S. 3198: Space Research And Continuing Exploration Act

This bill, titled the "Space Research And Continuing Exploration Act" or the "Space RACE Act," aims to establish a National Institute for Space Research with a focus on advancing microgravity research and development in the United States. This initiative is particularly relevant as it prepares for the eventual decommissioning of the International Space Station (ISS) and supports the transition to next-generation microgravity platforms.

Key Elements of the Bill

• Establishment of the Institute: The bill proposes the creation of the National Institute for Space Research, which would be managed by a non-Federal entity under a contract with NASA. It is designed to support a range of activities in microgravity research.
• Focus Areas: The Institute's objectives will include:
  • Enhancing in-space research capabilities and facilities.
  • Supporting research for national security purposes.
  • Preparing the microgravity ecosystem for the retirement of the ISS.
  • Fostering education and workforce development in space research.
  • Facilitating the transition from ISS operations to new microgravity platforms.
• Governance Structure: The Institute will have a Board of Directors composed of representatives from various federal agencies, including NASA, the Department of Commerce, Education, and Defense, as well as qualified experts in space research.
• Executive Director: An Executive Director will be appointed to manage the Institute's operations and ensure effectiveness and transparency in carrying out the bill’s objectives.
• Research and Funding: The Institute will be responsible for:
  • Maintaining a list of available microgravity platforms.
  • Developing guidelines for project selection.
  • Awarding grants to eligible entities, including public and private organizations, for microgravity research projects.
• Collaboration: The Institute will facilitate collaboration among government entities, states, and academic institutions to enhance and sustain operations in space research.
• Regulations: The bill outlines that the Institute will not have the authority to regulate private microgravity projects unless they receive federal funding.
• Funding Management: The Administrator will oversee the funds allocated to the Institute, limiting spending on administrative costs to 5% of the budget.
• Termination of ISS Operations: The bill mandates the termination of the ISS National Laboratory and related agreements within 180 days after the ISS ceases its research operations.

Eligibility for Grants

Entities that can apply for grants under the bill include:

• Public entities
• Private entities
• Nonprofit organizations
• For-profit organizations

Project Selection Criteria

To qualify for funding, projects must align with national scientific priorities and demonstrate sound scientific principles. The Institute will establish specific guidelines for project selection.

Provisions for Transparency and Accountability

The bill emphasizes the need for transparency in the Institute's operations, requiring it to adhere to established codes of conduct to prevent conflicts of interest among Board members and ensure accountability in project funding and management.

Relevant Companies

• NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) - While not a publicly traded company, its partnerships and contracts with private enterprises will likely influence many related companies engaged in space exploration and research.
• BA (Boeing Company) - Boeing is involved in space launch services and may be impacted by the transition from ISS operations to new platforms.
• LPNT (L3Harris Technologies) - This company may see changes in contracts related to government-funded microgravity projects.