NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

FY 2013 PRESIDENT'S BUDGET REQUEST SUMMARY

Budget Authority, dollars in millions FY 2011 

Actual

FY 2012 

Estimate

FY 2013 

Request

Notional

FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

NASA FY 2013 18,448.0 17,770.0 17,711.4 17,711.4 17,711.4 17,711.4 17,711.4

Science 4,919.7 5,073.7 4,911.2 4,914.4 4,914.4 4,914.4 4,914.4

Earth Science

Planetary Science

Astrophysics

James Webb Space Telescope

Heliophysics

1,721.9

1,450.8

631.1

476.8

639.2

1,760.5

1,501.4

672.7

518.6

620.5

1,784.8

1,192.3

659.4

627.6

647.0

1,775.6

1,133.7

703.0

659.1

643.0

1,835.5

1,102.0

693.7

646.6

636.7

1,826.2

1,119.4

708.9

621.6

638.3

1,772.8

1,198.8

710.2

571.1

661.6

Aeronautics 533.5 569.4 551.5 551.5 551.5 551.5 551.5

Space Technology 456.3 573.7 699.0 699.0 699.0 699.0 699.0

Exploration 3,821.2 3,712.8 3,932.8 4,076.5 4,076.5 4,076.5 4,076.5

Exploration Systems Development

Commercial Spaceflight

Exploration Research and Development

2,982.1

606.8

232.3

3,007.1

406.0

299.7

2,769.4

829.7

333.7

2,913.1

829.7

333.7

2,913.1

829.7

333.7

2,913.1

829.7

333.7

2,913.1

829.7

333.7

Space Operations 5,146.3 4,187.0 4,013.2 4,035.1 4,035.1 4,035.1 4,035.1

Space Shuttle

International Space Station 

Space and Flight Support (SFS)

1,592.9

2,713.6

839.8

556.2

2,829.9

800.9

70.6

3,007.6

935.0

0.0

3,177.6

857.5

0.0

3,170.9

864.2

0.0

3,212.8

822.3

0.0

3,234.3

800.8

Education 145.4 136.1 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Cross-Agency Support 2,956.4 2,993.9 2,847.5 2,847.5 2,847.5 2,847.5 2,847.5

Center Management and Operations Center Management and Operations

Agency Management and Operations

2 189 0 2,189.0

767.4

2 204 1 2,204.1

789.8

2 093 3 2,093.3

754.2

2 093 3 2,093.3

754.2

2 093 3 2,093.3

754.2

2 093 3 2,093.3

754.2

2 093 3 2,093.3

754.2

Construction and Environmental Compliance 

and Restoration 432.9 487.0 619.2 450.4 450.4 450.4 450.4

Construction of Facilities

Environmental Compliance and 

373.3

59.6

441.3

45.6

552.8

66.4

359.5

90.9

362.9

87.5

360.0

90.4

360.0

90.4

Office of Inspector General 36.3 38.3 37.0 37.0 37.0 37.0 37.0

NASA FY 2013 18,448.0 17,770.0 17,711.4 17,711.4 17,711.4 17,711.4 17,711.4

1. FY 2011 and FY 2012 are consistent with submitted operating plans. However, for comparability purposes, values for 

Space Technology in those years reflect the funding for Space Technology-related activities executed in Exploration, Space 

Operations, and Cross Agency Support.

2. FY 2012 Estimates include the impact to appropriation accounts of the $30 million rescission included in the 2012 

Appropriation Act, in addition to ~$1 million from other prior appropriations included in the total.

3. Funds associated with outyear estimates for programmatic construction remain in programmatic accounts.

4. FY 2014 – FY 2017 outyear amounts are notional. 

BUD-1
NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

FY 2013 PRESIDENT'S BUDGET REQUEST SUMMARY

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK

BUD-2
NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

FY 2013 PRESIDENT'S BUDGET REQUEST SUMMARY

Budget Authority, dollars in millions FY 2011 

Actual

FY 2012 

Estimate

FY 2013 

Request

Notional

FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

NASA FY 2013 18,448.0 17,770.0 17,711.4 17,711.4 17,711.4 17,711.4 17,711.4

Science 4,919.7 5,073.7 4,911.2 4,914.4 4,914.4 4,914.4 4,914.4

Earth Science 1,721.9 1,760.5 1,784.8 1,775.6 1,835.5 1,826.2 1,772.8

Earth Science Research 461.1 440.1 433.6 461.7 485.1 497.3 508.1

Earth Science Research and Analysis 299.0 332.3 324.3 327.8 336.4 343.7 347.9

Computing and Management 162.1 107.7 109.3 133.9 148.7 153.6 160.2

Earth Systematic Missions 841.2 881.1 886.0 787.6 813.2 835.6 756.4

Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) 133.6 92.9 88.0 66.2 19.1 18.1 10.2

Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM) 166.0 159.3 54.7 2.1 2.1 2.2 2.3

Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite (ICESat- 59.7 120.5 157.2 145.4 89.7 92.7 14.1

Soil Moisture Active and Passive (SMAP) 92.5 176.3 237.4 89.1 86.7 15.9 11.3

Other Missions and Data Analysis 389.5 332.0 348.7 484.7 615.7 706.7 718.5

Earth System Science Pathfinder 182.8 188.3 219.5 270.9 275.6 224.2 234.4

OCO-2 89.0 98.4 75.3 57.9 45.4 16.0 4.0

Venture Class Missions 32.0 53.6 106.2 173.6 190.1 167.1 188.9

Other Missions and Data Analysis 61.7 36.3 38.0 39.4 40.1 41.1 41.5

Earth Science Multi-Mission Operations 147.4 163.4 161.7 170.2 172.9 176.5 177.6

Earth Science Multi-Mission Operations 147.4 163.4 161.7 170.2 172.9 176.5 177.6

Earth Science Technology 52.8 51.2 49.5 50.1 52.1 54.1 56.1

Earth Science Technology 52.8 51.2 49.5 50.1 52.1 54.1 56.1

Applied Sciences 36.6 36.4 34.6 35.0 36.7 38.4 40.1

Pathways 36.6 36.4 34.6 35.0 36.7 38.4 40.1

Planetary Science 1,450.8 1,501.4 1,192.3 1,133.7 1,102.0 1,119.4 1,198.8

Planetary Science Research 158.8 174.1 188.5 222.5 233.4 231.7 230.3

Planetary Science Research and Analysis 122.3 122.3 125.3 130.1 133.5 134.6 135.5

Other Missions and Data Analysis 24.0 27.4 38.8 64.6 72.1 69.5 66.9

Education and Directorate Management 4.6 4.0 4.0 7.3 7.3 7.1 7.4

Near Earth Object Observations 7.8 20.4 20.5 20.5 20.5 20.5 20.5

Lunar Quest Program 130.2 139.9 61.5 6.2 0.0 0.0 0.0

Lunar Science 61.7 66.7 17.3 3.7 0.0 0.0 0.0

Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment 64.5 70.4 41.4 2.5 0.0 0.0 0.0

Surface Science Lander Technology 4.0 2.8 2.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Discovery 192.0 172.6 189.6 242.2 235.6 193.8 134.3

Other Missions and Data Analysis 192.0 172.6 189.6 242.2 235.6 193.8 134.3

New Frontiers 213.2 160.7 175.0 269.8 279.6 259.9 155.1

OSIRIS-REx 4.9 110.3 137.5 228.8 224.2 202.1 44.9

Other Missions and Data Analysis 208.3 50.5 37.5 41.0 55.4 57.8 110.1

Mars Exploration 547.4 587.0 360.8 227.7 188.7 266.9 503.1

MAVEN 160.6 245.7 146.4 37.6 17.3 5.3 0.0

Other Missions and Data Analysis 386.8 341.4 214.4 190.1 171.4 261.6 503.1

Outer Planets 91.9 122.1 84.0 80.8 78.8 76.2 76.3

Outer Planets 91.9 122.1 84.0 80.8 78.8 76.2 76.3

Technology 117.3 144.9 132.9 84.6 85.9 90.9 99.6

Technology 117.3 144.9 132.9 84.6 85.9 90.9 99.6

Astrophysics 631.1 672.7 659.4 703.0 693.7 708.9 710.2

Astrophysics Research 146.9 164.1 176.2 189.1 205.1 211.5 218.7

Astrophysics Research and Analysis 59.6 64.6 64.2 65.5 66.8 68.2 69.5

Balloon Project 26.8 31.6 31.3 31.2 32.8 34.2 34.3

Other Missions and Data Analysis 60.5 67.9 80.6 92.3 105.4 109.2 114.8

Cosmic Origins 229.1 237.3 240.4 228.5 215.1 205.3 205.7

Hubble Space Telescope 91.7 95.7 98.3 98.3 94.3 90.2 90.5

Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy 79.9 84.2 85.5 88.0 88.0 86.0 85.9

Other Missions And Data Analysis 57.6 57.4 56.6 42.2 32.8 29.1 29.3

Physics of the Cosmos 108.7 108.3 111.8 109.6 96.3 92.7 74.6

Other Missions and Data Analysis 108.7 108.3 111.8 109.6 96.3 92.7 74.6

Exoplanet Exploration 46.4 50.8 56.0 41.6 43.3 42.4 45.6

Other Missions and Data Analysis 46.4 50.8 56.0 41.6 43.3 42.4 45.6

Astrophysics Explorer 100.0 112.2 75.1 134.3 133.9 157.0 165.6

Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR) 36.1 11.8 4.7 4.4 0.0 0.0 0.0

