42 U.S.C. § 18326 — Development of technologies and in-space capabilities for beyond near-Earth space missions

(a) Development authorized. The Administrator may start developing four things. Technologies identified as necessary for missions beyond low-Earth orbit. In-space capabilities, such as refueling and storage technology, orbital transfer stages, new in-space propulsion, and communications and data management that serve many users, including the military and commercial companies, and that help design such missions. Spacesuits and the life support technology that goes with them. And flagship missions. (b) Investments. In developing these technologies and capabilities, the Administrator may invest in seven areas: space technologies like advanced propulsion, propellant depots, using resources found in space, and robots that support human missions beyond low-Earth orbit, aiming eventually at Mars; a space-based transfer vehicle using these technologies that can operate in space, integrate with the Space Launch System and other systems, service and deliver to multiple space platforms, and help international efforts reach deep space; advanced life support technology and capabilities; technologies for power, propulsion, and energy systems in space; technologies for transferring and storing propellant in space; technologies for using resources found in space; and expanded research into the biggest biological obstacles to deep space missions, especially radiation. (c) Utilization of ISS as testbed. The Administrator may use the ISS as a testbed for any technology or capability developed under this section, as long as that's consistent with this chapter. (d) Coordination. The Administrator must coordinate the development of these technologies and capabilities through NASA's overall agency-wide technology approach, as authorized by section 905 of this Act.