The House Science, Space and Technology Committee has approved the NASA Reauthorization Act of 2026. Congressman Mike Haridopolos, Chairman of the Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee and representative for Florida’s 8th Congressional District, issued a statement following the committee’s passage of the bipartisan legislation.
“America cannot be number one on Earth if we are number two in space. Not long ago, we depended on Russia to send our astronauts into orbit. Today, America is leading the world again,” said Congressman Haridopolos. “As Chairman of the Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee and representative of Florida’s Space Coast, I am proud to support the bipartisan NASA Reauthorization Act. Last year, Congress provided $10 billion for NASA, and this bill builds on that investment by strengthening core exploration and aeronautics missions, supporting commercial innovation, and recognizing the importance of our international partnerships as we continue to lead the space race.”
The proposed legislation continues funding for major programs such as Artemis and Moon-to-Mars human space exploration initiatives. It also aims to promote technological advancements in aeronautics, foster growth in low-Earth orbit economic activity through public-private partnerships, and expand collaboration with international allies.
Key elements of the act include ongoing Artemis missions, further development of the Space Launch System and Orion spacecraft, U.S. leadership in transitioning from the International Space Station to commercial platforms in low-Earth orbit, support for research areas like hypersonics and advanced air mobility, a science portfolio shaped by recommendations from National Academies’ decadal surveys, STEM education efforts including Space Grant programs and technical training initiatives, as well as stronger cooperation with Taiwan in space activities.
The bill will move forward in Congress as part of ongoing efforts to maintain NASA’s global leadership role in exploration and technology.