Gravity and Extreme Magnetism 23.0 63.2 46.4 32.9 2.7 0.2 0.0

Other Missions and Data Analysis 41.0 37.2 24.1 97.1 131.2 156.8 165.6

BUD-3
NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

FY 2013 PRESIDENT'S BUDGET REQUEST SUMMARY

Budget Authority, dollars in millions FY 2011 

Actual

FY 2012 

Estimate

FY 2013 

Request

Notional

FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

James Webb Space Telescope 476.8 518.6 627.6 659.1 646.6 621.6 571.1

Heliophysics 639.2 620.5 647.0 643.0 636.7 638.3 661.6

Heliophysics Research 160.8 175.2 178.9 162.6 168.5 170.3 171.6

Heliophysics Research and Analysis 34.0 32.9 32.7 31.0 31.5 31.5 31.5

Sounding Rockets 45.9 52.3 56.1 51.6 56.3 53.0 53.0

Research Range 19.5 20.1 20.5 21.0 21.3 21.6 21.7

Other Missions and Data Analysis 61.4 69.9 69.6 58.9 59.5 64.2 65.5

Living with a Star 218.4 196.3 232.6 212.2 286.2 336.6 351.7

Radiation Belt Storm Probes (RBSP) 146.1 86.1 37.7 14.5 9.1 0.0 0.0

Solar Probe Plus 13.9 49.5 112.1 103.2 137.1 229.3 215.2

Solar Orbiter Collaboration 8.3 21.3 21.3 58.2 102.1 75.6 100.0

Other Missions and Data Analysis 50.2 39.3 61.5 36.3 37.8 31.8 36.5

Solar Terrestrial Probes 168.3 188.7 189.4 179.8 64.5 46.7 53.4

Magnetospheric MultiScale (MMS) 150.8 170.3 168.3 157.6 42.9 20.4 12.5

Other Missions and Data Analysis 17.4 18.5 21.1 22.2 21.6 26.3 40.9

Heliophysics Explorer 91.7 60.2 46.1 88.4 117.5 84.8 84.8

IRIS 63.5 39.1 12.1 7.3 1.2 0.0 0.0

Other Missions and Data Analysis 28.1 21.1 34.0 81.1 116.3 84.8 84.8

New Millennium 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

New Millennium 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Aeronautics 533.5 569.4 551.5 551.5 551.5 551.5 551.5

Aeronautics 533.5 569.4 551.5 551.5 551.5 551.5 551.5

Aviation Safety 67.3 80.1 81.1 81.0 81.4 81.9 82.5

Aviation Safety 67.3 80.1 81.1 81.0 81.4 81.9 82.5

Airspace Systems 87.2 92.7 93.3 92.6 91.9 91.2 90.5

Airspace Systems 87.2 92.7 93.3 92.6 91.9 91.2 90.5

Fundamental Aeronautics 206.3 186.3 168.7 171.3 173.3 175.3 177.1

Fundamental Aeronautics 206.3 186.3 168.7 171.3 173.3 175.3 177.1

Aeronautics Test 76.4 79.4 78.1 78.0 78.0 78.1 78.2

Aeronautics Test 76.4 79.4 78.1 78.0 78.0 78.1 78.2

Integrated Systems Research 75.9 104.2 104.0 102.3 101.2 100.1 98.8

Integrated Systems Research 75.9 104.2 104.0 102.3 101.2 100.1 98.8

Aeronautics Strategy and Management 20.4 26.7 26.4 26.2 25.7 25.0 24.4

Aeronautics Strategy and Management 20.4 26.7 26.4 26.2 25.7 25.0 24.4

Space Technology 456.3 573.7 699.0 699.0 699.0 699.0 699.0

Space Technology 456.3 573.7 699.0 699.0 699.0 699.0 699.0

SBIR and STTR 164.7 166.7 173.7 181.9 187.2 195.3 206.0

SBIR and STTR 164.7 166.7 173.7 181.9 187.2 195.3 206.0

Partnerships Dev & Strategic Integration 26.6 29.5 29.5 29.5 29.5 29.5 29.5

Partnership Development and Strategic 26.6 29.5 29.5 29.5 29.5 29.5 29.5

Crosscutting Space Tech Development 120.4 187.7 293.8 272.1 266.6 259.7 247.0

Crosscutting Space Tech Development 120.4 187.7 293.8 272.1 266.6 259.7 247.0

Exploration Technology Development 144.6 189.9 202.0 215.5 215.7 214.5 216.5

Exploration Technology Development 144.6 189.9 202.0 215.5 215.7 214.5 216.5

Exploration 3,821.2 3,712.8 3,932.8 4,076.5 4,076.5 4,076.5 4,076.5

Exploration Systems Development 2,982.1 3,007.1 2,769.4 2,913.1 2,913.1 2,913.1 2,913.1

Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle 1,196.0 1,200.0 1,024.9 1,028.2 1,028.2 1,028.2 1,028.2

Crew Vehicle Development 1,086.0 1,142.9 968.5 975.8 980.2 984.2 983.7

MPCV Program Integration and Support 110.0 57.1 56.4 52.4 48.0 44.0 44.4

Space Launch System 1,536.1 1,502.6 1,340.0 1,429.3 1,429.3 1,429.3 1,429.3

Launch Vehicle Development 1,313.8 1,456.1 1,304.1 1,399.1 1,397.9 1,393.4 1,364.4

SLS Program Integration and Support 222.3 46.4 35.9 30.2 31.4 35.9 64.9

Exploration Ground Systems 250.0 304.5 404.5 455.6 455.6 455.6 455.6

Exploration Ground Systems 250.0 304.5 404.5 455.6 455.6 455.6 455.6

Commercial Spaceflight 606.8 406.0 829.7 829.7 829.7 829.7 829.7

Commercial Cargo 299.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Commercial Orbital Transportation Services 299.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Commercial Crew 307.4 406.0 829.7 829.7 829.7 829.7 829.7

Commercial Crew 307.4 406.0 829.7 829.7 829.7 829.7 829.7

BUD-4
NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

FY 2013 PRESIDENT'S BUDGET REQUEST SUMMARY

Budget Authority, dollars in millions FY 2011 

Actual

FY 2012 

Estimate

FY 2013 

Request

Notional

FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

Exploration Research and Development 232.3 299.7 333.7 333.7 333.7 333.7 333.7

Human Research Program 154.7 157.7 164.7 164.7 164.7 164.7 164.7

Human Research Program 154.7 157.7 164.7 164.7 164.7 164.7 164.7

Advanced Exploration Systems 77.6 142.0 169.0 169.0 169.0 169.0 169.0

Advanced Exploration Systems 77.6 142.0 169.0 169.0 169.0 169.0 169.0

Space Operations 5,146.3 4,187.0 4,013.2 4,035.1 4,035.1 4,035.1 4,035.1

Space Shuttle 1,592.9 556.2 70.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Space Shuttle Program 1,592.9 556.2 70.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

SPOC Pension Liability 0.0 470.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Program Integration 618.6 19.4 31.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Flight and Ground Operations 502.4 40.0 24.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Flight Hardware 471.9 26.8 13.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

International Space Station 2,713.6 2,829.9 3,007.6 3,177.6 3,170.9 3,212.8 3,234.3

International Space Station Program 2,713.6 2,829.9 3,007.6 3,177.6 3,170.9 3,212.8 3,234.3

ISS Systems Operations and Maintenance 1,681.1 1,418.7 1,493.5 1,354.4 1,200.1 1,170.0 1,077.8

ISS Research 175.7 225.5 229.3 227.4 231.3 238.3 241.7

ISS Crew and Cargo Transportation 856.8 1,185.7 1,284.8 1,595.8 1,739.6 1,804.5 1,914.8

Space and Flight Support 839.8 800.9 935.0 857.5 864.2 822.3 800.8

21st Century Space Launch Complex 142.8 123.5 41.1 47.0 47.0 47.0 47.0

21st Century Space Launch Complex 142.8 123.5 41.1 47.0 47.0 47.0 47.0

Space Communications and Navigation 456.7 445.5 655.6 570.7 577.3 535.4 513.9

Space Communications Networks 347.8 364.2 440.3 423.9 432.9 435.1 437.0

Space Communications Support 92.0 66.0 78.2 79.5 71.5 71.8 74.3

TDRS Replenishment 16.9 15.2 137.1 67.2 73.0 28.6 2.6

Human Space Flight Operations 112.8 107.3 111.1 111.1 111.1 111.1 111.1

Human Space Flight Operations 112.8 107.3 111.1 111.1 111.1 111.1 111.1

Launch Services 83.3 81.0 81.2 82.8 82.8 82.8 82.8

Launch Services 83.3 81.0 81.2 82.8 82.8 82.8 82.8

Rocket Propulsion Test 44.2 43.6 45.9 45.9 45.9 45.9 45.9

Rocket Propulsion Testing 44.2 43.6 45.9 45.9 45.9 45.9 45.9

Education 145.4 136.1 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Education 145.4 136.1 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Aerospace Research and Career Development 70.4 56.1 33.0 33.0 33.0 33.0 33.0

NASA Space Grant 45.5 38.9 24.0 24.0 24.0 24.0 24.0

EPSCoR 24.9 17.3 9.0 9.0 9.0 9.0 9.0

STEM Education and Accountability 75.0 80.0 67.0 67.0 67.0 67.0 67.0

Minority University Research Education Program 28.5 30.0 30.0 30.0 30.0 30.0 30.0

STEM Education and Accountability Projects 46.5 50.0 37.0 37.0 37.0 37.0 37.0

Cross-Agency Support 2,956.4 2,993.9 2,847.5 2,847.5 2,847.5 2,847.5 2,847.5

Center Management and Operations 2,189.0 2,204.1 2,093.3 2,093.3 2,093.3 2,093.3 2,093.3

Center Management and Operations 2,189.0 2,204.1 2,093.3 2,093.3 2,093.3 2,093.3 2,093.3

