Summary: National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2008 - Title I: Authorization of Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2009 - (Sec. 101) Authorizes appropriations to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for FY2009 for: (1) science; (2) aeronautics; (3) exploration; (4) education; (5) space operations; (6) cross-agency support programs; and (7) the inspector general. Title II: Earth Science - (Sec. 201) Declares that the goal for NASA's Earth Science program shall be to pursue a program of Earth observations, research, and applications activities to better understand Earth, how it supports life, and how human activities affect its ability to do so in the future. Directs NASA, together with the Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and other relevant agencies, to provide U.S. leadership in developing and carrying out a cooperative international Earth observations-based research program. (Sec. 202) Requires the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) to arrange with the National Academies (the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), the National Research Council, the National Academy of Engineering, and the Institute of Medicine) for a study, and a plan to implement the study, to determine a governance structure for U.S. Earth Observations programs to meet evolving U.S. Earth information needs and facilitate U.S. participation in global Earth Observations initiatives. (Sec. 203) Directs the Administrator of NASA (the Administrator) to work toward establishing an international effort to pursue the missions recommended in the National Academies' decadal survey "Earth Science and Applications from Space," and to submit a plan to implement those missions. (Sec. 204) Expresses the sense of the Congress that experimental NASA sensors and missions that have the potential to benefit society if transitioned into operational monitoring systems be transitioned into operational status. Requires the OSTP Director, in consultation with the Administrator, the Administrator of NOAA, and other stakeholders, to develop a process for transitioning NASA earth science and space weather missions or sensors into operational status. Requires NASA and NOAA to: (1) each designate an agency official who shall have the responsibility for leading NASA's and NOAA's transition activities and interagency coordination; and (2) prepare a joint plan for conducting the transition of each mission or sensor that is determined appropriate for transition. (Sec. 205) Requires the Administrator to prepare a plan for the continuation of Landsat thermal infrared data collection or its equivalent, including a budget plan. Instructs the Administrator to provide an option for developing a thermal infrared sensor, at minimum cost, to be flown on the Landsat Data Continuity Mission, with minimum delay to the schedule of such Mission. (Sec. 206) Reauthorizes the continuation of the development of the Glory Mission, which will examine how aerosols and solar energy affect the Earth's climate. Requires the Administrator to transmit a new baseline report in accordance with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2005. (Sec. 207) Requires NASA to develop a plan for a Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR), including establishing a public-private partnership for the mission and entering into an international cooperative partnership to use the spacecraft for its primary or other purposes. (Sec. 208) Requires NASA to give high priority to those parts of its existing activities with NOAA that are related to the study of tornadoes and other severe storms, tornado-force winds, and other factors determined to influence the development of tornadoes and other severe storms with the goal of improving the ability to predict tornadoes and other severe storms. Instructs the Administrator to examine whether there are additional activities with NOAA that should be undertaken in the area of tornado and severe storm research. Title III: Aeronautics - (Sec. 301) Expresses the sense of the Congress regarding support for aeronautics research by NASA. (Sec. 302) Requires the establishment of an environmentally friendly commercial aircraft research and development initiative involving NASA, universities, industry, and other research organizations as appropriate. (Sec. 303) Directs the Administrator to align the fundamental aeronautics research program to address high priority technology challenges of the National Academies' Decadal Survey of Civil Aeronautics and to work to increase the involvement of organizations, and especially of universities, in such program. (Sec. 304) Requires the establishment of a research program with industry for the collection of data on the perceived impact of sonic booms which could enable the promulgation of standards for overland commercial supersonic flight operations. Instructs the Administrator to ensure that sonic boom research is coordinated with the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and as appropriate, to make use of the expertise of the Partnership for Air Transportation Noise and Emissions Reduction Center of Excellence sponsored by NASA and the FAA. (Sec. 305) Directs the Administrator to arrange with the National Research Council for a review of NASA's aviation safety-related research programs. (Sec. 306) Directs the Administrator and the Administrator of NOAA to develop a collaborative research plan on convective weather events, with the goal of significantly improving the reliability of 2-hour to 6- hour aviation weather forecasts. (Sec. 307) Requires research and development activities performed by the Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate with the primary objective of assisting in the development of a flight project in another Mission Directorate to be funded by the Mission Directorate seeking assistance. (Sec. 308) Requires (under current law, permits) the Administrator to award grants for the establishment of university-based Centers for Research on Aviation Training. Title IV: Exploration Initiative - (Sec. 401) Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should invite America's friends and allies to participate in an international initiative under the leadership of the United States to expand human and robotic presence into the solar system, including the exploration and utilization of the Moon, near-Earth asteroids, Lagrangian points, and eventually Mars and its moons. (Sec. 402) Affirms Congress's support for the goals of the space exploration policy of the United States, including the eventual return to and exploration of the Moon and other destinations in the solar system and the national imperative of independent access to space. (Sec. 403) Instructs the Administrator, in order to maximize the cost-effectiveness of the U.S.'s long-term exploration and utilization activities, to ensure that activities in NASA's lunar exploration program be designed and implemented in a manner that gives strong consideration as to how those activities might also help meet the requirements of future exploration and utilization activities beyond the Moon. Requires: (1) the timetable of the lunar phase of the international exploration initiative to be determined by the availability of funding; and (2) once an exploration-related project enters its development phase, the Administrator to seek to complete that project without undue delays. (Sec. 404) Prohibits NASA, as it works toward establishing a lunar outpost, from making any plans that would require an outpost to be occupied to maintain its viability. Requires any such outpost to be operable as a human-tended facility capable of remote or autonomous operation for extended periods.Designates the U.S. portion of the first human-tended outpost established on the surface of the Moon as the "Neil A. Armstrong Lunar Outpost."Expresses the sense of Congress that NASA should make use of commercial services in support of its lunar outpost activities. (Sec. 405) Requires the establishment of an exploration technology research and development program that is not tied to specific flight projects and that shall have the funding goal of ensuring that the technology research and development can be completed in a timely manner to support the safe, successful, and sustainable exploration of the solar system. Requires the technology program to have the goal of having a significant portion of its funding available for external grants and contracts with universities, research institutions, and industry. (Sec. 406) Directs the Administrator to prepare a plan that identifies and prioritizes the human and technical risks that will need to be addressed in carrying out human exploration beyond low Earth orbit and the research and development activities required to address those risks. Requires the plan to address the role of the International Space Station (ISS) in exploration risk mitigation. (Sec. 407) Directs the Administrator to discuss with the appropriate representatives of spacefaring nations who have, or plan to have, crew transportation systems capable of orbital flight or flight beyond low-Earth orbit a common docking system standard to maximize the ability to rescue astronauts from disabled space vehicles. (Sec. 408) Directs the Administrator to develop, and report on, a technology plan to enable dissemination of information to the public to allow the public to experience missions to the Moon, Mars, or other bodies within our solar system by leveraging advanced exploration technologies. Instructs the Administrator to examine the feasibility of having NASA enter into contracts and other agreements with appropriate public, private sector, and international partners to broadcast, including via the Internet, to the public images and multimedia records delivered from its missions in space. (Sec. 409) Expresses the sense of the Congress regarding NASA's scientific and human exploration activities. Encourages the coordination of such activities with the goal of maximizing the success of human exploration initiatives and furthering our understanding of the Universe that we explore. (Sec. 410) Requires the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to update its report from 2004 on the budgetary analysis of NASA's Vision for the Nation's Space Exploration Program, including new estimates for Project Constellation, NASA's new generation of spacecraft designed for human spaceflight that will replace the Space Shuttle program.Title V: Space Science - (Sec. 501) Requires the establishment of an intra-directorate technology development program for space and Earth science within the Science Mission Directorate for the development of new technology. Makes the program independent of flight projects presently under development. Requires NASA to have a goal of funding the program at five percent of the total Science Mission Directorate annual budget. Requires such program to be structured to include competitively awarded grants and contracts. (Sec. 502) Instructs the Administrator to ensure that provision is made in the design and construction of all future observatory-class scientific spacecraft intended to be deployed in Earth orbit or at a Langrangian point in space for robotic or human servicing and repair. (Sec. 503) Reaffirms Congress's support for a systematic, integrated program of exploration of the Martian surface, for specified purposes, including to examine Mars for future habitability and future human exploration. Provides that, such program should pursue launches at every Mars launch opportunity, leading to an eventual robotic sample return. (Sec. 504) Expresses the sense of Congress that a balanced and adequately funded set of activities, consisting of NASA's research and analysis grants programs, technology development, science missions, and suborbital research activities, contributes to a robust science program and serves as a catalyst for innovation. (Sec. 505) Expresses the sense of the Congress regarding the various uses and benefits of suborbital flight activities. Declares that Congress believes it is in the national interest to expand the size of NASA's suborbital research program. Requires the Administrator to arrange with the National Academies for a review of the suborbital mission capabilities of NASA. (Sec. 506) Requires the Director of OSTP to develop a plan to restart the production of radioisotope thermoelectric generator material for deep space and other space science missions. (Sec. 507) Directs the Administrator to arrange with the National Academies for an assessment of impediments to the conducting of interagency cooperation on space science missions, to provide lessons learned and best practices, and to recommend steps to help