 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act and biannually thereafter, the Administrator 
shall provide to the appropriate committees of Congress a briefing on 
the strategy of NASA relating to the following:
(1) Collaboration with the Department of Defense on efforts 
for research and flight asset sharing to support NASA's 
research mission support and pilot training requirements.
(2) Efforts to seek aircraft parts and engines to keep 
NASA's current fleet of chase aircraft operational, including 
potential use of 3D additive manufactured parts.
(3) Strategies for acquiring or using through loan, 
sharing, or other agreements, as appropriate, Department of 
Defense aircraft to support NASA's research and mission support 
activities, as required.

SEC. 509. COLLABORATION WITH ACADEMIA.

It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) colleges and universities are hubs of research and 
innovation, with expertise in various fields of science and 
aeronautics;
(2) collaborating with academia allows NASA to access 
cutting-edge research and expertise that can further enable 
advancements in aeronautics research and technology and address 
complex aeronautical challenges;
(3) a cutting-edge civil aeronautics research and 
development program can inspire the next generation to pursue 
education and careers in science, technology, engineering, and 
mathematics, including aeronautics; and
(4) opportunities for students to participate in NASA-
supported academic research and development projects, such as 
the University Leadership Initiative, the University Students 
Research Challenge, and related aeronautic projects and 
competitions, contributes to training the next generation and 
developing the aeronautics workforce to support continued 
United States leadership and economic growth in civil 
aeronautics and aviation.

SEC. 510. DECADAL SURVEY FOR NATIONAL AERONAUTICS RESEARCH.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) engaging the science and engineering communities, along 
with industry, through the development of a National Academies 
of Science, Engineering, and Medicine decadal survey in 
aeronautics research and development can provide a science and 
engineering community consensus on key research and development 
priorities in national civil aeronautics programs;
(2) a decadal survey--
(A) entails a comprehensive review of and strategy 
and priorities for civil national aeronautics research 
and development; and
(B) prioritizes such research and development for 
the next decade; and
(3) a decadal survey for civil aeronautics research and 
development can serve as a guiding framework for NASA's and 
other relevant Federal agencies' strategic planning and 
resource allocation in the field of civil aeronautics research 
and development for the coming decade.
(b) Findings.--Congress finds that--
(1) in title 51, United States Code, sections addressing 
NASA's decadal surveys for aeronautics research include 
sections 20305 and 40703; and
(2) the most recent National Academies' Decadal Survey of 
Civil Aeronautics was published in 2006.
(c) Study.--In accordance with section 20305 of title 51, United 
States Code, the Administrator, in consultation with the heads of other 
relevant Federal Government agencies, as appropriate, shall enter into 
an arrangement with the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, 
and Medicine to conduct a decadal survey of civil aeronautics research 
for the 2026 through 2036 decade. The survey shall recommend research 
and programmatic priorities to sustain United States leadership in 
civil aeronautics research and development and support a safe and 
sustainable future for aviation. The survey may also include 
recommendations for the following:
(1) Enabling innovation.
(2) Ensuring a world-class workforce for aeronautics 
research and development and related United States commercial 
industries and activities.
(3) The dissemination and transition of such research and 
development to the United States commercial aviation and 
aircraft industries.
(d) Transmittal.--Not later than two years after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress the results of such survey, 
including any recommendations.

SEC. 511. MAKING ADVANCEMENTS IN COMMERCIAL HYPERSONICS.

(a) In General.--In conducting the hypersonics research in 
accordance with section 40112(d) of title 51, United States Code, the 
Administrator may establish the Making Advancements in Commercial 
Hypersonics Program (in this section referred to as the ``Program''), 
which shall facilitate opportunities for testing of high-speed aircraft 
and other technologies that advance scientific research and technology 
development related to hypersonic aircraft.
(b) Limitation.--The Program under subsection (a) shall not fund 
the development of technologies that are supported by such testing 
opportunities.
(c) Plan.--Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator, acting through the Aeronautics Research 
Mission Directorate, shall develop a strategic plan for activities 
under subsection (a) that aligns with the research roadmap under 
section 503 of this Act.
(d) Coordination, Consultation and Collaboration.--
(1) The Administrator shall ensure coordination between the 
Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate and other Mission 
Directorates, as appropriate, to identify technologies eligible 
for testing opportunities under the Program.
(2) The Administrator shall consult and seek to collaborate 
with, as appropriate, with the Secretary of Defense and the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration on 
activities related to the Program, including development, 
testing, and evaluation of high-speed aircraft and related 
technologies.
(e) Report.--The Administrator shall submit to the appropriate 
committees of Congress, and the Committee on Armed Services of the 
House of Representatives and the Committee on Armed Services of the 
Senate--
(1) not later than 80 days after the date of the enactment 
of this section, a report that--
(A) describes activities of the program established 
under subsection (a); and
(B) includes the strategic plan produced under 
subsection (c); and
(2) not later than one year after the date of the enactment 
of this Act and annually thereafter, a report describing 
progress in carrying out the program, including the number and 
type of testing opportunities executed in the previous fiscal 
year and planned for the upcoming fiscal year.
(f) Research Security.--Nothing under this section authorizes the 
Administrator to develop, implement, or execute an agreement related to 
technologies under this section with any entity of concern, a foreign 
business entity, or a foreign country of concern.
(g) Definitions.--In this section--
(1) Entity of concern.--The term ``entity of concern'' has 
the meaning given such term in section 10114 of the Research 
and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act (Public Law 
117-167; 42 U.S.C. 18912).
(2) Foreign business entity.--The term ``foreign business 
entity'' means an entity that is majority-owned or majority-
controlled (as such term is defined in section 800.208 of title 
31, Code of Federal Regulations, or a successor regulation), or 
minority owned greater than 25 percent by--
(A) any governmental organization of a foreign 
country of concern; or
(B) any other entity that is--
(i) known to be owned or controlled by any 
governmental organization of a foreign country 
of concern; or
(ii) organized under, or otherwise subject 
to, the laws of a foreign country of concern.
(3) Foreign country of concern.--The term ``foreign country 
of concern'' has the meaning given such term in section 9901 of 
title XCIX of division H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry 
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (15 
U.S.C. 4651).
(4) High-speed aircraft.--The term ``high-speed aircraft'' 
means an aircraft operating at speeds in excess of Mach 1, 
including supersonic and hypersonic aircraft.
(5) Hypersonic.--The term ``hypersonic'' means flights 
operating at speeds that exceed Mach 5.
(6) Supersonic.--The term ``supersonic'' means flights 
operating at speeds in excess of Mach 1 but less than Mach 5.

TITLE VI--SCIENCE

SEC. 601. MAINTAINING A BALANCED SCIENCE PORTFOLIO.

(a) Sense of Congress.--Congress reaffirms the sense of Congress 
that--
(1) a balanced and adequately funded set of activities 
consisting of research and analysis grant programs, technology 
development, suborbital research activities, and small, medium, 
and large space missions, contributes to a robust and 
productive science program and serves as a catalyst for 
innovation and discovery; and
(2) the Administrator should set science priorities by 
following the recommendations and guidance provided by the 
scientific community through the National Academies of 
Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine decadal surveys.
(b) Policy Reaffirmation.--Congress reaffirms the policy of the 
United States set forth in section 501(c) of the National Aeronautics 
and Space Administration Transition Authorization Act of 2017 (Public 
Law 115-10; 51 U.S.C. 20302 note), which states, ``It is the policy of 
the United States to ensure, to the extent practicable, a steady 
cadence of large, medium, and small science missions''.

