Summary:
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2014 - Title I: Authorization of Appropriations - (Sec. 101) Authorizes appropriations for FY2014 for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for: (1) space exploration, (2) space operations, (3) science, (4) aeronautics, (5) space technology, (6) education, (7) cross-agency support, (8) construction and environmental compliance and restoration, and (9) the Inspector General.

Title II: Human Space Flight - Subtitle A: Exploration (Sec. 201) Makes human exploration deeper into the solar system a core mission of NASA.

Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 to expand the key objectives of the United States for human expansion into space to include accelerating the development of capabilities to enable a human exploration mission to the surface of Mars and beyond. Bars NASA from obtaining non-U.S. human space flight capabilities unless no domestic commercial or public/private partnership provider is available that meets safety and affordability requirements.

Repeals provisions that required NASA to ensure the continued capability to restart the Space Shuttle missions.

(Sec. 202) Instructs NASA to develop a Human Exploration Roadmap to define the capabilities and technologies necessary to extend human presence to the surface of Mars and the sets and sequences of missions required to demonstrate such capabilities and technologies.

Calls on the President to invite the U.S. partners in the International Space Station (ISS) program and other nations, as appropriate, to participate in an international initiative under U.S. leadership to conduct a crewed mission to the surface of Mars.

(Sec. 203) Directs NASA to make the expeditious development, test, and achievement of the operational readiness of the Space Launch System and the Orion crew capsule the highest priority of the exploration program. Directs the Comptroller General (GAO) to transmit a report on NASA's acquisition of ground systems in support of the Space Launch System.

Requires NASA to prepare a report that addresses the effort and budget required to enable and utilize a cargo variant of the 130-ton Space Launch System configuration described in section 302 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010.

Directs the Administrator to conduct a competition among students to name the elements of NASA's exploration program.

Requires the Associate Administrator of NASA to transmit a report on the development cost of an advanced booster for the Space Launch System, the effect of a competition for an advanced booster, and any delays to the Space Launch System 2017 Exploration Mission-1 launch as a result of increased costs associated with conducting a competition for an advanced booster. Requires NASA to conduct a full and open competition for an advanced booster if the report shows reductions to development cost and no adverse schedule impact.

(Sec. 204) Requires the Orion crew capsule to meet the practical needs and the minimum capability requirements regarding a multi-purpose crew vehicle. Requires NASA to report on the capsule within 60 days.

(Sec. 205) Directs NASA to develop a space radiation mitigation and management strategy and implementation plan and assess the national capabilities to carry out research on space radiation biology.

(Sec. 206) Directs NASA to contract with the National Academies for a study to explore the planetary protection ramifications of potential future missions by astronauts such as to the lunar polar regions, near-Earth steroids, the moons of Mars, and the surface of Mars. Subtitle B: Space Operations - (Sec. 211) Declares two primary objectives for the U.S. International Space Station (ISS) Program: (1) supporting achievement of the Mars goal, and (2) pursuing a research program that advances knowledge and provides benefits to the nation.

Requires the ISS to be utilized for the development of capabilities and technologies needed for the future of human exploration beyond low-Earth orbit, and to be considered in the development of the Human Exploration Roadmap.

Requires NASA to support the operation and full use of the ISS and to minimize operating costs.

Declares as U.S. policy the maintenance of an uninterrupted capability for human space flight and operations in low-earth orbit and beyond.

Requires the Administrator to report on the feasibility of extending the operation of the ISS.

Requires the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) to develop and transmit a strategic plan for research in physical and life sciences and related technologies in the ISS through at least 2020.

Directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to report on the progress of the organization chosen for the management of the ISS National Laboratory.

(Sec. 212) Directs NASA to contract with the National Academies to: (1) identify barriers impeding enhanced use of the ISS's National Laboratory; (2) recommend ways of encouraging commercial companies to make greater use of the ISS's National Laboratory, including corporate investment in microgravity research; and (3) identify any legislative changes that may be required.

(Sec. 213) Directs NASA to utilize the ISS for Science Mission Directorate missions in low-Earth orbit wherever it is practical and cost effective.

(Sec. 214) Requires NASA to report on lessons learned from the Commercial Resupply Services contract.

(Sec. 215) Declares that the objective of NASA's Commercial Crew Program shall be to assist in the development of at least one crew transportation system to carry NASA astronauts safely, reliably, and affordably to and from the ISS and to serve as an emergency crew rescue vehicle as soon as practicable.

Instructs NASA to ensure that safety is the highest priority and to make minimizing the probability of crew loss an important selection criterion of the Commercial Crew Transportation Capability Contract.

Requires NASA to report on the Independent Cost and Schedule Estimate for the final stages of the commercial crew program. (Sec. 216) Requires the Administrator to develop a plan for updating NASA's space communications and navigation architecture for low-Earth orbital and deep space operations so that it is capable of meeting NASA's communications needs over the next 20 years. Title III: Science - Subtitle A: General - (Sec. 301) Instructs NASA to follow guidance provided in the current decadal surveys from the National Academies' Space Studies Board when proposing funding for each fiscal year.

(Sec. 302) Requires OSTP and NASA to conduct an analysis of NASA's requirements for radioisotope power system material necessary for planned, high priority robotic missions in the solar system and other surface exploration activities beyond low-Earth orbit, and the risk to missions due to a lack of adequate material.

(Sec. 303) Adds the search for life's origin, evolution, distribution, and future in the universe to NASA's objectives.

(Sec. 304) Requires NASA to conduct a review of specified principal investigator-led small orbital science missions.

(Sec. 305) Revises requirements for biennial review of data collection on missions that have been extended to require consideration of how these missions affect the start of future missions.

Subtitle B: Astrophysics - (Sec. 311) Instructs NASA to seek to ensure a steady cadence of large, medium, and small astrophysics missions.

(Sec. 312) Directs NASA to contract with the National Academies to develop a science strategy for the study and exploration of extrasolar planets, including the use of the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite, the James Webb Space Telescope, a potential Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope mission, or any other telescope, spacecraft, or instrument, as appropriate. Requires NASA to use the strategy to: (1) inform roadmaps, strategic plans, and other activities related to extrasolar planet research and exploration; and (2) provide a foundation for future activities and initiatives.

(Sec. 313) Expresses the sense of Congress with respect to the James Webb Space Telescope.

(Sec. 314) Requires NASA to report to Congress outlining the cost of NASA's plan for developing the Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope.

(Sec. 315) Instructs NASA to ensure that the concept definition and pre-formulation activities of a Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope mission continue while the James Webb Space Telescope is being completed.

(Sec. 316) Prohibits NASA from using any funding appropriated for FY2014 to shutdown the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy.

Subtitle C: Planetary Science: (Sec. 321) Instructs NASA to seek to carry out a balanced set of planetary science programs. Requires such programs to include: (1) a Discovery-class mission at least once every 24 months; (2) a New Frontiers-class mission at least once every 60 months; and (3) at least one Flagship-class mission per decadal survey period, including a Europa mission with a goal of launching by 2021.

(Sec. 322) Directs NASA to continue the Near-Earth Objects Survey, with the goal of cataloguing 90% of near-Earth objects by 2020.

Requires the OSTP and NASA to report on the Survey.

Requires NASA to carry out a technical and scientific assessment of the capabilities and resources needed to accelerate the Survey and expand it to include smaller objects. (Sec. 323) Requires NASA to report to Congress describing how it can expand collaborative partnerships to detect, track, catalogue, and categorize near-Earth objects.

(Sec. 324) Requires NASA to report on the effects of potential tsunamis that could occur if a near-Earth object were to impact an ocean of the Earth.

(Sec. 325) Directs NASA to contract with the National Academies to develop a science strategy for astrobiology. Instructs NASA to use the strategy in planning and funding research and other activities and initiatives in astrobiology.

(Sec. 326) Requires NASA to report to Congress on collaborative partnerships to study life's origin, evolution, distribution, and future in the universe.

(Sec. 327) Requires NASA to contract with the National Academies to assess issues related to the Mars Exploration Program.

Subtitle D: Heliophysics - (Sec. 331) Instructs NASA to seek to ensure a steady cadence of large, medium, and small heliophysics missions.

(Sec. 332) Requires the OSTP to contract with the National Academies to study space weather monitoring. Requires such study to inform the process of identifying national needs for future space weather monitoring, forecasts, and mitigation.

Subtitle E: Earth Science - (Sec. 341) Requires NASA to continue carrying out a balanced Earth science program.

Instructs NASA to collaborate with other federal agencies, non-government entities, and international partners in carrying out NASA's Earth science program. Requires NASA to continue to develop first-of-a kind instruments that can be transitioned to other agencies for operations.

