Sec. 2618. Rocket engine test infrastructure
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/bill/117/s/1260/es/section-2618·A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.
The Administrator shall continue to carry out a program to modernize rocket propulsion test infrastructure at NASA facilities— to increase capabilities; to enhance safety; to support propulsion development and testing; and to foster the improvement of Government and commercial space transportation and exploration. Projects funded under the program described in subsection
(a)may include— infrastructure and other facilities and systems relating to rocket propulsion test stands and rocket propulsion testing; enhancements to test facility capacity and flexibility; and such other projects as the Administrator considers appropriate to meet the goals described in that subsection. In carrying out the program under subsection (a), the Administrator shall— prioritize investments in projects that enhance test and flight certification capabilities for large thrust-level atmospheric and altitude engines and engine systems, and multi-engine integrated test capabilities; continue to make underutilized test facilities available for commercial use on a reimbursable basis; and ensure that no project carried out under this program adversely impacts, delays, or defers testing or other activities associated with facilities used for Government programs, including— the Space Launch System and the Exploration Upper Stage of the Space Launch System; in-space propulsion to support exploration missions; or nuclear propulsion testing. Nothing in this section shall preclude a NASA program, including the Space Launch System and the Exploration Upper Stage of the Space Launch System, from using the modernized test infrastructure developed under this section. Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this division, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the use of the authority under section 30102 of title 51, United States Code, to promote increased use of NASA rocket propulsion test infrastructure for research, development, testing, and evaluation activities by other Federal agencies, firms, associations, corporations, and educational institutions. The report required by paragraph
(1)shall include the following: An assessment of prior use, if any, of the authority under section 30102 of title 51, United States Code, to improve testing infrastructure. An analysis of any barrier to implementation of such authority for the purpose of promoting increased use of NASA rocket propulsion test infrastructure.