Center Institutional Capabilities 1,710.8 1,703.4 1,628.5 1,623.6 1,617.0 1,606.7 1,594.2

Center Programmatic Capabilities 478.1 500.7 464.8 469.7 476.3 486.6 499.1

Agency Management and Operations 767.4 789.8 754.2 754.2 754.2 754.2 754.2

Agency Management 401.9 403.2 391.8 391.8 391.8 391.8 391.8

Agency Management 401.9 403.2 391.8 391.8 391.8 391.8 391.8

Safety and Mission Success 191.2 198.2 182.4 182.4 182.4 182.4 182.4

Safety and Mission Assurance 48.1 49.4 47.8 47.8 47.8 47.8 47.8

Chief Engineer 99.2 105.2 98.6 98.6 98.6 98.6 98.6

Chief Health and Medical Officer 4.0 4.5 4.3 4.3 4.3 4.3 4.3

Independent Verification and Validation 39.9 39.1 31.7 31.7 31.7 31.7 31.7

Agency IT Services 145.0 159.1 152.0 152.0 152.0 152.0 152.0

IT Management 15.0 14.6 10.5 10.5 10.5 10.5 10.5

Applications 75.3 67.8 67.8 67.8 67.8 67.8 67.8

Infrastructure 54.7 76.6 73.7 73.7 73.7 73.7 73.7

Strategic Capabilities Assets Program 29.4 29.3 28.0 28.0 28.0 28.0 28.0

Strategic Capabilities Assets Program 29.4 29.3 28.0 28.0 28.0 28.0 28.0

BUD-5
NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

FY 2013 PRESIDENT'S BUDGET REQUEST SUMMARY

Budget Authority, dollars in millions FY 2011 

Actual

FY 2012 

Estimate

FY 2013 

Request

Notional

FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

Construction and Environmental Compliance and 

Restoration 432.9 486.0 619.2 450.4 450.4 450.4 450.4

Construction of Facilities 373.3 441.2 552.8 359.5 362.9 360.0 360.0

Institutional CoF 265.1 310.6 384.0 359.5 362.9 360.0 360.0

Institutional CoF 265.1 310.6 384.0 359.5 362.9 360.0 360.0

Science CoF 52.5 11.5 3.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Science CoF 52.5 11.5 3.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Exploration CoF

Exploration CoF

Space Operations CoF

Space Operations CoF

15.1

15.1

40.6

40.6

52.5

52.5

66.7

66.7

143.7

143.7

21.9

21.9

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0 0.0

0.0 0.0

0.0 0.0

0.0 0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

Environmental Compliance and Restoration 59.6 44.8 66.4 90.9 87.5 90.4 90.4

Office of Inspector General 36.3 38.3 37.0 37.0 37.0 37.0 37.0

Prior Appropriation Accounts 0.0 (1.0) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

NASA FY 2013 18,448.0 17,770.0 17,711.4 17,711.4 17,711.4 17,711.4 17,711.4

BUD-6
NASA FY 2013 BUDGET REQUEST EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

MESSAGE FROM THE ADMINISTRATOR

NASA's Fiscal Year 2013 budget moves the Agency forward strongly on a path that will maintain 

America's preeminence in space exploration. Under President Obama’s leadership, NASA and the Nation 

are embarking upon an ambitious exploration program that will build on new technologies as well as 

proven capabilities as we expand our reach out into the solar system. Even in these tough fiscal times, the 

FY 2013 budget seeks $17.7 billion for NASA to continue implementing all major elements of the NASA 

Authorization Act of 2010, thereby laying the foundation for remarkable discoveries here on Earth and 

deep in space. 

While reaching for new heights in space, we’re creating new jobs right here on Earth, especially for the 

next generation of American scientists and engineers, by supporting cutting edge aeronautics and space 

technology innovations, and research and development that will fuel the Nation's economy for years to 

come. Our activities stimulate innovation and focus on the highest-skilled, highest-educated workers; the 

most advanced transportation systems in aviation and space; high tech communication; and a strong 

commitment to research and technology that has paid off for American taxpayers since the inception of 

the space program. 

The proposed budget allows NASA to fully implement a National Laboratory and exploration platform in 

low Earth orbit, the International Space Station (ISS), which unites nations in a common pursuit of 

knowledge and experience to enable future exploration; and it enables partnership with commercial 

entities to provide crew services to low Earth orbit. The budget also supports developing a heavy lift 

rocket and crew capsule, with an un-crewed test flight planned for as early as 2017 and a crewed flight as 

early as 2021. In addition, it enables NASA to develop the James Webb Space Telescope with the goal of 

launch in 2018. As the successor to Hubble Space Telescope, James Webb Space Telescope will again 

revolutionize our understanding of the universe. 

After an unparalleled in-space construction process, we now have a unique orbiting outpost, the ISS. We 

will use it to improve life on Earth and help make the next great leaps in scientific discovery and 

exploration. With ISS now capable of operating at full capacity as a unique laboratory, we will enhance 

its usage by others in government, industry, and academia. 

At the same time, NASA is partnering with the U.S. commercial space industry to enable safe, reliable 

and cost-effective access to low Earth orbit for crew and cargo, and to reduce American reliance on 

foreign services. In calendar year 2012, we will see the first commercial cargo flights to the station, 

demonstrating the innovation and capabilities of our industry partners and eventually helping to ease our 

reliance on Russian transport of astronauts. We will continue to work with partners both large and small 

to develop end-to-end systems for transporting crew and cargo to orbit and the supporting technologies 

for this work. Opening this new segment of the economy will support good jobs and provide long-term 

economic benefits. 

Among our top priorities in 2013 is to make steady and tangible progress in the next great chapter of 

exploration. We will continue work on the next generation, deep space crew capsule and heavy-lift rocket 

and meet major milestones in both areas. Using existing hardware and capabilities to the extent feasible to 

conduct early tests, the Agency will make faster progress toward a system that ultimately will have 

greater capability than ever before to carry humans and cargo to deep space. 

Our science missions have led the world in amazing discoveries, and in 2013 we will build on that strong 

and balanced portfolio. Continuing and newly operational missions will return data that will facilitate 

SUM-1 
NASA FY 2013 BUDGET REQUEST EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

MESSAGE FROM THE ADMINISTRATOR

scientific discovery for years to come and new missions will chart our next frontiers. Another priority for 

the Agency is successful execution of the James Webb Space Telescope, which we continue to develop 

and test leading to its planned launch in 2018. With James Webb Space Telescope and other ongoing 

projects, we will reach farther into our solar system, reveal unknown aspects of the universe and provide 

critical data about our home planet. We are developing an integrated strategy to ensure that the next steps 

for the robotic Mars Exploration program will support long-term human exploration goals as well as 

science and meet the President’s challenge to send humans to Mars in the mid-2030s. The Mars Science 

Laboratory will reach the Red Planet in August, renewing the vast public interest in such scientific 

exploration and making discoveries about our neighbor's potential habitability both now and in the past. 

To improve our Nation’s capabilities in the skies and in space and enhance life for millions here on Earth, 

we are driving advances in new aviation and space technologies like laser communications and zerogravity propellant transfer. These advances will seed innovation that will support economic vitality and 

help create new jobs and expanded opportunities for a skilled workforce. 

NASA can provide hands-on experience and inspiration as few other agencies can. To foster the U.S. 

workforce, NASA's education programs will focus on demonstrable results and capitalize on the Agency's 

ability to inspire students and educators through unique missions and the big challenges that help today's 

young people envision a future in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. 

NASA's 2013 budget implements President Obama's vision for an American space program with much 

greater capabilities that it has today and the flexibility and determination to reach new destinations with 

human and robotic explorers. Our plan sets us on a path as a nation to achieve even greater goals and to 

make life better around the world as we strive to meet these grand challenges. 

Charles F. Bolden, Jr. 

NASA Administrator 

SUM-2 
NASA FY 2013 BUDGET REQUEST EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS

NASA and the Nation are embarking upon an ambitious program of space exploration that will build on 

new technologies as well as proven capabilities as we expand our reach out into the Solar System. 

Despite tough economic times, the FY 2013 budget request continues to implement the space exploration 

program agreed to by the President and a bipartisan majority in Congress, laying the foundation for 

remarkable discoveries here on Earth and deep in space, and will lead to myriad benefits for U.S. citizens 

and people around the world. 

The FY 2013 budget request continues to develop innovative science missions that will reach farther into 

our solar system, reveal unknown aspects of our universe and provide critical data about our home planet. 

Data from NASA’s Earth observing satellites is essential in understanding climate change, predicting 

severe weather events, and responding to global disasters. In addition, NASA is taking a fresh look at 

robotic Mars exploration to develop a more integrated approach that advances scientific and human 

exploration objectives that are consistent with available budget resources and priorities in the Planetary 

Science decadal survey. NASA remains interested in working with ESA and other international partners 

to identify opportunities to cooperate in Mars exploration consistent with the budgets available to the 

agencies. Moreover, Mars exploration remains an important component of NASA’s planetary exploration 

efforts. The missions currently operating on the surface and orbiting Mars, the 2011 Mars Science 

Laboratory now on its way, and 2013 Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN), which is well 

into development, will be providing us with many years of data to analyze. This information is providing 

fundamental knowledge that enables us to understand our nearest planetary neighbor and plan the 

requirements for human visits in future years. 

The proposed budget allows NASA to fully implement a national laboratory and exploration platform in 

space, ISS, which unites nations in a common pursuit of knowledge and experience to enable future 

exploration. The budget also supports developing a heavy lift rocket and crew capsule, with an un-crewed 

test flight planned for as early as 2017 and a crewed flight as early as 2021. In addition, it enables NASA 

to develop the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) with the goal of launch in 2018. As the successor to 

Hubble Space Telescope, JWST will again revolutionize our understanding of the universe. 