Instructs NASA to seek reimbursment whenever responsibilities for the development of sensors or for measurements are transferred to NASA from another agency.

(Sec. 342) Instructs NASA to seek to ensure a steady cadence of large, medium, and small Earth science missions.

(Sec. 344) Directs NASA to carry out a scientific assessment of NASA's Earth science global datasets for the purpose of identifying those datasets that are useful for understanding regional changes and variability and for informing applied science research.

Title IV: Aeronautics - (Sec. 402) Instructs NASA to maintain a strong aeronautics research portfolio ranging from fundamental research through integrated systems research with research goals that include enhancing airspace operations and safety, improving air vehicle performance, strengthening aviation safety, and demonstrating concepts at the systems level.

(Sec. 403) Directs NASA to carry out research and technological development to facilitate the safe integration of unmanned aerial systems into the National Airspace System, including positioning and navigation systems, sense and avoid capabilities, secure data and communication links, flight recovery systems, and human systems integration. Requires NASA to transmit to Congress an updated roadmap for unmanned aerial systems research and development.

Requires operational flight data derived from specified cooperative agreements to be made available to NASA and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the development of regulatory standards.

(Sec. 404) Instructs NASA to continue its cooperative research program with industry to identify and demonstrate more effective and safe ways of developing, manufacturing, and maintaining composite materials used in aeronautics.

Requires such program to provide timely access to such research to the next generation of engineers and technicians at universities, community colleges, and vocational schools.

(Sec. 405) Requires NASA to transmit to Congress a research and development roadmap for hypersonic aircraft research.

(Sec. 406) Requires NASA to transmit to Congress a roadmap that allows for flexible funding profiles for supersonic aeronautics research and development.

(Sec. 407) Directs NASA to review at least annually research and development activities in support of the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) airspace management modernization initiative.

(Sec. 408) Requires NASA to transmit to Congress a roadmap for research relating to rotocraft and other runway-independent air vehicles. (Sec. 409) Instructs NASA to continue to ensure that awards for the investigation into the early-stage advancement of new processes, novel concepts, and innovative technologies that have the potential to meet national aeronautics need are open for competition among NASA civil servants at its Centers, separate from other awards open only to non-NASA sources.

(Sec. 410) Directs NASA to contract with the National Academies for a study to benchmark the position of the United States in civil aeronautics research compared to the rest of the world.

Title V: Space Technology - (Sec. 502) Directs NASA to establish a Space Technology Program to pursue research and development of advanced space technologies that have the potential of delivering innovative solutions and to support human exploration of the solar system or advanced space science.

Directs NASA to organize and manage the Small Business Innovation Research Program and Small Business Technology Transfer Program within the Space Technology Program. Instructs NASA to include in its budget for each fiscal year a certification that no project, program, or mission undertaken by the Space Technology Program duplicates any other NASA project, program, or mission.

Requires NASA to provide a report comparing NASA's space technology investments with the high-priority technology areas identified by the National Academies in the National Research Council's report on NASA's Space Technology Roadmaps. (Sec. 503) Directs NASA to utilize the International Space Station and commercial services for space technology demonstration missions in low-Earth orbit whenever it is practical and cost effective to do so. Title VI: Education - (Sec. 601) Requires NASA to continue its education and outreach efforts to: (1) increase student interest and participation in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education, (2) improve public literacy in STEM, (3) employ proven strategies for improving student learning and teaching, (4) provide curriculum support materials, and (5) create and support opportunities for professional development for STEM teachers.

Directs NASA to continue to operate the National Space Grant College and Fellowship program through a national network consisting of a state-based consortium in each state that provides flexibility to the states.

Reaffirms Congress's commitment to informal science education at science centers and planetariums.

(Sec. 602) Directs NASA to contract with the National Academies for a review of the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program.

Expands the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program to support outreach to primary and secondary schools to help support STEM engagement and learning at the K-12 level and encourage students to pursue degrees in fields related to space.

Permits a space grant regional consortium to include at least one two-year institution of higher education.

(Sec. 603) Expresses the sense of Congress that NASA should make the continuation of its Minority University Research and Education Program a priority in order to further STEM education for underrepresented students.

Title VII: Policy Provisions - (Sec. 701) Directs NASA to report to Congress on the proposed Asteroid Retrieval Mission.

Requires an independent, private systems engineering and technical assistance organization contracted by the Human Exploration Operations Mission Directorate to transmit a report to NASA and Congress that analyzes the proposal for a Mars Flyby human spaceflight mission to be launched in 2021. Directs NASA to transmit to Congress an assessment by the NASA Advisory Council on whether such Flyby human spaceflight mission is in the strategic interests of the United States.

(Sec. 702) Expresses the sense of Congress regarding contract termination liability costs for the ISS, the Space Launch System, the Orion Crew capsule and the James Webb Space Telescope. Urges NASA to vigorously pursue a policy on termination liability that maximizes the use of its appropriated funds to make maximum progress in meeting established technical goals and schedule milestones on those high-priority programs.

(Sec. 703) Amends requirements related to baselines and cost controls used in NASA budgeting to make reporting more timely.

(Sec. 704) Requires NASA to transmit to Congress a report on its criteria for establishing the amount of reserves held at the project and program levels.

(Sec. 705) Requires NASA to transmit a report describing its procedures for conducting independent reviews of projects and programs at lifecycle milestones.

(Sec. 706) Adds protecting national security to the considerations NASA uses to evaluate when to transfer commercial technology.

(Sec. 707) Directs NASA to contract with the National Academy of Public Administration to assess the effectiveness of the NASA Advisory Council and to make recommendations to Congress for any changes to the Council.

(Sec. 708) Requires NASA to provide guidance to programs and projects on when an independent cost estimate and independent cost assessment should be used. (Sec. 709) Directs NASA to revise the NASA Supplement to the Federal Acquisition Regulation to provide uniform guidance and recommend revised requirements for organizational conflicts of interest by contractors in major acquisition programs. (Sec. 710) Requires NASA to develop a plan to position NASA to have the facilities, laboratories, tools, and approaches necessary to address future requirements.

Directs NASA to establish and make publicly available a policy that guides NASA's use of existing authorities to out-grant, lease, excess to the General Services Administration (GSA), sell, decommission, demolish, or otherwise transfer property, facilities, or infrastructure.

Directs NASA to establish a capital fund for the modernization of facilities and laboratories. Instructs the Administrator to ensure that all financial savings achieved by closing outdated or surplus facilities at a NASA Center be made available to that Center for modernizing its facilities and laboratories and for upgrading the infrastructure at it. (Sec. 711) Directs NASA to revise the NASA Supplement to the Federal Acquisition Regulation to address the detection and avoidance of counterfeit electronic parts.

(Sec. 712) Bars any funds provided by the federal government under a funded Space Act Agreement from exceeding the total amount provided by other parties to the Agreement. Allows a funded Space Act Agreement to be used only when the use of a standard contract, grant, or cooperative agreement is not feasible or appropriate.

Sets forth public notice, comment, disclosure, and reporting requirements related to Space Act Agreements.

(Sec. 713) Revises the circumstances under which the President must establish an independent, nonpartisan commission for space incidents resulting in loss of space vehicles. (Sec. 714) Requires NASA to report on its efforts to seek and encourage the fullest commercial use of space and to reduce impediments, bureaucracy, redundancy, and burdens to ensure the fullest commercial use of space.

(Sec. 715) Requires NASA to report on the status of efforts to coordinate with countries within the Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee to mitigate the effects and growth of orbital debris. Requires OSTP to report to Congress on the status of its strategy to address space debris.

(Sec. 716) Requires NASA to solicit and review concepts and technological options for removing orbital debris from low-Earth orbit.

(Sec. 717) Directs NASA to develop a policy, a plan, and an assessment on the use of operational commercial reusable suborbital flight vehicles for carrying out scientific and engineering investigations and educational activities.

Requires NASA to transmit a report describing the progress in carrying out the Commercial Reusable Suborbital Research Program with its annual budget request.

Bars NASA from proceeding with requests for proposals or contracts for the provision of a commercial reusable suborbital vehicle launch service for a NASA-sponsored spaceflight participant until it has transmitted the plan and assessment required and liability issues have been addressed.

(Sec. 718) Requires NASA to include in its annual budget request for each fiscal year a budget line for fundamental space life and physical sciences research, devoted to competitive, peer-reviewed grants, that is separate from the ISS Operations account.

Requires NASA to develop a strategic plan for carrying out competitive, peer-reviewed fundamental space life science and physical sciences and related technology research.

(Sec. 719) Requires NASA to develop a plan for restoring a basic engineering research program at Centers.

