ORBITS Act of 2023
3/7/2024, 9:39 PMSummary of Bill S 447
The ORBITS Act of 2023, also known as Bill 118 s 447, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress with the aim of regulating the growing commercial space industry. The bill focuses on promoting the safe and responsible use of outer space by private companies, while also ensuring that the United States remains competitive in the global space economy.One of the key provisions of the ORBITS Act is the establishment of a regulatory framework for commercial space activities. This framework includes guidelines for obtaining licenses for space launches and operations, as well as requirements for companies to adhere to safety standards and environmental regulations. The bill also calls for increased collaboration between government agencies, such as NASA and the FAA, to streamline the regulatory process and promote innovation in the industry.
Additionally, the ORBITS Act addresses the issue of space debris, which has become a growing concern as more satellites and spacecraft are launched into orbit. The bill includes provisions for companies to develop plans for mitigating space debris and requires them to adhere to best practices for satellite disposal at the end of their operational life. Overall, the ORBITS Act of 2023 aims to strike a balance between promoting the growth of the commercial space industry and ensuring that outer space remains a safe and sustainable environment for future generations. By establishing clear regulations and guidelines for companies operating in space, the bill seeks to foster innovation and economic growth while protecting the long-term viability of the space environment.
Congressional Summary of S 447
Orbital Sustainability Act of 2023 or the ORBITS Act of 2023
This bill directs specified agencies to take actions to remediate orbital debris (human-made space objects that are no longer in use and can harm orbiting satellites and on-orbit activities).
First, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) must
- publish and periodically update a list of orbital debris that pose the greatest immediate risk of harm to orbiting satellites and on-orbit activities,
- establish a demonstration program to foster the development of technologies to remediate the orbital debris on the list, and
- carry out other research and development activities to advance technologies for remediating orbital debris.
NASA (and other relevant agencies) may also contract for remediation services to support the commercial availability of such services.
Second, the National Space Council must update the Orbital Debris Mitigation Standard Practices within 90 days of the enactment of the bill and update them periodically thereafter. The updates must address matters including satellite constellations and other planned space systems, collision risks, and disposal of space systems after missions. The updates must inform (1) regulations of other agencies concerning orbital debris, and (2) bilateral and multilateral discussions with other countries concerning certain space activities.
Third, the Department of Commerce must facilitate the development of standard practices to coordinate on-orbit space traffic. Upon completion of the practices, Commerce and other federal departments must promote their adoption and use for space missions.
