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Create a national space research institute

Create a national space research institute

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Days left
28,124Votes
$60,076Raised
$87,083Sponsors

A post-ISS plan for U.S. space science

The International Space Station is aging, and the U.S. does not yet have a single, dedicated hub for long-term space research. This cause backs creating a National Institute for Space Research (NISR) to coordinate experiments, partners, and funding as the ISS winds down. Winning means Congress advances and funds the Space RACE Act so U.S. researchers keep reliable access to research in orbit.

Why this matters now

When the ISS retires, U.S. researchers could lose a steady place to run experiments in low Earth orbit. That could slow work on new medicines, materials, and life science research that depends on microgravity.

Other countries are moving fast. China’s Tiangong station is already operating and inviting international science projects. A national institute could help the U.S. stay competitive by keeping research organized, funded, and ready to use new commercial space stations as they come online.

What's blocking progress

The biggest blockers are getting new federal funding approved and deciding where the institute should sit (inside NASA or as an independent organization). Delays also raise the risk of a research gap as the ISS approaches the end of its life.

Strategies

Choose which strategies should receive funding this cycle.

Lobbying

Legislate NISR into existence

The clear path is to get the Space RACE Act (or its House companion) passed.

11,812 VOTES42% SHARE OF POOL
11,812 VOTES42% SHARE OF POOL
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Lobbying

Phased implementation

To address budget concerns, propose ramping up the institute in phases: start with a small coordination office (perhaps within NASA) then expand to a full in...

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11,812 VOTES42% SHARE OF POOL
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Lobbying

Executive action as backup

If Congress stalls, push the President (via the National Space Council) to establish a provisional National Space Research Council/Institute by executive ord...

7,875 VOTES28% SHARE OF POOL
7,875 VOTES28% SHARE OF POOL
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Media

Public and media campaign

Garner public enthusiasm and awareness – evoke the spirit of the Space Race.

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5,062 VOTES18% SHARE OF POOL
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Grassroots

International collaboration leverage

Rally support by showing allies are interested – e.g.

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3,375 VOTES12% SHARE OF POOL
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Community discussion

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Impact stories

Impact updates will appear here after the first cycle closes.

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