What’s Going on with: Congress, MSR, and FAA Reauthorization?

This podcast episode explores the recent developments in the congressional front regarding the fiscal year 2024 budget for NASA. Congress has allocated funds for all the subcommittees within the Appropriations Committee, providing a crucial step in the budgeting process. Despite the positive progress, there is a significant discrepancy between the House and Senate allocations, highlighting the ongoing challenges in finalizing the budget. The discussion also delves into the intricacies of designing spacecraft at NASA, specifically the formulation and implementation process. The concerns and uncertainties surrounding the funding and prioritization of NASA's Mars Sample Return mission are discussed, along with the need for effective regulations in the commercial spaceflight industry to ensure ongoing safety. The podcast concludes by announcing the upcoming Day of Action for the Planetary Society, a significant event for advocating NASA funding and making a difference in space policy.