Legislative Enablers
- National Space Act Section 102c and 203a4 The Congress declares that the general welfare of the United States requires that the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (as established by Title II of this Act) seek and encourage, to the maximum extent possible, the fullest commercial use of space
- National Space Policy, declared by President Bush and endorsed by Congress last December in the NASA authorization act, affirms that "The fundamental goal of this vision is to advance U.S. scientific, security, and economic interests through a robust space exploration program."
- Dr. John Marburger, Director Office of Science and Technology March 15, 2006 speech: "The wording of this policy phrase is significant. It subordinates space exploration to the primary goals of science, security, and economic interests. Stated this way, the "fundamental goal" identifies the benefits gainst which the costs of exploration can be weighed."
- H.R. NASA Authorization Act of 2005 (a) In General- The Administrator, in consultation with other relevant agencies, shall develop a commercialization plan to support the human missions to the Moon and Mars, to support Low-Earth Orbit activities and Earth science missions and applications, and to transfer science research and technology to society. The plan shall identify opportunities for the private sector to participate in the future missions and activities, including opportunities for partnership between NASA and the private sector in conducting research and the development of technologies and services. The plan shall include provisions for developing and funding sustained university and industry partnerships to conduct commercial research and technology development, to proactively translate results of space research to Earth benefits, to advance United States economic interests, and to support the vision for exploration.
