ORBITS Act of 2023

The ORBITS Act of 2023 addresses the growing problem of orbital debris (space junk) threatening satellite operations and space exploration. It requires NASA to create a public list of high-risk debris, establish a $150 million demonstration program for debris removal technologies, and update orbital debris mitigation standards every five years. The bill directs federal agencies to collaborate with commercial space entities, academia, and nonprofits to develop and promote standard practices for debris mitigation and space traffic coordination. This legislation directly affects NASA, the Department of Commerce, Department of Defense, and commercial space operators working in Earth's orbit.