SEC. 602. IMPLEMENTATION OF SCIENCE MISSION COST-CAPS.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) NASA science missions address compelling scientific 
questions prioritized by the National Academies decadal 
surveys, and often such missions exceed expectations in terms 
of performance, longevity, and scientific impact;
(2) the Administrator should continue to pursue an 
ambitious science program while also seeking to avoid excessive 
cost growth that has the potential to affect the balance across 
the Science portfolio and within the Science Divisions;
(3) audits by the NASA Inspector General and the Government 
Accountability Office have reported that early cost estimates 
for missions in the preliminary phases of conception and 
development are immature and unreliable, and the cost of a 
mission typically is not well-understood until the project is 
further along in the development process;
(4) cost growth of a mission beyond its early cost 
estimates is a challenge for budget planning and has the 
potential to affect other missions in the Science Mission 
Directorate portfolio, including through delays to future 
mission solicitations; and
(5) relying on early cost estimates made prior to 
preliminary design review for science missions which then 
experience such cost growth may disincentivize program and cost 
discipline moving forward.
(b) Report.--Not later than 12 months after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall transmit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress a review of NASA practices related 
to establishment of and compliance with cost caps of competitively-
selected, principal investigator-led science missions. The review 
shall--
(1) assess current cost cap values and determine whether 
existing cost-cap amounts are appropriate for different classes 
of missions;
(2) consider the effectiveness of cost caps in maintaining 
a varied and balanced portfolio of mission types within the 
Science Mission Directorate;
(3) describe the information NASA requires as part of a 
proposal submission related to project cost estimates and 
proposal compliance with cost caps, and assess whether such 
required information provides sufficient insight or confidence 
in the estimates;
(4) consider NASA processes for assessing proposed cost 
estimates and the accuracy of such assessments for past 
competitively-selected, principal investigator-led science 
missions; and
(5) for the period starting on January 1, 2000, and ending 
on the date of the enactment of this Act--
(A) a list of--
(i) competitively-selected, principal 
investigator-led science missions for which 
costs have exceeded the associated cost cap; 
and
(ii) reason the mission costs exceeded the 
cost-cap;
(B) an assessment of NASA's role in predicting, 
preventing, or managing competitively-selected, 
principal investigator-led science mission cost 
increases; and
(C) a description of the impact of increased 
competitively-selected, principal investigator-led 
science mission costs beyond the cost caps on--
(i) the missions for which the cost cap has 
been breached; and
(ii) other missions within the applicable 
division and within the Science Mission 
Directorate.

SEC. 603. REEXAMINATION OF DECADAL SURVEYS.

Title 51, United States Code, is amended in section 20305(c) by 
inserting ``, significant changes to the NASA budget'' after 
``growth''.

SEC. 604. LANDSAT.

Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator shall transmit a report to the appropriate committees 
of Congress describing--
(1) the Administrator's efforts to comply with section 
60134 of title 51, United States Code;
(2) aspects of Landsat NEXT or any other Landsat 
observations that--
(A) could be provided by private sector data-buys 
or service procurements; and
(B) could--
(i) meet associated science requirements 
while maintaining or exceeding the quality, 
integrity, and continuity of the Landsat 
observational capabilities and performance, 
including requirements necessary to ensure 
high-quality calibrated data continuity and 
traceability with the 50-year Landsat data 
record; and
(ii) comply with nondiscriminatory 
availability of unenhanced data and public 
archiving of data pursuant to section 60141 and 
60142 of title 51, United States Code, and all 
other relevant Federal laws, regulations, and 
policies related to open science and data 
accessibility;
(3) any potential tradeoffs or other impacts of 
subparagraphs (A) or (B) that could reduce the benefit of 
Landsat data for scientific and applied uses or reduce the 
Federal Government's ability to make such data available for 
the widest possible use; and
(4) recommendations and opportunities for the Federal 
Government to mitigate potential tradeoffs or impacts 
identified under paragraph (3) or to otherwise facilitate 
private sector data-buys or service procurements.

SEC. 605. PRIVATE EARTH OBSERVATION DATA.

(a) Amendments.--Section 702 of the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18371) is amended--
(1) by striking ``The Director of OSTP'' and inserting the 
following:
``(a) In General.--The Director of OSTP''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(b) Considerations.--In updating the civil Earth observation 
strategic implementation plan pursuant to subsection (a), the Director 
of OSTP shall consider commercial Earth observation data, as 
appropriate, that can be purchased or accessed by the Federal 
Government to meet Earth observation requirements.''.
(b) Government Accountability Office Report.--Not later than 12 
months after the release of the next civil Earth observation strategic 
implementation plan update under section 702(a) of the National 
Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 
U.S.C. 18371(a)), the Comptroller General shall report to the 
appropriate committees of Congress an assessment of the Director of the 
Office of Science and Technology Policy's implementation of section 
702(b) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration 
Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18371(b)), as amended.

SEC. 606. COMMERCIAL SATELLITE DATA.

(a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Section 60501 of title 51, United States Code, states 
that the goal for the Earth Science program of NASA shall be to 
pursue a program of Earth observations, research, and 
applications activities to better understand the Earth, how it 
supports life, and how human activities affect its ability to 
do so in the future.
(2) Section 50115 of title 51, United States Code, states 
that the Administrator of NASA shall, to the extent possible 
and while satisfying the scientific or educational requirements 
of NASA, and where appropriate, of other Federal agencies and 
scientific researchers, acquire, where cost effective, space-
based and airborne commercial Earth remote sensing data, 
services, distribution, and applications from a commercial 
provider.
(3) The Administrator of NASA established the Commercial 
SmallSat Data Acquisition Pilot Program in 2017 to identify, 
validate, and acquire from commercial sources data that support 
the Earth science research and application goals.
(4) The Administrator of NASA has--
(A) determined that the pilot program described in 
paragraph (3) has been a success, as described in the 
final evaluation entitled ``Commercial SmallSat Data 
Acquisition Program Pilot Evaluation Report'' issued in 
2020;
(B) established a formal process for evaluating and 
onboarding new commercial vendors in such pilot 
program;
(C) increased the number of commercial vendors and 
commercial data products available through such pilot 
program; and
(D) expanded procurement arrangements with 
commercial vendors to broaden user access to provide 
commercial Earth remote sensing data and imagery to 
federally funded researchers.
(b) Commercial Satellite Data Acquisition Program.--
(1) In general.--Chapter 603 of title 51, United States 
Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 60307. Commercial satellite data acquisition program
``(a) In General.--The Administrator shall establish within the 
Earth Science Division of the Science Mission Directorate a program to 
acquire and disseminate cost-effective and appropriate commercial Earth 
remote sensing data and imagery in order to satisfy the scientific, 
operational, and educational requirements of the Administration, and 
where appropriate, of other Federal agencies and scientific researchers 
to augment or complement the suite of Earth observations acquired by 
the Administration, other United States Government agencies, and 
international partners.
``(b) Data Publication and Transparency.--The terms and conditions 
of commercial Earth remote sensing data and imagery acquisitions under 
the program described in subsection (a) shall not prevent--
``(1) the publication of commercial data or imagery for 
scientific purposes; or
``(2) the publication of information that is derived from, 
incorporates, or enhances the original commercial data or 
imagery of a vendor.
``(c) Authorization.--In carrying out the program under this 
section, the Administrator may--
``(1) procure the commercial Earth remote sensing data and 
imagery from commercial vendors to advance scientific research 
and applications in accordance with subsection (a); and
``(2) establish or modify end-use license terms and 
conditions to allow for the widest-possible use of procured 
commercial Earth remote sensing data and imagery by individuals 
other than NASA-funded users, consistent with the goals of the 
program.
``(d) United States Vendors.--Commercial Earth remote sensing data 
and imagery referred to in subsections (a) and (c) shall, to the 
maximum extent practicable, be procured from United States vendors.
``(e) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this section and annually thereafter, 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 includes the following 
information regarding the agreements, vendors, license terms, and uses 
of commercial Earth remote sensing data and imagery under this section:
``(1)(A) In the case of the initial report, a list of all 
agreements that are providing commercial Earth remote sensing 
data and imagery to NASA as of the date of the report.
``(B) For each subsequent report, a list of all agreements 
that have provided commercial Earth remote sensing data and 
imagery to NASA during the reporting period.
``(2) A description of the end-use license terms and 
conditions for each such vendor.
``(3) A description of how each such agreement advances 
scientific research and applications, including priorities 
recommended by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, 
and Medicine decadal surveys.
``(4) Information specifying whether the Administrator has 
entered into an agreement with a commercial vendor or a Federal 
agency that permits the use of data and imagery by Federal 
Government employees, contractors, or non-Federal users.''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The table of contents for chapter 
603 of title 51, United States Code, is amended by adding at 
the end the following new item:

``60307. Commercial Satellite Data Acquisition Program.''.

