ASCEND Act
Sponsor
Jeff Hurd
Republican · CO-3
Latest Action · Feb 24, 2026
Received in the Senate. Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 344.
Bill Progress
Congress wants NASA to buy private satellite data
Why it matters
Commercial satellite imagery could supercharge climate research and disaster response—right now.
The big picture: The ASCEND Act would require NASA to tap into the fast-growing world of commercial satellites, buying up Earth observation data and imagery to advance science, operations, and education. Instead of building every satellite from scratch, NASA would leverage existing fleets to fill data gaps faster, save money, and speed up crucial environmental monitoring.
Zoom in: The bill highlights NASA's role in studying our planet, calling out federal law that already encourages buying commercial data where it makes sense. By creating a formal program, Congress is laying out clearer marching orders for NASA: look to the private sector first and only launch new satellites when truly necessary.
Between the lines: This would open up new revenue streams for satellite startups while making cutting-edge data available to everyone from climate scientists to students. But with new data come questions—about privacy, national security, and making sure information reaches those who need it most.
What This Bill Does
NASA must buy commercial satellite imagery
Requires NASA to identify, evaluate, purchase, and use data from private Earth observation satellites.
Focus on science, operations, and education
Ensures that acquired data supports NASA’s research, daily missions, and educational programs.
Preference for cost-effective solutions
Pushes NASA to use commercial data if it meets agency needs and saves money.
Collaboration with other federal agencies
Encourages NASA to work with agencies and researchers who might also benefit from commercial data.
Program establishment and oversight
Directs NASA to formally set up and manage a satellite data acquisition program.
Who Benefits
NASA scientists
Get faster, broader access to imagery for climate and Earth studies.
Private satellite companies
Win new government customers and revenue for their data products.
Students and educators
Gain access to professional-grade Earth imagery for classroom projects and learning.
Disaster response teams
Could use fresher, more detailed data for handling natural disasters and emergencies.
Who's Affected
NASA procurement teams
Must set up new ways to buy and share satellite data from the private market.
Federal science agencies
Might get easier, cheaper access to Earth observation data through NASA.
Privacy advocates
Will watch closely how increased satellite monitoring is managed and shared.
Satellite hardware contractors
Could face less government demand for building new NASA-owned satellites.
Cosponsors (6)
Recent Actions
Received in the Senate. Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 344.
Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H2242-2243)
Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H2242-2243)
DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2600.
Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H2242-2244)
Mr. Babin moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 428.
Committees (1)
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Full Bill Text
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Source: Congress.gov