Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-112

Strategic Goal 3: Create the innovative new space 

technologies for our exploration, science, and economic 

future.

OUTCOME 3.1: SPONSOR EARLY STAGE INNOVATION IN SPACE TECHNOLOGIES IN 

ORDER TO IMPROVE THE FUTURE CAPABILITIES OF NASA, OTHER GOVERNMENT 

AGENCIES, AND THE AEROSPACE INDUSTRY. 

The Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) includes nine programs (formerly included in the 

Space Technology Program within the Office of the Chief Technologist), representing all levels of 

technology readiness from early stage innovations to mission-ready projects. By investing in high payoff, 

disruptive technology that industry cannot tackle today, STMD matures the technology required for 

NASA’s future missions in science and exploration while proving the capabilities and lowering the cost 

for other government agencies and commercial space activities. STMD considers early-stage innovation, 

low technology readiness level (TRL) technology, to be the foundation of the development process. 

Investment in low-TRL technology increases knowledge and capabilities in response to new questions 

and requirements, and it stimulates creative new solutions to the challenges faced by NASA and the larger 

aerospace community. 

Investments in low-TRL projects, through partnerships with the public and private sectors, have 

historically benefited the Nation on a broad basis, generating new industries and spin-off applications and 

providing a cadre of new technology-savvy innovators to fuel the Nation’s high-tech economy.

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

Multi-Year Performance Goal 3.1.1.1: Develop and advance space technologies that support 

NASA's science, exploration and discovery missions.

FY11 NASA is on track to meet this performance goal as the Agency continues to develop and 

advance technologies that support its science, exploration, and discovery missions. During 

FY 2012, the Agency researched, studied, and developed concepts of space technologies—

as documented in 110 reports and plans—through the following programs: the Space 

Technology Research Grants (STRG) Program, the NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts 

(NIAC) Program, and the Center Innovation Fund (CIF) Program. 

In August 2011, the STRG Program awarded 80 NASA Space Technology Research 

Fellowships. During FY 2012, the selected graduate students performed space technology 

research at their respective campuses and at NASA centers and nonprofit U.S. Research and 

Development laboratories. In August 2012, the STRG Program additionally selected 10 

Early Career Faculty Researchers to conduct research in priority areas including extending 

and sustaining human activities beyond low Earth orbit, exploring the evolution of the solar 

system and potential for life elsewhere, and expanding understanding of Earth and the 

universe.

Green

FY12

Green
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-113

The NIAC Program invests in concepts with the potential to transform future aerospace 

missions, enable new capabilities, or significantly alter and improve current approaches. 

During FY 2012, the NIAC Program made excellent progress with its 30 initial Phase I 

studies selected in FY 2011. In August 2012, NIAC selected 18 new NIAC Phase I awards, 

and 10 new Phase II awards, based on earlier Phase I studies, to conduct research in FY 

2013.

The CIF Program stimulates and encourages creativity and innovation within the NASA 

Centers. Through the CIF Program, Centers support low TRL initiatives that leverage 

Center talent and capability. During FY 2012, the CIF Program supported technology 

development at each of the 10 NASA Centers.

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 Update Develop and advance early stage space technologies that support NASA's science, 

exploration and discovery missions. 

FY14 This performance goal remains the same in FY14.

Reported Annual Performance

ST-12-1: Research, study or develop concepts of 100 technologies as documented in technology 

reports or plans.

Contributing Theme: Space Technology

Contributing Program(s): Crosscutting Space Technology Development

FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12

None None None None ST-11-1 

Green

ST-12-1 

Green

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update ST-13-1: Research, study, or develop concepts for 120 technologies as documented in 

technology reports or plans.

FY14 ST-14-1: Research, study, or develop concepts for 150 technologies as documented in 

technology reports or plans.

Comments

Based on the FY 2012 actual of 110 technologies documented in technology reports and plans, 

exceeding the target of 100 technologies, NASA has increased the FY 2013 target from the 

original 100 technologies to 120 technologies. NASA anticipates an increase in the number of 

relevant plans and reports again in FY 2013.

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

Multi-Year Performance Goal 3.1.1.2: Provide cash prize incentives to non-traditional sources for 

innovations of interest and value to NASA and the Nation.

FY11 NASA is on track to meet this performance goal. Through the Centennial Challenges 

Green Program, the Agency provides cash prize incentives to non-traditional sources for 

innovations of interest and value to NASA and the Nation. For example, in FY 2012, NASA 

conducted the Sample Return Robot Challenge competition (June 15-18, 2012). Six teams 

competed to design, develop, and demonstrate the next generation of robots capable of 

autonomous exploration of the landscapes of other worlds. As no participating teams 

FY12

Green

successfully met the rigorous performance requirements of the challenge, NASA will repeat 

the competition in 2013. The Centennial Challenges Program also has other challenge 
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-114

competitions in various stages of development and formulation.

