The Space Research And Continuing Exploration Act, or Space RACE Act, proposes to establish the National Institute for Space Research (NISR) , to be operated by a non-Federal entity under contract with the NASA Administrator. This institute is designed to support the use of in-space research and development capabilities on next-generation microgravity platforms , particularly as the International Space Station (ISS) approaches decommissioning, and to facilitate the transition of U.S. microgravity research from the ISS to new structures. The NISR's core mission includes fostering the United States microgravity ecosystem, advancing national security applications, and promoting education and workforce development in space research. A diverse Board of Directors , comprising representatives from various federal agencies and experts, will oversee the Institute's operations, budget, and research priorities, appointing an Executive Director to manage daily activities. Key activities of the NISR include identifying and listing available next-generation microgravity platforms, developing guidelines for their use, and providing competitively awarded grants or cooperative agreements . These grants will support research projects and qualified national microgravity projects from eligible public, private, and non-profit entities, often requiring matching funds, and will coordinate flight opportunities for projects deemed sensitive to national interest. The bill also mandates the termination of the ISS National Laboratory and its cooperative agreement within 180 days after ISS research operations cease, signaling a strategic shift towards new research infrastructure supported by the NISR.