The FY 2013 budget provides the funds necessary to end U.S. reliance on Russian vehicles for crew 

transportation to ISS by 2017, leveraging investments being made by multiple domestic companies across 

the country to develop crew transportation systems. The budget also provides funds to purchase cargo 

transportation to the ISS from commercial providers, following through on the promise of the past 

Commercial Orbital Transportation Services (COTS) program. The capabilities resulting from the former 

COTS and current Commercial Crew programs will provide a commercial market for access to space that 

academia, research organizations, and corporations will use to develop new technologies and products, 

and result in the creation of high-technology jobs across many sectors of the economy. 

For NASA, this investment will ultimately enable domestic suppliers of safe, reliable, and cost-effective 

access to low Earth orbit for crew and cargo and to lessen American reliance on foreign services. Through 

these partnerships, NASA invests in research and technology that will also enable long-term deep space 

exploration to destinations including asteroids and Mars and its environs. 

NASA is pursuing a portfolio of research and technology investments that will increase the Nation’s 

capability to operate in space and enable long-term deep space exploration. These investments, which will 

increase the capability and decrease the cost of NASA, commercial, and other government space 

SUM-3 
NASA FY 2013 BUDGET REQUEST EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS

activities, include numerous high payoff, high-risk technology projects that industry cannot tackle today. 

NASA is driving advances in new aviation and space technologies like improved atomic clocks, laser 

communications and zero-gravity propellant transfer, seeding innovation to expand our capabilities in the 

skies and in space, to support economic vitality, and to help create new jobs and expanded opportunities 

for a skilled workforce. 

NASA strives for sound budgeting and scheduling for all missions and programs since realistic planning 

is the foundation on which success is built. Schedules and budgets must include a complete cost analysis 

from concept design to the end of the life cycle. To the greatest extent possible, development risks must 

be identified, planning impacts assessed, and resources to mitigate the risks and impacts must be available 

when they are needed. Aggressive management controls and oversight, a full understanding of costs and 

benefits, and improved coordination and communication at all support levels will lessen risks and 

improve the likelihood of mission success within cost and funding allowances. Increasing the Agency’s 

accountability and transparency will help reassure the public that NASA remains a good steward of 

taxpayer dollars. 

The FY 2013 budget request enables NASA to maintain America’s leadership in space. It transitions the 

Agency from planning to implementing human exploration activities. It allows us to build, to share and 

discover. 

The President’s 2013 Budget Request provides $17.7 billion to support NASA in its mission to drive 

advances in science, technology, and exploration to enhance knowledge, education, innovation, economic 

vitality, and stewardship of the Earth. If enacted, NASA would make key investments in programs that 

will ensure American leadership in space science and exploration, support the development of new space 

capabilities, make air travel safer and more affordable, and answer important scientific questions about 

Earth, the solar system, and the universe. 

SCIENCE IS ANSWERING ENDURING QUESTIONS IN, FROM, AND ABOUT SPACE

NASA’s Science account funds the development of innovative satellite missions and instruments to 

enable scientists to conduct research to understand the Earth, the Sun, and the planetary bodies in our 

solar system, and to unravel the mysteries of the universe. These discoveries continue to inspire the next 

generation of scientists, engineers and explorers. The FY 2013 budget request for Science is 

$4,911.2 million. 

In August 2012, after a journey of more than six months, the most capable rover ever envisioned for 

another planet is scheduled to land on Mars. The Mars Science Laboratory rover, called Curiosity, is 

targeted at a precise location with a suite of highly capable science instruments designed to determine 

whether Mars is or has ever been an environment able to support life. It will do so by chemically 

analyzing samples collected in various ways, including scooping up regolith, drilling into rocks and 

vaporizing some with lasers, and sniffing the atmosphere. At the end of 2013, after completing final 

integration and test, the 2013 MAVEN mission will be shipped to the launch site. In addition, as 

discussed above, in FY 2013, NASA will implement a lower-cost approach to Mars exploration that will 

better integrate scientific objectives with long-term human exploration goals. 

SUM-4 
NASA FY 2013 BUDGET REQUEST EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS

Activities on other missions scheduled for launch in this decade also continue. For example, the Lunar 

Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer (LADEE) is scheduled for launch to the Moon late in 2013, 

and will characterize the lunar atmosphere and dust environment. The FY 2013 budget also supports 

formulation of the Origins-Spectral Interpretation-Resource Identification-Security-Regolith Explorer 

(OSIRIS-REx), which will return and analyze asteroid material and pave the way for human exploration 

of an asteroid. The Agency will continue development of JWST, the successor to the Hubble Space 

Telescope, with completion of instrument deliveries and significant progress on the sunshield, main 

structural element and the optical telescope. FY 2013 will see the commissioning and early operation of 

the Radiation Belt Storm Probes to be launched this September. The FY 2013 budget will fund continued 

development of the Magnetospheric MultiScale (MMS) mission and advance the formulation of Solar 

Probe-Plus. The Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM) is scheduled to launch in January 2013 and 

will provide global multispectral data of the Earth’s surface for use by agriculture, education, business, 

government and science. Data from the entire constellation of NASA’s Earth observing satellites will 

continue to advance the Nation’s capability to predict changes in climate, weather and natural hazards and 

inform decision-making to enhance our economic and environmental security. 

AERONAUTICS IMPROVES AIR TRAVEL FOR ALL 

NASA’s investment in Aeronautics advances the safety, reliability, capacity, and efficiency of air travel. 

The FY 2013 budget request for Aeronautics is $551.5 million. 

Research in aeronautics disciplines improves the safety, performance and future capability of the aircraft 

industry. The Agency supports development of new technologies, as well as the most effective application 

of those technologies, enabling increases in capacity while reducing environmental pollution and noise 

emissions. NASA’s research in revolutionary aeronautics concepts may lead to breakthroughs that could 

one day change the face of air transportation. In FY 2013, NASA will collaborate with the Federal 

Aviation Administration on their certification requirements related to engine icing. NASA’s research in 

atmospheric conditions will help to reduce the harmful impact of this icing condition. The Agency will 

also test an alternate routing tool that will help save time, fuel, and distance traveled through severe 

weather conditions. Green technologies continue to be an Agency aviation priority, and a new variablespeed transmission test facility at the Glenn Research Center will allow engineers to test rotorcraft for fuel 

efficiencies, saving potentially 25 percent of energy normally consumed. 

SPACE TECHNOLOGY EXPANDS THE NATION’S ABILITY TO OPERATE IN SPACE

Space Technology will be building, testing and flying the technologies required for the space missions of 

tomorrow. The FY 2013 budget request for Space Technology is $699.0 million. 

American technological leadership is vital to National security, economic prosperity, and global position. 

The leadership position of the U.S. today is the is due in part to the technological investments made in 

earlier decades, when engineers, scientists and elected officials established basic and applied research and 

engineering facilities, effective oversight organizations, and robust competitively funded programs. That 

focus spurred economic growth, and led to the creation of new industries, products and services that 

continue to yield lasting benefits. NASA prepares for the future by generating new technologies for use 

by NASA, other Government agencies, and U.S. industry. In addition, Space Technology pursues 

SUM-5 
NASA FY 2013 BUDGET REQUEST EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS

advancements in areas such as propulsion; entry, descent, and landing systems; optical communications; 

space power systems; radiation protection; and cryogenic fluid handling because they are essential for 

human exploration beyond low Earth orbit. 

In FY 2013, NASA will move the development and testing of entry, descent, and landing systems from 

the Aeronautics account to Space Technology, better leveraging the Agency-wide knowledge base in 

these research areas. Space Technology will also advance high-priority, high-visibility technical areas 

through testing and launch milestones of a laser communications relay demonstration, a deep space 

atomic clock, and activities related to storage and transfer of cryogenic propellants, among others. NASA 

will continue to stimulate a U.S. economic powerhouse, the small business sector, through the 

competitive Small Business Innovative Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs. 

EXPANDING HUMAN EXPLORATION OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM

Exploration ensures that the United States continues its leadership position in space exploration. The FY 

2013 budget request for Exploration is $4,076.5 million (including $143.7 million of exploration-related 

construction of facilities funding included in the Construction and Environmental Compliance and 

Restoration, or CECR account). 

Activity within the Exploration account supports forward-looking development of systems and 

capabilities required for human exploration of space beyond low Earth orbit. This includes launch and 

crew vehicles for missions beyond low Earth orbit, developing affordable commercial means to provide 

crew access to the ISS, technologies and countermeasures to keep astronauts healthy and functional 

during deep space missions, and technologies to reduce launch mass and cost of deep space missions. In 

FY 2013, NASA will prepare for the first exploration flight test of the Orion Multi Purpose Crew Vehicle 

(Orion MPCV) scheduled for early 2014. Conducting this test before the Orion MPCV critical design 

review will reduce program cost and schedule risks by allowing actual flight data to influence the final 

design of critical spacecraft systems, thereby avoiding increased ground testing and costly redesign 

efforts. The Agency will also pursue Space Act Agreements with industry to support the next design and 

development phase of commercial crew transportation systems. 

SPACE OPERATIONS LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR EXPLORATION AND 

DISCOVERY

Space Operations focuses on enabling and safeguarding current human spaceflight activity in and beyond 

low Earth orbit. The FY 2013 budget request for Space Operations is $4,109.1 million. 

