S. 1479

119th CONGRESS 1st Session

To require the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to continue modernization efforts with respect to Federal rocket propulsion test infrastructure at National Aeronautics and Space Administration centers.

IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES · April 10, 2025 · Sponsor: Mr. Wicker · Committee: Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation

Table of contents

• S. 1479
  • SEC. 1. Short title
  • SEC. 2. Definitions
  • SEC. 3. Rocket engine test infrastructure

SEC. 1. Short title

• This Act may be cited as the or the .

SEC. 2. Definitions

• In this Act:
  • The term Administrator means the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
  • The term NASA means the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

SEC. 3. Rocket engine test infrastructure

• (a) Modernization program
  • The Administrator shall continue to carry out a program to modernize rocket propulsion test infrastructure at NASA facilities—
  • Modernization program
    • 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.
• (b) Projects
  • 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.
• (c) Requirements
  • 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;
    • evaluate NASA center-specific agreements with commercial entities to ensure that costs reflect the impacted location rather than the cost of the highest national agreement; and
    • ensure that no project carried out under such 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; and
      • nuclear propulsion testing.
• (d) Rule of construction
  • 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.