(Sec. 720) Directs NASA to consult with the Department of Defense (DOD) to ensure that any next generation liquid rocket engine made in the United States for national security space launch objectives can contribute to the space programs and missions carried out by NASA.

(Sec. 721) Requires NASA to transmit a report describing its activities, tools, and techniques associated with the ultimate goal of autonomously servicing satellites using robotic spacecraft.

(Sec. 722) Directs the GAO to study the effectiveness of NASA's information technology governance.

(Sec. 723) Requires NASA to report on how it plans to address each of the recommendations made in the security assessment by the National Academy of Public Administration and the recommendations made by the GAO and NASA's Office of the Inspector General regarding security and safeguarding export control information.

(Sec. 724) Prohibits any funds under this Act for FY2014 or any following fiscal year for NASA from being used to enter into a contract with any contractor under indictment or convicted of a fraud or other specified crimes, or who is delinquent on federal taxes.

(Sec. 725) Requires the OSTP to review and assess the issues involving the protection and preservation of historically important Apollo Program lunar landing sites and Apollo program artifacts residing on the lunar surface.

(Sec. 726) Directs NASA to respond to the Institute of Medicine report on health standards for long duration and exploration spaceflights. (Sec. 727) Expresses the sense of Congress that NASA should prioritize the development of tools and interfaces that make publicly available observational data sets more easy to access, analyze, manipulate, and understand for students, teachers, and the American public, with a particular focus on K-12 and undergraduate STEM education settings.

national_aeronautics_and_space_administration authorization act title authorization appropriations sec authorizes appropriations fy2014 national_aeronautics_and_space_administration nasa space exploration space operations science aeronautics space technology education cross agency support construction environmental compliance restoration inspector_general title human space flight subtitle exploration sec makes human exploration deeper solar system core mission nasa amends national_aeronautics_and_space_administration authorization act expand key objectives united_states human expansion space include accelerating development capabilities enable human exploration mission surface bars nasa obtaining non human space flight capabilities domestic commercial public private partnership provider available meets safety affordability requirements repeals provisions required nasa ensure continued capability restart space missions sec instructs nasa develop human exploration roadmap define capabilities technologies necessary extend human presence surface sets missions required demonstrate capabilities technologies calls president invite partners international space station program nations appropriate participate international initiative leadership conduct mission surface sec directs nasa expeditious development test achievement operational readiness space launch system crew highest priority exploration program directs comptroller_general gao transmit report nasa acquisition ground systems support space launch system requires nasa prepare report addresses effort budget required enable utilize cargo ton space launch system configuration described section national_aeronautics_and_space_administration authorization act directs administrator conduct competition students elements nasa exploration program requires associate_administrator nasa transmit report development cost advanced booster space launch system effect competition advanced booster delays space launch system exploration launch result increased costs associated conducting competition advanced booster requires nasa conduct open competition advanced booster report shows reductions development cost adverse schedule impact sec requires crew meet practical needs minimum capability requirements multi purpose crew vehicle requires nasa report days sec directs nasa develop space radiation mitigation management strategy implementation plan assess national capabilities carry research space radiation biology sec directs nasa contract national academies study explore protection ramifications potential future missions polar regions near earth steroids surface subtitle space operations sec declares primary objectives international space station program supporting achievement goal pursuing research program advances knowledge provides benefits nation requires utilized development capabilities technologies needed future human exploration low earth considered development human exploration roadmap requires nasa support operation use minimize operating costs declares policy maintenance uninterrupted capability human space flight operations low earth requires administrator report feasibility extending operation requires director office_of_science_and_technology_policy ostp develop transmit strategic plan research physical life sciences related technologies directs government_accountability_office gao report progress organization chosen management national_laboratory sec directs nasa contract national academies identify barriers impeding enhanced use national_laboratory recommend ways encouraging commercial companies greater use national_laboratory including corporate investment research identify legislative changes required sec directs nasa utilize science mission directorate missions low earth practical cost effective sec requires nasa report lessons learned commercial services contract sec declares objective nasa commercial crew program shall assist development crew transportation system carry nasa safely reliably serve emergency crew rescue vehicle soon practicable instructs nasa ensure safety highest priority minimizing probability crew loss important selection criterion commercial crew transportation capability contract requires nasa report independent cost schedule estimate final stages commercial crew program sec requires administrator develop plan updating nasa space communications navigation architecture low earth deep space operations capable meeting nasa communications needs years title iii science subtitle general sec instructs nasa follow guidance provided current surveys national academies space studies board proposing funding fiscal year sec requires ostp nasa conduct analysis nasa requirements power system material necessary planned high priority missions solar system surface exploration activities low earth risk missions lack adequate material sec adds search life origin distribution future nasa objectives sec requires nasa conduct review specified principal investigator led small science missions sec revises requirements biennial review data collection missions extended require consideration missions affect start future missions subtitle sec instructs nasa seek ensure large medium small missions sec directs nasa contract national academies develop science strategy study exploration including use transiting survey satellite james space potential wide field infrared survey mission instrument appropriate requires nasa use strategy inform roadmaps strategic plans activities related research exploration provide foundation future activities initiatives sec expresses sense congress respect james space sec requires nasa report congress outlining cost nasa plan developing wide field infrared survey sec instructs nasa ensure concept definition pre formulation activities wide field infrared survey mission continue james space completed sec prohibits nasa funding appropriated fy2014 shutdown stratospheric infrared astronomy subtitle science sec instructs nasa seek carry balanced set science programs requires programs include discovery class mission months new class mission months class mission survey period including mission goal launching sec directs nasa continue near earth objects survey goal near earth objects requires ostp nasa report survey requires nasa carry technical scientific assessment capabilities resources needed accelerate survey expand include smaller objects sec requires nasa report congress describing expand collaborative partnerships detect track catalogue categorize near earth objects sec requires nasa report effects potential occur near earth object impact ocean earth sec directs nasa contract national academies develop science strategy instructs nasa use strategy planning funding research activities initiatives sec requires nasa report congress collaborative partnerships study life origin distribution future sec requires nasa contract national academies assess issues related exploration program subtitle sec instructs nasa seek ensure large medium small missions sec requires ostp contract national academies study space weather monitoring requires study inform process identifying national needs future space weather monitoring forecasts mitigation subtitle earth science sec requires nasa continue carrying balanced earth science program instructs nasa collaborate federal agencies non government entities international partners carrying nasa earth science program requires nasa continue develop kind instruments agencies operations instructs nasa seek responsibilities development sensors measurements transferred nasa agency sec instructs nasa seek ensure large medium small earth science missions sec directs nasa carry scientific assessment nasa earth science global datasets purpose identifying datasets useful understanding regional changes variability informing applied science research title aeronautics sec instructs nasa maintain strong aeronautics research portfolio ranging fundamental research integrated systems research research goals include enhancing airspace operations safety improving air vehicle performance strengthening aviation safety demonstrating concepts systems level sec directs nasa carry research technological development facilitate safe integration unmanned aerial systems national_airspace_system including positioning navigation systems sense avoid capabilities secure data communication links flight recovery systems human systems integration requires nasa transmit congress updated roadmap unmanned aerial systems research development requires operational flight data derived specified cooperative agreements available nasa federal_aviation_administration faa development regulatory standards sec instructs nasa continue cooperative research program industry identify demonstrate effective safe ways developing manufacturing maintaining composite materials aeronautics requires program provide timely access research generation engineers technicians universities community colleges vocational schools sec requires nasa transmit congress research development roadmap aircraft research sec requires nasa transmit congress roadmap allows flexible funding profiles aeronautics research development sec directs nasa review annually research development activities support generation_air_transportation_system nextgen airspace management modernization initiative sec requires nasa transmit congress roadmap research relating runway independent air vehicles sec instructs nasa continue ensure awards investigation early stage advancement new processes novel concepts innovative technologies potential meet national aeronautics need open competition nasa civil servants centers separate awards open non nasa sources sec directs nasa contract national academies study benchmark position united_states civil aeronautics research compared rest world title space technology sec directs nasa establish space technology program pursue research development advanced space technologies potential delivering innovative solutions support human exploration solar system advanced space science directs nasa organize manage small_business_innovation_research program small_business_technology_transfer program space technology program instructs nasa include budget fiscal year certification project program mission undertaken space technology program duplicates nasa project program mission requires nasa provide report comparing nasa space technology investments high priority technology areas identified national academies national_research_council report nasa space technology roadmaps sec directs nasa utilize international space station commercial services space technology demonstration missions low earth practical cost effective title education sec requires nasa continue education outreach efforts increase student interest participation stem science technology engineering mathematics education improve public literacy stem employ proven strategies improving student learning teaching provide curriculum support materials create support opportunities professional development stem teachers directs nasa continue operate national space grant college fellowship program national network consisting state based consortium state provides flexibility states reaffirms congress commitment informal science education science centers sec directs nasa contract national academies review national space grant college fellowship program expands national space grant college fellowship program support outreach primary secondary schools help support stem engagement learning k-12 level encourage students pursue degrees fields related space permits space grant regional consortium include year institution higher education sec expresses sense congress nasa continuation minority university research education program priority order stem education underrepresented students title vii policy provisions sec directs nasa report congress proposed retrieval mission requires independent private systems engineering technical assistance organization contracted human exploration operations mission directorate transmit report nasa congress analyzes proposal human mission launched directs nasa transmit congress assessment nasa advisory_council human mission strategic interests united_states sec expresses sense congress contract termination liability costs space launch system crew james space urges nasa pursue policy termination liability maximizes use appropriated funds maximum progress meeting established technical goals schedule milestones high priority programs sec amends requirements related baselines cost controls nasa budgeting reporting timely sec requires nasa transmit congress report criteria establishing reserves held project program levels sec requires nasa transmit report describing procedures conducting independent reviews projects programs lifecycle milestones sec adds protecting national security considerations nasa uses evaluate transfer commercial technology sec directs nasa contract national_academy_of_public_administration assess effectiveness nasa advisory_council recommendations congress changes council sec requires nasa provide guidance programs projects independent cost estimate independent cost assessment sec directs nasa revise nasa supplement federal_acquisition_regulation provide uniform guidance recommend revised requirements organizational conflicts interest contractors major acquisition programs sec requires nasa develop plan position nasa facilities laboratories tools approaches necessary address future requirements directs nasa establish publicly available policy guides nasa use existing authorities grant lease excess general_services_administration gsa sell decommission demolish transfer property facilities infrastructure directs nasa establish capital_fund modernization facilities laboratories instructs administrator ensure financial savings achieved closing outdated surplus facilities nasa center available center modernizing facilities laboratories upgrading infrastructure sec directs nasa revise nasa supplement federal_acquisition_regulation address detection avoidance counterfeit electronic parts sec bars funds provided federal_government funded space act agreement exceeding total provided parties agreement allows funded space act agreement use standard contract grant cooperative agreement feasible appropriate sets forth public notice comment disclosure reporting requirements related space act agreements sec revises circumstances president establish independent nonpartisan commission space incidents resulting loss space vehicles sec requires nasa report efforts seek encourage fullest commercial use space reduce impediments burdens ensure fullest commercial use space sec requires nasa report status efforts coordinate countries inter agency space debris coordination committee mitigate effects growth debris requires ostp report congress status strategy address space debris sec requires nasa solicit review concepts technological options removing debris low earth sec directs nasa develop policy plan assessment use operational commercial reusable flight vehicles carrying scientific engineering investigations educational activities requires nasa transmit report describing progress carrying commercial reusable research program annual budget request bars nasa proceeding requests proposals contracts provision commercial reusable vehicle launch service nasa sponsored participant transmitted plan assessment required liability issues addressed sec requires nasa include annual budget request fiscal year budget line fundamental space life physical sciences research devoted competitive peer reviewed grants separate operations account requires nasa develop strategic plan carrying competitive peer reviewed fundamental space life science physical sciences related technology research sec requires nasa develop plan restoring basic engineering research program centers sec directs nasa consult department_of_defense dod ensure generation liquid rocket engine united_states national security space launch objectives contribute space programs missions carried nasa sec requires nasa transmit report describing activities tools techniques associated ultimate goal servicing satellites sec directs gao study effectiveness nasa information technology governance sec requires nasa report plans address recommendations security assessment national_academy_of_public_administration recommendations gao nasa office_of_the_inspector_general security safeguarding export control information sec prohibits funds act fy2014 following fiscal year nasa enter contract contractor indictment convicted fraud specified crimes delinquent federal taxes sec requires ostp review assess issues involving protection preservation historically important program landing sites program artifacts residing surface sec directs nasa respond institute_of_medicine report health standards long duration exploration sec expresses sense congress nasa prioritize development tools interfaces publicly available observational data sets easy access analyze understand students teachers american public particular focus k-12 undergraduate stem education settings


