Congressional Space Medal of Honor

The Congressional Space Medal of Honor was authorized by the United States Congress in 1969 to recognize "any astronaut who in the performance of his or her duties has distinguished himself or herself by exceptionally meritorious efforts and contributions to the welfare of the Nation and mankind". It is awarded by the president of the United States in Congress's name on recommendations from the administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

Source: Wikipedia — Congressional Space Medal of Honor (CC BY-SA 4.0)