facilitate interagency collaborations on such missions. (Sec. 508) Directs the Administrator to arrange for an assessment to identify the primary causes of cost growth in the space and Earth science spacecraft mission classes, and to make recommendations as to what changes, if any, should be made to contain costs and ensure frequent mission opportunities in NASA's science spacecraft mission programs. (Sec. 509) Expresses the sense of the Congress with regard to the exploration of planets of the outer solar system and their satellites. Urges NASA to move forward with plans for an Outer Planets flagship mission to the Europa-Jupiter system or the Titan-Saturn system as soon as practicable within a balanced Planetary Science program. Title VI: Space Operations - Subtitle A: International Space Station - (Sec. 601) Instructs the Administrator to ensure that the ISS remains capable for potential U.S. utilization through at least 2020. Prohibits the taking of any steps that would preclude its continued operation and utilization by the United States after 2015. Requires the Administrator to submit a Plan for the support of the operations and utilization of the ISS beyond FY2015 (the Plan) for a period of not less than five years, which shall be an update and expansion of the operation plan of the ISS National Laboratory. Requires the provision of: (1) a list of critical hardware necessary to support ISS operations through 2020; (2) specific known or anticipated maintenance actions that would need to be performed to support ISS operations and research through 2020; and (3) annual upmass and downmass requirements, including potential vehicles that will deliver such upmass and downmass, to support the ISS after the retirement of the Space Shuttle and through 2020. Requires the development of a research management plan for the ISS, which shall include a process for selecting and prioritizing research activities (including fundamental, applied, commercial, and other research) for flight on the ISS. Specifies that the plan be used to prioritize resources such as crew time, racks and equipment, and U.S. access to international research facilities and equipment. Requires the plan to identify the organization to be responsible for managing U.S. research on the ISS. Authorizes the Administrator to request the support of the NAS or other appropriate independent entity, including an external consultant, in developing such plan. Requires: (1) the establishment of a process by which to support ISS National Laboratory users in identifying and communicating their requirements for transportation of research supplies to and from the ISS; and (2) the development of an estimate of transportation requirements needed to support users of the ISS National Laboratory and of a plan for satisfying those requirements. Requires an assessment under which the Administrator shall: (1) provide a list of critical hardware that is anticipated to be necessary to support non-exploration-related and exploration-related research through 2020; (2) identify existing research equipment and racks and support equipment that are manifested for flight; and (3) provide a description of the status of research equipment and facilities that were completed or in development prior to being canceled, and provide the budget and milestones for preparing the equipment for flight on the ISS. Requires the provision of a budget plan reflecting the anticipated use of such activities and the projected amounts to be required for FY2010 through FY2020 to accomplish the objectives of all of the activities described in this section that are part of the Plan.(Sec. 602) Requires the Administrator to establish the International Space Station National Laboratory Advisory Committee to monitor, assess, and make recommendations regarding the utilization of the ISS as a national laboratory and platform for research. States that the committee shall be in existence for the life of the ISS. (Sec. 603) Requires the Administrator to develop a contingency plan and arrangements, including use of the ISS international partner cargo resupply capabilities, to ensure the continued viability of the ISS in the event that U.S. commercial cargo resupply services are not available during any extended period after the Space Shuttle is retired. (Sec. 604) Expresses the sense of Congress concerning use of the Space Life Sciences Laboratory at Kennedy Space Center as an asset in ISS National Laboratory capability. Urges the Laboratory to be used to provide pre-flight-, in-flight, and post-flight support services when appropriate. Subtitle B: Space Shuttle - (Sec. 611) Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Act of 2005 to require the Administrator to submit a report on the lack of a U.S. human space flight system to replace the Space Shuttle upon its planned retirement, currently scheduled for 2010, and the ability of the U.S. to uphold its policy to possess the capability for human access to space on a continuous basis, which shall include a description of the factors previously identified for inclusion in the compliance report. Requires: (1) the utilization flights ULF-4 and ULF-5 to be considered part of the Space Shuttle baseline flight manifest and to be flown prior to the retirement of the Space Shuttle; and (2) the flight of one additional Space Shuttle flight to deliver the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer and other scientific equipment and payloads to the ISS prior to the retirement of the Space Shuttle. Requires the removal of such additional flight from the Space Shuttle schedule if: (1) NASA will be unable to meet the scheduled date of the flight before the end of 2010, unless the President decides to extend Shuttle operations beyond 2010; or (2) implementation of the additional flight would result in significant increased costs to NASA over the cost estimate of the flight or unacceptable safety risks associated with making the flight before termination of the Space Shuttle program. Requires notification of such a decision to specified congressional committees and removal of the additional flight from the schedule unless Congress by law reauthorizes the flight or the President certifies that it is in the national interest to fly the mission. Terminates or suspends any activity of NASA that, if continued between the enactment of this Act and April 30, 2009, would preclude the continued safe and effective flight of the Space Shuttle after FY2010 if the President inaugurated on January 20, 2009, were to make a determination to delay the Shuttle's scheduled retirement. Requires the Administrator to report to Congress on the expected budgetary and programmatic impacts from complying with a termination or suspension. Requires the Administrator to report to Congress on the options, impacts, and associated costs of ensuring the safe and effective operation of the Space Shuttle at the minimum rate necessary to support ISS operations and resupply, including for both 1-to-2 year and 3-to-6 year extensions of Shuttle operations. (Sec. 612) Instructs the Administrator to determine the degree to which an increase in the amounts authorized to be appropriated under Title I of this Act for the Commercial Orbital Transportation Services project to be used by phase one team members of such project in FY2009 would be expected to accelerate development of capabilities A, B, and C to effective operational capability as close to 2010 as possible. (Sec. 613) Requires the provision of a plan to Congress for the disposition of the remaining Space Shuttle orbiters and other Space Shuttle program-related hardware after the retirement of the Space Shuttle fleet. Requires the plan to include a process by which educational institutions, science museums, and other appropriate organizations may acquire, through loan or disposal by the federal government, Space Shuttle program hardware. Bars the disposal of any Space Shuttle program hardware before such plan is submitted to Congress. Directs the Administrator to develop a plan and establish an office within NASA's Office of Human Capital Management to assist local communities affected by the termination of the Space Shuttle program in mitigating the negative impacts on such communities caused by such termination. Requires the office to offer nonfinancial, technical assistance and serve as a clearinghouse to assist such communities in identifying services available from other federal, state, and local agencies. Terminates such office two years after the last Space Shuttle flight. (Sec. 614) Directs the Administrator to carry out an analysis of the facilities and human capital resources that will become available as a result of the retirement of the Space Shuttle program and to identify on-going or future federal programs and projects that could use such facilities and resources. (Sec. 615) Provides for the temporary continuation of health insurance coverage under the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHB) for employees who are terminated from the Space Shuttle Program, involuntarily separated from a position due to a reduction-in-force or declination of a directed reassignment or transfer of function, or a voluntary separation from a surplus position in NASA. Makes such an individual receiving temporary continuation of coverage under FEHB liable for not more than the employee contributions required of an employee enrolled under the individual's same health benefits plan and level of benefits. Requires NASA to pay the remaining portion of the amount required under FEHB necessary for administrative expenses. Makes the requirement for such temporary continuation of coverage applicable to individuals whose continued coverage is based on a separation occurring on or after enactment of this section and before December 31, 2010. (Sec. 616) Directs the Administrator to provide a report summarizing any actions taken or planned to be taken during FY2008 and FY2009 to begin reductions in expenditures and activities related to the Space Shuttle program. Subtitle C: Launch Services - (Sec. 621) Requires, in preparation for the awarding of contracts to follow up on the current NASA Launch Services (NLS) contracts, development of a strategy for providing commercial launch services in support of NASA's small and medium-sized science, space operations, and exploration missions. Requires a report describing such strategy. Title VII: Education - (Sec. 701) Requires preparation of a plan identifying actions taken or planned in response to the recommendations of the National Academies report, "NASA's Elementary and Secondary Education Program: Review and Critique." Requires, for those actions that have not been implemented, the plan to include a schedule and budget required to support the actions. (Sec. 702) Directs the Administrator to arrange for a review of the Explorer Schools program to evaluate its goals, status, plans, and accomplishments. (Sec. 703) Expresses the sense of the Congress regarding support for NASA's educational programs. Urges NASA to support programs such as EarthKAM and robotics competitions. (Sec. 704) Expresses the sense of the Congress concerning the use of the ISS by federal agencies for engaging students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education. Encourages NASA to include other federal agencies in its planning efforts to use the ISS National Laboratory for such educational activities. Instructs NASA to detail in its annual budget submission additional steps that can be taken to further integrate the participating EPSCoR (the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research) states in existing and new or emerging NASA research programs and center activities. Title VIII: Near Earth Objects - (Sec. 801) Reaffirms the policy direction established in the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 for NASA to detect, track, catalogue, and characterize near-Earth asteroids and comets in order to provide warning and mitigation of the potential hazard of such near-Earth objects to the Earth. (Sec. 803) Directs the Administrator to issue requests for information on: (1) a low-cost space mission to rendezvous with, attach a tracking device, and characterize the Apophis asteroid; and (2) a medium-sized space mission to detect near-Earth objects equal to or greater than 140 meters in diameter. (Sec. 804) Requires the Director of OSTP to: (1) develop a policy for notifying federal agencies and relevant emergency response institutions of an impending near-Earth object threat, if near-term public safety is at risk; and (2) recommend a federal agency(ies) to be responsible for protecting the United States from a near-Earth object that is anticipated to collide with Earth and implement a deflection campaign, in