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House Panel Unanimously Backs NASA Bill to Buy Commercial Deep-Space Services

The measure signals a shift toward greater commercial roles in lunar and Mars transportation, with practical changes dependent on future appropriations.

Overview

  • Lawmakers voted 37–0 to advance the NASA Reauthorization Act of 2026 to the full House, with further progress requiring Senate action and funding decisions.
  • An adopted amendment authorizes NASA to procure operational cargo and crew services from U.S. companies for missions to deep-space destinations, including the Moon and Mars.
  • More than 40 amendments were approved, directing reports on commercial lunar lander development and on spacesuits for Artemis and the International Space Station.
  • The bill codifies a goal to establish initial elements of a lunar outpost by 2030, reflecting a push for sustained lunar presence.
  • NASA is directed to study boosting the International Space Station to a higher safe orbital harbor at end of life as an alternative to deorbiting.