A new congressional group focusing on planetary science and space exploration was announced on Wednesday by two lawmakers.
The bipartisan Planetary Science Caucus, led by Representative Judy Chu (D-Calif.) and Don Bacon (R-Nebraska), aims to advance policy and encourage federal investment in space science. The group emphasizes the importance of space science to the economy, national security, and America’s leadership in science and technology.
Established in 2018 but discontinued in 2021, the Planetary Science Caucus has set several key goals:
- Supporting government agencies, commercial partners, academic institutions, and nonprofit organizations in space research and exploration
- Increasing efforts to identify and mitigate potential threats from near-Earth objects
- Exploring the possibility of life in our solar system and beyond
- Promoting the economic benefits of federal investment in space science, technology development, and STEM education
Representative Chu expressed excitement about the launch of the Planetary Science Caucus and emphasized the importance of continuing the tradition of space exploration in Congress.
Lawmakers will be involved in overseeing major NASA initiatives facing budget scrutiny, such as the Artemis program and missions to Mars. The caucus also aims to support the growth of the commercial space industry.
With a growing global interest in space exploration, countries like China, Russia, and India are planning moon missions to establish more permanent bases. Representative Bacon emphasized the importance of prioritizing exploration and driving innovation for future generations.
“As the future unfolds, we must prioritize exploration and innovation for the benefit of future generations. There is no greater frontier than space,” said Representative Bacon.
Source: www.nbcnews.com
