Current Studies

The Role and Scope of Mission-Enabling Activities in NASA's Space and Earth Science Missions

A committee will conduct a study of mission-enabling activities in NASA's space and Earth sciences program. [Mission-enabling activities--which traditionally encompass much of NASA’s research and analysis (R&A) programs—include theory, modeling, and data analysis; sub-orbital flights and complementary ground-based programs; and advanced mission and instrumentation concept studies.] The study will identify the appropriate roles for mission-enabling activities and metrics for assessing their effectiveness. It also will evaluate 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.

Radioisotope Power Systems

The Space Studies Board, in conjunction with the Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board, will appoint a study committee to assess the technical readiness and programmatic balance of NASA's radioisotope power systems technology portfolio in terms of its ability to support NASA’s near- and long-term mission plans. In addition, the study will also examine related public and private infrastructure and the effectiveness of other federal agencies involved in relevant R&D. The study will also review strategies for re-establishing domestic production of Pu-238, which serves as the fuel for radioisotope power systems.  

Rationale and Goals of the U.S. Civil Space Program

A committee will prepare a report to advise the nation on key goals and critical issues in 21st century U.S. civil space policy. The committee will identify overarching goals that are important for our national interest. Issues that are critically important to achieving these goals and ensuring the future progress of the U.S. civil space program will be identified, and options to address unresolved issues will be discussed. Using its best objective judgment and recognizing other national priorities, the committee will explore a possible long term future for U.S. civil space activities that is built upon lessons learned and past successes; is based on realistic expectations of future resources; and is credible scientifically, technically, and politically.

Review of Planetary Protection Requirements for Mars Sample-Return Missions

The committee will review and update the 1997 NRC report, "Mars Sample Return: Issues and Recommendations," as necessary. In addition, the committee will assess the extent to which the increasing capabilities for studying Earth's microbial inhabitants might appropriately be used to alter or improve implementation of the Mars sample-return planetary protection requirements recommended in the 1997 report.

Heliophysics Performance Assessment

The Space Studies Board has established a committee to study the alignment of NASA's Heliophysics Science Division with previous NRC advice - primarily the relevant NAS decadal survey, "The Sun to the Earth-and Beyond." The review will not revisit or alter the scientific priorities or mission recommendations provided in the 2002 decadal survey, but may provide guidance about implementing the recommended mission portfolio in preparation for the next decadal survey.

Science Opportunities Enabled by NASA's Constellation System

The Space Studies Board, in conjunction with the Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board, has established a committee to assess potential space and earth science mission concepts that could take advantage of the capabilities of the Constellation system of launch vehicles and spacecraft that is being developed by NASA. The committee will first analyze mission concepts provided by NASA, and later mission concepts submitted in response to a Request for Information from the committee to the space and earth science communities.

The Societal and Economic Impacts of Severe Space Weather Events: A Workshop

A committee, operating under the auspices of the Space Studies Board, is convening a public workshop that will feature invited presentations and discussion to assess the Nation's current and future ability to manage the effects of space weather events and their societal and economic impacts. The workshop will be held in May 2008.

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Completed Studies.