A mainstay of Space Operations work is managing the maintenance, operations, research portfolio, and 

resupply of ISS. Another essential element is providing secure and dependable space communications to 

ground stations. This work enables not just human exploration, but provides essential space 

communications networks for science instruments orbiting the Earth and exploring the solar system. In 

FY 2013, NASA will continue to train astronaut crews for the ISS, collaborate with the non-governmental 

organization selected for managing ISS research, and procure resupply services from the commercial 

rocket sector. The 21st Century Space Launch Complex (21CSLC) will move forward, from planning and 

concept validation studies to upgrading systems and equipment, implementing environmental protection 

SUM-6 
NASA FY 2013 BUDGET REQUEST EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS

measures, and preparing capabilities to meet the needs of NASA and other potential customers. Vital 

space communications networks and links will be protected as NASA begins to upgrade the aging fleet of 

Tracking and Relay Data Satellites. Finally, close out activities for the Space Shuttle will continue, as the 

orbiters are made safe and prepared to move into their new roles at public science facilities across the 

United States. 

EDUCATION BUILDS A FUTURE WORKFORCE

NASA’s education programs share the excitement of the Agency’s science and engineering missions with 

students, educators, and the public. The FY 2013 budget request for Education is $100.0 million. 

NASA attracts learners to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) study and 

careers by engaging them in the Agency’s missions, by fostering collaborative relationships between 

learners and the current NASA workforce, and offering learners opportunities to work in Agency 

facilities. Hands-on challenges with NASA experts aim to generate interest in undergraduate STEM study 

and thereby increase the number of students who seek employment in aerospace or related STEM fields. 

In FY 2013, NASA's STEM education program will focus on competitive opportunities for learners and 

educators. Planned activities will serve middle school audiences; offer pre- and in-service educator 

professional development; provide experiential opportunities for high school and undergraduate students; 

and will align with the five-year multi-agency STEM education strategic plan forthcoming from the 

National Science and Technology Council’s Committee on STEM Education. 

EXCELLENCE IN OPERATIONS FOR MISSION SUCCESS

NASA’s investment in Cross Agency Support and Construction and Environmental Compliance and 

Restoration accounts enable the Agency to conduct day-to-day technical and business operations. These 

organizations provide the workforce with the proper services, tools and equipment to complete essential 

tasks, protect and maintain the security and integrity of information and assets, and ensure that personnel 

work under safe and healthy conditions. The FY 2013 budget request for Cross Agency Support is 

$2,847.5 million, and the request for Construction and Environmental Compliance and Restoration is 

$619.2 million. 

In FY 2013, NASA will continue to seek and implement additional operational efficiencies across the 

Agency. An aggressive savings campaign in support of the Administration’s Campaign to Cut Waste 

enables the Agency to maximize its investments on mission priorities. Collaboration with other Federal 

agencies and industry optimizes use of capabilities that may exist outside of the Agency (e.g., thermal 

vacuum chambers), creating greater Government-wide efficiencies. NASA will increase its efforts to 

identify and avoid counterfeit parts, as sub-standard components can lead to costly loss of mission or even 

loss of life. NASA has also trimmed Center and Headquarters services to essentials, including facilities 

maintenance and repair, and IT services. Consolidation of service contracts will further reduce operating 

costs and leverage new systems and processes. 

Construction and Environmental Compliance and Restoration will continue to manage the Agency’s 

facilities with an eye on reducing infrastructure, implementing efficiency and high performance upgrades, 

and prioritizing repairs to achieve the greatest return on investment. In FY 2013 NASA continues to 

SUM-7 
NASA FY 2013 BUDGET REQUEST EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS

consolidate facilities to achieve greater operational efficiency, notably combining arc jet testing activities 

at Ames Research Center and Johnson Space Center into one complete facility at Ames. NASA will 

decommission and continue preparations to dispose of property and equipment no longer needed for 

missions, including the mate/demate shuttle devices at Dryden Flight Research Facility and White Sands 

Testing Facility. The Agency will also complete interim soil clean up at the Santa Susana Field 

Laboratory, and publish environmental impact statements. 

SUM-8 
NASA FY 2013 BUDGET REQUEST EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

NOTES ON THE NASA BUDGET REQUEST

NASA’S WORKFORCE

NASA’s workforce continues to be its greatest asset to enable its missions in space and on Earth. The 

Agency remains committed to applying this asset to benefit society; address contemporary environmental 

and social issues; lead or participate in emerging technology opportunities; collaborate and strengthen the 

capabilities of commercial partners both large and small; and communicate the challenges and results of 

Agency programs and activities. The civil service staffing levels proposed in the FY 2013 budget support 

NASA’s scientists, engineers, researchers, managers, technicians, educators, and business operations 

workforce. It includes civil service personnel at all NASA Centers, Headquarters, and NASA-operated 

facilities. The mix of skills and distribution of workforce across the Agency is, however, necessarily 

changing. 

NASA continues to adjust its workforce size and skills-mix to address changing mission priorities, a new 

emphasis on industry and academic partnerships, and a leaner fiscal environment. While a civil service 

workforce is critical for conducting mission-essential work in research and technology, some reduction to 

workforce levels is necessary in response to the leaner fiscal environment at the Agency. NASA will 

reduce the size of the civil service workforce by more than 250 full-time equivalents (FTE) from FY 2012 

to FY 2013, stabilizing the workforce at just over 18,000 FTE. This decline addresses workforce at 

several Centers affected by changes in the human space flight portfolio and takes into account a hiring 

slowdown across most Centers in response to Agency budget reductions. It also reflects the planned end 

of a temporary FTE increase granted in FY 2010 and FY 2011 to encourage early career hiring at Centers. 

The Agency will apply the valued civil service workforce to priority mission work, adjusting skill mix 

where appropriate. Centers will explore cross-mission retraining opportunities whenever possible, 

continue offering targeted buyouts in selected surplus skill areas, and continue to identify, recruit and 

retain employees who possess essential/critical skills and competencies. 

A SINGLE HUMAN EXPLORATION AND OPERATIONS MISSION DIRECTORATE 

LEVERAGES KNOWLEDGE ABOUT HUMAN SPACEFLIGHT

In 2011, NASA created the Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD) through a 

merger of the Exploration Systems and Space Operations mission directorates. This new, integrated 

organization is uniquely equipped to implement NASA’s human spaceflight goals to achieve a safe, 

reliable, and affordable program that will sustain human space exploration efforts over the long term. The 

new structure ensures that knowledge and lessons learned from Space Shuttle and ISS activities and 

contracted operations services are embedded within the Agency’s forward-looking engineering design 

and exploration capabilities development. Creation of a single human spaceflight organization also 

provides the Agency with an integrated commercial transportation program for the ISS; simplified 

external relationships with industry and international partners; and streamlined internal efforts among 

NASA Centers for more efficient operations. 

HEOMD manages both the Exploration and Space Operations budget accounts. 

SUM-9 
NASA FY 2013 BUDGET REQUEST EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

NOTES ON THE NASA BUDGET REQUEST

OPERATING EFFICIENTLY AND MAXIMIZING PROGRAMMATIC FUNDS

NASA is undertaking several initiatives to improve operational and administrative efficiencies. 

Highlighted below are several actions NASA plans to implement in FY 2013 to achieve targeted savings 

of at least $200 million from FY 2010 levels. Savings in administrative and operational areas help offset 

potential reductions to NASA’s science and engineering missions. 

Continue compliance with Executive Order 13576, Delivering an Efficient, Effective and 

Accountable Government, and Executive Order 13589, Promoting Efficient Spending. 

NASA has targeted savings through reductions to travel and relocation, printing, advisory services, and 

general supplies and materials. Examples of specific actions being taken to reduce FY 2013 costs include: 

• Reducing instructor-led or other training with a high per participant cost. NASA will increase its 

use of Web-enabled opportunities and, peer-to-peer sharing of experiences; 

Reducing non-mission critical face-to-face travel, increasing use of video conferencing and Webenabled technologies; 

Reducing color printing and copying; 

Centralizing and/ or consolidating procurement of items, such as supplies and materials; 

Increasing use of in-house advisory service capabilities in lieu of out-of-house capabilities, where 

and when delays are acceptable; and 

Reducing baseline service levels commensurate with funding (e.g., longer processing/response 

time, or less frequent occurrence, of certain services). 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Purchase and management of IT devices. 

In FY 2013, NASA is implementing several initiatives to reduce costs associated with IT devices, 

specifically: 

• Consolidating and integrating individual Center local help desks and ordering systems through 

the Phase II Enterprise Service Desk activity; 

Encouraging the use of employee-owned personal computers enabling employees to bring in their 

personal computers instead of using Government-supplied equipment. This approach is made 

possible by allowing personal computers to securely access NASA services; and 

Implementing a telephone replacement using a mixed mode strategy based on the nature of work 

conducted by personnel. The mixed mode implementation allows replacement of desk phones 

with a VoIP implementation, use of cellular phones and smart phones, and cellular devices using 

institutional and wireless connection to the internet. 

• 

• 

In addition to the savings initiatives listed above to achieve at least $200 million in targeted 

activities/functions, NASA has implemented the following actions to achieve additional 

operational efficiencies: 

Utility savings. 

NASA is continuing to aggressively implement energy, water, and other utility cost savings in three ways: 

• Improving efficiency. NASA is installing energy-efficient lighting, utilizing daylighting, 

SUM-10 
NASA FY 2013 BUDGET REQUEST EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

NOTES ON THE NASA BUDGET REQUEST

retrofitting HVAC systems, improving metering and control systems, and unplugging unneeded 

appliances and equipment; 

Consolidating energy-intensive operations. By re-configuring operations, NASA can reduce 

operations costs; and 

Renegotiating utility contracts. NASA has been working with utility and energy service suppliers 

to reduce the rates paid for utility services. 

• 

• 

Right-sizing infrastructure. 

The Agency continues to actively take steps towards right-sizing its infrastructure. This initiative has 

reduced the number of active facilities, resulting in operational savings. 

During these times of constrained Federal budgets, NASA leadership fully understands and appreciates 

the need to reduce costs where appropriate. NASA is committed to continuing its efforts to promote 

efficient spending and reduce operating and overhead costs. 

