S.428 - Situational Awareness of Flying Elements in Orbit Act; SAFE Orbit Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The SAFE Orbit Act aims to enhance space situational awareness and space traffic coordination by tasking the Secretary of Commerce with acquiring and disseminating data on space activities. It also modifies the functions and leadership of the Office of Space Commerce, elevating it to a bureau within the Department of Commerce. The Act seeks to promote safe space operations and encourage the development of commercial space capabilities.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to improved tracking of space objects and reduced risk of collisions in orbit. It will also foster growth in the commercial space sector by providing data and services, while also creating a more defined structure for the Office of Space Commerce. The Act also grants immunity from lawsuits related to the provision of space situational awareness services.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Space Safety: Reduces the risk of collisions in space, protecting valuable assets.
- Commercial Space Growth: Encourages the development of commercial space capabilities through data dissemination.
- Public Access to Information: Provides a free, updated database of space object information.
- Improved Coordination: Facilitates better space traffic coordination among satellite operators and other stakeholders.
- Government Efficiency: Elevates the Office of Space Commerce to a bureau, potentially streamlining operations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Overreach: Government involvement in space situational awareness could stifle private sector innovation if not carefully managed.
- Data Security Risks: The database of space object information could be vulnerable to cyberattacks.
- Cost to Taxpayers: Acquiring and disseminating data will require government funding.
- Immunity Concerns: Granting immunity from lawsuits could reduce accountability for errors or omissions in space situational awareness services.
- Transition Challenges: The transition of the Office of Space Commerce to a bureau may face administrative hurdles.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) by regulating activities in space that affect interstate and international commerce. It also aligns with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 1) by promoting the safety and sustainability of space activities, which benefits the nation as a whole. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).