Summary: Space Protection Strategy Extension Act - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for FY2008 to extend the time period required to be covered by the United States Space Protection Strategy through FY2030 (currently, FY2025).

space protection strategy extension act_-_amends national_defense_authorization_act fy2008 extend time period required covered united_states space protection strategy currently fy2025


Summary:
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2013 - Title I : Authorization of Appropriations - (Sec. 101) Authorizes appropriations for FY2014-FY2016 to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for: (1) exploration, (2) space operations, (3) science, (4) aeronautics, (5) space technology, (6) education, (7) cross-agency support programs, (8) construction and environmental compliance and restoration, and (9) the Inspector General.

Title II: Human Space Flight Exploration and Operations - Subtitle A: Exploration - (Sec. 201) Reaffirms that the long-term goal of the human space flight and exploration efforts of NASA shall be to expand permanent human presence beyond low-Earth orbit and to do so, where practical, in a manner involving international partners.

Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 to make it a key objective of the United States to achieve human exploration of Mars, including the establishment of a capability for human habitation on the surface of Mars. Directs NASA to submit to Congress a strategy to achieve such objective through a series of successive, free-standing, but complementary missions making robust use of cis-lunar space and employing the Space Launch System, Orion (multi-purpose vehicle), and other capabilities under titles III, IV, V, and IX of such Act.

Requires NASA, in developing the strategy, to include

 the utility of an expanded human presence in cis-lunar space toward enabling missions to various lunar orbits, the lunar surface, asteroids, the Mars system, and other destinations of interest for future human exploration and development; the utility of an expanded human presence in cis-lunar space for economic, scientific, and technological advances; the opportunities for collaboration with international partners, private industry, and other federal agencies, including missions relevant to national security or scientific needs; a range of exploration mission architectures and approaches for the missions identified in this paragraph; and standards for ensuring crew health and safety, including limits regarding radiation exposure and countermeasures necessary to meet those limits, means and methods for addressing urgent medical conditions or injuries, and other such safety, health, and medical issues that can be anticipated in the conduct of those missions. Requires the Administrator of NASA, in identifying opportunities for collaboration with other federal agencies, in collaboration with the Secretary of Defense (DOD) and the Director of National Intelligence, to include a discussion of the work, cost, and schedule required to enable and utilize a cargo variant of the Space Launch System, including the 70-, 105-, and 130-metric ton configurations, with both a 5-meter or 8-meter faring.

Requires the strategy to include: (1) technical information as needed to identify interest from the scientific and national security communities, and (2) an assessment of the Space Launch System to enable and sustain near-Earth object surveillance of potentially Earth-threatening objects for the purpose of planetary protection.

(Sec. 202) Declares that it is U.S. policy that the exploration ground systems to process and launch the Space Launch System, Orion, and related exploration elements, and the 21st Century Space Launch Complex to enable and facilitate civil, defense, and private launches are complimentary efforts to modernize infrastructure, reduce costs, and maintain capabilities for current and future missions.

Specifies that NASA, in executing such programs: (1) may not exclude the ability of exploration ground systems to support efforts with respect to the elements to be included in the NASA launch support and infrastructure modernization program; (2) shall allow for cost-sharing opportunities by providing multi-use systems and capabilities to current and future users of the 21st Century Space Launch Complex through modernization, refurbishment, or development of infrastructure; and (3) shall pursue, in collaboration with specified entities, capabilities and investments that support multiple entities to advance NASA's current and future missions and benefit NASA by creating new partnerships.

Instructs NASA to continue to improve launch infrastructure at U.S. facilities launching vehicles to resupply the International Space Station (ISS) in order to ensure continuous, timely, redundant, and efficient access to the ISS. Requires the budget materials for NASA in each budget submitted by the President for a fiscal year to specify the amount required for NASA for that fiscal year for such purposes.

(Sec. 203) Directs NASA to submit to Congress a plan to engage the public, including science students in elementary and secondary education programs, throughout the United States in naming: (1) NASA's overall deep space human exploration program, and (2) the Space Launch System.

(Sec. 204) Requires NASA to submit a report that updates Congress on the Constellation Space Suit System. Requires such report to include justification as to whether another competition to award contracts for the design, development, certification, production, and sustaining engineering of such space suit system is required to meet the needs of NASA's human exploration program.

Subtitle B: Maximizing ISS Utilization - (Sec. 221) Reaffirms the policy that it shall be the policy of the United States, in consultation with its international partners in the ISS program, to support full and complete utilization of the ISS through at least 2020.

