The House Science, Space, and Technology Committee has approved H.R. 7273, known as the NASA Reauthorization Act of 2026. The legislation was passed during a full committee markup and is intended to provide guidance for NASA's future activities.
Chairman Brian Babin commented on the passage: “Today’s passage of the NASA Reauthorization Act of 2026 out of Committee marks a major step toward securing America’s leadership in space for generations to come. This bipartisan bill—a top priority of mine and one that is especially close to my heart—strengthens our human exploration efforts, supports a growing commercial space economy, and invests in the technologies that will carry us from the Moon to Mars. I’m hopeful the full House will act quickly so we can send this legislation to the Senate and ultimately to the President’s desk. The next great chapter of American exploration is within reach, and this bill helps ensure we lead the way.”
Ranking Member Zoe Lofgren added: “Today the Science Committee recommitted NASA to fulfill its multiple missions in exploration, earth and space science, aeronautics, innovation, education, and inspiration. Much like the space enterprise itself, through collaboration, hard work, and a good measure of patience on both sides, we have once again, achieved good legislative results. Our nation’s investment in civil space has, and will continue to contribute significantly to innovation and economic prosperity here on earth.”
Key elements of H.R. 7273 include continued support for Artemis missions aimed at returning astronauts to the Moon and preparing for future Mars missions. The bill also encourages NASA's shift toward commercial low-Earth orbit platforms designed to promote industry participation and innovation.
Additional provisions focus on investments in new technologies such as advanced propulsion systems, deep-space communications capabilities, hypersonic vehicles, and next-generation flight systems. The legislation also emphasizes a balanced approach by advancing scientific discovery missions while expanding educational programs meant to prepare future professionals in aerospace fields.
The committee hopes that with bipartisan support demonstrated at this stage, further progress can be made as H.R. 7273 moves through Congress.