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 Update No performance goal in FY13.

FY14 No performance goal in FY14.

Comments As of FY 2013, NASA has retired this performance goal.

Reported Annual Performance

ST-12-2: Conduct at least one Centennial Challenges competition.

Contributing Theme: Space Technology

Contributing Program(s): Crosscutting Space Technology Development

FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12

7ESRT3

Green

8IPP06

Green None None ST-11-2 Green

ST-12-2 

Green

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update No annual performance goal in FY13.

FY14 No annual performance goal in FY14.

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

Multi-Year Performance Goal 3.1.1.4: Increase the proportion of Small Business Innovation 

Research and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) technologies successfully infused 

into NASA programs/projects.

FY11

NASA is on track to meet this performance goal. During FY 2012, the SBIR/STTR 

Programs continued to infuse technologies into NASA programs and projects. Specifically, 

the Agency has infused 29.1 percent (i.e., 232 of 797) of the SBIR/STTR Phase II 

technology projects awarded from 2005 through 2009.

Green

FY12

Green

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 Update No performance goal in FY13.

FY14 No performance goal in FY14.

Comments

NASA has tracked the performance of the SBIR/STTR Programs technology infusion 

efforts through different measures for almost a decade. The SBIR/STTR Programs have 

always performed well, meeting or exceeding expectations. Based on this continual high 

performance, NASA is retiring this performance goal and its related APG. However, the 

Agency will continue to monitor the programs closely and report on metrics specified in the 

SBIR/STTR Reauthorization Act of 2011.
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-115

Reported Annual Performance

ST-12-4: At least 25 percent of the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business 

Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) Phase II technology projects awarded between 2005-2009 will 

be infused into NASA programs and projects.

Contributing Theme: Space Technology

Contributing Program(s): SBIR and STTR

FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12

None None None 10IPP07

Green

ST-11-4 

Green

ST-12-4 

Green

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update No annual performance goal in FY13.

FY14 No annual performance goal in FY14.

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

Multi-Year Performance Goal 3.1.1.5: Increase the Small Business Innovation Research and Small 

Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) Phase III contracts initiated or expanded.

FY11

NASA is on track to meet this performance goal. During FY 2012, the Agency advanced 78 

SBIR/STTR technologies to Phase III. It is understood that products may need further 

development at the conclusion of the Phase II work. Phase III projects receive funding from 

sources other than the SBIR/STTR Program to continue product development.

Green

FY12

Green

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 Update No performance goal in FY13.

FY14 No performance goal in FY14.

Comments

NASA has tracked the performance of the SBIR/STTR Programs technology infusion 

efforts through different measures for almost a decade. The SBIR/STTR Programs have 

always performed well, meeting or exceeding expectations. Based on this continual high 

performance, NASA is retiring this performance goal and its related APG. However, the 

Agency will continue to monitor the programs closely and report on metrics specified in the 

SBIR/STTR Reauthorization Act of 2011.

Reported Annual Performance

ST-12-5: At least 20 of the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology 

Transfer (SBIR/STTR) technologies will be advanced to Phase III (received non-SBIR/STTR 

funding).

Contributing Theme: Space Technology

Contributing Program(s): SBIR and STTR

FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12

None None None 10IPP04

Green

ST-11-5 

Green

ST-12-5 

Green
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-116

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update No annual performance goal in FY13.

FY14 No annual performance goal in FY14.
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-117

OUTCOME 3.2: INFUSE GAME CHANGING AND CROSSCUTTING TECHNOLOGIES 

THROUGHOUT THE NATION'S SPACE ENTERPRISE, TO TRANSFORM THE NATION'S 

SPACE MISSION CAPABILITIES. 

For a sustainable set of affordable programs that achieve longer-term goals, NASA requires a faster, more 

aggressive strategy for creating and applying new technologies. Without a robust effort that matures 

technologies and establishes their feasibility, the ideas and transformational concepts developed at a low 

TRL may not materialize into benefits for future NASA missions or the Nation’s economy. 

The Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) bridges the gap between idea formulation and 

mission infusion to deliver improvements to future missions. STMD includes programs (formerly 

included in the Space Technology Program within the Office of the Chief Technologist) that focus on 

maturing mid-TRL technologies and proving the feasibility of advanced space concepts and technologies 

that may lead to entirely new approaches to space system design and operations, exploration, and 

scientific research. Through significant modeling, analysis, ground-based testing, and laboratory 

experimentation, STMD will mature technologies in preparation for potential system-level flight 

demonstrations within NASA itself or by other government agencies. Executing these challenging 

laboratory and spaceflight demonstrations requires creating technology projects with well-defined 

milestones and schedules, developing facilities, laboratories, and flight test opportunities, fabricating 

materials, hardware, and software, developing and integrating technologies, and conducting 

demonstrations.