Instructs NASA to ensure that the ISS as a designated national laboratory: (1) remains viable as an element of overall exploration and partnership strategies and approaches; (2) is considered for use by all NASA mission directorates, as appropriate, for technically appropriate scientific data gathering or technology risk reduction demonstrations; and (3) remains an effective, functional vehicle that provides research and test bed capabilities for the United States through 2020, up to 2028, and possibly beyond.

Directs NASA, to determine through analyses and discussions with ISS partners, the feasible and preferred service life of the ISS as a unique scientific, commercial, and exploration-related facility. Requires NASA to submit a report and subsequent reports triennially thereafter, to Congress that include: (1) an assessment of whether ISS operations can be extended to at least 2028; (2) an evaluation of the potential for expanding the use of ISS facilities to accommodate the needs of researchers and other users; and (3) such other information as may be necessary to fully describe the justification for, and feasibility of, extending the service life of the ISS.

(Sec. 222) Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 to instruct the Administrator to ensure that the liaison function with regard to the management of the ISS national laboratory is implemented in a manner that precludes any conflict of interest between the objectives and activities of the organization with which the Administrator has entered into a cooperative agreement for the management of the laboratory (the ISS management entity) and the NASA organizational entity responsible for the management of the NASA research plan onboard the ISS. Considers such entities to be separate and equal partners.

Requires NASA to report to Congress on: (1) options for expanding NASA's collaboration with its ISS partners, including providing U.S. personnel expanded access to international partner research facilities and coordinating research efforts to minimize the duplication of effort; (2) the potential for increasing ISS crew size to maximize use and applications; and (3) efforts undertaken by NASA and the ISS management entity to enhance collaborative research between NASA and other federal science agencies, such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation (NSF), and to expand the use of ISS national laboratory capabilities by federal science agencies.

(Sec. 223) Allows NASA to waive the license reserved by NASA with respect to any invention made by a person in the performance of any non-NASA scientific utilization of the ISS national laboratory, if reservation of the license would substantially inhibit the commercialization of the invention

(Sec. 224) Expresses the sense of Congress that NASA: (1) should continue the development of safe, reliable, and cost effective commercial launch capabilities for the primary purpose of securing domestic access to the ISS as quickly and safely as possible; and (2) should encourage a viable commercial market for those capabilities.

Declares that it is U.S. policy that, to foster the competitive development, operation, and improvement of private space transportation services, service for federal government access to and return from the ISS, whenever feasible, shall be procured via fair and open competition for well-defined, milestone-based, Federal Acquisition Regulation-based contracts under section 201 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010.

Requires NASA, in evaluating commercial space transportation service providers: (1) to aim to minimize the life-cycle costs of obtaining transportation services; (2) to assure compliance with all safety and mission assurance requirements; (3) to consider contractor financial investment into the development of transportation capabilities; and (4) for commercial crew transport services, to consider flexibility in design, including sample return capabilities, and to provide a written notification and justification to Congress if the price per seat exceeds the cost negotiated by NASA for crew transport in April 2013.

Requires NASA, in implementing the the U.S. policy stated in this section, to submit to Congress a strategy for transitioning from Space Act Agreements to Federal Acquisition Regulation-based contracts for the procurement of crew transportation services to and from the ISS.

Subtitle C: Other Matters - (Sec. 232) Extends through December 31, 2016, the application deadline for licenses with respect to which the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) is required to pay third-party claims in excess of a commercial space launcher's required insurance coverage.

Allows any contract between NASA and a provider to provide that the United States will indemnify a provider against claims (including reasonable expenses of litigation or settlement) by third parties for death, bodily injury, or loss or damage to property resulting from activities that the contract defines as unusually hazardous or nuclear in nature, but only to the extent that: (1) such claims are not compensated by the provider's liability insurance; and (2) they arise out of the direct performance of the contract.

Require such a contract that provides indemnification to also provide for: (1) notice to the United States of any claim or suit against the provider for death, bodily injury, or loss of or damage to property; and (2) control of or assistance in the defense by the United States, at its election, of that suit or claim.

Requires each provider that is a party to a contract made under this section to have and maintain liability insurance in such amounts as NASA shall require to cover liability to third parties and loss of or damage to property.

Bars the Administrator from indemnifying a provider unless there is a cross-waiver between NASA and the provider as described in the following.

Allows the Administrator, on behalf of the United States, and its departments, agencies, and instrumentalities, to reciprocally waive claims with a provider under which each party to the waiver agrees to be responsible, and agrees to ensure that its own related entities are responsible, for damage or loss to its property for which it is responsible, or for losses resulting from any injury or death sustained by its own employees or agents, as a result of activities arising out of the performance of the contract.

Prohibits any payment from being made under this section until the Administrator or the Administrator's designee certifies that the amount is just and reasonable.

Allows, upon approval by the Administrator, payments to be made, at the Administrator's election, from: (1) funds obligated for the performance of the contract concerned; (2) funds available for research and development not otherwise obligated; or (3) funds appropriated for such payments.

Prohibits NASA from providing indemnification under this section for an activity that requires a license or permit under title 51 U.S. Code Chapter 509 (relating to commercial space launch activities).

(Sec. 233) Requires NASA to deliver to Congress a review of its current termination liability practices and the benefits of potential alternatives. Requires such report to include: (1) an accounting of the total budget currently held in reserve, by either NASA or a contractor, to cover termination liability for the Space Launch System and Orion programs; and (2) an accounting of the current cost risk of termination liability for such programs. Requires: (1) NASA to submit such report for review by Congress and the Government Accountability Office (GAO), and (2) GAO to deliver to Congress an assessment of the potential for continued improvement by NASA relative to the previous GAO review of NASA termination liability conducted in 2011.

Title III: Science - Subtitle A: Earth Science - (Sec. 301) Expresses the sense of Congress that, given the importance of Earth science and Earth observation data, NASA Earth science efforts: (1) should be conducted in coordination with other federal agencies and should be cognizant of international efforts and the needs of the scientific and businesses communities; and (2) whenever feasible, NASA and other federal agencies should consider the potential for reducing costs by purchasing commercially available Earth science data and services while maintaining free and open data policies.

Instructs the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), in implementing its National Strategy for Earth Observation and in developing a National Plan for Civil Earth Observations, to prioritize federal Earth science and observation investments based on: (1) its assessment of Earth science and observation data requirements; (2) the capability requirements as identified by the National Academies decadal surveys; (3) the projected costs of Earth science missions and data gathering activities; and (4) the projected and available budgets.

Instructs NASA, in prioritizing future Earth science and Earth observation missions and technology development, under the National Plan for Civil Earth Observations and title 51 U.S. Code chapter 201 (provisions relating to the National Aeronautics and Space Program), to consider potential cost-reduction opportunities, including: (1) if feasible, co-locating Earth science sensors on other satellites; and (2) purchasing commercially available services, such as launch access to orbital and sub-orbital space, and Earth science data with free and open data policies.

Requires NASA to continue to develop and integrate the National Institute of Standards and Technology Advanced Radiometer, the Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera, and related hardware and software onto the Deep Space Climate Observatory.

(Sec. 302) Reaffirms the finding in the Land Remote Sensing Policy Act of 1992, namely, that the continuous collection and utilization of land remote sensing data from space are of major benefit in studying and understanding human impacts on the global environment, in managing the Earth's natural resources, in carrying out national security functions, and in planning and conducting many other activities of scientific, economic, and social importance.

Directs NASA to use existing studies and data to initiate system definition and procurement of the next global land-imaging system consistent with continuing Earth remote sensing data collection over multi-decades.

Instructs the Administrator to seek partnerships with institutions of higher education and other federal agencies to support education of the next generation of remote sensing engineers, scientists, and analysts.

Subtitle B: Space Science - (Sec. 321) Instructs the Administrator to ensure that the Science Mission Directorate and the Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate coordinate in researching and reducing the risks that space exploration beyond low-Earth orbit pose to astronaut health. Requires NASA to provide a report to Congress detailing the results of previous research in this area and in identifying opportunities for future science missions to contribute to the understanding of these risks.

(Sec. 322) Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 to reaffirm that a balanced and adequately funded set of activities, consisting of research and analysis grants programs, technology development, small, medium, and large space missions, and suborbital research activities, contributes to a robust and productive science program and serves as a catalysis for innovation (currently) and discovery. Urges NASA to set science priorities by following the guidance provided by the scientific community through the National Academies' decadal surveys.

(Sec. 323) Requires NASA, in carrying out biennial reviews within each of the Science divisions to assess the cost and benefits of extending the date of the termination of data collection for those missions that have exceeded their planned mission lifetime. the Instructs the Administrator, in conducting such assessments, to consider: (1) the potential continued benefit of instruments on such missions; and (2) the cost and schedule impacts, if any, of mission extension on other NASA activities and science missions.

