Congressmen Neguse and Obernolte Launch Bipartisan Space Weather Caucus
Washington, D.C. — Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse and Representative Jay Obernolte (R-CA) announced the launch of the Bipartisan Space Weather Caucus, which aims to advance scientific research on space weather, address security risks, and develop strategies to protect critical infrastructure from space weather-related disruptions. As Co-Chairs Neguse and Obernolte will coordinate with members from across the political spectrum on efforts to ensure resilience against disruptions to GPS systems, emergency response networks, electrical grids, and satellites vital for weather forecasting and telecommunications.
The Caucus also recognizes that space weather poses serious risks to astronauts in space. The group will support improvements in space weather forecasting to help usher in a new era of American space exploration, enabling astronauts to safely venture beyond Earth’s magnetic field for the first time in generations.
“Colorado is a hub for aerospace, space weather forecasting and scientific research—with folks across our state making ground-breaking advancements in our understanding of how space weather affects different technologies on Earth, including satellite electronics, radio communications, GPS signals, spacecraft orbits, and even electrical power grids. All systems and infrastructure we rely on daily,” said Congressman Neguse. “As our national security and economy become more dependent on these systems and advanced telecommunication networks, it’s important that we stay ahead of new challenges and enhance our understanding of the constantly changing conditions in the environment in space. And the Bipartisan Space Weather Caucus aims to do exactly that—ensuring our nation is prepared and ready to lead in the 21st century and beyond.”
“Space weather can disrupt the communications, GPS, electric grid, and satellite systems Americans rely on every day,” said Congressman Obernolte. “As our economy and national security become increasingly dependent on space-based technology, Congress has an important role to play in supporting better forecasting, research, and preparedness. I am proud to launch the Bipartisan Space Weather Caucus with Congressman Neguse to help strengthen our resilience and support the future of American space exploration.”
Other members of the Caucus include Representatives George Whitesides (D-CA), Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Nick Begich (R-AK), and Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN).
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