Sec. 216. Space communications

317 words·~1 min read·/bill/113/hr/4412/unknown/section-216

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The Administrator shall develop a plan, in consultation with relevant Federal agencies, for updating the Administration’s space communications and navigation architecture for low-Earth orbital and deep space operations so that it is capable of meeting the Administration’s communications needs over the next 20 years. The plan shall include lifecycle cost estimates, milestones, estimated performance capabilities, and 5-year funding profiles. The plan shall also include an estimate of the amounts of any reimbursements the Administration is likely to receive from other Federal agencies during the expected life of the upgrades described in the plan.

At a minimum, the plan shall include a description of the following: Steps to sustain the existing space communications and navigation network and infrastructure and priorities for how resources will be applied and cost estimates for the maintenance of existing space communications network capabilities. Upgrades needed to support space communications and navigation network and infrastructure requirements, including cost estimates and schedules and an assessment of the impact on missions if resources are not secured at the level needed.

Projected space communications and navigation network requirements for the next 20 years, including those in support of human space exploration missions. Projected Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System requirements for the next 20 years, including those in support of other relevant Federal agencies, and cost and schedule estimates to maintain and upgrade the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System to meet projected requirements. Steps the Administration is taking to meet future space communications requirements after all Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System third-generation communications satellites are operational.

Steps the Administration is taking to mitigate threats to electromagnetic spectrum use. The Administrator shall transmit the plan developed under this section to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act.