SEC. 607. NASA DATA FOR AGRICULTURAL APPLICATIONS.

(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) NASA has decades of experience in space-based 
scientific Earth observations and measurements, including data, 
trends and modeling.
(2) NASA Earth science data, which includes data on 
precipitation, temperature, evapotranspiration, soil moisture, 
and vegetation health, has been used to inform the 
decisionmaking of agricultural producers.
(3) NASA applies its scientific data and models to inform 
and support the agricultural community and engages in 
innovative collaborations such as the NASA Acres and NASA 
Harvest agricultural consortia.
(4) NASA uses space-based Earth observations and science 
and applications to support farmers in efforts to conserve 
water and other resources, improve farm management and crop 
yield, and facilitate the stability of the national food 
supply.
(5) NASA's upcoming Earth System Observatory will benefit 
the agricultural community by improving observations critical 
for measuring and understanding cropland conditions, water 
availability, early onset crop disease, soil moisture, and 
other crop and rangeland management indicators.
(6) Increased engagement between NASA and the agricultural 
community can support agricultural producers, bolster the 
national food supply, and improve agricultural research, 
science, and technology.
(b) Data Dissemination.--NASA shall continue to partner with other 
relevant Federal agencies, as practicable, to disseminate water, soil, 
vegetation, land-use, and other relevant NASA Earth observation and 
science data, information and tools to support American agricultural 
producers. Such partnerships may include activities such as--
(1) continuing to leverage NASA Earth science water data 
and information to enable efficient use of resources, inform 
irrigation decisions, and support local innovation and control 
of water management;
(2) supporting agriculture decisionmaking by increasing the 
accessibility and useability of NASA Earth science data, 
information, and tools relevant to the impact of disease, 
weather, precipitation, and other environmental factors on 
agricultural production; or
(3) making available, to the greatest extent practicable, 
NASA earth science measurements and data to advance precision 
agricultural capabilities relevant to the needs and 
requirements of agricultural producers.
(c) Application of Space-Based Data.--The Administrator shall, in 
furtherance of the goal for the NASA's Earth science and applications 
program of securing practical benefits for society, as set forth in 
section 60501 of title 51, United States Code, continue to collaborate 
with relevant Federal agencies to develop mechanisms to transition, as 
appropriate, relevant NASA Earth science research findings, data, 
information, models, and capabilities to operational governmental and 
private sector entities focused on addressing the needs of the 
agricultural user community.
(d) Partnering.--In carrying out subsections (b) and (d), NASA 
shall, to the extent practicable and in collaboration with other 
relevant Federal agencies, where appropriate, continue to engage State 
and local government agencies, institutions of higher education, 
agriculture producer organizations, and other relevant stakeholder and 
user communities from the public and private sectors to improve 
dissemination of NASA Earth science data, information, and tools 
relevant to the needs of agricultural producers and the agriculture 
industry, in accordance with the goal for the Administration's Earth 
science and applications program set forth in section 60501 of title 
51, United States Code, and relevant recommendations of the most recent 
decadal survey on Earth science and applications from space.

SEC. 608. PLANETARY SCIENCE PORTFOLIO.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) planetary science missions advance the scientific 
understanding of the solar system and the place of humans in it 
while also advancing the design and operations of spacecraft 
and robotic engineering; and
(2) Discovery, New Frontiers, and Flagship programs allow 
NASA to fund a range of missions that vary in size, cost, and 
complexity; maintaining balance across these mission classes 
allows for a broad scope of discoveries and scientific 
advances.
(b) Mission Priorities Reaffirmation.--Congress reaffirms the 
direction in section 502(b)(1) of the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration Transition Authorization Act of 2017 (Public Law 115-10; 
51 U.S.C. 20302 note) that--
(1) in accordance with the priorities established in the 
most recent Planetary Science Decadal Survey, the Administrator 
shall ensure, to the greatest extent practicable, the 
completion of a balanced set of Discovery, New Frontiers, and 
Flagship missions at the cadence recommended by the most recent 
Planetary Science Decadal Survey; and
(2) consistent with the set of missions described in 
paragraph (1), and while maintaining the continuity of 
scientific data and steady development of capabilities and 
technologies, the Administrator may seek, if necessary, 
adjustments to mission priorities, schedule, and scope in light 
of changing budget projections.

SEC. 609. PLANETARY DEFENSE.

(a) Section 808 of the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 18387), is amended 
in subsection (b) by striking ``implement, before September 30, 2012,'' 
and inserting ``, in coordination with the NASA Administrator, maintain 
and regularly update''.
(b) Title 51, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in section 71103--
(A) in the section heading, by striking 
``Developing policy and recommending'' and inserting 
``Policy on near-Earth objects and'';
(B) by striking ``Within 2 years after October 15, 
2008, the'' and inserting ``The'';
(C) after ``Policy shall'', by inserting ``, in 
coordination with the Administrator, maintain and 
regularly update'';
(D) by striking ``(1) develop''; and
(E) in paragraph (2), by striking ``(2) recommend'' 
and inserting ``recommendations for''; and
(2) in chapter 711--
(A) by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 71105. Planetary defense coordination office
``(a) Office.--As directed in section 10825 of the National 
Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2022 (Public 
Law 117-167), the Administrator shall maintain an office within the 
Planetary Science Division of the Science Mission Directorate to be 
known as the `Planetary Defense Coordination Office'.
``(b) Responsibilities.--Consistent with the direction in section 
10825 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration 
Authorization Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-167) the Planetary Defense 
Coordination Office under subsection (a) shall--
``(1) plan, develop, and implement a program to survey 
threats posed by near-Earth objects equal to or greater than 
140 meters in diameter, as required by section 321(d)(1) of the 
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act 
of 2005 (Public Law 109-155; 119 Stat. 2922; 51 U.S.C. 71101 
note prec.);
``(2) identify, track, and characterize potentially 
hazardous near-Earth objects, issue warnings of the effects of 
potential impacts of such objects, and investigate strategies 
and technologies for mitigating the potential impacts of such 
objects; and
``(3) assist in coordinating government planning for a 
response to a potential impact of a near-Earth objects.''; and
(B) in the table of contents--
(i) by adding at the end the following new 
item:

``71105. Planetary Defense Coordination Office.''; and
(ii) by amending the item relating to 
section 71103 to read as follows:

``71103. Policy on near-Earth objects and responsible Federal 
agency.''.

SEC. 610. LUNAR DISCOVERY AND EXPLORATION.

(a) In General.--The Administrator may carry out, within the 
Science Mission Directorate, a program to accomplish science objectives 
for the Moon, with an organizational structure that aligns 
responsibility, authority, and accountability, as recommended by the 
most recent decadal survey for planetary science and astrobiology.
(b) Objectives and Requirements.--In carrying out the program in 
subsection (a), the Administrator shall direct the Science Mission 
Directorate, in consultation with the Exploration Systems Development 
Mission Directorate and the Space Technology Mission Directorate, to 
define high-priority lunar science objectives informed by decadal 
surveys and other scientific consensus recommendations, and related 
requirements of an integrated Artemis science strategy for human and 
robotic missions to the Moon.
(c) Instrumentation.--The program in subsection (a) should assess 
the need for and facilitate the development of instrumentation to 
support the scientific exploration of the Moon.

