The Space Research And Continuing Exploration (Space RACE) Act establishes a new National Institute for Space Research to manage microgravity research and development as the U.S. transitions away from the International Space Station toward next-generation space platforms. The Institute, to be operated by a non-federal contractor under NASA oversight, will coordinate research priorities across federal agencies, provide competitive grants to universities, nonprofits, and private companies for space-based research projects, and facilitate the use of emerging commercial microgravity platforms. A board composed of representatives from NASA, the Office of Science and Technology Policy, Commerce, Education, NSF, NIH, FDA, Energy, Defense, and the private sector will oversee the Institute's operations and research priorities. The bill authorizes (but does not specify an amount) funding for the Institute, with no more than 5 percent of appropriated funds allowed for administrative costs, and requires the institute to transition U.S. microgravity research from the International Space Station to commercial alternatives while supporting workforce development and national security research needs.
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