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

Multi-Year Performance Goal 3.2.1.1: Transition developed game changing technologies to the 

technology demonstration programs or directly to Mission Directorates for mission insertion, 

and/or for use by other U.S. space activities.

FY11 NASA is on track to meet this performance goal. During FY 2012, The Game Changing 

Development (GCD) Program continued to develop game changing technologies to 

transition to other Mission Directorates. Examples of GCD technologies delivered to the 

Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate during FY 2012 (unless otherwise 

noted) include:

• A 125 Watt fuel cell for use on a rover test bed; 

• Autonomous systems software, including an advanced caution and warning software 

update, a vehicle system manager, and cryogenic loading operations software; 

• Human-robotic system components, including an anchoring end effector, grappling and 

dexterous arms, and hands-free extravehicular activity (EVA) jet pack concepts;

• A Rapid Cycle Amine (RCA) swing bed (version 2.0) for advanced carbon dioxide 

removal for extravehicular mobility unit (EMU); and

• A Variable Oxygen Regulator (VOR) for EMU to reduce crew fatigue and consumable 

usage (delivered during the first quarter of FY 2013).

NASA also continues to initiate game changing technology projects. Examples of projects 

initiated during FY 2012 include Clean Space, Barrier Infrared Detector (BIRD), and 

Woven Thermal Protection System (W-TPS). 

Green

FY12

Green
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-118

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 Update Develop and advance game-changing and cross-cutting

NASA's science, exploration, and discovery missions.

space technologies that support 

FY14 This performance goal remains the same in FY14.

As of FY 2013, NASA is consolidating all of the APGs contributing to Outcome 3.2 under 

Comments this performance goal. NASA has broadened the performance goal to reflect this wider 

scope of work.

Reported Annual Performance

ST-12-7: Initiate three game changing technology projects.

Contributing Theme: Space Technology

Contributing Program(s): Crosscutting Space Technology Development

FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12

None None None None ST-11-7 

Green

ST-12-7 

Green

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update ST-13-2: Complete three feasibility studies, ground demonstrations, or laboratory experiments 

proving the technical feasibility of new space technologies.

FY14 ST-14-2: Complete at least ten feasibility studies, ground demonstrations, or laboratory 

experiments proving the technical feasibility of new space technologies.

Reported Annual Performance

ST-12-9: Initiate at least one new small satellite mission that will demonstrate game changing or 

crosscutting technologies in space.

Contributing Theme: Space Technology

Contributing Program(s): Crosscutting Space Technology Development

FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12

None None None None None ST-12-9 

Green

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update ST-13-3: Implement at least one new small spacecraft mission that was selected in the 

previous fiscal year to demonstrate game-changing or cross-cutting technologies in space.

FY14

ST-14-3: Launch at least one small spacecraft demonstration mission and begin implementing 

at least one new small spacecraft project to demonstrate game changing or crosscutting 

technologies in space.

Comments

In the FY 2013 Performance Plan released with the FY 2013 Budget Estimates, NASA’s goal 

for ST-13-3 was to “[i]mplement at least one new small satellite mission that was initiated in 

FY 2012 and demonstrate game changing or cross-cutting technologies in space.” This 

language did not accurately reflect the intent of goal, so NASA has revised the text. NASA 

has clarified the measurement to be made.
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-119

Reported Annual Performance

ST-12-10: Complete preliminary design of at least one system-level technology for flight or 

relevant environment demonstration.

Contributing Theme: Space Technology

Contributing Program(s): Crosscutting Space Technology Development

FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12

None None None None ST-11-10

Green

ST-12-10

Green

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update ST-13-4: Implement at least two Technology Demonstration Missions (TDM) technology 

development projects that were initiated in the previous two years.

FY14 ST-14-4: Conduct testing and/or relevant environment demonstration of three Technology 

Demonstration Mission (TDM) technology development projects.

Comments

In the FY 2013 Performance Plan released with the FY 2013 Budget Estimates, the target was 

to implement at least three Technology Demonstration Mission technology development 

projects. At the time this measure was written, NASA had not completed the solicitation for 

these missions. NASA has adjusted the measure to reflect the actual number of proposals 

selected.

Reported Annual Performance

ST-12-11: Select and fly technology payloads from NASA, other government agencies, industry, 

and academia using flight services procured from at least three commercial reusable suborbital 

or parabolic platform providers.

