Science Opportunities Enabled By Nasa S Constellation System

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Science Opportunities Enabled by NASA's Constellation System

National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Space Studies Board,Committee on Science Opportunities Enabled by NASA's Constellation System
Science Opportunities Enabled by NASA s Constellation System Book PDF

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Space Studies Board,Committee on Science Opportunities Enabled by NASA's Constellation System
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 70 pages
File Size : 45,5 Mb
Release : 2008-05-08
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780309178556

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Science Opportunities Enabled by NASA's Constellation System by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Space Studies Board,Committee on Science Opportunities Enabled by NASA's Constellation System Pdf

To begin implementation of the Vision for Space Exploration (recently renamed "United States Space Exploration Policy"), NASA has begun development of new launch vehicles and a human-carrying spacecraft that are collectively called the Constellation System. In November 2007, NASA asked the NRC to evaluate the potential for the Constellation System to enable new space science opportunities. For this interim report, 11 existing "Vision Mission" studies of advanced space science mission concepts inspired by earlier NASA forward-looking studies were evaluated. The focus was to assess the concepts and group them into two categories: more-deserving or less deserving of future study. This report presents a description of the Constellation System and its opportunities for enabling new space science opportunities, and a systematic analysis of the 11 Vision Mission studies. For the final report, the NRC issued a request for information to the relevant communities to obtain ideas for other mission concepts that will be assessed by the study committee, and several issues addressed only briefly in the interim report will be explored more fully.

Launching Science

National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Space Studies Board,Committee on Science Opportunities Enabled by NASA's Constellation System
Launching Science Book PDF

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Space Studies Board,Committee on Science Opportunities Enabled by NASA's Constellation System
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 157 pages
File Size : 40,7 Mb
Release : 2009-02-12
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780309178112

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Launching Science by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Space Studies Board,Committee on Science Opportunities Enabled by NASA's Constellation System Pdf

In January 2004 NASA was given a new policy direction known as the Vision for Space Exploration. That plan, now renamed the United States Space Exploration Policy, called for sending human and robotic missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. In 2005 NASA outlined how to conduct the first steps in implementing this policy and began the development of a new human-carrying spacecraft known as Orion, the lunar lander known as Altair, and the launch vehicles Ares I and Ares V. Collectively, these are called the Constellation System. In November 2007 NASA asked the National Research Council (NRC) to evaluate the potential for new science opportunities enabled by the Constellation System of rockets and spacecraft. The NRC committee evaluated a total of 17 mission concepts for future space science missions. Of those, the committee determined that 12 would benefit from the Constellation System and five would not. This book presents the committee's findings and recommendations, including cost estimates, a review of the technical feasibility of each mission, and identification of the missions most deserving of future study.

Launching Science

National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Space Studies Board,Committee on Science Opportunities Enabled by NASA's Constellation System
Launching Science Book PDF

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Space Studies Board,Committee on Science Opportunities Enabled by NASA's Constellation System
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 156 pages
File Size : 49,8 Mb
Release : 2009-03-12
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780309116442

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Launching Science by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Space Studies Board,Committee on Science Opportunities Enabled by NASA's Constellation System Pdf

In January 2004 NASA was given a new policy direction known as the Vision for Space Exploration. That plan, now renamed the United States Space Exploration Policy, called for sending human and robotic missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. In 2005 NASA outlined how to conduct the first steps in implementing this policy and began the development of a new human-carrying spacecraft known as Orion, the lunar lander known as Altair, and the launch vehicles Ares I and Ares V. Collectively, these are called the Constellation System. In November 2007 NASA asked the National Research Council (NRC) to evaluate the potential for new science opportunities enabled by the Constellation System of rockets and spacecraft. The NRC committee evaluated a total of 17 mission concepts for future space science missions. Of those, the committee determined that 12 would benefit from the Constellation System and five would not. This book presents the committee's findings and recommendations, including cost estimates, a review of the technical feasibility of each mission, and identification of the missions most deserving of future study.