SUM-11 
NASA FY 2013 BUDGET REQUEST EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

EXPLANATION OF BUDGET TABLES

NASA presents the FY 2013 budget request in full-cost, where all project costs are allocated to the 

project, including labor funding for the Agency’s civil service workforce. Note that budget figures in 

tables may not add due to rounding. 

OUTYEAR FUNDING ASSUMPTIONS

At this time, funding lines beyond FY 2013 should be considered notional. In general, NASA accounts 

are held at their FY 2013 request level, adjusted for the amounts transferred to the construction account in 

FY 2013. 

NASA REQUESTS CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES IN ONE ACCOUNT

Per Congressional direction, NASA formulated the FY 2013 budget request to include programmatic 

construction of facilities (CoF) in the Construction and Environmental Compliance and Remediation 

(CECR) account. This eliminates the need for large-scale transfers of budget authority from the mission 

accounts to CECR during program execution. NASA cannot estimate planning for future CoF 

requirements in the notional outyears with certainty. Therefore, potential programmatic CoF requests for 

the outyears remain included in the mission, and not CECR accounts. Programmatic CoF requirements 

will be finalized annually, and CECR and mission budgets adjusted accordingly. 

BUDGET TABLES ADJUSTED FOR COMPARABILITY

As requested by Congress in House Report 112-284, the FY 2011 actual and FY 2012 estimates have 

been adjusted to display their budgets in a presentation that is “comparable” to the content of items 

proposed in the FY 2013 budget. This presentation allows direct comparability of yearly budget data 

associated with an investment, regardless of the account (or theme, program, etc.) in which it was or is 

being executed in. When either FY 2011 actual or FY 2012 estimates have been adjusted to facilitate 

comparability, an explanatory note is provided under the budget table. In addition, detailed crosswalks of 

the non-comparable FY 2011 actual and FY 2012 estimates to their comparable amounts are provided in 

the Supporting Data section of this volume. 

Some adjustments of note for comparable presentation include: 

• The FY 2011 programs under the Office of the Chief Technologist (OCT), which included 

portions of the Exploration account’s Exploration Technology Development program, Space 

Operations account’s Space Technology program, and the Cross Agency Support account’s 

Innovative Partnership Program are comparably displayed as consolidated under the Space 

Technology account. FY 2013 appropriations for the OCT’s programs are proposed under the 

Space Technology account, consistent with its FY 2012 appropriation. Tables in the Space 

Technology chapter explain how each of the FY 2011 OCT programs are comparably displayed. 

In response to FY 2012 Congressional direction, the FY 2013 budget proposes Exploration 

Ground Systems as a new program title under the Exploration account. Activities proposed for 

EGS in the FY 2013 budget are comparable to exploration-related ground operations activities 

performed under the Exploration account’s Space Launch Systems (SLS) and the Space 

• 

SUM-12 
NASA FY 2013 BUDGET REQUEST EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

EXPLANATION OF BUDGET TABLES

Operations account 21CSLC programs during FY 2011 and FY 2012. In addition, the FY 2013 

budget proposes to replace the Human Exploration Capabilities (HEC) theme in the Exploration 

account with an Exploration Systems Development (ESD) theme. ESD includes the Orion MultiPurpose Crew Vehicle and Space Launch Systems program that compose HEC, and it also 

includes EGS that is related to the SLS and 21CSLC programs. Detailed explanations are 

provided in the Exploration chapter of this volume. 

Funding for JWST in FY 2013 funding is proposed under its own theme under the Science 

account, as was provided in FY 2012 by Congress. For comparability, JWST FY 2011 funding 

under the Astrophysics theme is now displayed under the JWST theme. 

• 

FY 2012 RESCISSION OF PRIOR YEAR APPROPRIATIONS

Section 528(f) under Title V of the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations 

Act, 2012 (Division B of Public Law 112-55), rescinded $30 million in unobligated balances from 

NASA’s prior year appropriations. As displayed in the H.R. 2112 Conference Report (House Report 

112-284), the rescission of these prior year balances offset the $17.80 billion provided in Title III of the 

Act to derive the NASA total FY 2012 appropriation of $17.77 billion. NASA proposed distribution of 

the rescission amount across its accounts in its spending plan submitted to Congress on January 10, 2012. 

Consequently, the FY 2012 estimates in budget tables show amounts “net” of the rescission allocation 

proposed in the January 10, 2012 spending plan; furthermore, the amounts are adjusted for comparability. 

For example, the prior year funds that were allocated for institutional construction of facilities, no matter 

which account title they were rescinded from, are displayed against reductions against Institutional 

Construction of Facilities under the Construction and Environmental Compliance and Restoration account 

for comparability. 

SUM-13 
SCIENCE

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Earth Science

FY 2011

4,919.7

1,721.9

FY 2012

5,073.7

1,760.5

FY 2013

4,911.2

1,784.8

FY 2014

4,914.4

1,775.6

FY 2015 FY 2016

4,914.4

1,835.5

4,914.4

1,826.2

FY 2017

4,914.4

1,772.8

Planetary Science 1,450.8 1,501.4 1,192.3 1,133.7 1,102.0 1,119.4 1,198.8

Astrophysics 631.1 672.7 659.4 703.0 693.7 708.9 710.2

James Webb Space Telescope 476.8 518.6 627.6 659.1 646.6 621.6 571.1

Heliophysics

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

639.2

--

620.5

--

647.0

-162.5

643.0 636.7 638.3 661.6

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -3.2%

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

From the vantage point of space NASA captures breathtaking images of our world and the universe. These images 

advance our scientific understanding in a multitude of 

disciplines, but they also have the power to inform policy, 

influence action, and inspire learning. 

NASA’s Science Mission Directorate (SMD) 

conducts scientific exploration enabled by the 

use of space observatories and space probes that 

view the Earth from space, observe and visit 

other bodies in the solar system, and gaze out 

into the galaxy and beyond. NASA’s science 

program seeks answers to profound questions 

that touch us all: 

How and why are Earth’s climate and 

the environment changing? 

How and why does the Sun vary and 

affect Earth and the rest of the solar 

system? 

How do planets and life originate? 

How does the universe work, and what 

are its origin and destiny? 

Are we alone? 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

As NASA continues to pursue a robust Mars 

exploration program, the Agency is adjusting the mission profile so that critical science objectives can be 

achieved in a lean fiscal environment. The Agency continues to work towards defining future missions 

that will build upon scientific discoveries from past missions and incorporate the lessons learned from 

previous mission successes and failures. NASA remains committed to an ongoing Mars Exploration 

program of robotic exploration missions in support of an integrated strategy of scientific and human 

exploration, and intends to work with the science community and our international partners in the 

formulation of new missions. 

SCI-1 
SCIENCE

Earth Science adjusted mission timelines and budgets to accommodate increasing launch vehicle costs 

(for Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP), now scheduled to launch in FY 2015). The Agency continues 

with the pre-formulation studies, formulation, and development of other decadal study and continuity 

missions; however, several of these projects will be delayed. The planned launch vehicle for the Orbiting 

Carbon Observatory (OCO)-2 satellite was the Taurus XL. Following the Taurus XL failure in March 

2011 and the loss of NASA’s Glory mission, the contract for the Taurus XL was put on hold pending the 

outcome of a failure investigation. As a result, the OCO-2 launch date will change. 

NASA rebaselined the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) project, making significant changes in the 

management of JWST in 2011, in response to the poor cost and schedule performance and the 

recommendations of the Independent Comprehensive Review Panel (ICRP) report. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

SMD launched three key missions in FY 2011: Aquarius, Juno, and Gravity Recovery and Interior 

Laboratory (GRAIL). Aquarius will deliver global ocean salinity measurements to advance climate 

studies. After its five-year journey, Juno will deliver data that will allow scientists to learn more about 

Jupiter’s origins, structure, atmosphere and magnetosphere, and look for a potential solid planetary core. 

The GRAIL mission will help scientists determine the structure of the lunar interior from crust to core, 

and advance understanding of the thermal evolution of the Moon. 

NASA also moved other critical missions on the path to launch, completing final preparations for the 

Suomi NPOESS Preparatory Project (NPP) mission and the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL), both of 

which were successfully launched in early FY 2012. Suomi NPP will provide for continuation of selected 

climate data records and will become an integral part of the Nation’s operational meteorological satellite 

system for weather prediction. After landing on August 6, 2012, the MSL Curiosity rover will assess the 

habitability of Mars. 

New evidence from the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) suggests flowing water on Mars. A new 

sequence of images taken by MRO show “lineae,” narrow, dark streaks on steep slopes that appear and 

incrementally grow during warm seasons and fade in cold seasons, indicating that they are formed by 

liquid water moving down-slope whose origin is from a layer near the surface. 

Science discoveries and applications of NASA-provided data are numerous and are detailed in 

programmatic and project sections of this document. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

NASA is planning to launch several missions in FY 2013. The Landsat Data Continuity Mission 

(LDCM), scheduled to launch in December 2012, will be the eighth in the series of Landsat satellites and 

will observe and measure Earth’s continental and coastal landscapes. The Lunar Atmosphere and Dust 

Environment Explorer (LADEE) will orbit the Moon to characterize the atmosphere and lunar dust 

environment that is believed to be lofted above the surface at the sunrise or sundown on the moon. 

NASA will continue making discoveries that change the way we view the Earth, our Sun, and the 

universe. In FY 2013, NASA will begin obtaining data from 2011 Mars Science Laboratory (MSL). 

Operating under its own power, the Curiosity rover will use its ten instruments to analyze the 

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environment remotely, find targets of interest, take samples, and analyze them to assess whether or not 

Mars could have sustained life. 