Contributing Theme: Space Technology

Contributing Program(s): Crosscutting Space Technology Development

FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12

None None None None ST-11-11

Green

ST-12-11

Green

Planned Annual Performance

ST-13-5: Select and fly technology payloads from NASA, other government agencies, 

FY13 Update industry, and academia using flight services procured from at least three different commercial 

reusable suborbital or parabolic platform providers.

ST-14-5: Select and fly technology payloads from NASA, other government agencies, 

FY14 industry, and academia using flight services procured from at least four different commercial 

reusable suborbital or parabolic platform providers.

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

Multi-Year Performance Goal 3.2.3.1: Demonstrate small satellite capabilities with game changing 

and crosscutting potential for the government and commercial space sectors.

FY11 NASA, through the Small Spacecraft Technology (SST) Program, remains on track to 

Green demonstrate small satellite capabilities with game changing and crosscutting potential for 

the government and commercial space sectors in FY 2013. The PhoneSat project, initiated 

before FY 2012, is awaiting launch as a rideshare on the inaugural flight of the Orbital 

Science Corporation's Antares rocket currently scheduled for early 2013. This project will 

demonstrate operation of an extremely low-cost satellite using a commercially procured 

FY12

Green
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-120

mobile telephone as its control system. A total of three individual PhoneSats will be 

launched, one of them being a second-generation PhoneSat developed during FY 2012.

During FY 2012, NASA also initiated a new satellite mission, the Edison Demonstration of 

Smallsat Networks (EDSN). The EDSN project will demonstrate the use of a distributed set 

of small satellites for coordinated scientific observations. It has completed its System 

Requirements Review.

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 Update No performance goal in FY13.

FY14 No performance goal in FY14.

As of FY 2013, NASA has retired the focused performance goals under Outcome 3.2 and 

Comments consolidated the APGs, including new refocused APGs, under performance goal 3.2.1.1. 

This will streamline STMD’s multi-year performance measurement.

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

Multi-Year Performance Goal 3.2.4.1: Infuse game changing and crosscutting technologies into 

future NASA missions or into national space activities through flight or relevant environment 

demonstrations.

FY11 NASA remains on track to meet this performance goal. In August 2012 for example, the 

Green MSL Entry, Descent, and Landing Instrument (MEDLI) Suite, a first-of-its-kind 

instrumentation system on the Mars Science Laboratory, measured the temperature and 

pressure on the spacecraft as it flew through the Martian atmosphere. MEDLI delivered 

unprecedented environmental data that will help NASA build more efficient robotic and 

crewed Mars landers in the future.

FY12

Green

Also during FY 2012, NASA’s Technology Demonstration Missions (TDM) Program

completed the Preliminary Design Review for the Solar Sail technology demonstration and 

the Formulation Review for the Low-Density Supersonic Decelerator. Additionally, the 

TDM Program has multiple projects successfully progressing through their life cycles 

toward demonstration and infusion.

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 Update No performance goal in FY13.

FY14 No performance goal in FY14.

As of FY 2013, NASA has retired the focused performance goals under Outcome 3.2 and 

Comments consolidated the APGs, including new refocused APGs, under performance goal 3.2.1.1. 

This will streamline STMD’s multi-year performance measurement.
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-121

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

Multi-Year Performance Goal 3.2.5.1: Perform sub-orbital, simulated zero-gravity and other space 

analog flight opportunities to develop and demonstrate emerging ideas and technologies.

FY11 NASA is on track to successfully meet this performance goal. During FY 2012, the Flight 

Green Opportunities (FO) Program flew payloads on flights procured from three commercial 

FY12 reusable platform providers: Masten (suborbital), UP Aerospace (suborbital), and ZeroG 

(parabolic). These payloads to develop and demonstrate emerging ideas and technologies 

included: the Guidance Embedded Navigator Integrator Environment (GENIE) payload (on 

Masten Xombie), the Suborbital Flight Environment Monitor (SFEM) payload (on Up 

Green

Aerospace SL-6), and 19 technology payloads on ZeroG aircraft.

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 Update No performance goal in FY13.

FY14 No performance goal in FY14.

As of FY 2013, NASA has retired the focused performance goals under Outcome 3.2 and 

Comments consolidated the APGs, including new refocused APGs, under performance goal 3.2.1.1. 

This will streamline STMD’s multi-year performance measurement.

OUTCOME 3.3: DEVELOP AND DEMONSTRATE THE CRITICAL TECHNOLOGIES THAT 

WILL MAKE NASA'S EXPLORATION, SCIENCE, AND DISCOVERY MISSIONS MORE 

AFFORDABLE AND MORE CAPABLE. 

