Bring the Space Shuttle Home Act
Summary
The "Bring the Space Shuttle Home Act" mandates the transfer of the Discovery space shuttle from the Smithsonian Institution's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center to NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. This transfer must occur within 18 months of the Act's enactment. The Act also requires a joint plan from NASA and the Smithsonian, submitted to Congress within 90 days, outlining the transfer's timeline and costs.
Expected Effects
The Discovery space shuttle will be publicly exhibited near the Johnson Space Center to promote STEM education. Title to the shuttle will eventually be transferred to a designated nonprofit entity. The Act authorizes necessary appropriations for the transfer.
Potential Benefits
- STEM Education: Public exhibition of the Discovery shuttle near Johnson Space Center will enhance science, technology, engineering, and mathematics learning.
- Local Economy Boost: Placing the shuttle in Houston could stimulate the local economy through increased tourism and educational programs.
- Preservation: Transferring the shuttle to NASA's Johnson Space Center ensures its preservation and proper maintenance.
- Public Access: The public will have increased access to view and learn about the Discovery space shuttle.
- Nonprofit Support: Transferring the title to a nonprofit entity ensures long-term public exhibition and educational outreach.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Cost: The transfer and maintenance of the shuttle will require significant appropriations, potentially diverting funds from other NASA programs or federal initiatives.
- Disruption: Moving the shuttle from the Smithsonian could disrupt existing exhibits and educational programs at the Udvar-Hazy Center.
- Logistical Challenges: Transporting the shuttle is a complex and potentially risky endeavor.
- Limited National Access: Concentrating the shuttle in Houston limits access for people across the nation.
- Potential for Political Influence: The designation of the nonprofit entity could be subject to political influence.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act falls under the purview of Congress's power to legislate for the general welfare and to regulate government property. Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution grants Congress the power to "dispose of and make all needful Rules and Regulations respecting the Territory or other Property belonging to the United States." The authorization of appropriations aligns with Congress's spending power.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).