Washington, D.C. – Following enactment of the FY26 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, Republicans are fueling American ingenuity and scientific discovery to secure space superiority and push the next frontier forward. The successful launch of Artemis II – the first crewed deep space mission in more than half a century – demonstrates these NASA investments are delivering and ensures America, not our adversaries, leads the return to the Moon.
Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Subcommittee Chairman Hal Rogers (R-KY) said, "Our nation is celebrating a milestone more than 50 years in the making! The Artemis mission is not only our pathway to the Moon, but to Mars. This Moon launch is a testament to remarkable innovation and public-private partnerships that are launching America ahead of global competition. We send our best wishes to the historic Artemis II Astronauts - Wiseman, Glover, Koch and Hansen! We look forward to their safe return and historic mission reports."
Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) said, "This nation was forged by proving the impossible can be done. From our first step on the Moon to the next mission ahead, we are pushing that legacy forward. The next golden era of U.S. leadership in space – defined by strength, discovery, and dominance – starts with vision but is delivered by deliberate, sustained funding. That's how America stays first. Artemis II is supported by full-year appropriations that provide the stability NASA needs to plan, build, and launch with confidence. At every stage, these investments – led by Republicans – sustain the expedition and the ground-breaking achievements that will define our next generation. President Trump is driving a strategy that puts America firmly in the lead of all domains, and we stand with him. I congratulate NASA and the esteemed crew on a safe and successful launch – and wish them continued success on this historic mission."
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