The purpose of mission-driven technology development is to meet unique near-term mission needs within 

technical, cost, and schedule goals. NASA is prioritizing the desired set of future technologies that will 

offer the most synergies and advancement of mission capabilities. The Agency is enabling advances and 

improved performance by furthering existing evolutionary technologies, as well as developing 

revolutionary new technologies. It also is balancing potential technology benefits with specific mission 

risks to establish the appropriate time frame to infuse each emerging technology.

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

Multi-Year Performance Goal 3.3.1.1: Demonstrate robotic technologies that support in-space 

operations, scientific discovery, and work as assistants with the crew.

FY11 NASA is on track to meet this performance goal. During FY 2012, Robonaut 2 (R2), a 

None dexterous humanoid robot, successfully worked with three task panels onboard ISS (i.e., 

powered task panel, intravehicular activity task panel, and EVA task panel). These activities 

demonstrate the robot’s ability to manipulate human interfaces used in space operations and 

scientific discovery. On the EVA task panel, for example, R2 performed handrail grasping 

and cleaning. Additionally, R2 demonstrated its ability to work with a handheld airflow 

FY12

Green

measurement system onboard ISS and provided data to ground controllers during its first 

tool use demonstration.

During FY 2012, NASA also completed and tested telerobotic software used to control and 

operate R2. The new software was formally validated in October 2012 in preparation for 

upload to ISS.
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-122

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 Update Develop technologies to enable 

affordability.

autonomous mission operations in space to increase 

FY14 This performance goal remains the same in FY14.

Comments NASA changed the description of this performance goal to reflect the broadened scope of 

work beginning in FY 2013.

Reported Annual Performance

ERD-12-5: Develop telerobotic software for remote manipulation of Robonaut 2.

Contributing Theme: Exploration Research and Development

Contributing Program(s): Advanced Exploration Systems

FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12

None None None None ERD-11-7 

Green

ERD-12-5 

Green

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update No annual performance goal in FY13.

FY14 No annual performance goal in FY14.

Reported Annual Performance

No annual performance goal in FY12 or trended performance.

Contributing Theme: Exploration Research and Development

Contributing 

Program(s): Advanced Exploration Systems

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update

ERD-13-3: Test docking and anchoring techniques for asteroid missions using a 

prototype crew excursion vehicle, the Multi-Mission Space Exploration Vehicle 

(MMSEV), moving on an air bearing floor.

FY14 No annual performance goal in FY14.

Reported Annual Performance

No annual performance goal in FY12 or trended performance.

Contributing Theme: Exploration Research and Development

Contributing 

Program(s): Advanced Exploration Systems

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update ERD-13-4: Assess the feasibility of a Multi-Purpose Logistics Module (MPLM) 

based habitation module to support human deep-space missions.

FY14 No annual performance goal in FY14.
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-123

Reported Annual Performance

No annual performance goal in FY12 or trended performance.

Contributing Theme: Exploration Research and Development

Contributing 

Program(s): Advanced Exploration Systems

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update No annual performance goal in FY13.

FY14 ERD-14-4: Test Autonomous Mission Operations software for 

dependence on ground-based mission control.

ISS to reduce crew's 

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

Multi-Year Performance Goal 3.3.2.1: Develop advanced spacesuits to improve the ability of 

astronauts to conduct extravehicular activity (EVA) operations in space including assembly and 

service of in-space systems and exploration of surfaces of the Moon, Mars, near-Earth objects 

(NEOs), and other small bodies.

FY11 Over the three-year timeframe for this performance goal and by the end of FY 2013, NASA 

will achieve the goal of assembly and test of the Portable Life Support System (PLSS). This 

is the system attached to the spacesuit that regulates pressure that provides breathable 

oxygen, removes excess moisture and odors, and provides other life support. NASA 

Green

FY12

Green

completed the PLSS design review and plans to test it in a vacuum chamber in FY 2013.

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 Update Develop advanced spacesuits to improve the ability of astronauts to conduct Extra Vehicular 

Activities (EVA) for in-space operations and surface exploration.

FY14 No performance goal in FY14.

Comments

NASA’s work on EVA systems is part of a wider effort to develop capabilities for crew 

mobility for the human exploration of near-Earth asteroids and planetary surfaces. In FY 

2014, after current work on EVA systems is concluded, NASA will align any planned future 

technology development activities to the broadened performance goal 3.3.1.1.

Reported Annual Performance

ERD-12-6: Complete tests of Extra Vehicular Activity (EVA) Portable Life Support System 

(PLSS) subsystem in a vacuum chamber environment.