SEC. 611. COMMERCIAL LUNAR PAYLOAD SERVICES.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) Administration encouragement and support for commercial 
services for lunar surface delivery capabilities and other 
related services serves the national interest; and
(2) commercial providers benefit from an approach that 
places low-cost, noncritical instruments on initial deliveries 
using small- and medium-size landers before proceeding to 
larger landers for more complex payloads.
(b) Commercial Lunar Payload Services.--The Administrator is 
authorized to establish a Commercial Lunar Payload Services program for 
the purposes of procuring, from one or more United States commercial 
providers, services for delivery of NASA science payloads, and the 
payloads of other NASA mission directorates, as appropriate and 
practicable, to the lunar surface.
(c) Relationship to Other Mission Directorates.--A Mission 
Directorate that seeks to obtain commercial lunar payload services 
under the program established in subsection (b) shall provide funding 
for--
(1) any payload, instrument or other item sponsored by the 
Mission Directorate for delivery through the program; and
(2) the cost of the commercial lunar payload services 
obtained on behalf of the Mission Directorate.
(d) Implementation.--In implementing any such activities pursuant 
to subsection (b), the Administrator shall--
(1) conduct updated market research on the commercial lunar 
economy and identify any changes since the last market 
analysis;
(2) assess NASA's needs from and role in and contribution 
to the commercial lunar delivery market;
(3) based on such needs identified in paragraph (2), assess 
the effectiveness of the task order approach in advancing 
commercial development of lunar delivery services, including an 
assessment of the appropriate number of providers necessary to 
support NASA commercial lunar delivery needs, and identify any 
challenges and recommendations for improvement; and
(4) strengthen procedures related to the selection, 
manifesting, interfaces, and requirements of payloads and other 
relevant factors that could contribute to minimizing future 
NASA-directed changes to projects following commercial lunar 
payload service contract awards.
(e) Management Plan.--Not later than 90 days from the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall, informed by the 
activities conducted under subsection (c), prepare and implement a 
management plan with clear leadership authority and responsibility for 
the program authorized in subsection (b).
(f) Briefings.--Not later than 180 days from the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the appropriate 
committees of Congress on the implementation of the management plan in 
subsection (d).
(g) Coordination.--The Administrator shall ensure coordination 
between Mission Directorates and the Moon to Mars Program on the 
administration of the program in subsection (b) to ensure alignment of 
goals for lunar delivery services.

SEC. 612. PLANETARY AND LUNAR OPERATIONS.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) existing NASA lunar and Martian orbital missions are 
operating well beyond their planned mission lifespans;
(2) NASA relies on this aging infrastructure for 
observations, communications relay, and other operations to 
support critical NASA missions; and
(3) the United States plans to increase its activities on 
and around both the Moon and Mars in coming years.
(b) Plan.--The Administrator shall develop a plan to ensure 
continuity of operations and sufficient observational and operational 
capabilities on and around the Moon and Mars necessary to continue to 
enable a robust science program and human exploration program for the 
Moon and Mars well into the future. Such plan shall consider 
opportunities to engage both private and international partners in 
future operations.

SEC. 613. MARS SAMPLE RETURN.

(a) In General.--The Administrator shall, subject to the 
availability of appropriations, lead a Mars Sample Return program to 
enable the return to Earth of scientifically-selected samples from the 
surface of Mars for study in terrestrial laboratories, consistent with 
the recommendations of the National Academies decadal surveys for 
planetary science.
(b) Approach.--The Administrator shall pursue the program in 
subsection (a) on a timeline and in a manner necessary to--
(1) Sustain United States leadership in the scientific 
exploration of Mars;
(2) maintain NASA capabilities to land and operate robotic 
spacecraft on the surface of Mars;
(3) preserve the relevant unique and long-term 
institutional expertise; and
(4) maintain a balanced and robust planetary science 
division portfolio without requiring significant increases to 
the NASA budget.
(c) Implementation Plan.--The Administrator shall, as soon as 
practicable and no later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, transmit to the appropriate committees of Congress a plan and 
timeline for the implementation of a Mars Sample Return program 
pursuant to this section with the goal of enabling the highest 
scientific return for the resources invested. Such plan shall include a 
design and mission architecture and establish realistic cost and 
schedule estimates to enable such goal.

SEC. 614. HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE SERVICING.

Not later than 90 days from the date of the enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of 
Congress full copies of any study conducted in the last five years 
regarding the technical feasibility of safely reboosting the Hubble 
Space Telescope, including any such studies regarding the technical 
feasibility of using private sector capabilities.

SEC. 615. GREAT OBSERVATORIES MISSION AND TECHNOLOGY MATURATION.

(a) Establishment.--The Administrator may establish a Great 
Observatories Mission and Technology Maturation program (referred to in 
this section as the ``Program'') to mature the large-scale space-based 
mission concepts and technologies needed for future large strategic 
astrophysics missions, including for a large-aperture infrared, 
optical, and ultraviolet space telescope, as informed by the 
recommendations of the most recent decadal survey in astronomy and 
astrophysics.
(b) Activities.--The Program shall inform the design and 
development of future large-scale space-based Astrophysics missions by 
conducting activities which may include--
(1) assessing the appropriate scope for any future mission;
(2) determining the range of capabilities and technology 
readiness of such capabilities needed for a mission; and
(3) informing the development and maturation of science and 
technologies needed for such mission.
(c) Costs.--The independent life-cycle cost estimate conducted 
under section 30307 of title 51, United States Code, as amended by this 
Act, for any large-scale space-based mission derived from concepts and 
technologies matured through the Program shall include an accounting of 
all costs spent on maturation of the mission through the Program.
(d) Report.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act and annually thereafter, the Administrator shall 
submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the 
progress and impacts of any Projects established under subsection (b) 
within Astrophysics programs.

SEC. 616. NANCY GRACE ROMAN SPACE TELESCOPE.

The Administrator shall continue development of the Nancy Grace 
Roman Space Telescope as directed in subsection 10823(b) of the 
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2022 
(Public Law 117-167).

SEC. 617. HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) NASA heliophysics research advances the scientific 
understanding of the Sun, its impact on the Earth and near-
Earth environment, and the Sun's interactions with other bodies 
in the solar system, the interplanetary medium, and the 
interstellar medium;
(2) fundamental science supported by the Heliophysics 
division is critical to improving space weather observations 
and forecasting capabilities, which contribute to--
(A) fortifying national security and other 
critically important space-based and ground-based 
assets;
(B) improving the resilience of the Nation's energy 
infrastructure; and
(C) protecting human health in space; and
(3) the Heliophysics Division should continue to maximize 
the scientific return on investment of its portfolio through 
maintaining a balanced portfolio that includes research and 
analysis, including multidisciplinary research initiatives, 
technology development, space-based missions and suborbital 
flight projects that include both directed and strategic 
missions and principal investigator-led, competitively 
solicited missions, informed by the science priorities and 
guidance of the most recent decadal survey in solar and space 
physics.
(b) Program Management.--The Administrator shall seek to--
(1) maintain a regular Explorer Announcement of Opportunity 
cadence and alternate between small and mid-sized missions; and
(2) enable a regular selection of Missions of Opportunity.

SEC. 618. STUDY ON COMMERCIAL SPACE WEATHER DATA.

(a) Study.--The Administrator, in consultation with the 
Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 
shall conduct a study of the extent to which commercially-available 
data could advance space weather research, including the relevant space 
weather research priorities of the most recent decadal survey on solar 
and space physics.
(b) Contents.--The study shall include--
(1) an assessment of commercial capabilities and commercial 
data that meets or exceeds the science and technical standards 
and requirements of the Administration, which may include--
(A) data that is or could be generated by 
commercial providers;
(B) commercially-available small spacecraft;
(C) opportunities for hosted NASA payloads on 
commercial spacecraft; and
(D) commercial solutions for data processing 
applicable to space weather science;
(2) recommendations and opportunities for the Federal 
Government to facilitate the use of commercially available 
options for space weather data relevant to advancing the 
Administration's space weather research and development 
activities consistent with the most recent National Academies 
decadal survey, without reducing quality of data; and
(3) options, where appropriate, for potential partnerships 
or use of NASA prize authority and competitions, as appropriate 
and practicable, to obtain access to such data identified in 
paragraph (1) that--
(A) meets or exceeds the science and technical 
standards and requirements of the Administration; and
(B) are not duplicative of activities conducted 
pursuant to chapter 606 of title 51, United States 
Code.
(c) Report.--Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall submit a report to the appropriate 
committees of Congress containing the results of the study provided 
under subsection (a).

