Title 42 — The Public Health and WelfareRelease 119-73not60
§19071 Microgravity Utilization Policy
Title 42 › Chapter 163— RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, COMPETITION, AND INNOVATION › Subchapter III— NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION FOR THE FUTURE › Part E— Fundamental Research › § 19071
Summary
Congress says using space technology and microgravity for science and tech is vital to compete with near‑peer nations, including China. The Foundation must help its awardees get access to microgravity, including private platforms when appropriate. The Director must give a plan to congressional committees within 180 days after August 9, 2022.
Full Legal Text
Title 42, §19071
The Public Health and Welfare — Source: USLM XML via OLRC
(a)It is the sense of Congress that space technology and the utilization of the microgravity environment for science, engineering, and technology development is critical to long-term competitiveness with near-peer competitors, including China.
(b)To the extent appropriate during an award period, the Foundation shall facilitate access by recipients of Foundation awards to the microgravity environment, including in private sector platforms, for the development of science, engineering, and technology relevant to the award.
(c)Not later than 180 days after August 9, 2022, the Director shall provide to the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the Foundation’s plan for facilitating awardee access to the microgravity environment.
Reference
Citations & Metadata
Citation
42 U.S.C. § 19071
Title 42 — The Public Health and Welfare
Last Updated
Apr 5, 2026
Release point: 119-73not60