WASHINGTON — On Monday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Nick Begich’s bipartisan legislation, the DOE and NASA Interagency Research Coordination Act.
The bill formalizes a long-standing partnership between the Department of Energy and NASA to coordinate research in space exploration and energy innovation.
“With today’s passage of the DOE and NASA Interagency Research Coordination Act, we are solidifying a critical partnership that has powered America’s leadership in space and energy innovation for decades,” Begich said. “This legislation ensures that two of our nation’s most advanced research agencies work hand-in-hand, driving the next generation of space exploration technologies while also advancing energy and communication systems here at home.”
For more than half a century, DOE and NASA have collaborated on work including radioisotope power systems, nuclear thermal propulsion, and surface power systems which are used for long-duration space missions. Despite this history, the partnership has never been formally established until now.
The bill directs DOE and NASA to jointly pursue research and development; Requires both agencies to report to Congress within two years on their collaborative work and future plans; Does not authorize additional spending, ensuring coordination is achieved within existing agency budgets.
The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.
