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Advancing Human Spaceflight Act of 2021
12/31/2022, 8:59 AM
Summary of Bill HR 5250
Key provisions of the bill include increasing funding for NASA's human spaceflight programs, such as the Artemis program which aims to return astronauts to the Moon and eventually send humans to Mars. The bill also calls for the development of new technologies and systems to support long-duration space missions, such as advanced life support systems and radiation protection measures.
Additionally, the Advancing Human Spaceflight Act of 2021 seeks to promote international cooperation in space exploration efforts, encouraging partnerships with other countries and organizations to further the goals of human spaceflight. The bill also emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in the space industry, calling for efforts to increase representation of women and minorities in STEM fields related to space exploration. Overall, the Advancing Human Spaceflight Act of 2021 is aimed at bolstering the United States' position as a leader in human spaceflight and advancing the frontiers of space exploration for the benefit of all humankind.
Congressional Summary of HR 5250
Advancing Human Spaceflight Act of 2021
This bill establishes programs and policies pertaining to human presence in space.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) shall
- establish a program to develop next-generation space suits and associated technologies,
- establish an outpost in orbit around the Moon as described in this bill, and
- submit a plan for achieving a power supply on the Moon.
The bill declares that it is U.S. policy to continuously maintain the capability for a continuous human presence in low-Earth orbit through and beyond the useful life of the International Space Station (ISS) and that such capability shall
- maintain U.S. global leadership and relations with partners and allies,
- contribute to the general welfare of the United States, and
- leverage commercial capabilities to promote affordability so as not to preclude a robust portfolio of other human space exploration activities.
NASA shall ensure that the ISS remains a viable and productive facility capable of potential U.S. use through at least FY2030.
NASA must submit a strategy that includes how it will transition to a successor platform to the ISS.
The Office of Science and Technology Policy shall conduct a study on the manner in which NASA funds missions of national need.