consultation with international bodies, should one be necessary. (Sec. 805) Instructs the Administrator to maintain a planetary radar that is comparable to the capability provided through NASA's Deep Space Network Goldstone facility. (Sec. 806) Reiterates the Congress's support for the use of the Arecibo Observatory for NASA-funded near-Earth object-related activities. Instructs the Administrator to ensure the availability of the Observatory's planetary radar to support these activities until the National Academies' review of NASA's approach for the survey and deflection of near-Earth objects, including a determination of the role of Arecibo, is completed. (Sec. 807) Expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States should seek to obtain commitments for cooperation from other nations with significant resources for contributing to a thorough and timely search for such objects and an identification of their characteristics. Title IX: Commercial Initiatives - (Sec. 901) Expresses the sense of the Congress regarding the use of commercial services in conducting the activities of NASA's space exploration program. Encourages NASA to look for such service opportunities and to make use of the commercial sector to provide those services. Expresses the sense of the Congress that U.S. entrepreneurial space companies have the potential to develop and deliver innovative technology solutions at affordable costs. Encourages NASA to use such companies to conduct research and development activities and to ensure that firms that rely on fixed-price proposals are not disadvantaged when NASA seeks to procure technology development. (Sec. 902) Sets forth requirements for the use of commercial crew transfer and crew rescue services for the ISS. Requires NASA to issue a notice of intent to enter into a funded, competitively awarded Space Act Agreement with two or more commercial entities for a Phase I Commercial Orbital Transportation Services crewed vehicle demonstration program. Expresses Congress's intent that funding for such program not come at the expense of full funding of the amounts authorized for exploration under title I of this Act, and for future fiscal years, for Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle development, Ares I Crew Launch Vehicle development, or ISS cargo delivery. Requires NASA to make ISS-compatible docking adaptors and other relevant technologies available to the commercial crew providers selected to service the ISS. Requires, if a commercial provider demonstrates the capability to provide ISS crew transfer and crew rescue services and to satisfy NASA ascent, entry, and ISS proximity operations safety requirements, NASA to enter into an ISS crew transfer and crew rescue services contract with that commercial provider for a portion of NASA's anticipated ISS crew transfer and crew rescue requirements from the time the provider commences operations under contract with NASA through 2016, with an option of extending through 2020. Title X: Revitalization of NASA Institutional Capabilities - (Sec. 1001) Requires a review of NASA's information security controls by the Government Accountability Office (GAO). Requires a report on intrusions of NASA's network resources. (Sec. 1002) Instructs the Administrator to ensure that adequate maintenance and upgrading of NASA's Centers is performed regularly. (Sec. 1003) Requires an external review of NASA's laboratories. (Sec. 1004) Requires completion of a study of all field centers of NASA, including the Michoud Assembly facility. Title XI: Other Provisions - (Sec. 1101) Requires the Director of OSTP to develop a plan for sustaining space-based measurements of solar wind from the L-1 Lagrangian point in space and for dissemination of the data for operational purposes. Directs the Administrator to arrange with the National Research Council for a study of the impacts of space weather on the current and future U.S. aviation industry, and in particular to examine the risks for Over-The-Pole (OTP) and Ultra-Long Range (ULR) operations. (Sec. 1102) Directs the Administrator to initiate discussions with the appropriate representatives of other spacefaring countries to determine a framework under which information intended to promote safe access into outer space, operations in outer space, and return from outer space to Earth free from physical or radio-frequency interference can be shared among those nations. (Sec. 1103) Requires a survey of astronauts and flight surgeons regarding astronaut health care. Instructs that the survey questions and the analysis of the results of such survey be evaluated by experts who are independent of NASA. (Sec. 1104) Directs the Administrator to enter into agreements periodically with the National Academies for decadal surveys to take stock of the status and opportunities for Earth and space science discipline fields and aeronautics research and to recommend priorities for research and programmatic areas over the next decade. Requires that such agreements include independent estimates of life cycle costs and technical readiness of missions assessed in the surveys whenever possible. (Sec. 1105) Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 to require the Administrator, in selecting topics for innovation prize competitions, to consider prize goals such as the demonstration of the ability to provide energy to the lunar surface from space-based solar power systems, demonstration of innovative near-Earth object survey and deflection strategies, and innovative approaches to improving the safety and efficiency of aviation systems. Increases the maximum award amount for an innovation prize. (Sec. 1106) Requires the Director of OSTP to work with other appropriate federal agencies to establish an interagency committee to conduct a study to (1) identify the issues and challenges with establishing space launch ranges and facilities for commercial space missions in close proximity to federal launch ranges or other federal facilities; and (2) develop a mechanism such that states seeking to establish such commercial space launch ranges will be able to interface with the federal government on issues related to the establishment of such ranges. (Sec. 1107) Directs NASA to competitively select an organization to partner with NASA centers, aerospace contractors, and academic institutions to carry out a NASA outreach program for small, minority-owned, and women-owned businesses in communities across the United States. Provides for such program to support the mission of NASA's Innovative Partnerships Program with its emphasis on joint partnerships with industry, academia, government agencies, and national laboratories. Species the activities that will be undertaken under the outreach and technology assistance program. (Sec. 1108) Prohibits NASA from initiating or implementing a reduction-in-force, or conducting any other involuntary separations of permanent, non-Senior Executive Service, civil servant employees, before December 31, 2010, except for cause on charges of misconduct, delinquency, or inefficiency. (Sec. 1109) Expresses the sense of the Congress that NASA should not dilute, distort, suppress, or impede scientific research or the dissemination thereof. Directs the Comptroller General to initiate a study to determine whether the regulations set forth in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) governing the release of public information to the news and information media are being implemented clearly and consistently by NASA to ensure the dissemination of research. Directs the Administrator to work to ensure that NASA's policies on the sharing of climate-related data respond to the recommendations of the report of the Government Accountability Office (GAO) on climate change research and data-sharing policies and to the recommendations on the processing, distribution, and archiving of data by the National Academies Earth Science Decadal Survey, "Earth Science and Applications from Space," and other relevant National Academies reports, to enhance and facilitate their availability and widest possible use to ensure public access to accurate and current data on global warming. (Sec. 1110) Expresses the sense of the Congress regarding the need for a robust and highly skilled workforce at NASA. Urges NASA to work with other U.S. government agencies responsible for programs related to space and the aerospace industry to implement policies, including those emphasizing improvement of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education, to sustain and expand the diverse workforce available to NASA. (Sec. 1111) Requires the Director of OSTP to develop a plan, including a cost estimate and timetable, and initiate an inventory of natural methane stocks and fluxes in the polar region of the United States. (Sec. 1112) States that the provisions of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 regarding the procurement and acquisition of alternative and synthetic fuels by federal agencies do not prohibit NASA from entering into a contract to purchase generally available fuel that is not an alternative or synthetic fuel or predominately produced from a nonconventional petroleum source, as specified in this section. (Sec. 1113) Expresses the sense of Congress regarding the importance of NASA maintaining an Office of Program Analysis and Evaluation that has as its mission the development of strategic and annual performance plans, the provision of analysis and recommendations to the Administrator on matters related to planning and programming phases, and the provision of analysis and recommendations to the Administrator on matters related to acquisition management and program oversight. (Sec. 1114) Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should elevate the importance of space and aeronautics within the Executive Office of the President by organizing the interagency focus on space and aeronautics matters as effectively as possible, such as by means of the National Space Council or other appropriate mechanisms. (Sec. 1115) Requires completion of a study on the leasing practices of all NASA field centers, including the Michoud Assembly Facility. (Sec. 1116) Continues the use of the capabilities of unmanned aerial vehicles in support of NASA and interagency cooperative missions. Authorizes the Administrator to enter into cooperative agreements with universities with unmanned vehicle programs and related assets to conduct collaborative research and development activities, including development of applications of small unmanned aerial vehicle technologies and systems in remote areas. (Sec. 1117) Requires the Administrator to develop an enhanced-use lease policy that is based upon sound business practices and lessons learned from the demonstration centers and that establishes controls and procedures to ensure accountability and protect the government's interests. Revises procedures for the retention of cash consideration received by NASA field centers. (Sec. 1118) Expresses the sense of the Congress that every effort should be made to ensure the effective use of the Michoud Assembly Facility as well as NASA's other centers and facilities. (Sec. 1119) Requires the Director of OSTP to submit a report setting forth an assessment as to the capacity of the U.S. industrial base to develop and produce engines for space launch vehicles. (Sec. 1120) Expresses the sense of the Congress concerning the use of the Space Shuttle as a platform for precursor ISS research. Encourages the Administrator to continue the promotion of the effective use of the Space Shuttle for precursor research within the constraints of ISS assembly requirements. (Sec. 1121) Authorizes and limits appropriations for expenses related to conferences. Prohibits the use of any funds under this Act for the support of a Space Flight Awareness Launch Honoree Event conference. Sets a limitation on the total amount of funding available under this Act for other Space Flight Awareness Honoree-related activities in FY2009. Requires the Administrator to report to the NASA Inspector General regarding the costs and contracting procedures related to each conference held by NASA during FY2009 for which the cost is more than $20,000. (Sec. 1122) Requires the Comptroller General to submit a report to Congress containing a review of NASA programs and associated activities with an annual funding level of more than $50 million that appear to be similar in scope and purpose to other activities within the federal government. Requires the report, if it is determined that any deficiency exists in NASA procedures intended to avoid or eliminate conflict or duplication with other federal agency activities, to include a recommendation as to how such procedures should be modified.

