To require a report on merits and options for establishing an institute relating to space resources, and for other purposes.

HR 6638 requires NASA and the Commerce Secretary to submit a report within 180 days of enactment on creating a U.S. institute focused on space resources (like minerals and energy in space). The report must evaluate options for studying how to responsibly identify, develop, and use space resources to support U.S. space leadership, including reducing business risks and partnering with universities and industry. It will assess whether a physical or virtual institute would be most effective and how to maximize information sharing. This bill does not establish the institute but mandates a study to inform future decisions.