Themes 

EARTH SCIENCE

From space, NASA satellites can view Earth as a planet and enable its study as a complex, dynamic 

system with diverse components: the oceans, atmosphere, continents, ice sheets, and life itself. The 

Nation’s scientific community can thereby observe and track global-scale changes, connecting causes to 

effects. They can study regional changes in their global context, as well as observe the role that human 

civilization plays as a force of change. Through partnerships with agencies that maintain forecasting and 

decision support systems, NASA improves national capabilities to predict climate, weather, and natural 

hazards, manage resources, and craft environmental policy. 

Budget Explanation 

The FY 2013 request is $1,784.8 million. This represents a $24.3 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($1,760.5 million). 

PLANETARY SCIENCE

NASA extends humankind’s virtual presence throughout the solar system via robotic space probes to 

other planets and their moons, to asteroids and comets, and to the icy bodies of the outer solar system. 

SMD is completing humankind’s first basic reconnaissance of the solar system by sending one mission to 

fly by Pluto and another that will visit two planet-sized asteroids, Ceres and Vesta. SMD is also in the 

midst of sustained investigation of Mars, launching a series of orbiters, landers, and rovers, with the longterm goal eventual human exploration. In addition, SMD is focusing on certain moons of the giant planets 

where current NASA missions see intriguing signs of surface activity and of liquid water within, knowing 

that on Earth, where there is water and an energy source, there is also life. 

Budget Explanation 

The FY 2013 request is $1,192.3 million. This represents a $309.1 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($1,501.4 million). 

ASTROPHYSICS

Some of the greatest minds of the last century discovered wondrous things about the physical universe: 

the Big Bang and black holes, dark matter and dark energy, and the interrelated nature of space and time. 

Their theories challenge scientists and NASA to use observations from space to test the limits of our 

understanding of fundamental physics. Having measured the age of the universe, the scientific community 

now seeks to explore its ultimate extremes: its birth, the edges of space and time near black holes, and the 

mysterious dark energy filling the entire universe. Scientists also seek to understand the relationship 

between the smallest of subatomic particles and the vast expanse of the cosmos. With hundreds of planets 

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around other stars now known, scientists are using current NASA missions in conjunction with groundbased telescopes to seek Earth-like planets in other solar systems. 

Budget Explanation 

The FY 2013 request is $659.4 million. This represents a $13.3 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($672.7 million). 

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE

JWST is a large, deployable, space-based infrared astronomical observatory. The mission is a logical 

successor to the Hubble Space Telescope, extending beyond Hubble’s discoveries by looking into the 

infrared spectrum, where the highly red-shifted early universe must be observed, where cool objects like 

protostars and protoplanetary disks emit infrared light strongly, and where dust obscures shorter 

wavelengths. 

Budget Explanation 

The FY 2013 request is $627.6 million. This represents a $109.0 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($518.6 million). 

HELIOPHYSICS

The solar system is governed by the Sun, a main-sequence star midway through its life. The Sun’s 

influence is wielded through its gravity, radiation, solar wind, and magnetic fields, all of which interact 

with the gravity, fields and atmospheres of Earth to produce space weather. Using a fleet of sensors on 

various spacecraft in Earth orbit and throughout the solar system, SMD seeks to understand how and why 

the Sun varies, how Earth responds, and how human activities are affected. The science of heliophysics 

enables the space weather predictions necessary to safeguard life and society on Earth and the outward 

journeys of human and robotic explorers. 

Budget Explanation 

The FY 2013 request is $647.0 million. This represents a $26.5 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($620.5 million). 

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EARTH SCIENCE

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 1,721.9 1,760.5 1,784.9 1,775.5 1,835.6 1,826.2 1,772.8

Earth Science Research 461.1 440.1 433.6 461.7 485.1 497.3 508.1

Earth Systematic Missions 841.2 881.1 886.0 787.6 813.2 835.6 756.4

Earth System Science Pathfinder 182.8 188.3 219.5 270.9 275.6 224.2 234.4

Earth Science Multi-Mission Operations 147.4 163.4 161.7 170.2 172.9 176.5 177.6

Earth Science Technology 52.8 51.2 49.5 50.1 52.1 54.1 56.1

Applied Sciences 36.6 36.4 34.6 35.0 36.7 38.4 40.1

EARTH SCIENCE RESEARCH .............................. ES-2 

EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS ........................... ES-11 

Global Precipitation Measurement [Development] ES-14 

LandSat Data Continuity Mission [Development] ES-21 

Ice, Cloud, and Land Elevation Satellite [Formulation] ES-28 

Soil Moisture Active and Passive [Formulation] ES-33 

Other Missions and Data Analysis [Operations] ES-38 

EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE PATHFINDER ................ ES-46 

Orbiting Carbon Observatory [Development] ES-48 

Venture Class Missions ES-55 

Other Missions and Data Analysis ES-60 

EARTH SCIENCE MULTI-MISSION OPERATIONS ..... ES-65 

EARTH SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY .......................... ES-70 

APPLIED SCIENCES ........................................ ES-75 

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EARTH SCIENCE RESEARCH

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 461.1 440.1 433.6 461.7 485.1 497.3 508.1

Earth Science Research and Analysis 299.0 332.3 324.3 327.8 336.4 343.7 347.9

Computing and Management 162.1 107.7 109.3 133.9 148.7 153.6 160.2

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -6.5

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -1.5%

 

Monthly groundwater storage anomalies for the 

Sacramento and San Joaquin River Basins in millimeters 

were measured by GRACE from October 2003 to March 

2010. The straight sloping dark line represents the overall 

trend in groundwater storage changes from the 78-month 

period. These significant changes would not have been 

measureable by any other means. The lighter gray lines 

represent the trends from October 2003, March 2006, and 

April 2006 through March 2010. 

NASA Earth Science Research advances 

understanding of the Earth system, its 

components and their interactions, its changes, 

and the consequences of these changes for life. 

Earth Science Research sponsors basic 

disciplinary and interdisciplinary research, 

Earth system modeling efforts, the Airborne 

Science project (which provides access to 

aircraft and unmanned aircraft systems), and 

supercomputing efforts supporting a variety of 

programs, as well as education and outreach. At 

least 90 percent of the funds of the program are 

competitively awarded to investigators from 

academia, the private sector, and NASA 

Centers. The program uses satellite and airborne 

measurements, coupled with cutting-edge 

analyses and numerical models, to turn 

observations into information and 

understanding. 

Earth system processes occur on a continuum of 

spatial and temporal scales and affect weather, 

climate, air quality, water resources, 

biodiversity, and other environmental aspects. 

The program pioneers the use of remote sensing 

data, primarily space-based, in new and innovative ways, and leverages NASA’s unique capabilities in 

global Earth observation. 

NASA takes an organized approach to address complex, interdisciplinary Earth science problems, 

integrating science across the programmatic elements in pursuit of a comprehensive understanding of the 

Earth system. The resulting programmatic structure comprises six interdisciplinary and interrelated 

science focus areas. These areas are: 

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• Climate Variability and Change: understanding the roles of ocean, atmosphere, land, and ice in 

the climate system and improving predictive capability for future evolution; 

Atmospheric Composition: understanding and improving predictive capability for changes in the 

ozone layer, climate forcing, and air quality associated with changes in atmospheric composition; 

Carbon Cycle and Ecosystems: quantifying, understanding and predicting changes in Earth’s 

ecosystems and biogeochemical cycles, including the global carbon cycle, land cover, and 

biodiversity; 

Water and Energy Cycle: quantifying the key reservoirs and fluxes in the global water cycle and 

assessing water cycle change and water quality; 

Weather: enabling improved predictive capability for weather and extreme weather events; and 

Earth Surface and Interior: characterizing the dynamics of the Earth surface and interior and 

forming the scientific basis for the assessment and mitigation of natural hazards and response to 

rare and extreme events. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

The research portfolio includes the competed Interdisciplinary Science project, with a focus on research 

in interdisciplinary areas. Present foci for the Interdisciplinary Science investigations include studies of 

the physics of the ocean-ice shelf interface and the impacts of urbanization on the environment. The 

research activities in the project also include the carbon cycle science team, and the Earth science 

education and outreach activity, directed funding to NASA Centers for Space Geodesy (for development 

and operation of essential, world-class geodetic networks), high-end computing and scientific computing, 

and global modeling and data assimilation. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

The revised budget allocations will result in slightly fewer grants to the research community (NASA 

Centers, universities, private, public, and non-profit sector laboratories) for the analysis and interpretation 

of data from satellites and field campaigns, as well as decreased effort by NASA investigators in 

predictive modeling designed to help scientists understand the future evolution of the earth system and its 

components. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

NASA researchers used data from ICESat’s Geoscience Laser Altimeter System and several other NASA 

satellite data sets to create the most precise map ever produced depicting the amount and location of 

carbon stored in Earth’s tropical forests. The results of this study provide a baseline for ongoing carbon 

monitoring and research and will serve as a critical resource for managing the carbon in our environment. 

The research examined information on the height of treetops from more than three million measurements. 

With the help of corresponding ground data, the amount of above-ground biomass and, thus, the amount 

of carbon in tropical forests was calculated. These data were then extrapolated over varying landscapes to 

produce a seamless map, using NASA imagery from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer 

(MODIS) instrument on NASA’s Terra spacecraft, the QuikScat scatterometer satellite, and the Shuttle 

Radar Topography Mission. The new map has provided a benchmark to be used for future comparison of 

the distribution of carbon stored in forests across more than 75 tropical countries. It shows that the forests 

in Latin America hold 49 percent of the carbon in the world’s tropical forests. For example, Brazil’s 

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carbon stock, at 61 billion tons, almost equals all of the carbon stock in sub-Saharan Africa, at 62 billion 

tons. 