national_aeronautics_and_space_administration authorization act title authorization appropriations fiscal year sec authorizes appropriations national_aeronautics_and_space_administration nasa fy2009 science aeronautics exploration education space operations cross agency support programs inspector_general title earth science sec declares goal nasa earth science program shall pursue program earth observations research applications activities better understand earth supports life human activities affect ability future directs nasa oceanic atmospheric administration noaa relevant agencies provide leadership developing carrying cooperative international earth observations based research program sec requires director office_of_science_and_technology_policy ostp arrange national academies national_academy_of_sciences nas national_research_council national_academy_of_engineering institute_of_medicine study plan implement study determine governance structure earth observations programs meet evolving earth information needs facilitate participation global earth observations initiatives sec directs administrator nasa administrator work establishing international effort pursue missions recommended national academies survey earth science applications space submit plan implement missions sec expresses sense congress experimental nasa sensors missions potential benefit society operational monitoring systems operational status requires ostp director consultation administrator administrator noaa stakeholders develop process transitioning nasa earth science space weather missions sensors operational status requires nasa noaa designate agency official shall responsibility leading nasa noaa transition activities interagency coordination prepare joint plan conducting transition mission sensor determined appropriate transition sec requires administrator prepare plan continuation thermal infrared data collection equivalent including budget plan instructs administrator provide option developing thermal infrared sensor minimum cost flown data continuity mission minimum delay schedule mission sec reauthorizes continuation development mission examine aerosols solar energy affect earth climate requires administrator transmit new baseline report accordance national_aeronautics_and_space_administration authorization act sec requires nasa develop plan deep space climate including establishing public private partnership mission entering international cooperative partnership use primary purposes sec requires nasa high priority parts existing activities noaa related study severe storms tornado force factors determined influence development severe storms goal improving ability predict severe storms instructs administrator examine additional activities noaa undertaken area tornado severe storm research title iii aeronautics sec expresses sense congress support aeronautics research nasa sec requires establishment environmentally friendly commercial aircraft research development initiative involving nasa universities industry research organizations appropriate sec directs administrator align fundamental aeronautics research program address high priority technology challenges national academies survey civil aeronautics work increase involvement organizations especially universities program sec requires establishment research program industry collection data perceived impact booms enable promulgation standards commercial flight operations instructs administrator ensure boom research coordinated administrator federal_aviation_administration faa appropriate use expertise partnership air transportation noise emissions reduction center_of_excellence sponsored nasa faa sec directs administrator arrange national_research_council review nasa aviation safety related research programs sec directs administrator administrator noaa develop collaborative research plan weather events goal significantly improving reliability hour hour aviation weather forecasts sec requires research development activities performed aeronautics research mission directorate primary objective assisting development flight project mission directorate funded mission directorate seeking assistance sec requires current law permits administrator award grants establishment university based centers research aviation training title exploration initiative sec expresses sense congress president invite america allies participate international initiative leadership united_states expand human presence solar system including exploration utilization near earth points eventually sec affirms congress support goals space exploration policy united_states including eventual return exploration destinations solar system national independent access space sec instructs administrator order maximize cost effectiveness long term exploration utilization activities ensure activities nasa exploration program designed implemented manner gives strong consideration activities help meet requirements future exploration utilization activities requires timetable phase international exploration initiative determined availability funding exploration related project enters development phase administrator seek complete project undue delays sec prohibits nasa works establishing making plans require occupied maintain viability requires operable human facility capable remote autonomous operation extended periods designates portion human established surface sense congress nasa use commercial services support activities sec requires establishment exploration technology research development program tied specific flight projects shall funding goal ensuring technology research development completed timely manner support safe successful sustainable exploration solar system requires technology program goal having significant portion funding available external grants contracts universities research institutions industry sec directs administrator prepare plan identifies prioritizes human technical risks need addressed carrying human exploration low earth research development activities required address risks requires plan address role international space station exploration risk mitigation sec directs administrator discuss appropriate representatives nations plan crew transportation systems capable flight flight low earth common system standard maximize ability rescue disabled space vehicles sec directs administrator develop report technology plan enable dissemination information public allow public experience missions bodies solar system leveraging advanced exploration technologies instructs administrator examine feasibility having nasa enter contracts agreements appropriate public private sector international partners broadcast including internet public images multimedia records delivered missions space sec expresses sense congress nasa scientific human exploration activities encourages coordination activities goal maximizing success human exploration initiatives furthering understanding explore sec requires congressional_budget_office cbo update report budgetary analysis nasa vision nation space exploration program including new estimates project constellation nasa new generation designed human replace space program title space science sec requires establishment intra directorate technology development program space earth science science mission directorate development new technology makes program independent flight projects presently development requires nasa goal funding program percent total science mission directorate annual budget requires program structured include competitively awarded grants contracts sec instructs administrator ensure provision design construction future class scientific intended deployed earth point space human servicing repair sec reaffirms congress support systematic integrated program exploration surface specified purposes including examine future future human exploration provides program pursue launch opportunity leading eventual sample return sec expresses sense congress balanced adequately funded set activities consisting nasa research analysis grants programs technology development science missions research activities contributes robust science program serves catalyst innovation sec expresses sense congress uses benefits flight activities declares congress believes national interest expand size nasa research program requires administrator arrange national academies review mission capabilities nasa sec requires director ostp develop plan restart production generator material deep space space science missions sec directs administrator arrange national academies assessment impediments conducting interagency cooperation space science missions provide lessons learned best practices recommend steps help facilitate interagency collaborations missions sec directs administrator arrange assessment identify primary causes cost growth space earth science mission classes recommendations changes contain costs ensure frequent mission opportunities nasa science mission programs sec expresses sense congress regard exploration outer solar system satellites urges nasa forward plans outer mission system system soon practicable balanced science program title space operations subtitle international space station sec instructs administrator ensure remains capable potential utilization prohibits taking steps preclude continued operation utilization united_states requires administrator submit plan support operations utilization fy2015 plan period years shall update expansion operation plan national_laboratory requires provision list critical hardware necessary support operations specific known anticipated maintenance actions need performed support operations research annual requirements including potential vehicles deliver support retirement space requires development research management plan shall include process selecting prioritizing research activities including fundamental applied commercial research flight specifies plan prioritize resources crew time equipment access international research facilities equipment requires plan identify organization responsible managing research authorizes administrator request support nas appropriate independent entity including external consultant developing plan requires establishment process support national_laboratory users identifying communicating requirements transportation research supplies development estimate transportation requirements needed support users national_laboratory plan satisfying requirements requires assessment administrator shall provide list critical hardware anticipated necessary support non exploration related exploration related research identify existing research equipment support equipment manifested flight provide description status research equipment facilities completed development prior canceled provide budget milestones preparing equipment flight requires provision budget plan reflecting anticipated use activities projected amounts required fy2010 fy2020 accomplish objectives activities described section requires administrator establish international space station national_laboratory advisory_committee monitor assess recommendations utilization national_laboratory platform research states committee shall existence life sec requires administrator develop contingency plan arrangements including use international partner cargo capabilities ensure continued viability event commercial cargo services available extended period space retired sec expresses sense congress concerning use space life sciences laboratory kennedy space center asset national_laboratory capability urges laboratory provide pre flight post flight support services appropriate subtitle space sec amends national_aeronautics_and_space_administration act require administrator submit report lack human space flight system replace space planned retirement currently scheduled ability uphold policy possess capability human access space continuous basis shall include description factors previously identified inclusion compliance report requires utilization flights considered space baseline flight manifest flown prior retirement space flight additional space flight deliver alpha magnetic scientific equipment prior retirement space requires removal additional flight space schedule nasa unable meet scheduled date flight end president decides extend operations implementation additional flight result significant increased costs nasa cost estimate flight unacceptable safety risks associated making flight termination space program requires notification decision specified congressional committees removal additional flight schedule congress law reauthorizes flight president certifies national interest fly mission terminates suspends activity nasa continued enactment act april preclude continued safe effective flight space fy2010 president january determination delay scheduled retirement requires administrator report congress expected budgetary programmatic impacts complying termination suspension requires administrator report congress options impacts associated costs ensuring safe effective operation space minimum rate necessary support operations including year year extensions operations sec instructs administrator determine degree increase amounts authorized appropriated title act commercial transportation services project phase team members project fy2009 expected accelerate development capabilities effective operational capability close possible sec requires provision plan congress disposition remaining space space program related hardware retirement space fleet requires plan include process educational institutions science museums appropriate organizations acquire loan disposal federal_government space program hardware bars disposal space program hardware plan submitted congress directs administrator develop plan establish office nasa office human capital management assist local communities affected termination space program mitigating negative impacts communities caused termination requires office offer nonfinancial technical assistance serve clearinghouse assist communities identifying services available federal state local agencies terminates office years space flight sec directs administrator carry analysis facilities human capital resources available result retirement space program identify going future federal programs projects use facilities resources sec provides temporary continuation health insurance coverage federal_employees_health_benefits_program fehb employees terminated space program involuntarily separated position reduction force directed reassignment transfer function voluntary separation surplus position nasa makes individual receiving temporary continuation coverage fehb liable employee contributions required employee enrolled individual health benefits plan level benefits requires nasa pay remaining portion required fehb necessary administrative expenses makes requirement temporary continuation coverage applicable individuals continued coverage based separation occurring enactment section december sec directs administrator provide report summarizing actions taken planned taken fy2008 fy2009 begin reductions expenditures activities related space program subtitle launch services sec requires preparation awarding contracts follow current nasa launch services contracts development strategy providing commercial launch services support nasa small medium sized science space operations exploration missions requires report describing strategy title vii education sec requires preparation plan identifying actions taken planned response recommendations national academies report nasa elementary secondary education program review requires actions implemented plan include schedule budget required support actions sec directs administrator arrange review schools program evaluate goals status plans accomplishments sec expresses sense congress support nasa educational programs urges nasa support programs competitions sec expresses sense congress concerning use federal agencies engaging students science technology engineering mathematics education encourages nasa include federal agencies planning efforts use national_laboratory educational activities instructs nasa detail annual budget submission additional steps taken integrate participating epscor experimental_program stimulate competitive research states existing new emerging nasa research programs center activities title viii near earth objects sec reaffirms policy direction established national aeronautics space act nasa detect track catalogue characterize near earth order provide warning mitigation potential hazard near earth objects earth sec directs administrator issue requests information low cost space mission attach tracking device characterize medium sized space mission detect near earth objects equal greater meters diameter sec requires director ostp develop policy notifying federal agencies relevant emergency response institutions impending near earth object threat near term public safety risk recommend federal responsible protecting united_states near earth object anticipated earth implement campaign consultation international bodies necessary sec instructs administrator maintain radar comparable capability provided nasa deep space network facility sec congress support use nasa funded near earth object related activities instructs administrator ensure availability radar support activities national academies review nasa approach survey near earth objects including determination role completed sec expresses sense congress united_states seek obtain commitments cooperation nations significant resources contributing thorough timely search objects identification characteristics title commercial initiatives sec expresses sense congress use commercial services conducting activities nasa space exploration program encourages nasa look service opportunities use commercial sector provide services expresses sense congress entrepreneurial space companies potential develop deliver innovative technology solutions affordable costs encourages nasa use companies conduct research development activities ensure firms rely fixed price proposals disadvantaged nasa seeks procure technology development sec sets forth requirements use commercial crew transfer crew rescue services requires nasa issue notice intent enter funded competitively awarded space act agreement commercial entities phase commercial transportation services vehicle demonstration program expresses congress intent funding program come expense funding amounts authorized exploration title act future fiscal years crew exploration vehicle development crew launch vehicle development cargo delivery requires nasa compatible relevant technologies available commercial crew providers selected service requires commercial provider demonstrates capability provide crew transfer crew rescue services satisfy nasa entry proximity operations safety requirements nasa enter crew transfer crew rescue services contract commercial provider portion nasa anticipated crew transfer crew rescue requirements time provider commences operations contract nasa option extending title revitalization nasa institutional capabilities sec requires review nasa information security controls government_accountability_office gao requires report nasa network resources sec instructs administrator ensure adequate maintenance upgrading nasa centers performed regularly sec requires external review nasa laboratories sec requires completion study field centers nasa including assembly facility title provisions sec requires director ostp develop plan sustaining space based measurements solar wind l-1 point space dissemination data operational purposes directs administrator arrange national_research_council study impacts space weather current future aviation industry particular examine risks ultra long range operations sec directs administrator initiate discussions appropriate representatives countries determine framework information intended promote safe access outer space operations outer space return outer space earth free physical radio frequency interference shared nations sec requires survey flight surgeons health_care instructs survey questions analysis results survey evaluated experts independent nasa sec directs administrator enter agreements periodically national academies surveys stock status opportunities earth space science discipline fields aeronautics research recommend priorities research programmatic areas decade requires agreements include independent estimates life cycle costs technical readiness missions assessed surveys possible sec amends national aeronautics space act require administrator selecting topics innovation prize competitions consider prize goals demonstration ability provide energy surface space based solar power systems demonstration innovative near earth object survey strategies innovative approaches improving safety efficiency aviation systems increases maximum award innovation prize sec requires director ostp work appropriate federal agencies establish interagency_committee conduct study identify issues challenges establishing space launch ranges facilities commercial space missions close proximity federal launch ranges federal facilities develop mechanism states seeking establish commercial space launch ranges able interface federal_government issues related establishment ranges sec directs nasa competitively select organization partner nasa centers aerospace contractors academic institutions carry nasa outreach program small minority owned women owned businesses communities united_states provides program support mission nasa innovative partnerships program emphasis joint partnerships industry academia government agencies national_laboratories species activities undertaken outreach technology assistance program sec prohibits nasa initiating implementing reduction force conducting involuntary separations permanent non senior_executive_service civil employees december cause charges misconduct delinquency sec expresses sense congress nasa suppress impede scientific research dissemination thereof directs comptroller_general initiate study determine regulations set forth code federal regulations cfr governing release public information news information media implemented clearly consistently nasa ensure dissemination research directs administrator work ensure nasa policies sharing climate related data respond recommendations report government_accountability_office gao climate change research data sharing policies recommendations processing distribution archiving data national academies earth science survey earth science applications space relevant national academies reports enhance facilitate availability possible use ensure public access accurate current data global warming sec expresses sense congress need robust highly skilled workforce nasa urges nasa work government agencies responsible programs related space aerospace industry implement policies including improvement science technology engineering mathematics education sustain expand diverse workforce available nasa sec requires director ostp develop plan including cost estimate timetable initiate inventory natural methane stocks polar region united_states sec states provisions energy_independence_and_security_act procurement acquisition alternative synthetic fuels federal agencies prohibit nasa entering contract purchase generally available fuel alternative synthetic fuel predominately produced nonconventional petroleum source specified section sec expresses sense congress importance nasa maintaining office program analysis evaluation mission development strategic annual performance plans provision analysis recommendations administrator matters related planning programming phases provision analysis recommendations administrator matters related acquisition_management program oversight sec expresses sense congress president importance space aeronautics executive_office president organizing interagency focus space aeronautics matters effectively possible means national space council appropriate mechanisms sec requires completion study leasing practices nasa field centers including assembly facility sec continues use capabilities unmanned aerial vehicles support nasa interagency cooperative missions authorizes administrator enter cooperative agreements universities unmanned vehicle programs related assets conduct collaborative research development activities including development applications small unmanned aerial vehicle technologies systems remote areas sec requires administrator develop enhanced use lease policy based sound business practices lessons learned demonstration_centers establishes controls procedures ensure accountability protect government interests revises procedures retention cash consideration received nasa field centers sec expresses sense congress effort ensure effective use assembly facility nasa centers facilities sec requires director ostp submit report setting forth assessment capacity industrial base develop produce engines space launch vehicles sec expresses sense congress concerning use space platform precursor research encourages administrator continue promotion effective use space precursor research constraints assembly requirements sec authorizes limits appropriations expenses related conferences prohibits use funds act support space flight awareness launch event conference sets limitation total funding available act space flight awareness related activities fy2009 requires administrator report nasa inspector_general costs contracting procedures related conference held nasa fy2009 cost sec requires comptroller_general submit report congress containing review nasa programs associated activities annual funding level million appear similar scope purpose activities federal_government requires report determined deficiency exists nasa procedures intended avoid eliminate conflict duplication federal agency activities include recommendation procedures modified


