Support for Astrophysical Observatories and National High-Energy Astrophysics Hubs Act of 2026

This bill requires the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to designate national high-energy astrophysics hubs . The legislation emphasizes the importance of maintaining United States global leadership in high-energy astrophysics and supporting X-ray flagship missions, recognizing the workforce in this field as a critical national strategic asset. To be designated as a hub, an entity must be party to a NASA contract and plan or operate missions that contribute to ensuring continued U.S. leadership in high-energy astrophysics and related space sciences. These missions must also support training and workforce development, advance U.S. capabilities in scientific software and spaceflight operations, and enable future astrophysics missions through design and coordination. Eligible entities include institutions of higher education, appropriate State or Federal entities, or nongovernmental organizations with relevant expertise.