Requires NASA, when deciding to extend science missions with an operational component, to consult with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and any other affected federal agency (and under current law, the potential benefits of instruments on missions that are beyond their planned mission lifetime taken into account).

(Sec. 324) Instructs NASA, in accordance with the priorities established in the most recent decadal survey for planetary science, to ensure the completion of a balanced set of Discovery, New Frontiers, and flagship missions. Authorizes NASA, consistent with this balanced mix of missions and maintaining the continuity of scientific data and steady development of capabilities and technologies, to seek, if necessary, adjustments to mission priorities, schedule, and scope in light of changing budget projections.

Directs NASA, to support its science mission priorities, to invest in a sustained program to develop or mature scientific instrument capabilities, as delineated in the NASA Science Instruments, Observatories, and Sensor Systems Roadmap.

(Sec. 325) Requires the OSTP, in coordination with NASA, the NOAA, and other relevant federal agencies, to deliver to Congress a roadmap for developing and deploying space weather forecasting technologies. Requires such roadmap, at a minimum, to: (1) aim to relieve capability gaps identified by the National Space Weather Program Council review of space weather observing systems, as requested by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010; and (2) consider ongoing and future requirements for space weather modeling, monitoring, and prediction.

Instructs NASA to update and further develop its technology roadmaps as required to address mitigating a wide range of space weather effects on both satellites and spacecraft.

Directs OSTP to coordinate with relevant federal agencies to propose protocols for communicating and responding to space weather forecasts. Requires such assessment to consider the needs of both government and private sector entities. Requires OSTP to report to Congress on the proposed protocols.

(Sec. 326) Expresses the sense of Congress regarding the James Webb Space Telescope.

(Sec. 327) Directs the Administrator, in collaboration with the Director of the NSF, to arrange with the National Academy of Sciences for a review of suborbital and small orbital science missions, including CubeSat, University Explorer (UNEX), Small Explorer (SMEX), and Venture class missions. Requires NASA and the NSF to report to Congress on such review.

Title IV: Aeronautics - (Sec. 401) Directs NASA to carry out an Advanced Composites Project to accelerate the use of advanced composite materials in aircraft. Requires the Administrator to enter into a public-private partnership between NASA and appropriate private sector entities, to be called the Advanced Composite Consortium, to implement the Project.

Specifies that the partnership to implement the project: (1) may include other federal agencies if the Administrator determines that such agencies' participation will further the purpose of the partnership, and (2) shall coordinate with the Joint Advanced Materials and Structures Center of Excellence of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

States that the purpose of the Project shall be to accelerate the development and certification of advanced composite materials and structures for use in commercial and military aircraft. Requires such partnership to foster collaboration with the private sector and with other federal agencies in order to accomplish the Project's purpose.

Title V: Space Technology - (Sec. 501) Requires NASA, to advance NASA's space exploration and space research goals, to continue a program with responsibility for NASA investments in space technologies and capabilities. Instructs the Administrator to synergize all NASA space technology investments, encourage collaboration in space technology development with academia and industry, and minimize duplication of space technology development efforts across NASA and the private sector unless duplication is required to maintain mission safety, security, or backup capability. Requires NASA to submit to Congress a progress report on the development, testing, and demonstration of the 14 technological areas of the Space Technology Roadmaps.

Directs NASA, in order to do necessary research, to continue and, as appropriate, expand the development of technology payloads that investigate improved capabilities and scientific research. Requires NASA to provide flight opportunities for such payloads to microgravity environments and suborbital altitudes as authorized by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010.

Prohibits NASA from being required to compile or submit annual reports on the Innovative Partnerships Program.

Title VI: Education - (Sec. 601) Directs NASA to: (1) continue to execute its educational and outreach programs, including providing a wide range of academic research opportunities and engaging the public interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM); (2) continue to collaborate with minority institutions to increase student participation in STEM; and (3) seek partnerships with industry, academia, and with other communities to best respond to the nation's aerospace-related educational and workforce needs.

Directs NASA, to enhance the U.S. STEM education and workforce, to continue to operate the National Space Grant College and Fellowship program through a national network consisting of a state-based consortium in each state. Requires such program to provide hands-on research, training, and education programs, use measurable outcomes to gauge success, and allow states flexibility in its execution.

Title VII: Other Matters - (Sec. 702) Directs NASA to prepare an updated plan for NASA's near-Earth, space, and deep space communications network and infrastructure. Requires such plan to: (1) identify steps to sustain the existing network and infrastructure; (2) assess the capabilities, including any upgrades, needed to support NASA's programs; (3) identify priorities for how resources should be used to implement the plan; and (4) assess the impact on missions if resources are not secured at the level needed. Requires such plan to be transmitted to Congress.

(Sec. 703) Authorizes NASA, as the Administrator considers necessary, to provide for the medical monitoring, diagnosis, and treatment of a crewmember for conditions that NASA considers associated with human space flight, including scientific and medical tests for psychological and medical conditions.

Defines "crewmember" as: (1) a former NASA astronaut/payload specialist who has flown on at least one space mission; (2) a management NASA astronaut who has flown at least one space mission and is currently employed by the U.S. government; or (3) an active NASA astronaut/payload specialist assigned, waiting assignment, or training for an assignment to a NASA human space flight.

(Sec. 704) Requires NASA to submit to Congress an agency-wide plan to recover and recycle helium, whenever possible, that NASA uses or will use in current, planned, and future, experimentation, tests, launches, and operations. Instructs NASA to consider how modifications, updates, or new lifecycle designs for engines, balloons, airships, or other future programs can be designed or operated to recover and recycle helium.

(Sec. 705) Directs NASA to: (1) ensure the Agency Chief Information Officer has the resources and visibility to oversee agency-wide information technology operations and investments, (2) establish a direct line of report between such Officer and the Administrator, (3) establish a minimum monetary threshold for all agency information technology investments over which such Officer shall have final approval, and (4) consider revisions to the charters of information technology boards and councils that inform information technology investment and operation decisions.

(Sec. 706) Requires NASA, when there is a reasonable cause to believe that the development cost for a major program is likely to exceed the estimate provided in the Baseline Report of the program by 15% or more or a milestone of the program is likely to be delayed by 6 months or more from the date provided for it in the Report, to transmit to Congress the written notification of such cause (currently) and a timeline by which NASA intends to make the determination, report, and analysis concerning such cost or delay. Requires the determination, report, and analysis to be made in accordance with such timeline instead of in accordance with their respective deadlines under current law.

Prohibits NASA from expending funds on a program 18 months after submission of an annual budget request showing that the program's development costs exceed 30% of the estimate provided unless Congress specifically authorizes or appropriates funds for the program. Excludes termination costs.

Requires if the development cost of a program will exceed the estimate provided for the program by more than 30%, then beginning 18 months after NASA transmits the report (currently) or an annual budget request that reflects this growth, NASA shall not expend any additional funds on the program, other than termination costs, unless Congress has subsequently authorized continuation of the program by law.

(Sec. 707) Requires NASA to submit to Congress a plan for retaining, acquiring, or disposing, of the facilities, laboratories, equipment, test capabilities, and other infrastructure necessary to meet NASA's mandates and its current and future missions.

Directs NASA to establish a capital fund at each of NASA's field centers for the modernization of facilities, laboratories, equipment, and other infrastructure in accordance with the plan. Instructs the Administrator to ensure that any financial savings achieved by closing an outdated or surplus facility at a NASA field center is made available to such field center's capital fund to modernize its facilities, laboratories, equipment, and other infrastructure.

(Sec. 708) Authorizes the Administrator to: (1) enter into an agreement with a covered entity to provide such entity with support and services related to space transportation infrastructure of NASA; and (2) at such entity's request, to include such support and services in the launch and reentry range support requirements of NASA if certain conditions are met.

Authorizes the Administrator to enter into an agreement with a covered entity on a cooperative and voluntary basis to accept contributions of funds, services, and equipment to carry out this section.

Allows any accepted funds, services, or equipment to: (1) be used only for the objectives specified in this section in accordance with the terms of use set forth in the agreement; and (2) requires them to be managed by the Administrator in accordance with NASA regulations.

Requires such an agreement to: (1) address the terms of use, ownership, and disposition of the funds, services, or equipment contributed pursuant to the agreement; and (2) include a provision that the covered entity will not recover the costs of its contribution through any other agreement with the United States.

Requires NASA to submit to Congress annual reports on the funds, services, and equipment accepted and used by NASA under this section.

Defines "covered entity" as a non-federal entity that is organized under U.S. law or of any jurisdiction within the United States and is engaged in commercial space activities.