Summary: International Space Station Guaranteed Access Plan for Integrated Launch and Low Earth Rendezvous Act or ISS GAP FILLER Act - Authorizes appropriations for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for Space Shuttle operations and the Exploration Systems Mission Directorate. Requires: (1) the utilization flights ULF-4 and ULF-5 to be considered part of the Space Shuttle baseline flight manifest to ensure adequate logistics and on-orbit spares are available to the International Space Station (ISS); and (2) the flight of one additional Space Shuttle flight to deliver the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer to the ISS. Authorizes NASA to: (1) continue Space Shuttle operations through FY2012; and (2) maintain the capability to safely fly at least two Shuttle missions per year through FY2012. Directs the Administrator of NASA to suspend any NASA activity that, if continued, would inhibit or preclude the continued safe and effective operation of the Space Shuttle through FY2012. Requires an assessment of the actions that have been taken and are planned to be taken to fully comply with the intent of the recertification recommendation of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. Sets forth provisions for a crewed vehicle demonstration of a capsule and associated crew escape system capable of carrying astronauts to the ISS and returning them safely to Earth. Requires an evaluation of the actions necessary to human-rate Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicles. Directs the Administrator to initiate discussions with representatives of the European Space Agency to determine the feasibility of development of a human-rated space transportation system to provide a backup capability to the Russian Soyuz. Sets forth provisions concerning the development of a means of providing crew transfer and crew rescue services for the ISS. Requires a commercial space launch range study. Restricts the use of the Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle to only those missions carrying astronauts beyond low Earth orbit.Provides for discussions among space-faring nations of a common docking system standard. Authorizes the President to make extraordinary payments to the Russian Federal Space Agency or any entity under such agency for equipment and services related to the ISS.