Contributing Theme: Exploration Research and Development

Contributing Program(s): Advanced Exploration Systems

FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12

None 8CS06

Yellow None None ERD-11-8 Green

ERD-12-6 

Yellow

Why this APG was not achieved: 

NASA rescheduled the test of the PLSS in a vacuum chamber to FY 2013 based on a realignment of funding to 

other priorities. Assembly of the device also was delayed due to component technology development timelines 

that were greater than anticipated.
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-124

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update ERD-13-5: Test a packaged Portable Life Support System (PLSS) for an advanced spacesuit 

in a vacuum chamber.

FY14 No annual performance goal in FY14.

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

Multi-Year Performance Goal 3.3.2.2: Develop technologies and mission concepts for 

demonstrating in-space cryogenic propellant storage and transfer making exploration and science 

missions more affordable and capable.

FY11 NASA is on track to meet this performance goal. During FY 2012, the TDM Program 

completed the Mission Concept Review for the Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer 

(CPST) demonstration. CPST also passed Key Decision Point-A in June 2012. This 

milestone indicates NASA’s decision to proceed with the Concept and Technology 

Green

FY12

Green

Development phase of project formulation, culminating in a System Requirements Review. 

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 Update This performance goal remains the same in FY13.

FY14 This performance goal remains the same in FY14.

Reported Annual Performance

ST-12-12: Complete the Mission Concept Review for the Cryogenic Propellant Storage and 

Transfer demonstration.

Contributing Theme: Space Technology

Contributing Program(s): Exploration Technology Development

FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12

None None None None ST-11-12

Green

ST-12-12

Green

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update No annual performance goal in FY13.

FY14 ST-14-6: Complete the Mission Concept Review for the Cryogenic Propellant Storage and 

Transfer demonstration.

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

No Multi-Year Performance Goal in FY12 or trended performance. 

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 No performance goal in FY13.

FY14 3.3.2.3: Mature environmental control and life support system (ECLSS) technology that 

enables human exploration beyond low Earth orbit and improves affordability.
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-125

Reported Annual Performance

No annual performance goal in FY12 or trended performance.

Contributing Theme: Exploration Research and Development

Contributing 

Program(s): Advanced Exploration Systems

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update No annual performance goal in FY13.

FY14 ERD-14-5: Conduct integrated sub-system tests for improved water recovery and 

more reliable atmosphere revitalization systems.
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-126

OUTCOME 3.4: FACILITATE THE TRANSFER OF NASA TECHNOLOGY AND ENGAGE 

IN PARTNERSHIPS WITH OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCIES, INDUSTRY, AND 

INTERNATIONAL ENTITIES TO GENERATE U.S. COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY AND OTHER 

PUBLIC BENEFITS. 

While technology and innovation are critical to accomplishing NASA’s missions, it also benefits the U.S. 

economy through transfer of new technologies for other applications. NASA makes a determined effort to 

transfer technologies outside of the Agency and to develop technology partnerships. NASA’s technology 

investments support advancement in key research areas, fuel rapid improvements in mission capabilities, 

foster a robust industrial base, improve the Nation’s competitive position in the international marketplace, 

enable new industries, improve quality of life, and contribute to economic growth. 

NASA seeks partnerships and cooperative activities with the emerging commercial space sector. Three 

key themes underscore this effort: considering the private sector as an investment partner and sharing the 

cost of developing a capability; purchasing services rather than hardware when possible; and fostering the 

creation of broader opportunities for innovation. Pursuing these partnership themes brings direct value to 

NASA’s current and future missions, advances the interests of the partners, and encourages additional 

commercial space development. In addition to partnership strategies, NASA seeks to transfer its 

technologies directly to other government agencies, the national aerospace industry, and the broader U.S. 

commercial sector. NASA-spurred advances in energy, communication, health, materials science, and 

other fields generate spinoff applications that benefit the Nation. The Agency has established a core team 

at each Center charged with technology transfer, licensing, and new partnership development, and these 

teams work closely with scientists and engineers to match NASA technologies with the needs of external 

organizations. 

Guided by OCT, the Innovative Partnerships Office has a dual role: to seek partnerships that can leverage 

technologies, expertise, and capabilities to advance NASA’s missions and to provide access to NASA 

resources including intellectual property that will benefit the United States through economic growth and 

improved quality of life. To achieve these two complementary objectives, NASA technology transfer 

professionals work closely with NASA Center scientists, engineers, and software developers to foster 

commercial application of NASA’s wide spectrum of research and technology development. As noted in 

the annual NASA Spinoff publications, partnerships forged between NASA and others with shared vision 

and objectives have saved hundreds of lives, created thousands of jobs, provided millions of dollars in 

cost avoidance, and generated millions of dollars in revenue. More about the Agency’s technology 

transfer activities also is available on NASA’s Open Government Initiative site. 
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-127

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

Multi-Year Performance Goal 3.4.1.1: Establish 12 technology-related significant partnerships that 

create value for programs and projects. Track both quantitative dollar value and qualitative 

benefits to NASA (e.g., reduced volume or mass, improved safety) per year.

