Bill > HR2687

This bill, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2013, authorizes appropriations for NASA's programs for fiscal years 2014 and 2015, totaling $16,865,200,000 for each year, and outlines policies and directives for various NASA activities. Key provisions include establishing a "stepping stone" approach for space exploration, emphasizing the development of the Space Launch System and Orion crew capsule for missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond, and reaffirming the importance of the International Space Station for future exploration. The bill also directs NASA to continue research in areas such as astrophysics, planetary science, heliophysics, Earth science, and aeronautics, including specific initiatives for unmanned aerial systems, hypersonic and supersonic research, and composite materials. Furthermore, it addresses space technology development, STEM education outreach, and establishes policies for managing termination liability for major programs, extending indemnification, and improving cost estimation and independent review processes. The bill also mandates the creation of a NASA Advisory Council to provide advice to the President and Congress on space exploration and aeronautics matters.