international space station guaranteed access plan integrated launch low earth act gap act_-_authorizes appropriations national_aeronautics_and_space_administration nasa space operations exploration systems mission directorate requires utilization flights considered space baseline flight manifest ensure adequate logistics available international space station flight additional space flight deliver alpha magnetic authorizes nasa continue space operations fy2012 maintain capability safely fly missions year fy2012 directs administrator nasa suspend nasa activity continued inhibit preclude continued safe effective operation space fy2012 requires assessment actions taken planned taken fully comply intent recertification recommendation columbia accident investigation board sets forth provisions vehicle demonstration associated crew escape system capable carrying returning safely earth requires evaluation actions necessary human rate launch vehicles directs administrator initiate discussions representatives european space agency determine feasibility development human rated space transportation system provide backup capability russian sets forth provisions concerning development means providing crew transfer crew rescue services requires commercial space launch range study restricts use crew exploration vehicle missions carrying low earth provides discussions space nations common system standard authorizes president extraordinary payments russian federal space agency entity agency equipment services related


Summary: Instructs the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to: (1) ensure that the Arecibo Observatory, in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, is fully funded to continue its research on Earth's ionosphere, its research in radio astronomy, and research on the solar system; and (2) coordinate with the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to ensure that the capabilities of the Arecibo Observatory continue to be available for NASA research in characterizing and mitigating Near Earth Objects, and other research as needed.