FY11 NASA is on track to successfully meet this performance goal. During FY 2012, OCT 

developed a wide range of significant partnerships with both the public and private sectors. 

Some of the factors OCT uses to frame the definition of significance include impact, 

scope/size/funding, uniqueness of collaboration, strategic outcome, and/or value-added to 

NASA’s capabilities. OCT completed the following 12 significant partnerships with: 

• The City of New York to provide NASA independent verification and validation (IV&V) 

services to critical system software, provide analysis results and technical reports, 

participate in reviews and provide status reports, and produce a variety of deliverables 

concerning the Emergency Communications Transformation Program. In this partnership 

NASA will make services, data, and analysis available to New York City, in collaboration 

with NASA's IV&V Facility. 

• Cumberland and Western Company to develop a strategic technology and 

commercialization partnership anchored in state-of-the-art fly wheel technologies, which are 

useful in the design and production of revolutionary energy storage and energy transfer 

devices.

• The University of Surry, United Kingdom, to establish cooperation between the Parties in 

the Deploytech Project, Work Package 1, for the advancement of the TRL of space 

deployable solar sail technology. 

• DTM Technologies, Modena, Italy, for access to reduced gravity testbeds under the NASA 

Flight Opportunities Program to advance the technology readiness level of a nano-particle 

migration and capture device to facilitate the commercial and government use of spacerelated technologies. 

• Nirvana Energy Systems to develop a Stirling Homepower Unit with a predicted 

efficiency of at least 32 percent.

• The "E-Fermi"Advanced Technical Institute to study how reduced gravity conditions 

influence the sintering process. 

• National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to collaborate with the Advanced 

Manufacturing National Program Office to advance manufacturing in the United States.

• Honda R&D Americas to test an epoxy coating system using NASA's Smart Coating 

System technology to support mutual technology needs.

• Sherwin Williams to determine the performance benefit of using a corrosion-induced 

microcapsule system to improve corrosion resistance of a coating over steel.

• LifeLoc to investigate and characterize the technical feasibility and practicality of applying 

Glenn Research Center’s sensor technologies and related expertise to commercialization of 

the miniaturization and operating temperature stability of precision fuel cell sensors and 

breath sampling system for commercial application in portable breath alcohol testers.

• The Space Frontiers Foundation to collaborate on public events and to support a business 

plan competition with a $100 thousand first-prize purse. This business plan competition 

specifically aims at generating economic development and broadening entrepreneurial space 

opportunities for public benefit. 

• The Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network (MAGNET) to create an on-going 

collaboration to interject NASA knowledge and expertise to the local public sector for the 

purpose of aiding the region's economic development, This agreement will provide 

MAGNET clients opportunities to interact with NASA subject matter experts and utilize 

NASA facilities to overcome technical barriers that prohibit their products from going to 

market. The collaboration will enhance the national economy while maintaining the U.S. 

Green

FY12

Green
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-128

leadership in technology.

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 Update Accelerate the development and adoption of NASA-funded technology through the 

establishment of cost-sharing partnerships.

FY14 This performance goal remains the same in FY14.

Comments NASA has revised this performance goal description to reflect the broadened scope of work.

Reported Annual Performance

ST-12-13: Establish at least 12 technology-related significant partnerships during FY 2012.

Contributing Theme: Space Technology

Contributing Program(s): Partnership Development and Strategic Integration

FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12

7IPP1

Green

8IPP01

Green

9IPP1

Green None ST-11-13Green

ST-12-13

Green

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update ST-13-6: Establish a total of twelve partnerships with U.S. industry, other U.S. agencies, or 

other entities to develop technology that supports NASA's missions or national interests.

FY14

ST-14-7: To reduce the time it takes to process a NASA Space Act Agreement (SAA), initiate 

an NASA study and implement steps that result in a 10 percent reduction in time at least 5 

NASA Centers in FY2014.

Comments

NASA establishes hundreds of partnerships each fiscal year. As a result, the Agency 

consistently achieves and exceeds its annual target to establish partnerships to develop 

technology. In FY 2014, NASA is changing the focus to improving performance Agency-wide 

for processing a specific type of partnership, for which there are performance challenges. The 

goal is to reduce the time it takes to process a Space Act Agreement and begin the associated 

study.