An Enabling Foundation for NASA's Earth and Space Science Missions

National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board,Committee on the Role and Scope of Mission-Enabling Activities in NASA's Space and Earth Science Missions
An Enabling Foundation for NASA s Earth and Space Science Missions Book PDF

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board,Committee on the Role and Scope of Mission-Enabling Activities in NASA's Space and Earth Science Missions
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 76 pages
File Size : 44,6 Mb
Release : 2010-03-25
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780309148238

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An Enabling Foundation for NASA's Earth and Space Science Missions by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board,Committee on the Role and Scope of Mission-Enabling Activities in NASA's Space and Earth Science Missions Pdf

NASA's space and Earth science program is composed of two principal components: spaceflight projects and mission-enabling activities. Most of the budget of NASA's Science Mission Directorate (SMD) is applied to spaceflight missions, but NASA identifies nearly one quarter of the SMD budget as "mission enabling." The principal mission-enabling activities, which traditionally encompass much of NASA's research and analysis (R&A) programs, include support for basic research, theory, modeling, and data analysis; suborbital payloads and flights and complementary ground-based programs; advanced technology development; and advanced mission and instrumentation concept studies. While the R&A program is essential to the development and support of NASA's diverse set of space and Earth science missions, defining and articulating an appropriate scale for mission-enabling activities have posed a challenge throughout NASA's history. This volume identifies the appropriate roles for mission-enabling activities and metrics for assessing their effectiveness. Furthermore, the book evaluates how, from a strategic perspective, decisions should be made about balance between mission-related and mission-enabling elements of the overall program as well as balance between various elements within the mission-enabling component. Collectively, these efforts will help SMD to make a good program even better.

Space Studies Board Annual Report 2017

National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board
Space Studies Board Annual Report 2017 Book PDF

Author : National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 129 pages
File Size : 47,8 Mb
Release : 2018-12-19
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780309477628

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Space Studies Board Annual Report 2017 by National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board Pdf

The original charter of the Space Science Board was established in June 1958, three months before the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) opened its doors. The Space Science Board and its successor, the Space Studies Board (SSB), have provided expert external and independent scientific and programmatic advice to NASA on a continuous basis from NASA's inception until the present. The SSB has also provided such advice to other executive branch agencies, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the National Science Foundation (NSF), the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the Department of Defense, as well as to Congress. Space Studies Board Annual Report 2017 covers a message from the chair of the SSB, David N. Spergel. This report also explains the origins of the Space Science Board, how the Space Studies Board functions today, the SSB's collaboration with other National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine units, assures the quality of the SSB reports, acknowledges the audience and sponsors, and expresses the necessity to enhance the outreach and improve dissemination of SSB reports. This report will be relevant to a full range of government audiences in civilian space research - including NASA, NSF, NOAA, USGS, and the Department of Energy, as well members of the SSB, policy makers, and researchers.

Space Studies Board Annual Report 2013

National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board
Space Studies Board Annual Report 2013 Book PDF

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 83 pages
File Size : 52,8 Mb
Release : 2014-04-09
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780309302869

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Space Studies Board Annual Report 2013 by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board Pdf

The original charter of the Space Science Board was established in June 1958, 3 months before the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) opened its doors. The Space Science Board and its successor, the Space Studies Board (SSB), have provided expert external and independent scientific and programmatic advice to NASA on a continuous basis from NASA's inception until the present. The SSB has also provided such advice to other executive branch agencies, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the National Science Foundation (NSF), the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the Department of Defense, as well as to Congress. Space Studies Board Annual Report 2013 covers a message from the chair of the SSB, Charles F. Kennel. This report also explains the origins of the Space Science Board, how the Space Studies Board functions today, the SSB's collaboration with other National Research Council units, assures the quality of the SSB reports, acknowledges the audience and sponsors, and expresses the necessity to enhance the outreach and improve dissemination of SSB reports. This report will be relevant to a full range of government audiences in civilian space research - including NASA, NSF, NOAA, USGS, and the Department of Energy, as well members of the SSB, policy makers, and researchers.

Space Studies Board Annual Report 2010

National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board
Space Studies Board Annual Report 2010 Book PDF

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 131 pages
File Size : 52,6 Mb
Release : 2011-01-01
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780309217859

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Space Studies Board Annual Report 2010 by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board Pdf

The Space Studies Board (SSB) was established in 1958 to serve as the focus of the interests and responsibilities in space research for the National Academies. The SSB provides an independent, authoritative forum for information and advice on all aspects of space science and applications, and it serves as the focal point within the National Academies for activities on space research. It oversees advisory studies and program assessments, facilitates international research coordination, and promotes communications on space science and science policy between the research community, the federal government, and the interested public. The SSB also serves as the U.S. National Committee for the International Council for Science Committee on Space Research (COSPAR). This volume reviews the organization, activities, and reports of the SSB for the year 2010.