instructs director national_science_foundation nsf ensure puerto_rico fully funded continue research earth research radio astronomy research solar system coordinate administrator national_aeronautics_and_space_administration nasa ensure capabilities continue available nasa research mitigating near earth objects research needed


Summary: American Space Access Act - Requires the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to annually fly at least two Space Shuttle missions for crew transport into space, instead of purchasing Russian crew and cargo services, for the period beginning in 2010 and ending: (1) in 2015; (2) when the Orion crew exploration vehicle is operational; or (3) when NASA has certified the safe operation of an available U.S. commercial capability, whichever occurs first. Directs NASA, not later than March 31, 2011, to investigate areas of reduced operations and enhanced cost savings and implement those that do not impinge on the safe operation of the Space Shuttle program. Requires NASA to report to Congress on: (1) the costs and actions needed to extend the operation of the Space Shuttle in accordance with this Act; and (2) the amount of funding needed to expedite the schedule of the Orion crew exploration vehicle and the Ares I crew exploration vehicle and associated ground support systems under the Constellation program.

american space access act_-_requires national_aeronautics_and_space_administration nasa annually fly space missions crew transport space instead purchasing russian crew cargo services period beginning ending crew exploration vehicle operational nasa certified safe operation available commercial capability whichever occurs directs nasa later march investigate areas reduced operations enhanced cost savings implement safe operation space program requires nasa report congress costs actions needed extend operation space accordance act funding needed expedite schedule crew exploration vehicle crew exploration vehicle associated ground support systems constellation program


