Synopsis
Here is a summary of the approved legislation:
The legislation is a draft amendment to Senate bill S. 447, the Orbital Sustainability Act of 2023. The amendment is proposed by Senator Hickenlooper. The legislation was approved by the US Senate on October 31, 2023.
The bill establishes a demonstration program for the active remediation of orbital debris in order to support a safe and sustainable orbital environment.
Key points:
- Finds that the amount of orbital debris endangers operations in low-Earth orbit and nearby orbits.
- Directs NASA to publish a prioritized list of orbital debris that poses the greatest risk.
- Establishes a NASA demonstration program to develop technologies for debris removal and fund demonstration missions.
- Authorizes $150 million for the program from 2024-2028.
- Directs the Department of Commerce to assess demand for debris removal services.
- Requires agencies to update orbital debris mitigation guidelines and practices.
- Aims to promote international cooperation on debris remediation.
The bill focuses on developing technologies and capabilities for actively removing orbital debris, citing concerns about the growing dangers posed by space junk. It authorizes NASA funding for an orbital debris remediation demonstration program to mature technologies and conduct on-orbit demonstrations.