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

Multi-Year Performance Goal 3.4.1.2: Complete 30 technology transfer agreements with the 

commercial and academic community through such mechanisms as licenses, software use 

agreements, facility use agreements, and Space Act Agreements per year.

FY11

NASA is on track to successfully meet this performance goal with the completion of 56 

technology transfer agreements during FY 2012. Specifically, NASA has achieved 21 

technology patent licenses (additional licenses are being negotiated) and released 35 new 

software programs into the public domain, increasing its emphasis on open source software.

Green

FY12

Green

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 Update No performance goal in FY13.

FY14 Implement 5-year Strategic Plan to improve ability to transfer NASA-developed 

technologies.
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-129

Comments

NASA retired this performance goal because technology transfer is being covered by OCT’s 

Priority Goal, “Enable bold new missions and make new technologies available to 

government agencies and U.S. industry.” NASA plans to complete this Priority Goal by the 

end of FY 2013. In FY 2014, NASA will renew this performance goal with a more longterm and broadly stated scope that continues the important work accomplished under the 

Priority Goal.

Reported Annual Performance

ST-12-14: Complete at least 30 technology transfer agreements during FY 2012.

Contributing Theme: Space Technology

Contributing Program(s): SBIR and STTR

FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12

7IPP2

Green

8IPP02

Green

9IPP2

Green None ST-11-14Green

ST-12-14

Green

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update No annual performance goal in FY13.

FY14 ST-14-8: The Agency will develop and implement 2 innovative methods for technology 

licensing.

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

Multi-Year Performance Goal 3.4.1.5: Document, coordinate, and prioritize Agency-level 

technology strategic investments to ensure NASA has a balanced portfolio of both near-term NASA 

mission (pull) technologies and longer-term transformational (push) technologies that benefit both 

Agency programs and national needs.

FY11

Green

NASA is on track to meet this performance goal. NASA has documented the majority of its 

technology investments, and it has coordinated and drafted a prioritized Space Technology 

Strategic Investment Plan (SSTIP). The SSTIP is a comprehensive strategic plan that 

prioritizes space technologies essential to the pursuit of NASA's Mission. The SSTIP 

provides a focused approach to guide NASA's space technology investment over the next 

four years within the context of a 20-year horizon. It does so in strategic terms, not 

specifying funding. This plan began to take shape in 2010, when NASA developed the draft 

Space Technology Roadmaps, 14 plans for developing technologies in 14 essential space 

technology areas over the next 20 years. NASA then requested the National Research 

Council to review the Space Technology Roadmaps and provide recommendations for 

improvement.

During FY 2012, OCT issued an Agency-wide data call to capture space technology 

investments across NASA. Mission directorates and offices incorporated project 

descriptions, technology readiness levels, technology areas, responsible parties, and 

partnerships into the NASA-developed and –managed Technology Portfolio System 

(TechPort). This new Agency internal Web site is now available to NASA civil servant and 

contractor employees. It can capture, track, and manage NASA's portfolio of technology 

investments, including detailed information on individual technology programs and projects. 

It enables NASA to efficiently search, identify technology gaps, update assessments of 

NASA's Roadmap Technology Areas, and provide comprehensive technology reports. It 

will be made available to the public in fall 2013.

FY12

Green
Management and Performance 

PERFORMANCE REPORTING AND PLANNING

M&P-130

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 Update No performance goal in FY13.

FY14 No performance goal in FY14.

In FY 2012, OCT completed this performance goal by releasing the Space Technology 

Comments Strategic Investment Plan and getting TechPort online. OCT is now implementing the plan 

and using TechPort to capture space technology investments across NASA.

Reported Annual Performance

ST-12-17: Ensure that 75 percent of all NASA Space Technology Program's projects are 

recorded in the portfolio database.

Contributing Theme: Space Technology

Contributing Program(s): Partnership Development and Strategic Integration

FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12

None None None None None ST-12-17

Green

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update No annual performance goal in FY13.

FY14 No annual performance goal in FY14.

Reported Multi-Year Performance 

No Multi-Year Performance Goal in FY12 or trended performance. 

Update to Multi-Year Performance Goal

FY13 No performance goal in FY13.

FY14 3.4.1.6: Implement a process that enables the Agency to define and lead Agency Grand 

Challenges that impact life on Earth.

Reported Annual Performance

No annual performance goal in FY12 or trended performance.

Contributing Theme: Space Technology

Contributing 

Program(s): Partnership Development and Strategic Integration

Planned Annual Performance

FY13 Update No annual performance goal in FY13.

FY14 ST-14-9: Establish at least two new "open innovation" mechanisms that leverage 

external support for the Protect the Planet Grand Challenge.