SEC. 619. GEOSPACE DYNAMICS CONSTELLATION.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the 
Geospace Dynamics Constellation mission could enable scientific 
discoveries that will transform understanding of the processes that 
govern the dynamics of the Earth's upper atmospheric envelope that 
surrounds and protects the planet.
(b) Assessment.--Not later than 30 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress a report regarding the updated 
mission approach, schedule, and budget profile to launch the Geospace 
Dynamics Constellation mission by the end of the decade to fulfill the 
recommendations of the heliophysics decadal survey.

SEC. 620. TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT FOR WILDLAND FIRE SCIENCE, MANAGEMENT, 
AND MITIGATION.

(a) In General.--The Administrator, acting through the Associate 
Director of the Earth Science Division for Earth Action, shall 
establish a project for science and technology development for wildland 
fire management and mitigation (referred to in this section as 
``FireSense'').
(b) Purpose.--The purpose of FireSense is to co-develop, deploy, 
and support NASA's application of advanced science, data, and 
technology capabilities to enable measurable improvement in United 
States wildland fire management and mitigation across the fire cycle, 
including pre-fire, active fire, and post-fire phases.
(c) Objectives.--In establishing FireSense, the Administrator shall 
seek input from relevant stakeholders and shall align FireSense with 
the goal for NASA's Earth science and applications program set forth in 
section 60501 of title 51, United States Code, consider relevant 
recommendations of the most recent decadal survey on Earth science and 
applications from space, and shall, to the extent practicable, focus on 
the following objectives:
(1) Enhanced predictive modeling and early warning systems 
for wildland fire detection and prevention.
(2) Developing remote sensing technologies and data 
analysis tools to monitor fire-prone areas.
(3) Transitioning wildland fire management technologies to 
operational users, including agencies, private sector entities, 
and academic institutions.
(4) Conducting studies on the long-term impact of 
temperature change, weather variability, environmental 
stressors, and atmospheric, hydrologic, ecological, and other 
changes to Earth systems on wildland fire behavior, frequency, 
and intensity.
(5) Supporting post-fire recovery and ecosystem restoration 
through advanced technologies and data.
(6) Providing necessary technical assistance to operational 
users to receive, process, and make use of wildland fire 
science, data, and technology resources.
(7) Any additional objectives as determined necessary by 
the Administrator to satisfy the purpose described in 
subsection (b).
(d) Interagency Coordination.--In implementing FireSense, the 
Administrator shall, as practicable and appropriate, coordinate with 
relevant Federal, State, and local agencies to support wildland fire 
science, data, and technology development activities across all phases 
of the fire cycle, including prevention, detection, response, and 
recovery.
(e) Operational Support.--The Administrator shall, to the extent 
practicable and in collaboration with other relevant Federal agencies, 
continue to provide necessary scientific and technical support to 
enhance wildland fire mitigation efforts to operational users, 
including the following:
(1) Relevant Federal agencies, as determined appropriate by 
the Administrator.
(2) State, local, and Tribal governments and organizations.
(3) Private sector entities.
(4) Academic institutions, including colleges, 
universities, and wildland fire research institutions.
(f) Data Sharing and Collaboration.--The Administrator shall 
facilitate the sharing of data, tools, and research findings with 
operational users and other relevant stakeholders to ensure effective 
use of NASA's capabilities in wildland fire management.
(g) Firesense Project Evaluation.--The Administrator shall 
periodically evaluate the effectiveness of FireSense and make necessary 
adjustments to improve its impact on wildland fire management.
(h) Report.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act and annually thereafter for five years, the 
Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a 
report on the activities and accomplishments of FireSense, including 
the following:
(1) An assessment of interagency coordination efforts.
(2) FireSense's impact on wildland fire management efforts.
(3) A list of emerging wildland fire management 
technologies and opportunities that may be considered for 
further research, development, demonstration, and deployment.
(4) An assessment of existing challenges to effective 
coordination with operational users, including State, local, 
and Tribal governments.

SEC. 621. IMPLEMENTATION OF RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE NATIONAL WILDLAND 
FIRE MANAGEMENT AND MITIGATION COMMISSION.

(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) Wildland fires pose a significant threat to public 
safety, property, and natural resources.
(2) The National Wildland Fire Management and Mitigation 
Commission (in this section referred to as the ``Commission'') 
has provided critical recommendations for enhancing wildland 
fire science, data, and technology resources.
(3) The Administration, through the Science Mission 
Directorate, has the capability to support and enhance wildland 
fire management through its advanced research and technological 
expertise.
(b) Incorporation of Recommendations.--The Administrator, in 
accordance with the goal for NASA's Earth science and applications 
program set forth in section 60501 of title 51, United States Code, and 
relevant recommendations of the most recent decadal survey on Earth 
science and applications from space, shall incorporate the 
recommendations of the Commission, to the extent practicable, which may 
include continuing to carry out the following:
(1) Enhancing the collection, analysis, and dissemination 
of data related to wildland fires, including satellite and 
remote sensing data.
(2) Supporting research and development projects aimed at 
improving wildland fire prediction, prevention, response, and 
recovery.
(3) Developing and deploying technologies that can assist 
in monitoring, detecting, and mitigating wildland fires.
(4) Conducting studies on the long-term impact of 
temperature change, weather variability, environmental 
stressors, and atmospheric, hydrologic, ecological, and other 
changes to Earth systems on wildland fire behavior, frequency, 
and intensity.
(c) Interagency Coordination.--The Administrator shall continue to 
coordinate, as practicable, with other Federal, State, local, and 
Tribal entities to integrate the Commission's recommendations into 
broader wildland fire management efforts. Such coordination may include 
the following:
(1) Facilitating the sharing of wildland fire-related data 
and research findings with relevant agencies and stakeholders.
(2) Participating in joint initiatives and projects aimed 
at enhancing wildland fire management capabilities.
(d) Evaluation.--The Administrator shall conduct periodic 
evaluations of NASA's efforts to incorporate the Commission's 
recommendations and make adjustments as necessary to maximize the 
effectiveness of such recommendations to support wildland fire 
mitigation and management efforts.
(e) Reporting.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress a report detailing the activities 
undertaken by NASA to implement the Commission's recommendations, 
including the following:
(1) A summary of research and development projects 
initiated or supported.
(2) An assessment of the impact of such activities on 
wildland fire management and mitigation efforts.
(3) Any challenges or obstacles encountered in implementing 
such recommendations.

TITLE VII--STEM EDUCATION

SEC. 701. NATIONAL SPACE GRANT COLLEGE AND FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM.