(Sec. 709) Directs NASA to establish a NASA-wide knowledge management system and to implement industry-standard best practices for capturing, archiving, and retrieving heritage and future information. Makes such information accessible to all NASA employees unless otherwise prohibited because of its classified or sensitive nature.

Requires NASA to submit to Congress a certain knowledge management system report.

Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010 to extend, until September 30, 2016, the prohibition on the implementation of any reduction-in-force or other involuntary separations by NASA of permanent, non-Senior-Executive-Service, civil servant employees.

(Sec. 710) Authorizes NASA to withhold from public disclosure any technical data with aeronautical or space application in the possession of, or under the control of, NASA, if the data may not be exported lawfully outside the United States without an approval, authorization, or license under the Export Administration Act of 1979.

Prohibits NASA from being required to compile or submit the annual audit on export controls compliance under section 126 of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2000.

national_aeronautics_and_space_administration authorization act title authorization appropriations sec authorizes appropriations fy2014-fy2016 national_aeronautics_and_space_administration nasa exploration space operations science aeronautics space technology education cross agency support programs construction environmental compliance restoration inspector_general title human space flight exploration operations subtitle exploration sec reaffirms long term goal human space flight exploration efforts nasa shall expand permanent human presence low earth practical manner involving international partners amends national_aeronautics_and_space_administration authorization act key objective united_states achieve human exploration including establishment capability human habitation surface directs nasa submit congress strategy achieve objective series successive free standing complementary missions making robust use space employing space launch system multi purpose vehicle capabilities titles iii act requires nasa developing strategy include utility expanded human presence space enabling missions surface system destinations interest future human exploration development utility expanded human presence space economic scientific technological advances opportunities collaboration international partners private industry federal agencies including missions relevant national security scientific needs range exploration mission architectures approaches missions identified paragraph standards ensuring crew health safety including limits radiation exposure countermeasures necessary meet limits means methods addressing urgent medical conditions injuries safety health medical issues anticipated conduct missions requires administrator nasa identifying opportunities collaboration federal agencies collaboration secretary defense dod director national_intelligence include discussion work cost schedule required enable utilize cargo space launch system including metric ton configurations meter meter requires strategy include technical information needed identify interest scientific national security communities assessment space launch system enable sustain near earth object surveillance potentially earth threatening objects purpose protection sec declares policy exploration ground systems process launch space launch system related exploration elements 21st century space launch complex enable facilitate civil defense private complimentary efforts modernize infrastructure reduce costs maintain capabilities current future missions specifies nasa executing programs exclude ability exploration ground systems support efforts respect elements included nasa launch support infrastructure modernization program shall allow cost sharing opportunities providing multi use systems capabilities current future users 21st century space launch complex modernization refurbishment development infrastructure shall pursue collaboration specified entities capabilities investments support multiple entities advance nasa current future missions benefit nasa creating new partnerships instructs nasa continue improve launch infrastructure facilities launching vehicles international space station order ensure continuous timely redundant efficient access requires budget materials nasa budget submitted president fiscal year specify required nasa fiscal year purposes sec directs nasa submit congress plan engage public including science students elementary secondary education programs united_states naming nasa overall deep space human exploration program space launch system sec requires nasa submit report updates congress constellation space suit system requires report include justification competition award contracts design development certification production sustaining engineering space suit system required meet needs nasa human exploration program subtitle maximizing utilization sec reaffirms policy shall policy united_states consultation international partners program support complete utilization instructs nasa ensure designated national_laboratory remains viable element overall exploration partnership strategies approaches considered use nasa mission appropriate technically appropriate scientific data gathering technology risk reduction demonstrations remains effective functional vehicle provides research test bed capabilities united_states possibly directs nasa determine analyses discussions partners feasible preferred service life unique scientific commercial exploration related facility requires nasa submit report subsequent reports triennially congress include assessment operations extended evaluation potential expanding use facilities accommodate needs researchers users information necessary fully describe justification feasibility extending service life sec amends national_aeronautics_and_space_administration authorization act instruct administrator ensure liaison function regard management national_laboratory implemented manner precludes conflict interest objectives activities organization administrator entered cooperative agreement management laboratory management entity nasa organizational entity responsible management nasa research plan onboard considers entities separate equal partners requires nasa report congress options expanding nasa collaboration partners including providing personnel expanded access international partner research facilities coordinating research efforts minimize duplication effort potential increasing crew size maximize use applications efforts undertaken nasa management entity enhance collaborative research nasa federal science agencies national_institutes_of_health nih national_science_foundation nsf expand use national_laboratory capabilities federal science agencies sec allows nasa waive license reserved nasa respect invention person performance non nasa scientific utilization national_laboratory reservation license substantially inhibit commercialization invention sec expresses sense congress nasa continue development safe reliable cost effective commercial launch capabilities primary purpose securing domestic access quickly safely possible encourage viable commercial market capabilities declares policy foster competitive development operation improvement private space transportation services service federal_government access return feasible shall procured fair open competition defined milestone based federal_acquisition_regulation based contracts section national_aeronautics_and_space_administration authorization act requires nasa evaluating commercial space transportation service providers aim minimize life cycle costs obtaining transportation services assure compliance safety mission assurance requirements consider contractor financial investment development transportation capabilities commercial crew transport services consider flexibility design including sample return capabilities provide written notification justification congress price seat exceeds cost negotiated nasa crew transport april requires nasa implementing policy stated section submit congress strategy transitioning space act agreements federal_acquisition_regulation based contracts procurement crew transportation services subtitle matters sec extends december application deadline licenses respect secretary transportation dot required pay party claims excess commercial space required insurance coverage allows contract nasa provider provide united_states indemnify provider claims including reasonable expenses litigation settlement parties death bodily injury loss damage property resulting activities contract defines unusually hazardous nuclear nature extent claims compensated provider liability insurance arise direct performance contract require contract provides indemnification provide notice united_states claim suit provider death bodily injury loss damage property control assistance defense united_states election suit claim requires provider party contract section maintain liability insurance amounts nasa shall require cover liability parties loss damage property bars administrator provider cross waiver nasa provider described following allows administrator behalf united_states departments agencies instrumentalities waive claims provider party waiver agrees responsible agrees ensure related entities responsible damage loss property responsible losses resulting injury death sustained employees agents result activities arising performance contract prohibits payment section administrator administrator designee certifies reasonable allows approval administrator payments administrator election funds obligated performance contract concerned funds available research development obligated funds appropriated payments prohibits nasa providing indemnification section activity requires license permit title code chapter relating commercial space launch activities sec requires nasa deliver congress review current termination liability practices benefits potential alternatives requires report include accounting total budget currently held reserve nasa contractor cover termination liability space launch system programs accounting current cost risk termination liability programs requires nasa submit report review congress government_accountability_office gao gao deliver congress assessment potential continued improvement nasa relative previous gao review nasa termination liability conducted title iii science subtitle earth science sec expresses sense congress given importance earth science earth observation data nasa earth science efforts conducted coordination federal agencies international efforts needs scientific businesses communities feasible nasa federal agencies consider potential reducing costs purchasing commercially available earth science data services maintaining free open data policies instructs office_of_science_and_technology_policy ostp implementing national strategy earth observation developing national plan civil earth observations prioritize federal earth science observation investments based assessment earth science observation data requirements capability requirements identified national academies surveys projected costs earth science missions data gathering activities projected available budgets instructs nasa prioritizing future earth science earth observation missions technology development national plan civil earth observations title code chapter provisions relating national aeronautics space program consider potential cost reduction opportunities including feasible locating earth science sensors satellites purchasing commercially available services launch access sub space earth science data free open data policies requires nasa continue develop integrate national_institute_of_standards_and_technology advanced earth imaging camera related hardware software deep space climate sec reaffirms finding land remote sensing policy act continuous collection utilization land remote sensing data space major benefit studying understanding human impacts global environment managing earth natural resources carrying national security functions planning conducting activities scientific economic social importance directs nasa use existing studies data initiate system definition procurement global land imaging system consistent continuing earth remote sensing data collection multi decades instructs administrator seek partnerships institutions higher education federal agencies support education generation remote sensing engineers scientists analysts subtitle space science sec instructs administrator ensure science mission directorate human exploration operations mission directorate coordinate researching reducing risks space exploration low earth pose health requires nasa provide report congress detailing results previous research area identifying opportunities future science missions contribute understanding risks sec amends national_aeronautics_and_space_administration authorization act reaffirm balanced adequately funded set activities consisting research analysis grants programs technology development small medium large space missions research activities contributes robust productive science program serves innovation currently discovery urges nasa set science priorities following guidance provided scientific community national academies surveys sec requires nasa carrying biennial reviews science divisions assess cost benefits extending date termination data collection missions exceeded planned mission lifetime instructs administrator conducting assessments consider potential continued benefit instruments missions cost schedule impacts mission extension nasa activities science missions requires nasa deciding extend science missions operational component consult national_oceanic_and_atmospheric_administration noaa affected federal agency current law potential benefits instruments missions planned mission lifetime taken account sec instructs nasa accordance priorities established recent survey science ensure completion balanced set discovery new missions authorizes nasa consistent balanced mix missions maintaining continuity scientific data development capabilities technologies seek necessary adjustments mission priorities schedule scope light changing budget projections directs nasa support science mission priorities invest sustained program develop mature scientific instrument capabilities delineated nasa science instruments sensor systems roadmap sec requires ostp coordination nasa noaa relevant federal agencies deliver congress roadmap developing deploying space weather forecasting technologies requires roadmap minimum aim relieve capability gaps identified national space weather program council review space weather observing systems requested national_aeronautics_and_space_administration authorization act consider ongoing future requirements space weather modeling monitoring prediction instructs nasa update develop technology roadmaps required address mitigating wide range space weather effects satellites directs ostp coordinate relevant federal agencies propose protocols communicating responding space weather forecasts requires assessment consider needs government private sector entities requires ostp report congress proposed protocols sec expresses sense congress james space sec directs administrator collaboration director nsf arrange national_academy_of_sciences review small science missions including university small venture class missions requires nasa nsf report congress review title aeronautics sec directs nasa carry advanced project accelerate use advanced composite materials aircraft requires administrator enter public private partnership nasa appropriate private sector entities called advanced composite consortium implement project specifies partnership implement project include federal agencies administrator determines agencies participation purpose partnership shall coordinate joint advanced materials structures center_of_excellence federal_aviation_administration faa states purpose project shall accelerate development certification advanced composite materials structures use commercial military aircraft requires partnership foster collaboration private sector federal agencies order accomplish project purpose title space technology sec requires nasa advance nasa space exploration space research goals continue program responsibility nasa investments space technologies capabilities instructs administrator nasa space technology investments encourage collaboration space technology development academia industry minimize duplication space technology development efforts nasa private sector duplication required maintain mission safety security backup capability requires nasa submit congress progress report development testing demonstration technological areas space technology roadmaps directs nasa order necessary research continue appropriate expand development technology investigate improved capabilities scientific research requires nasa provide flight opportunities environments authorized national_aeronautics_and_space_administration authorization act prohibits nasa required compile submit annual reports innovative partnerships program title education sec directs nasa continue execute educational outreach programs including providing wide range academic research opportunities engaging public interest science technology engineering mathematics stem continue collaborate minority institutions increase student participation stem seek partnerships industry academia communities best respond nation aerospace related educational workforce needs directs nasa enhance stem education workforce continue operate national space grant college fellowship program national network consisting state based consortium state requires program provide hands research training education programs use measurable outcomes gauge success allow states flexibility execution title vii matters sec directs nasa prepare updated plan nasa near earth space deep space communications network infrastructure requires plan identify steps sustain existing network infrastructure assess capabilities including upgrades needed support nasa programs identify priorities resources implement plan assess impact missions resources secured level needed requires plan transmitted congress sec authorizes nasa administrator considers necessary provide medical monitoring diagnosis treatment crewmember conditions nasa considers associated human space flight including scientific medical tests psychological medical conditions defines crewmember nasa specialist flown space mission management nasa flown space mission currently employed government active nasa specialist assigned waiting assignment training assignment nasa human space flight sec requires nasa submit congress agency wide plan recover recycle helium possible nasa uses use current planned future experimentation tests operations instructs nasa consider modifications updates new lifecycle designs engines future programs designed operated recover recycle helium sec directs nasa ensure agency chief information officer resources visibility oversee agency wide information technology operations investments establish direct line report officer administrator establish minimum monetary threshold agency information technology investments officer shall final approval consider revisions charters information technology boards councils inform information technology investment operation decisions sec requires nasa reasonable cause believe development cost major program likely exceed estimate provided baseline report program milestone program likely delayed months date provided report transmit congress written notification cause currently timeline nasa intends determination report analysis concerning cost delay requires determination report analysis accordance timeline instead accordance respective deadlines current law prohibits nasa expending funds program months submission annual budget request showing program development costs exceed estimate provided congress specifically authorizes appropriates funds program excludes termination costs requires development cost program exceed estimate provided program beginning months nasa transmits report currently annual budget request reflects growth nasa shall expend additional funds program termination costs congress subsequently authorized continuation program law sec requires nasa submit congress plan retaining acquiring disposing facilities laboratories equipment test capabilities infrastructure necessary meet nasa mandates current future missions directs nasa establish capital_fund nasa field centers modernization facilities laboratories equipment infrastructure accordance plan instructs administrator ensure financial savings achieved closing outdated surplus facility nasa field center available field center capital_fund modernize facilities laboratories equipment infrastructure sec authorizes administrator enter agreement covered entity provide entity support services related space transportation infrastructure nasa entity request include support services launch reentry range support requirements nasa certain conditions met authorizes administrator enter agreement covered entity cooperative voluntary basis accept contributions funds services equipment carry section allows accepted funds services equipment objectives specified section accordance terms use set forth agreement requires managed administrator accordance nasa regulations requires agreement address terms use ownership disposition funds services equipment contributed pursuant agreement include provision covered entity recover costs contribution agreement united_states requires nasa submit congress annual reports funds services equipment accepted nasa section defines covered entity non federal entity organized law jurisdiction united_states engaged commercial space activities sec directs nasa establish nasa wide knowledge management system implement industry standard best practices capturing archiving retrieving heritage future information makes information accessible nasa employees prohibited classified sensitive nature requires nasa submit congress certain knowledge management system report amends national_aeronautics_and_space_administration authorization act extend september prohibition implementation reduction force involuntary separations nasa permanent non senior executive service civil employees sec authorizes nasa withhold public disclosure technical data aeronautical space application possession control nasa data exported lawfully outside united_states approval authorization license export administration act prohibits nasa required compile submit annual audit export controls compliance section national_aeronautics_and_space_administration authorization act


