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NASA Transition Authorization Act of 2025
4/4/2025, 12:57 PM
Summary of Bill S 933
One of the key provisions of the bill is the authorization of funding for NASA's Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon by 2024 and establish a sustainable presence on the lunar surface. The bill also includes provisions for continued support for the International Space Station and collaboration with international partners on space exploration efforts.
In addition to funding for specific programs, the bill also addresses other important issues related to NASA's operations. This includes provisions for workforce development and training, ensuring that NASA has the necessary personnel and expertise to carry out its missions effectively. The bill also includes measures to promote diversity and inclusion within the agency, ensuring that all individuals have equal opportunities to participate in NASA's activities. Overall, Bill 119 s 933 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that seeks to support and advance NASA's mission of space exploration and scientific discovery. By authorizing funding for key programs and addressing important operational issues, the bill aims to ensure that NASA remains at the forefront of space exploration efforts in the years to come.
Congressional Summary of S 933
NASA Transition Authorization Act of 2025
This bill reauthorizes through FY2025 the programs and activities of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The bill also revises certain existing NASA programs and establishes new programs related to space exploration, research, and technology.
For example, the bill directs NASA to continue its efforts to support crewed lunar landings and Mars explorations, including through partnerships with the private sector (i.e., the Moon to Mars and Artemis programs).
The bill also requires NASA to maintain the capability for a continuous human presence in low-Earth orbit until and beyond the retirement of the International Space Station (ISS). NASA may solicit proposals for the development of a commercial space station in low-Earth orbit. When such a station is ready, NASA must initiate an orderly transition of operations from the ISS to the commercial station. NASA must also develop a de-orbit vehicle for the eventual retirement of the ISS. (Low-Earth orbit encompasses orbits at an altitude of 1,200 miles or less.)
In addition, NASA is authorized to develop an architecture for lunar communications and navigation, and must develop a strategy to implement a standardized lunar time to support operations and infrastructure on and around the moon.
NASA must also continue to conduct research relating to advanced air mobility, unmanned aircraft systems (i.e., drones), and hypersonic technologies.
Finally, the bill requires the Government Accountability Office to report on fire and emergency services at NASA launch and reentry facilities.