(a) Amendments.--Title 51, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in section 40303, by striking subsections (d) and (e);
(2) in section 40304--
(A) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the 
following:
``(c) Solicitations.--
``(1) In general.--Prior to the conclusion of each 
preceding award cycle, the Administrator shall issue a 
solicitation to space grant consortia for the award of grants 
or contracts under this section. The Administrator shall 
implement the allocation guidance under subsection (e) during 
each fiscal year covered by an award cycle.
``(2) Proposals.--A lead institution of a space grant 
consortium that seeks a grant or contract under this section 
shall submit, on behalf of such space grant consortium, an 
application to the Administrator at such time and in such 
manner and accompanied by such information as the Administrator 
may require.
``(3) Awards.--The Administrator shall award one or more 
multi-year grants or contracts, disbursed in annual 
installments, to the lead institution of an eligible space 
grant consortium of--
``(A) each of the 50 States of the United States;
``(B) the District of Columbia; and
``(C) the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.''; and
(B) by inserting after subsection (d) the 
following:
``(e) Allocation of Funding.--
``(1) Program implementation.--To carry out the purposes 
set forth in section 40301 of this title, each fiscal year, of 
the funds appropriated for this program of that fiscal year, 
the Administrator shall allocate not less than 85 percent among 
eligible space grant consortia as follows:
``(A) The space grant consortia identified in 
paragraph 40304(c)(3) shall each receive an equal 
share.
``(B) The territories of Guam and the U.S. Virgin 
Islands shall each receive funds equal to one-fifth of 
the share for each space grant consortium.
``(2) Program administration.--
``(A) In general.--Each fiscal year, of the funds 
made available for the National Space Grant College and 
Fellowship Program, the Administrator shall allocate 
not more than 10 percent for the administration of the 
program.
``(B) Costs covered.--The funds allocated under 
paragraph (1)(A) of this section shall cover all costs 
of the Administration associated with the 
administration of the National Space Grant College and 
Fellowship Program, including--
``(i) direct costs to the program, 
including costs relating to support services 
and civil service salaries and benefits;
``(ii) indirect general and administrative 
costs of centers and facilities of the 
Administration; and
``(iii) indirect general and administrative 
costs of the Administration headquarters.
``(3) Special opportunities.--Each fiscal year, of the 
funds made available for the National Space Grant College and 
Fellowship program, the Administrator shall allocate not more 
than 5 percent to lead institutions of Space Grant Consortia 
for grants to carry out innovative approaches and programs to 
further science and education relating to the missions of the 
Administration pursuant to subsection (b).''.
(b) Review.--The Administrator shall make arrangements for an 
independent external review of the National Space Grant College and 
Fellowship Program to--
(1) evaluate its management, accomplishments, approach to 
funding allocation as described in section 40303(e) of title 
51, United States Code, and responsiveness to the purposes and 
goals defined in chapter 403 of title 51, United States Code;
(2) consider the benefits partnerships with local education 
agencies, including those in underserved and rural areas, may 
provide; and
(3) propose any statutory updates that may be needed to 
implement recommendations of the review.
(c) Report.--Not later than nine months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate 
committees of Congress a report on the independent external review of 
the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program described in 
subsection (a).

SEC. 702. SKILLED TECHNICAL WORKFORCE EDUCATION OUTREACH.

(a) In General.--The Administrator may conduct or support STEM 
engagement activities that focus on expanding opportunities for 
students to pursue skilled technical workforce occupations in space and 
aeronautics.
(b) Leveraging Existing Programs.--The Administrator, in conducting 
activities pursuant to subsection (a), shall consider leveraging, as 
appropriate, existing programs of NASA or other Federal programs and 
interagency initiatives, such as the Manufacturing USA program under 
section 34 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act 
(15 U.S.C. 278s).
(c) Inclusion.--Activities under subsection (a) may include 
outreach activities that engage secondary and post-secondary students, 
including students at institutions of higher education, two-year 
colleges, and high schools, and students in vocational or career and 
technical education programs, and that--
(1) expose students to careers that require career and 
technical education;
(2) encourage students to pursue careers that require 
career and technical education; and
(3) provide students hands-on learning opportunities to 
view the manufacturing, assembly, and testing of NASA-funded 
space and aeronautical systems, as the Administrator considers 
appropriate and with consideration of relevant factors such as 
workplace safety, mission needs, and the protection of 
sensitive and proprietary technologies.
(d) Briefing.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the appropriate 
committees of Congress on NASA's current and planned activities under 
this section.
(e) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Institution of higher education.--The term 
``institution of higher education'' has the meaning given the 
term in section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 
U.S.C. 1001(a)).
(2) Skilled technical workforce.--The term ``skilled 
technical workforce'' has the meaning given the term in section 
4(b)(3) of the Innovations in Mentoring, Training, and 
Apprenticeships Act (42 U.S.C. 1862p note; Public Law 115-402).

TITLE VIII--POLICY OF NASA

SEC. 801. MAJOR PROGRAMS.

Section 30104 of title 51, United States Code, is amended in 
subsection (a)(1) by striking ``7120.5E, dated August 14, 2012'' and 
inserting ``7120.5F, dated August 3, 2021''.

SEC. 802. NASA ADVISORY COUNCIL.

(a) Consultation and Advice.--Section 20113(g) of title 51, United 
States Code, is amended by adding ``and Congress'' after ``advice to 
the Administration''.
(b) Sunset.--Effective September 30, 2028, section 20113(g) of 
title 51, United States Code, is amended by striking ``and Congress''.

SEC. 803. NASA ASSESSMENT OF EARLY COST ESTIMATES.

Not later than 12 months after the date of the enactment of this 
Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress a review of the development, 
application, and assessment of early cost estimates made prior to 
preliminary design review for NASA missions. The review may include--
(1) an assessment of NASA processes related to the 
formation and evaluation of proposed and early-stage cost 
estimates;
(2) an evaluation of NASA's monitoring and management of 
cost estimates throughout mission development, in accordance 
with section 10861(b)(4) of the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration Authorization Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-167); 
and
(3) any such recommendations as the Comptroller General 
determines appropriate.

SEC. 804. INDEPENDENT COST ESTIMATE.

Section 30307 of title 51, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the section heading, by striking ``analysis'' and 
inserting ``estimate''; and
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) by striking ``Before any funds may be obligated 
for implementation'' and inserting ``After the 
Administrator completes the preliminary design 
review'';
(B) by striking ``analysis'' and inserting 
``estimate''; and
(C) by inserting after the first sentence, ``No 
funds may be obligated for implementation of the 
project before the Administrator reports the results of 
the life-cycle cost estimate to Congress.''.

SEC. 805. AUTHORIZATION FOR THE TRANSFER TO NASA OF FUNDS FROM OTHER 
AGENCIES FOR SCIENTIFIC OR ENGINEERING RESEARCH OR 
EDUCATION.

(a) In General.--Subsection (f) of section 20113 of title 51, 
United States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking ``In the performance of its functions'' and 
inserting the following:
``(1) Cooperation.--In the performance of its functions''; 
and
(2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(2) Funds.--Funds available to any department or agency 
of the Federal Government for scientific or engineering 
research or education, or the provision of facilities therefor, 
shall, subject to the approval of the head of such department 
or agency or as delegated pursuant to such department's or 
agency's regulation, be available for transfer, in whole or in 
part, to the Administration for such use as is consistent with 
the purposes for which such funds were appropriated. Funds so 
transferred shall be merged with the appropriation to which 
transferred, except that such transferred funds shall be 
limited to the awarding of grants or cooperative agreements for 
scientific or engineering research or education.''.
(b) Annual Information on Funds Transferred.--
(1) In general.--Not later than two years after the date of 
the enactment of this section, the Administrator shall include 
in the annual budget justification materials of the 
Administration, as submitted to Congress with the President's 
budget request under section 1105 of title 31, United States 
Code, information describing the activities conducted under 
subsection (f) of section 20113 of title 51, United States Code 
(as amended by subsection (a)), during the immediately 
preceding fiscal year.
(2) Contents.--The information referred to in paragraph (1) 
shall contain a description of each transfer of funds under the 
authority provided for in paragraph (2) of subsection (f) of 
section 20113 of title 51, United States Code (as added and 
amended, respectively, by this section), during the immediately 
preceding fiscal year, including the following:
(A) An identification of the department or agency 
of the Federal Government from which such funds were 
transferred.
(B) The total amount of funds so transferred, 
disaggregated by each such department or agency.
(C) The purposes for which such funds were 
appropriated to each agency or department.
(D) The program or activity of the Administration 
to which such funds were made available by each such 
transfer.
(E) The purposes of each such administration 
program or activity, and the amount of funding 
appropriated to the Administration for such purposes.
(c) Report.--Not later than three years after the date of the 
enactment of the section, the Administrator shall submit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress a report that includes the 
following:
(1) A summary of the value of the authority provided for in 
paragraph (2) of subsection (f) of section 209113 of title 51, 
United States Code (as added and amended, respectively, by this 
section), including the extent to which such authority has 
benefited the Administration and its ability to meet its needs, 
achieve its mission, or more effectively conduct interagency 
collaborations.
(2) An identification of any barriers or challenges to 
implementing such authority, or otherwise to managing funding 
required to conduct joint programs and award jointly funded 
grants and cooperative agreements by the administration with 
other Federal departments and agencies to advance the missions 
of each such department and agency.

