H.R.2313 - Celestial Time Standardization Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2313, the Celestial Time Standardization Act, directs NASA to develop a coordinated lunar time standard. This standard aims to support future operations and infrastructure on the Moon and other celestial bodies. The bill emphasizes interoperability between governmental, commercial, academic, and international partners in space exploration.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to the creation of a new time standard for celestial bodies, primarily focused on the Moon. This will require NASA to coordinate with various federal entities, private sector companies, academic institutions, and international organizations. Ultimately, this will facilitate more precise and coordinated space missions.
Potential Benefits
- Facilitates safer and more sustainable space operations through standardized timekeeping.
- Enhances interoperability between different entities involved in space exploration (governmental, commercial, academic, international).
- Advances U.S. leadership in space exploration and standards setting.
- Supports precision navigation and scientific research on the Moon and other celestial bodies.
- Potentially spurs innovation in timekeeping technology and related fields.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with developing and implementing the new time standard.
- Possible challenges in achieving international consensus on the standard.
- Risk of the standard becoming obsolete if technological advancements outpace its design.
- May create additional bureaucratic layers in space mission planning and execution.
- The benefits are long-term and may not have immediate tangible impacts for the average American.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it promotes scientific advancement and international cooperation. Specifically, the Act falls under the purview of Congress's power to regulate activities in space, which can be argued as an extension of interstate and international commerce. There are no apparent conflicts with specific constitutional limitations or protected rights.
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).