To require a report on merits and options for establishing an institute relating to space resources, and for other purposes.

Summary

Requires NASA and the Department of Commerce to jointly deliver a report within 180 days evaluating the merits and options for creating either a virtual or physical institute focused on space resources. The report must compare cost-effectiveness of institute models, describe how space resources could support space programs and supplement terrestrial supplies, identify ways to reduce technical and business risks, outline needed research for responsible use, and assess partnerships with universities, the aerospace industry, and, where appropriate, the extractive industry.

• Directs NASA and the Department of Commerce to submit a joint report within 180 days on options for an institute focused on space resources.
• Requires assessment of cost-effectiveness comparing virtual and physical institute models.
• Asks agencies to evaluate how space resources could support space missions, businesses, and supplement Earth supplies.
• Directs analysis of ways to reduce technological and business risks tied to space resource development and use.
• Calls for identification of research needs to ensure responsible and sustainable use of space resources.
• Requires evaluation of potential partnerships with higher education, the aerospace industry, and where appropriate, the extractive industry.
• Does not authorize funding or create an institute—only requires an evaluative report to Congress.
• Includes statutory definitions for key terms: space resource, institution of higher education, and extractive industry.