SEC. 806. REPORT ON MERITS AND OPTIONS FOR ESTABLISHING AN INSTITUTE 
RELATING TO SPACE RESOURCES.

(a) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator and Secretary shall jointly 
submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the merits 
of, and options for, establishing an institute relating to space 
resources to advance the objectives of NASA and the Department in 
maintaining United States preeminence in space. Such objectives shall 
include the following:
(1) Identifying, developing, and distributing space 
resources, including by encouraging the development of 
foundational science, industrial capability, and technology.
(2) Reducing the technological and business risks 
associated with identifying, developing, and distributing space 
resources.
(3) Research to maximize the responsible use of space 
resources.
(4) Developing options for using space resources to carry 
out the following.
(A) Support current and future space architectures, 
programs, business, and missions.
(B) Enable such architectures, programs, business, 
and missions that would not otherwise be possible.
(C) Supplement the supply of such resources 
available on Earth.
(b) Additional Matters.--The report required under subsection (a) 
shall also include the following assessments of the Administrator and 
the Secretary:
(1) Whether a virtual or physical institute relating to 
space resources is most cost effective and appropriate.
(2) Whether partnering with institutions of higher 
education and the aerospace industry, and the extractive 
industry as appropriate, would be effective in increasing 
information available to the institute with respect to 
advancing the objectives described in such subsection.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Department.--The term ``Department'' means the 
Department of Commerce.
(2) Extractive industry.--The term ``extractive industry'' 
means companies and individuals involved in the processes of 
extracting, including mining, quarrying, drilling, and 
dredging, raw, natural materials or energy sources.
(3) Institution of higher education.--The term 
``institution of higher education'' has the meaning given such 
term in section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 
U.S.C. 1001(a)).
(4) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary 
of Commerce.
(5) Space resource.--
(A) In general.--The term ``space resource'' means 
an abiotic resource in situ in outer space.
(B) Inclusions.--The term ``space resource'' 
includes a raw, natural material or energy source.

SEC. 807. REPORTS TO CONGRESS.

(a) Congressional Reports and Notices.--Any report or notice 
provided to Congress by NASA shall be provided to the appropriate 
committees of Congress, concurrently with its delivery to any other 
Committee or office.
(b) Reports on International Agreements.--If the United States 
becomes a signatory to an international agreement or nonbinding 
instrument concerning NASA activities, the Administrator shall submit 
to the appropriate committees of Congress a report containing a copy of 
such agreement or instrument, as the case may be.

SEC. 808. CONTRACT FLEXIBILITY.

Congress finds that NASA FAR Supplement (NFS) 1852.242-72, Denied 
Access to NASA Facilities instructs that for the period that NASA 
facilities were not accessible to contractor employees, the contracting 
officer may adjust the contract performance or delivery schedule, 
forego the work, reschedule the work, or consider requests for 
equitable adjustment to the contract.

SEC. 809. GAO REPORT.

Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this 
Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress a review of fire and emergency 
services at NASA launch and reentry facilities that assesses the 
following:
(1) Current capabilities and projected demands for NASA-
provided fire and emergency services.
(2) How demand for NASA-provided fire and emergency 
services have been impacted by the following:
(A) An increased rate of launch and reentry 
operations.
(B) An increased number of leases with commercial 
launch and reentry service providers for use of NASA 
property.
(3) Current fire and emergency services provided by 
commercial providers to support launch and reentry operations 
that are conducted--
(A) to fulfill a contractual obligation with NASA; 
or
(B) for non-NASA purposes using NASA-leased 
property.
(4) Whether NASA-provided and commercially-provided fire 
and emergency services are able to meet current and projected 
demands and support all fire response areas on NASA property.

SEC. 810. NASA PUBLIC-PRIVATE TALENT PROGRAM.