Summary: Redesignates: (1) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Hugh L. Dryden Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, as the "NASA Neil A. Armstrong Flight Research Center," and (2) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Western Aeronautical Test Range in California as the "NASA Hugh L. Dryden Aeronautical Test Range."

redesignates national_aeronautics_and_space_administration nasa flight research_center california nasa flight research_center national_aeronautics_and_space_administration western aeronautical test range california nasa aeronautical test range


Summary: National Security Rocket Engine Study Act of 2013 - Requires the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to submit and the Comptroller General (GAO) to review a report on the Russian RD-180 rocket engine, including: (1) a feasibility assessment and cost estimate of manufacturing an alternative rocket engine in the United States, and (2) a description of policy benefits and concerns related to where the rocket engine is manufactured.

national security rocket engine study act requires secretary defense dod submit comptroller_general gao review report russian rocket engine including feasibility assessment cost estimate manufacturing alternative rocket engine united_states description policy benefits concerns related rocket engine manufactured


Summary: Extends through December 31, 2016, the application deadline for licenses with respect to which the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) is required to pay third-party claims in excess of a commercial space launcher's required insurance coverage.

extends december application deadline licenses respect secretary transportation dot required pay party claims excess commercial space required insurance coverage


Summary:
Integrated Space Launch Policy Act of 2014 - Directs the Secretary of Defense (DOD) and the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to jointly, in coordination with the National Security Council, the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), and the heads of other appropriate agencies, develop the Integrated Federal Space Launch Plan to achieve the effective planning, coordination, and execution of the civilian and national security space launch activities of the federal government in order to ensure that the mission needs of the government for reliable, timely, and affordable access to space are met in a cost-effective manner.

Requires the Secretary and the Administrator to jointly submit the developed plan to Congress.

Directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to submit a report to Congress setting forth an assessment of the adequacy of the plan, including the extent to which it includes the launch needs and capabilities of the civilian agencies and the national security agencies of the government.

integrated space launch policy act directs secretary defense dod administrator national_aeronautics_and_space_administration nasa jointly coordination national_security_council director office_of_science_and_technology_policy ostp heads appropriate agencies develop integrated federal space launch plan achieve effective planning coordination execution civilian national security space launch activities federal_government order ensure mission needs government reliable timely affordable access space met cost effective manner requires secretary administrator jointly submit developed plan congress directs government_accountability_office gao submit report congress setting forth assessment adequacy plan including extent includes launch needs capabilities civilian agencies national security agencies government