USC Chapter 513

51 U.S.C. § 51301 Definitions

In this chapter: (1) Asteroid resource.—The term “asteroid resource” means a space resource found on or within a single asteroid. (2) Space resource.—(A) In general.—The term “space resource” means an abiotic resource in situ in outer space. (B) Inclusions.—The term “space resource” includes water and minerals. (3) United states citizen.—The term “United States citizen” has the meaning given the term “citizen of the United States” in section 50902.

51 U.S.C. § 51302 Commercial exploration and commercial recovery

(a) In General.—The President, acting through appropriate Federal agencies, shall—(1) facilitate commercial exploration for and commercial recovery of space resources by United States citizens; (2) discourage government barriers to the development in the United States of economically viable, safe, and stable industries for commercial exploration for and commercial recovery of space resources in manners consistent with the international obligations of the United States; and (3) promote the right of United States citizens to engage in commercial exploration for and commercial recovery of space resources free from harmful interference, in accordance with the international obligations of the United States and subject to authorization and continuing supervision by the Federal Government. (b) Report.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this section, the President shall submit to Congress a report on commercial exploration for and commercial recovery of space resources by United States citizens that specifies—(1) the authorities necessary to meet the international obligations of the United States, including authorization and continuing supervision by the Federal Government; and (2) recommendations for the allocation of responsibilities among Federal agencies for the activities described in paragraph (1).

51 U.S.C. § 51303 Asteroid resource and space resource rights

A United States citizen engaged in commercial recovery of an asteroid resource or a space resource under this chapter shall be entitled to any asteroid resource or space resource obtained, including to possess, own, transport, use, and sell the asteroid resource or space resource obtained in accordance with applicable law, including the international obligations of the United States.