A Constrained Space Exploration Technology Program

National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Committee to Review NASA's Exploration Technology Development Program
A Constrained Space Exploration Technology Program Book PDF

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Committee to Review NASA's Exploration Technology Development Program
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 154 pages
File Size : 44,6 Mb
Release : 2008-12-29
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780309178129

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A Constrained Space Exploration Technology Program by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Committee to Review NASA's Exploration Technology Development Program Pdf

In January 2004, President George W. Bush announced the Vision for Space Exploration (VSE), which instructed NASA to "Extend human presence across the solar system, starting with a human return to the Moon by the year 2020, in preparation for human exploration of Mars and other destinations," among other objectives. As acknowledged in the VSE, significant technology development will be necessary to accomplish the goals it articulates. NASA's Exploration Technology Development Program (ETDP) is designed to support, develop, and ultimately provide the necessary technologies to meet the goals of the VSE. This book, a review of the ETDP, is broadly supportive of the intent and goals of the VSE, and finds the ETDP is making progress towards the stated goals of technology development. However, the ETDP is operating within significant constraints which limit its ability to successfully accomplish those goals-the still dynamic nature of the Constellation Program requirements, the constraints imposed by a limited budget, the aggressive time scale of early technology deliverables, and the desire to fully employ the NASA workforce.

An Interim Report on NASA's Draft Space Technology Roadmaps

National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Steering Committee for the NASA Technology Roadmap
An Interim Report on NASA s Draft Space Technology Roadmaps Book PDF

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Steering Committee for the NASA Technology Roadmap
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 64 pages
File Size : 47,7 Mb
Release : 2011-10-18
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780309218788

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An Interim Report on NASA's Draft Space Technology Roadmaps by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Steering Committee for the NASA Technology Roadmap Pdf

For the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to achieve many of its space science and exploration goals over the next several decades, dramatic advances in space technology will be necessary. NASA has developed a set of 14 draft roadmaps to guide the development of such technologies under the leadership of the NASA Office of the Chief Technologist (OCT). Each roadmap focuses on a particular technology area. OCT requested that the National Research Council conduct a study to review the draft roadmaps, gather and assess relevant community input, and make recommendations and suggest priorities to inform NASA's decisions as it finalizes its roadmaps. The success of OCT's technology development program is essential, because technological breakthroughs have long been the foundation of NASA's successes, from its earliest days, to the Apollo program, to a vast array of space science missions and the International Space Station. An Interim Report of NASA's Technology Roadmap identifies some gaps in the technologies included in the individual roadmaps. The report suggests that the effectiveness of the NASA space technology program can be enhanced by employing proven management practices and principles including increasing program stability, addressing facility issues, and supporting adequate flight tests of new technologies. This interim report provides several additional observations that will be expanded on in the final report to be released in 2012.

Controlling Cost Growth of NASA Earth and Space Science Missions

National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board,Committee on Cost Growth in NASA Earth and Space Science Missions
Controlling Cost Growth of NASA Earth and Space Science Missions Book PDF

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board,Committee on Cost Growth in NASA Earth and Space Science Missions
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 76 pages
File Size : 55,9 Mb
Release : 2010-10-21
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780309157377

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Controlling Cost Growth of NASA Earth and Space Science Missions by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board,Committee on Cost Growth in NASA Earth and Space Science Missions Pdf

Cost and schedule growth is a problem experienced by many types of projects in many fields of endeavor. Based on prior studies of cost growth in NASA and Department of Defense projects, this book identifies specific causes of cost growth associated with NASA Earth and space science missions and provides guidance on how NASA can overcome these specific problems. The recommendations in this book focus on changes in NASA policies that would directly reduce or eliminate the cost growth of Earth and space science missions. Large cost growth is a concern for Earth and space science missions, and it can be a concern for other missions as well. If the cost growth is large enough, it can create liquidity problems for NASA's Science Mission Directorate that in turn cause cost profile changes and development delays that amplify the overall cost growth for other concurrent and/or pending missions. Addressing cost growth through the allocation of artificially high reserves is an inefficient use of resources because it unnecessarily diminishes the portfolio of planned flights. The most efficient use of resources is to establish realistic budgets and reserves and effective management processes that maximize the likelihood that mission costs will not exceed reserves. NASA is already taking action to reduce cost growth; additional steps, as recommended herein, will help improve NASA's mission planning process and achieve the goal of ensuring frequent mission opportunities for NASA Earth and space science.

