Engine Testing for Exploration Act
The Engine Testing for Exploration Act would require NASA to preserve and maintain its rocket propulsion system testing capabilities to support human spaceflight exploration goals. It directs NASA to keep internal expertise in rocket propulsion testing, including through partnerships with the private sector, and to continue managing testing programs at the Stennis Space Center. The bill also mandates a briefing to Congress within 180 days of enactment that outlines NASA’s testing and evaluation plans for missions in low-Earth orbit and deep space, as well as future programs involving rocket propulsion testing for NASA-approved government-astronaut launch vehicles. In short, the bill aims to safeguard NASA’s testing infrastructure and know-how for current and future crewed spaceflight programs, preserving a specialized capability at Stennis and ensuring Congressional visibility into testing plans.
Key Points
- 1Short title: The act may be cited as the “Engine Testing for Exploration Act.”
- 2Purpose: Require NASA to maintain rocket propulsion system testing capabilities and internal expertise necessary to meet human spaceflight exploration goals, including through private-sector partnerships.
- 3Role of Stennis Space Center: The rocket propulsion system testing programs shall continue to be managed by NASA’s Stennis Space Center.
- 4Congressional briefing: Within 180 days of enactment, the Administrator must brief relevant congressional committees on plans for rocket propulsion testing and evaluation for low-Earth orbit and deep-space missions, and for future programs using NASA-certified government-astronaut launch vehicles.
- 5Definitions and findings: The bill defines key terms (Administrator, Government astronaut, NASA) and sets findings about the importance of propulsion testing, Stennis Space Center’s role, the need to maintain core testing capabilities, and the safety/risk-reduction benefits of testing.