Section 20113 of title 51, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following new subsection:
``(o) Public-Private Talent Program.--
``(1) Assignment authority.--Under policies and procedures 
prescribed by the Administration, the Administrator may, with 
the agreement of a private sector entity and the consent of an 
employee of the Administration or of such entity, arrange for 
the temporary assignment of such employee of the Administration 
to such private sector entity, or of such employee of such 
entity to the Administration, as the case may be.
``(2) Agreements.--
``(A) In general.--The Administrator shall provide 
for a written agreement among the Administration, the 
private sector entity, and the employee concerned 
regarding the terms and conditions of the employee's 
assignment under this subsection. The agreement shall--
``(i) require that the employee of the 
Administration, upon completion of the 
assignment, will serve in the Administration, 
or elsewhere in the civil service if approved 
by the Administrator, for a period equal to 
twice the length of the assignment;
``(ii) provide that if the employee of the 
Administration or of the private sector entity 
(as the case may be) fails to carry out the 
agreement, such employee shall be liable to the 
United States for payment of all expenses of 
the assignment, unless such failure was for 
good and sufficient reason, as determined by 
the Administrator; and
``(iii) contain language ensuring that such 
employee of the Administration or of the 
private sector entity (as the case may be) does 
not improperly use predecisional or draft 
deliberative information that such employee may 
be privy to or aware of related to 
Administration programing, budgeting, 
resourcing, acquisition, or procurement for the 
benefit or advantage of the private sector 
entity.
``(B) Treatment.--An amount for which an employee 
is liable under subparagraph (A) shall be treated as a 
debt due the United States.
``(C) Waiver.--The Administrator may waive, in 
whole or in part, collection of a debt described in 
subparagraph (B) based on a determination that the 
collection would be against equity and good conscience 
and not in the best interests of the United States, 
after taking into account any indication of fraud, 
misrepresentation, fault, or lack of good faith on the 
part of the employee concerned.
``(3) Termination.--An assignment under this section may, 
at any time and for any reason, be terminated by the 
Administration or the private-sector entity concerned, as the 
case may be.
``(4) Duration.--
``(A) In general.--An assignment under this 
subsection shall be for a period of not less than three 
months and not more than two years, renewable up to a 
total of three years. An employee of the Administration 
may not be assigned under this subsection for more than 
a total of three years inclusive of all such 
assignments.
``(B) Extension.--An assignment under this 
subsection may be for a period in excess of two years, 
but not more than three years, if the Administrator 
determines that such assignment is necessary to meet 
critical mission or program requirements.
``(5) Policies and procedures.--
``(A) In general.--The Administrator shall 
establish policies and procedures relating to 
assignments under this subsection.
``(B) Elements.--Policies and procedures 
established pursuant to subparagraph (A) shall address 
the following:
``(i) The nature and elements of written 
agreements with participants in assignments 
under this subsection.
``(ii) Criteria for making such 
assignments, including the needs of the 
Administration relating thereto.
``(iii) How the Administration will oversee 
such assignments, in particular with respect to 
paragraphs (2)(A)(iii), (7)(C), and (7)(D).
``(iv) Criteria for issuing waivers.
``(v) How expenses under paragraph 
(2)(A)(ii) would be determined.
``(vi) Guidance for participants in such 
assignments.
``(vii) Mission Directorate, Office, and 
organizational structure to implement and 
manage such assignments.
``(viii) Any other necessary policies, 
procedures, or guidelines to ensure such 
assignments comply with all relevant statutory 
authorities and ethics rules, and effectively 
contribute to one or more of the 
Administration's missions.
``(C) Inherently governmental activities.--
Assignments made under this subsection shall not have 
responsibilities or perform duties or decision making 
regarding Administration activities that are inherently 
governmental, pursuant to subpart 7.500 of title 48, 
Code of Federal Regulations, and Office of Management 
and Budget review.
``(6) Status of federal employees assigned to private 
sector entities.--
``(A) In general.--An employee of the 
Administration who is assigned to a private sector 
entity under this subsection shall be considered, 
during the period of such assignment, to be on detail 
to a regular work assignment in the Administration for 
all purposes. The written agreement established under 
paragraph (2)(A) shall address the specific terms and 
conditions related to such employee's continued status 
as a Federal employee.
``(B) Certification.--In establishing a temporary 
assignment of an employee of the Administration to a 
private sector entity, the Administrator or 
Administrator's designee shall certify that such 
temporary assignment shall not have an adverse or 
negative impact on the mission of the Administration or 
organizational capabilities associated with such 
assignment.
``(7) Terms and conditions for private sector employees.--
An employee of a private sector entity who is assigned to the 
Administration under this subsection--
``(A) shall continue to receive pay and benefits 
from the private sector entity from which such employee 
is assigned and shall not receive pay or benefits from 
the Administration, except as provided in subparagraph 
(B);
``(B) is deemed to be an employee of the 
Administration for the purposes of--
``(i) chapters 73 and 81 of title 5;
``(ii) sections 201, 203, 205, 207, 208, 
209, 603, 606, 607, 643, 654, 1905, and 1913 of 
title 18, except that such section 209 does not 
apply to any salary, or contribution or 
supplementation of salary made pursuant to 
subparagraph (A) of this paragraph;
``(iii) sections 1343, 1344, and 1349(b) of 
title 31;
``(iv) the Federal Tort Claims Act and any 
other Federal tort liability statute;
``(v) the Ethics in Government Act of 1978; 
and
``(vi) chapter 21 of title 41;
``(C) shall not have access to any trade secrets or 
any other nonpublic information which is of commercial 
value to the private sector entity from which such 
employee is assigned;
``(D) may not perform work that is considered 
inherently governmental in nature, in accordance with 
paragraph (5)(C); and
``(E) may not be used to circumvent--
``(i) section 1710 of title 41, United 
States Code; or
``(ii) any limitation or restriction on the 
size of the Administration's civil servant 
workforce.
``(8) Additional requirements.--The Administrator shall 
ensure that--
``(A) the normal duties and functions of an 
employee of the Administration who is assigned to a 
private sector entity under this subsection can be 
reasonably performed by other employees of the 
Administration without the permanent transfer or 
reassignment of other personnel of the Administration;
``(B) normal duties and functions of such other 
employees of the Administration are not, as a result of 
and during the course of such temporary assignment, 
performed or augmented by contractor personnel in 
violation of section 1710 of title 41; and
``(C) not more than two percent of the 
Administration's civil servant workforce may 
participate in an assignment under this subsection at 
the same time.
``(9) Conflicts of interest.--The Administrator shall 
implement a system to identify, mitigate, and manage any 
conflicts of interests that may arise as a result of an 
employee's assignment under this subsection.
``(10) Prohibition against charging certain costs to the 
federal government.--A private-sector entity may not charge the 
Administration or any other agency of the Federal Government, 
as direct or indirect costs under a Federal contract, the costs 
of pay or benefits paid by the entity to an employee assigned 
to the Administration under this subsection for the period of 
the assignment concerned.
``(11) Considerations.--In carrying out this subsection, 
the Administrator shall take into consideration--
``(A) the question of how assignments under this 
subsection might best be used to help meet the needs of 
the Administration with respect to the training of 
employees; and
``(B) where applicable, areas of particular private 
sector expertise, such as cybersecurity.
``(12) NASA reporting.--
``(A) In general.--Not later than April 30 of each 
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 summarizing 
the implementation of this subsection.
``(B) Contents.--Each report under subparagraph (A) 
shall include, with respect to the annual period to 
which such report relates, the following:
``(i) Information relating to the total 
number of employees of private sector entities 
assigned to the Administration, and the total 
number of employees of the Administration 
assigned to private sector entities.
``(ii) A brief description and assessment 
of the talent management benefits evidenced 
from such assignments, as well as any 
identified strategic human capital and 
operational challenges, including the 
following:
``(I) An identification of the 
names of the private sector entities to 
and from which employees were assigned.
``(II) A complete listing of 
positions such employees were assigned 
to and from.
``(III) An identification of 
assigned roles and objectives of such 
assignments.
``(IV) Information relating to the 
durations of such assignments.
``(V) Information relating to 
associated pay grades and levels.
``(iii) An assessment of impacts of such 
assignments on the Administration workforce and 
workforce culture.
``(iv) An identification of the number of 
Administration staff and budgetary resources 
required to implement this subsection.
``(13) Federal ethics.--Nothing in this subsection shall 
affect existing Federal ethics rules applicable to Federal 
personnel.
``(14) GAO reporting.--
``(A) In general.--Not later than three years after 
the date of the enactment of this subsection, 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 summarizing the implementation of this 
subsection.
``(B) Contents.--The report under subparagraph (A) 
shall include the following:
``(i) A review of the implementation of 
this subsection, according to law and the 
Administration policies and procedures 
established for assignments under this 
subsection.
``(ii) Information relating to the extent 
to which such assignments adhere to best 
practices relating to public-private talent 
exchange programs.
``(iii) A determination as to whether there 
should be limitations on the number of 
individuals participating in such assignments.
``(iv) Information relating to the extent 
to which the Administration complies with 
statutory requirements and ethics rules, and 
appropriately handles potential conflicts of 
interest and access to nonpublic information 
with respect to such assignments.
``(v) Information relating to the extent to 
which such assignments effectively contribute 
to one or more of the Administration's 
missions.
``(vi) Information relating to 
Administration resources, including employee 
time, dedicated to administering such 
assignments, and whether such resources are 
sufficient for such administration.''.

SEC. 811. REPORT ON SPACE ACT AGREEMENTS.

(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States 
shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report 
describing the following:
(1) Intellectual property considerations in Space Act 
agreements.
(2) Feedback shared by industry groups regarding 
intellectual property considerations in Space Act agreements.
(3) Differences between NASA policies regarding 
intellectual property in Space Act agreements and policies 
utilized in similar situations by other Federal agencies.
(b) Definition.--In this section, the term ``Space Act agreements'' 
means agreements entered into by NASA pursuant to its authorities under 
the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 (Public Law 85-568).

SEC. 812. MENTORING.

(a) In General.--The Administrator shall establish a comprehensive 
NASA-wide mentoring program for early-career, mid-level, and senior-
level employees at all NASA Centers and NASA Headquarters to ensure a 
robust pipeline for NASA's civil servant workforce and support the 
preparation of employees, including those from populations that are 
historically underrepresented in STEM, for promotion and leadership 
roles.
(b) Briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the appropriate 
committees of Congress on the implementation of subsection (a).

SEC. 813. RESTRICTION ON FEDERAL FUNDS RELATING TO CERTAIN SPACE AND 
SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITIES OF THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA.

(a) In General.--No Federal funds authorized in this Act may be 
obligated or expended for the following:
(1) For the National Aeronautics and Space Administration 
(NASA), the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), or 
the National Space Council (NSC) to develop, design, plan, 
promulgate, implement, or execute a bilateral policy, program, 
order, or contract of any kind to participate, collaborate, or 
coordinate bilaterally in any way with the People's Republic of 
China or any company owned by the People's Republic of China, 
or incorporated under the laws of the People's Republic of 
China, unless such activities are specifically authorized by a 
law enacted after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(2) To effectuate the hosting of official visitors from the 
People's Republic of China at facilities belonging to or 
utilized by NASA.
(b) Exception.--The restrictions described in subsection (a) shall 
not apply to activities with respect to which NASA, OSTP, or NSC, after 
consultation with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, have certified--
(1) pose no risk of resulting in the transfer of 
technology, data, or other information with national security 
or economic security implications to the People's Republic of 
China or a company owned by the People's Republic of China or 
incorporated under the laws of the People's Republic of China; 
and
(2) will not involve knowing interactions with officials 
who have been determined by the United States to have direct 
involvement with violations of human rights.
(c) Submission.--Any certification made under subsection (b) shall 
be submitted to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and the 
Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives, the 
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the Committee on 
Appropriations of the Senate, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 
not later than 30 days prior to the activity in question. Any such 
certification shall include a description of the purpose of such 
activity, its agenda, its major participants, and its location and 
timing.

SEC. 814. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.

Nothing in this Act may be construed to limit the ability of a NASA 
employee to discuss scientific research performed by such employee in 
accordance with NASA's scientific integrity policies.
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