Technical Evaluation of the NASA Model for Cancer Risk to Astronauts Due to Space Radiation

National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board,Committee for Evaluation of Space Radiation Cancer Risk Model
Technical Evaluation of the NASA Model for Cancer Risk to Astronauts Due to Space Radiation Book PDF

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board,Committee for Evaluation of Space Radiation Cancer Risk Model
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 86 pages
File Size : 51,9 Mb
Release : 2012-04-19
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780309253055

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Technical Evaluation of the NASA Model for Cancer Risk to Astronauts Due to Space Radiation by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board,Committee for Evaluation of Space Radiation Cancer Risk Model Pdf

NASA's current missions to the International Space Station (ISS) and potential future exploration missions involving extended stays by astronauts on the lunar surface, as well as the possibility of near- Earth object (NEO) or Mars missions, present challenges in protecting astronauts from radiation risks. These risks arise from a number of sources, including solar particle events (SPEs), galactic cosmic rays (GCRs), secondary radiation from surface impacts, and even the nuclear isotope power sources transported with the astronauts. The serious early and late radiation health effects potentially posed by these exposures are equally varied, ranging from early signs of radiation sickness to cancer induction. Other possible effects include central nervous system damage, cataracts, cardiovascular damage, heritable effects, impaired wound healing, and infertility. Recent research, much of which has been sponsored by NASA, has focused on understanding and quantifying the radiation health risks posed by space radiation environments. Although many aspects of the space radiation environments are now relatively well characterized, important uncertainties still exist regarding biological effects and thus regarding the level and types of risks faced by astronauts. This report presents an evaluation of NASA's proposed space radiation cancer risk assessment model, which is described in the 2011 NASA report, Space Radiation Cancer Risk Projections and Uncertainties-2010. The evaluation in Technical Evaluation of the NASA Model for Cancer Risk to Astronauts Due to Space Radiation considers the model components, input data (for the radiation types, estimated doses, and epidemiology), and the associated uncertainties. This report also identifies gaps in NASA's current research strategy for reducing the uncertainties in cancer induction risks.

Vision and Voyages for Planetary Science in the Decade 2013-2022

National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board,Committee on the Planetary Science Decadal Survey
Vision and Voyages for Planetary Science in the Decade 2013 2022 Book PDF

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board,Committee on the Planetary Science Decadal Survey
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 399 pages
File Size : 50,7 Mb
Release : 2012-01-30
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780309224642

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Vision and Voyages for Planetary Science in the Decade 2013-2022 by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board,Committee on the Planetary Science Decadal Survey Pdf

In recent years, planetary science has seen a tremendous growth in new knowledge. Deposits of water ice exist at the Moon's poles. Discoveries on the surface of Mars point to an early warm wet climate, and perhaps conditions under which life could have emerged. Liquid methane rain falls on Saturn's moon Titan, creating rivers, lakes, and geologic landscapes with uncanny resemblances to Earth's. Vision and Voyages for Planetary Science in the Decade 2013-2022 surveys the current state of knowledge of the solar system and recommends a suite of planetary science flagship missions for the decade 2013-2022 that could provide a steady stream of important new discoveries about the solar system. Research priorities defined in the report were selected through a rigorous review that included input from five expert panels. NASA's highest priority large mission should be the Mars Astrobiology Explorer Cacher (MAX-C), a mission to Mars that could help determine whether the planet ever supported life and could also help answer questions about its geologic and climatic history. Other projects should include a mission to Jupiter's icy moon Europa and its subsurface ocean, and the Uranus Orbiter and Probe mission to investigate that planet's interior structure, atmosphere, and composition. For medium-size missions, Vision and Voyages for Planetary Science in the Decade 2013-2022 recommends that NASA select two new missions to be included in its New Frontiers program, which explores the solar system with frequent, mid-size spacecraft missions. If NASA cannot stay within budget for any of these proposed flagship projects, it should focus on smaller, less expensive missions first. Vision and Voyages for Planetary Science in the Decade 2013-2022 suggests that the National Science Foundation expand its funding for existing laboratories and establish new facilities as needed. It also recommends that the program enlist the participation of international partners. This report is a vital resource for government agencies supporting space science, the planetary science community, and the public.

