This bill emphasizes that space nuclear systems are crucial for deep space human and robotic missions, requiring long-term investment and commitment. It mandates NASA to update plans within 180 days, detailing progress on nuclear propulsion, assessing near-term use cases, and outlining milestones for an in-space demonstration by the late 2020s. The plan must also include a phased program for using radioisotope heater units by 2028 and electric radioisotope power systems by 2030 for lunar night survival and routine operations by 2032. Additionally, NASA must submit a lessons learned assessment from the NASA–DARPA Demonstration Rocket for Agile Cislunar Operations program. The legislation also addresses lunar surface power , recognizing that reliable power is vital for Moon and deep space exploration and that commercial solutions can increase efficiency. NASA is required to submit a report forecasting its 10-year demand for lunar power, including human and robotic operations and commercial support needs. Furthermore, it allows NASA to conduct a feasibility study on using power purchase agreements (PPAs) to facilitate private sector development of lunar power capabilities and to enter into agreements with at least two private entities for procuring lunar power systems or services, with a sunset date of October 1, 2030. Finally, the bill requires a report on risk management approaches and indemnification frameworks for commercial partners supporting NASA's space nuclear activities, identifying gaps and proposing solutions or legislative changes.
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Timeline
Introduced in House
Referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
Introduced in House
Referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
Powering the Future of American Space Dominance Act
USA119th CongressHR-9193| House
| Updated: 6/8/2026
This bill emphasizes that space nuclear systems are crucial for deep space human and robotic missions, requiring long-term investment and commitment. It mandates NASA to update plans within 180 days, detailing progress on nuclear propulsion, assessing near-term use cases, and outlining milestones for an in-space demonstration by the late 2020s. The plan must also include a phased program for using radioisotope heater units by 2028 and electric radioisotope power systems by 2030 for lunar night survival and routine operations by 2032. Additionally, NASA must submit a lessons learned assessment from the NASA–DARPA Demonstration Rocket for Agile Cislunar Operations program. The legislation also addresses lunar surface power , recognizing that reliable power is vital for Moon and deep space exploration and that commercial solutions can increase efficiency. NASA is required to submit a report forecasting its 10-year demand for lunar power, including human and robotic operations and commercial support needs. Furthermore, it allows NASA to conduct a feasibility study on using power purchase agreements (PPAs) to facilitate private sector development of lunar power capabilities and to enter into agreements with at least two private entities for procuring lunar power systems or services, with a sunset date of October 1, 2030. Finally, the bill requires a report on risk management approaches and indemnification frameworks for commercial partners supporting NASA's space nuclear activities, identifying gaps and proposing solutions or legislative changes.