Powering the Future of American Space Dominance Act

This bill directs NASA to send Congress updated plans for nuclear power and propulsion systems in space, including a phased program for radioisotope heater units and power systems for surviving the lunar night. It requires NASA to report on lessons learned from the joint NASA-DARPA nuclear rocket demonstration program and to forecast NASA's power needs on the Moon over the next 10 years. It allows NASA to study and then, through competition, sign agreements with at least two private companies to supply power on the lunar surface, with limits on early payments and an authority end date of October 1, 2030. It also requires a report on liability protection (indemnification) for commercial partners supporting NASA space nuclear activities.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• Mike Kennedy Republican sponsor
• 1 cosponsors