Summary of the Workshop to Identify Gaps and Possible Directions for NASA's Meteoroid and Orbital Debris Programs

National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Committee for the Assessment of NASA's Orbital Debris Programs
Summary of the Workshop to Identify Gaps and Possible Directions for NASA s Meteoroid and Orbital Debris Programs Book PDF

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Committee for the Assessment of NASA's Orbital Debris Programs
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 40 pages
File Size : 45,8 Mb
Release : 2011-09-25
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780309215152

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Summary of the Workshop to Identify Gaps and Possible Directions for NASA's Meteoroid and Orbital Debris Programs by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Committee for the Assessment of NASA's Orbital Debris Programs Pdf

A Summary of the Workshop to Identify the Gaps and Possible Directions for NASA's Meteoroid and Orbital Debris Programs summarizes the two-day workshop held on March 9-10, 2011, where various stakeholders presented diverse perspectives on matters concerning NASA Micrometeoroid and Orbital Debris (MMOD) programs, NASA mission operators, the role and relationships of NASA MMOD programs to other federal agencies, MMOD and the commercial industry, and orbital debris retrieval and removal. The report assesses NASA's existing efforts, policies, and organizations with regard to orbital debris and micrometeoroids by creating advisory dialogue on potential opportunities for program enhancement and maintenance practices.

Life and Physical Sciences Research for a New Era of Space Exploration

National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Space Studies Board,Committee for the Decadal Survey on Biological and Physical Sciences in Space
Life and Physical Sciences Research for a New Era of Space Exploration Book PDF

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Space Studies Board,Committee for the Decadal Survey on Biological and Physical Sciences in Space
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 46 pages
File Size : 41,9 Mb
Release : 2010-08-23
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780309157124

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Life and Physical Sciences Research for a New Era of Space Exploration by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board,Space Studies Board,Committee for the Decadal Survey on Biological and Physical Sciences in Space Pdf

In response to requests from Congress, NASA asked the National Research Council to undertake a decadal survey of life and physical sciences in microgravity. Developed in consultation with members of the life and physical sciences communities, the guiding principle for the study is to set an agenda for research for the next decade that will allow the use of the space environment to solve complex problems in life and physical sciences so as to deliver both new knowledge and practical benefits for humankind as we become a spacefaring people. The project's statement of task calls for delivery of two books-an interim report and a final survey report. Although the development of specific recommendations is deferred until the final book, this interim report does attempt to identify programmatic needs and issues to guide near-term decisions that are critical to strengthening the organization and management of life and physical sciences research at NASA.

Earth Science and Applications from Space

National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board,Committee on the Assessment of NASA's Earth Science Program
Earth Science and Applications from Space Book PDF

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board,Committee on the Assessment of NASA's Earth Science Program
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 124 pages
File Size : 45,7 Mb
Release : 2012-09-03
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780309257022

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Earth Science and Applications from Space by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Space Studies Board,Committee on the Assessment of NASA's Earth Science Program Pdf

Understanding the effects of natural and human-induced changes on the global environment and their implications requires a foundation of integrated observations of land, sea, air and space, on which to build credible information products, forecast models, and other tools for making informed decisions. The 2007 National Research Council report on decadal survey called for a renewal of the national commitment to a program of Earth observations in which attention to securing practical benefits for humankind plays an equal role with the quest to acquire new knowledge about the Earth system. NASA responded favorably and aggressively to this survey, embracing its overall recommendations for Earth observations, missions, technology investments, and priorities for the underlying science. As a result, the science and applications communities have made significant progress over the past 5 years. However, the Committee on Assessment of NASA's Earth Science Program found that the survey vision is being realized at a far slower pace than was recommended, principally because the required budget was not achieved. Exacerbating the budget shortfalls, NASA Earth science programs experienced launch failures and delays and the cost of implementing missions increased substantially as a result of changes in mission scope, increases in launch vehicle costs and/or the lack of availability of a medium-class launch vehicle, under-estimation of costs by the decadal survey, and unfunded programmatic changes that were required by Congress and the Office of Management and Budget. In addition, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has made significant reductions in scope to its future Earth environmental observing satellites as it contends with budget shortfalls. Earth Science and Applications from Space: A Midterm Assessment of NASA's Implementation of the Decadal Survey recommends a number of steps to better manage existing programs and to implement future programs that will be recommended by the next decadal survey. The report also highlights the urgent need for the Executive Branch to develop and implement an overarching multiagency national strategy for Earth observations from space, a key recommendation of the 2007 decadal survey that remains unfulfilled.