Summary: Satellite Home Viewer Reauthorization Act of 2009 - (Sec. 2) Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to extend to December 31, 2014, the termination of provisions allowing satellite retransmission of network station signals (without the station's consent) to a subscriber who is located outside of the local market of the station and resides in an unserved household. (Sec. 3) Allows a satellite carrier to retransmit the signals of a significantly viewed station located outside of the local market in which a subscriber is located, but: (1) only for subscribers receiving local-into-local service; or (2) regarding high definition (HD) signals, only if the carrier also retransmits available HD signals of a station in the local market of the subscriber and affiliated with the same network. (Sec. 4) Allows a carrier to retransmit HD signals to a reception antenna separate from the one for non-HD signals. Revises: (1) the satellite carrier secondary transmission rules applicable to non-grandfathered subscribers who are eligible to receive a distant signal; and (2) special rules for distant digital signals. Allows a satellite carrier to provide the signals of both a local and a distant station of the same network to an eligible subscriber only if the distant station's signal is generally broadcast simultaneously with, or later than, the prime time network programming of the local station. Revises requirements regarding: (1) a point-to-point model to predict the ability of individual locations, through the use of a conventional, stationary, outdoor rooftop receiving antenna, to receive signals in accordance with a specified signal intensity standard; and (2) on-location testing. Requires a study and report to Congress on whether specified testing procedures or such standard should be revised to take into account the types of antennas that are available to, and used by, consumers. (Sec. 7) Prohibits construing this Act or its amendments from affecting the definitions of "program related" and "primary video" in the Communications Act of 1934 or in any regulations promulgated under that Act. (Sec. 8) Requires a report to Congress on: (1) the number of households in a state that receive local broadcast stations from a station of license that is located in a different state; (2) the extent to which consumers have access to in-state broadcast programming; and (3) whether there are alternatives to the use of designated market areas to define local markets that would provide more consumers with in-state broadcast programming. (Sec. 9) Requires eligible satellite carriers that provide any local-into-local secondary transmissions in HD to carry the HD signals of qualified noncommercial educational television stations located in that local market. Defines "eligible satellite carrier" as any satellite carrier that is not a party to a carriage contract with a qualified noncommercial educational television station as of enactment of this Act.

satellite home reauthorization act sec amends communications act extend december termination provisions allowing satellite retransmission network station signals station consent subscriber located outside local market station resides unserved household sec allows satellite carrier retransmit signals significantly viewed station located outside local market subscriber located subscribers receiving local local service high definition signals carrier available signals station local market subscriber affiliated network sec allows carrier retransmit signals reception antenna separate non signals revises satellite carrier secondary transmission rules applicable non grandfathered subscribers eligible receive distant signal special rules distant digital signals allows satellite carrier provide signals local distant station network eligible subscriber distant station signal generally broadcast simultaneously later prime time network programming local station revises requirements point point model predict ability individual locations use conventional stationary outdoor receiving antenna receive signals accordance specified signal intensity standard location testing requires study report congress specified testing procedures standard revised account types available consumers sec prohibits construing act amendments affecting definitions program related primary video communications act regulations promulgated act sec requires report congress number households state receive local broadcast stations station license located different state extent consumers access state broadcast programming alternatives use designated market areas define local markets provide consumers state broadcast programming sec requires eligible satellite carriers provide local local secondary transmissions carry signals qualified noncommercial educational television stations located local market defines eligible satellite carrier satellite carrier party carriage contract qualified noncommercial educational television station enactment act


Summary: Commercial Space Transportation Cooperative Research and Development Centers of Excellence Act of 2009 - Directs the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to make grants to consortia of two or more institutions of higher education to establish and operate Commercial Space Transportation Cooperative Research and Development Centers of Excellence to enhance the development of commercial space transportation.

commercial space transportation cooperative research development centers_of_excellence act directs administrator national_aeronautics_and_space_administration nasa grants consortia institutions higher education establish operate commercial space transportation cooperative research development centers_of_excellence enhance development commercial space transportation


Summary: Human Space Flight Capability Assurance and Enhancement Act of 2010 - Directs the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to: (1) take all necessary steps to ensure that all Space Shuttle Program activities and operations are able to continue, or to be resumed, including flight operations and support, pending the completion of required reviews, requirements, and reports; and (2) ensure space shuttle launch capability through FY2011 by enabling launch, at a minimum, of all payloads manifested as of February 28, 2010. Instructs the Administrator to ask the National Academies of Science (NAS) to appoint a Flight Certification Review Committee to: (1) review space shuttle certification activities undertaken or initiated after February 2003; and (2) assess their adequacy in assuring vehicle durability, flight-worthiness, and sustainability for continued operations of up to five years beyond the flight manifest planned as February 2010. Requires NASA to operate the Space Shuttle Program at a flight rate of not more than 2 missions in any consecutive 12-month period during FY2010-FY2012. Prohibits termination of such Program as of a scheduled date certain. Specifies the conditions for termination of space shuttle missions operations. Requires a determination by the President regarding termination of missions in support of International Space Station (ISS) operations and Congress to be notified of any such determination. Sets forth requirements for the decommissioning of the remaining space shuttles and the preservation of shuttle vehicle and systems design and engineering data. States that is shall be the policy of the United States, in consultation with its ISS International Partners, to support full and complete utilization of the Space Station through at least the year 2020. Requires a review of all essential vehicles, components, and permanent scientific equipment on board or planned for installation aboard the ISS, including international partner elements, and the Comptroller General to monitor such review. Establishes responsibility for the ISS United States National Laboratory in the Space Operations Mission Directorate, ISS Program Office. Delegates to a Deputy Associate Administrator for ISS the conduct of ISS operations by NASA and non-NASA organizations. Establishes a management entity for the National Laboratory to implement research and development projects using the ISS U.S. segment. Guarantees National Laboratory-managed experiments access to 50% of the U.S.'s research facilities allocation through FY2014, increased by an additional 10% annually through FY2020. Establishes a National Space Transportation System. Requires a technology development plan. Provides for specified crew and cargo studies, reviews, and activities.

human space flight capability assurance enhancement_act directs administrator national_aeronautics_and_space_administration nasa necessary steps ensure space program activities operations able continue resumed including flight operations support pending completion required reviews requirements reports ensure space launch capability fy2011 enabling launch minimum manifested february instructs administrator ask national academies science nas appoint flight certification review committee review space certification activities undertaken initiated february assess adequacy assuring vehicle durability flight sustainability continued operations years flight manifest planned february requires nasa operate space program flight rate missions consecutive month period fy2010 fy2012 prohibits termination program scheduled date certain specifies conditions termination space missions operations requires determination president termination missions support international space station operations congress notified determination sets forth requirements decommissioning remaining space preservation vehicle systems design engineering data states shall policy united_states consultation international partners support complete utilization space station year requires review essential vehicles components permanent scientific equipment board planned installation aboard including international partner elements comptroller_general monitor review establishes responsibility united_states national_laboratory space operations mission directorate program_office delegates deputy associate_administrator conduct operations nasa non nasa organizations establishes management entity national_laboratory implement research development projects segment guarantees national_laboratory managed experiments access research facilities allocation fy2014 increased additional annually fy2020 establishes national space transportation system requires technology development plan provides specified crew cargo studies reviews activities


Summary: Authorizes the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to carry out and enhance the Science, Engineering, Math, and Aerospace Academy Program for the purpose of promoting the interest of historically underrepresented youth in academic subjects and professional development relevant to careers in NASA.

authorizes national_aeronautics_and_space_administration nasa carry enhance science engineering math aerospace academy program purpose promoting interest historically underrepresented youth academic subjects professional development relevant careers nasa


Summary: Protecting Human Space Flight Act of 2010 - Requires amounts appropriated for FY2010 (or for prior fiscal years that remain available) to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for the Constellation Program to be spent only to carry out such program, including through contracts and necessary support activities. Prohibits the termination or descoping of contracts for the Constellation Program. Requires NASA to spend at least 90% of all such funds by September 30, 2010.

protecting human space flight act requires amounts appropriated fy2010 prior fiscal years remain available national_aeronautics_and_space_administration nasa constellation program spent carry program including contracts necessary support activities prohibits termination contracts constellation program requires nasa spend funds september