H.R. 9193: Powering the Future of American Space Dominance Act

This bill, titled the Powering the Future of American Space Dominance Act, primarily focuses on enhancing NASA's capabilities in space through the use of nuclear propulsion and power systems for deep space exploration. Here are the main aspects of the bill:

Encouragement of Nuclear Technologies

The bill articulates the belief that nuclear systems are crucial for enabling deep space missions, whether human or robotic. It emphasizes that:

• Nuclear technologies require long-term investments and commitment.
• Advanced nuclear systems could enhance NASA's readiness for missions to the Moon and Mars.
• Existing technologies, like radioisotope heater units and electric radioisotope power systems, can support lunar operations.
• NASA and the Department of Energy should continue their collaboration on these technologies.

Reports and Updates

Nasa is required to submit several reports related to the use of nuclear propulsion:

• A 180-day update on progress and plans regarding nuclear propulsion technologies.
• An assessment of potential immediate applications of nuclear systems for upcoming NASA missions, including lunar payload services.
• A timeline for demonstrating nuclear propulsion systems in space and plans for utilizing radioisotope systems for lunar missions.

Focus on Lunar Power Solutions

The bill supports the idea that reliable power sources are essential for successful lunar explorations. Some key points include:

• NASA is tasked to predict power requirements for lunar operations over the next ten years.
• The bill allows NASA to collaborate with private entities to explore and implement power purchase agreements for lunar surface power.
• Commercial technologies, including solar and nuclear solutions, should be considered for power production on the Moon.

Indemnification and Risk Management

A portion of the bill focuses on the legal aspects of commercial partnerships in nuclear activities:

• Nasa is to submit a report assessing existing frameworks for indemnifying commercial partners that help in NASA's nuclear activities.
• The report will evaluate current policies, identify gaps in protection, and suggest improvements or new regulations for risk-sharing.

Agreements and Collaboration

This bill permits NASA to enter agreements with private sector entities to acquire lunar power systems. The agreements would follow certain guidelines:

• NASA needs to ensure the right to terminate agreements if power delivery does not commence within a specified timeframe.
• No substantial payments can be made before power delivery is achieved.
• These agreements are valid until a specified termination date, but existing agreements will remain enforceable.

Consultation and Coordination

NASA is encouraged to coordinate with various stakeholders, including:

• The Lunar Surface Innovation Consortium.
• Federal officials from relevant departments.
• International partners.
• Industry experts and private sector entities.

Relevant Companies

• BA - Boeing: As a primary contractor for NASA, Boeing may be involved in developing nuclear propulsion technologies and lunar power systems.
• RTX - Raytheon Technologies: They may contribute to building power systems or propulsion technologies for space missions.
• NTGR - Integra: They could be involved in developing commercial technologies for lunar power solutions.