Precision gravity measurements from the GRACE mission were used to quantify unsustainable drawdowns from underground freshwater aquifers. GRACE showed that the Sierra Nevada mountains 

(California’s major water source) and California’s Central Valley (America’s fruit basket) are 

experiencing significant rates of groundwater depletion. During the 2003 to 2010 time period studied, the 

combined Sacramento-San Joaquin River Basins aquifers under the state’s Central Valley were drawn 

down by 25 million acre-feet, almost enough to fill Lake Mead, the Nation’s largest freshwater reservoir. 

The work has resonated across the country, renewing calls for enhanced groundwater management. 

Using nine years of NASA satellite measurements of ocean surface temperature, tropical rainfall, and 

terrestrial forest fire intensity and extent, NASA-funded investigators used the data from the Tropical 

Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) spacecraft and MODIS on the Terra spacecraft to develop a 

predictive model relating South American fire season severity to ocean surface temperature anomalies. 

South American fires are important, owing to their large contributions to global carbon emissions and 

land-use change. The model enables forecasts of fire conditions with three to five month lead time. The 

investigation showed that ocean temperature conditions in both the Atlantic and the Pacific contribute (in 

different ways) to determining the year-to-year variations in fire season severity in South America. The 

long-lead forecasts enabled by the NASA measurements and research are essential for advancing 

effective mitigation and adaptation strategies. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

The FY 2013 budget request expands support initiated in FY 2011 and FY 2012 for investigators 

participating in the National Climate Assessment required under the Global Change Research Act of 

1990, including efforts in enabling tools, assessment capabilities and products, and contributing to 

authorship of the 2013 assessment. NASA-supported investigators will be contributing to the 

development of sustained assessment capability, as well as the completion of the 2013 report. A particular 

focus of the research and analysis program in FY 2013 will be on analysis and interpretation of data taken 

during a series of airborne and shipborne field campaigns taken during the 2010-2012 time period. 

Several high impact research areas are the motivation and focus of these campaigns. These are: 

• Improved understanding of hurricane development and forecasting for evacuation warnings from 

the hurricane-focused Genesis and Rapid Intensification Processes (GRIP) campaign of late 2010; 

Understanding of the impact of climate change (natural and anthropogenic) on the 

biogeochemistry and ecology of the Chukchi and Beaufort seas from the ship-based Impacts of 

Climate change on the Eco-Systems and Chemistry of the Arctic Pacific Environment (ICEScape) 

held in 2010 and 2011; 

The influence of Asian emissions on clouds, climate, and air quality and the role of the Asian 

monsoon circulation in governing upper atmospheric composition and chemistry from the multiaircraft Southeast Asia Composition, Cloud, Climate Coupling Regional Study based in Thailand 

in late 2012; 

Better understanding of the drivers of changes and fluctuations in salinity and how those changes 

relate to an acceleration of the global water cycle and climate change based on the Salinity 

Processes in the Upper Ocean Regional Study in the Atlantic Ocean in late 2012; and 

• 

• 

• 

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• The semi-annual IceBridge campaign, a NASA airborne mission to understand sea level rise and 

changing sea ice cover. IceBridge begun in 2009, it continues the ICESat time series of ice 

elevation measurements with Arctic campaigns in the spring and Antarctic in the fall. Finally 

several airborne campaigns will be carried out as part of the Earth Venture-2 competitive 

program, targeting a host of science questions such as air quality and carbon cycle science. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $433.6 million. This represents a $6.5 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($440.1 million). 

This decrease in the research and analysis program is due to the reallocation of funding based on Agency 

priorities. 

Projects 

EARTH SCIENCE RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS

The Earth Science Research and Analysis collection of projects consists of multiple projects and science 

teams: 

Research and Analysis (R&A) is the core of the research program and funds the analysis and 

interpretation of data from NASA’s satellites, and the scientific activity needed to establish a rigorous 

base for the satellite data and their use in computational models (for both assimilation and forecasting). 

R&A also addresses the Earth system and the interactions between its components, characterizing them 

on a broad range of spatial and temporal scales to understand the naturally occurring and human-induced 

processes that drive the overall system. 

Airborne Science supports NASA’s Earth science manned and unmanned aircraft, including operation of 

a range of NASA-owned and leased aircraft. These assets are used worldwide in campaigns to investigate 

extreme weather events (e.g., hurricanes), observe Earth system processes, obtain data for Earth science 

modeling activities, and calibrate instruments flying aboard Earth science spacecraft. 

Interdisciplinary Science includes science investigations and calibration and validation activities that 

ensure the utility of space borne measurements. In addition, it supports focused field work (e.g., airborne 

campaigns) and specific facility instruments that are heavily relied upon in field work. 

Carbon Cycle Science funds research on the distribution and cycling of carbon among the Earth’s active 

land, ocean, and atmospheric reservoirs. 

The Global Modeling and Assimilation Office, located at GSFC, creates global climate and Earth system 

component models using data from Earth science satellites and aircraft. Investigators can then use these 

products worldwide to further their research. 

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EARTH SCIENCE RESEARCH

Ozone Trends Science produces a consistent, calibrated ozone time series that can be used for trend 

analyses and other studies. 

Education and Outreach supports NASA’s educational goals and communicates the results from Earth 

science missions and research. It also continues the worldwide implementation and U.S. coordination of 

the GLOBE program, which is an international collaboration of students and teachers from 111 countries 

who collect and share information about the health of the environment. 

Fellowships and New Investigators support graduate and early career research in the areas of Earth 

system research and applied science. 

Earth Science Directed Research and Technology funds the civil service staff that will work on emerging 

Earth Science flight projects, instruments and research. The workforce and funding will transfer to 

projects by the beginning of FY 2013. 

Space Geodesy provides global geodetic positioning and support for geodetic reference frames necessary 

for climate change and geohazards research and applications and their associated missions. 

COMPUTING AND MANAGEMENT

To turn data into information and information into knowledge, NASA’s supercomputers are used to 

analyze NASA satellite or telescope observations (e.g., understanding the cloud and climate feedback and 

discovering exoplanets using Kepler data) and develop and validate fundamental theories (e.g. the 

interactions between atmosphere, land and ocean). 

The Computing and Management collection of projects consists of three projects: 

High-End Computing Capability (HECC) is a project at ARC that is focused around the Columbia and 

Pleiades supercomputer systems and the associated network connectivity, data storage, data analysis, 

visualization, and application software support. SMD currently funds and manages HECC resources, 

which serve the supercomputing needs of all NASA mission directorates and NASA-supported principal 

investigators at universities. SMD funding supports the operation, maintenance, and upgrade of NASA’s 

supercomputing capability, while the Strategic Capabilities Assets Program exercises oversight and 

insight functions. The two systems, with a total of about 117,500 computer processor cores, support 

NASA’s aeronautics, human exploration, space operation, and science missions. 

Scientific Computing funds NASA’s Earth Science Discover computing system, software engineering, 

and user interface projects at GSFC, including climate assessment modeling carried out at the Goddard 

Institute for Space Studies. Scientific Computing supports Earth science modeling activities based on data 

collected by Earth science spacecraft. The system is separate from the HECC so it can be close to the 

satellite data archives at GSFC. The proximity to the data and the focus on satellite data assimilation 

makes the Discover cluster unique in the ability to analyze large volume of satellite data quickly. The 

system currently has a total of about 31,400 computer processor cores. 

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Directorate Support funds SMD institutional and cross-cutting activities, including: National Academies 

studies, proposal peer review processes, printing and graphics, IT, the NASA Postdoctoral Fellowship 

program, working group support, independent assessment studies, and other administrative tasks. 

Program Schedule 

The Earth Science research program is implemented via competitively selected research. Research 

solicitations are released each year in the Research Opportunites in Space and Earth Sciences NASA 

Research Announcements (ROSES NRA), typically aiming to initiate research for about one third of the 

program, given the selected projects are typically three-year awards. Therefore, FY 2013 funds will be 

allocated to first year projects from ROSES-2012 selections, second year of projects from ROSES-2011 

selections, and third year of projects from FY 2010 selections. 

ROSES-2012 

solicitation

02/2012

ROSES-2012 

selection within sixnine months of 

receipt of proposals

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Program Management & Commitments 

The Earth Science theme manages the research program. GSFC implements scientific computing and 

ARC implements HECC. 

Project/Element Provider

R&A Provider: SMD

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: HQ

Cost Share: US Global Change Research Program 

(USGCRP) and Subcommittee on Ocean Science and 

Technology (SOST) agencies

Interdisciplinary 

Science

Provider: SMD

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: HQ

Cost Share: USGCRP and SOST agencies

Carbon Cycle 

Team

Provider: SMD

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: GSFC, JPL, ARC

Cost Share: USGCRP and SOST agencies

Ozone Trends 

Science

Provider: SMD

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: GSFC, LaRC

Cost Share: USGCRP and SOST agencies

Airborne Science Provider: SMD

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: GSFC, DFRC, ARC

Cost Share: FAA, DOD, DOE, NSF, NOAA

High End 

Computing 

Capability

Provider: SMD

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: ARC

Cost Share: DoD, DOE

Scientific 

Computing 

Provider: SMD

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: DoD, DOE

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Project/Element Provider

Global Modeling 

and Assimilation 

Office

Provider: SMD

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Space Geodesy Provider: SMD

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: GSFC, JPL

Cost Share: N/A

ES Education and 

Outreach Activity

Provider: SMD, intra-agency

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: All

Cost Share: N/A

Provider: SMD, intra-agency

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: All

Cost Share: N/A

Fellowships and 

New Investigators

Acquisition Strategy 

The R&A project constitutes the core of the NASA Earth Science Research program and accounts for 

about half of its total budget. Investigations are primarily competed via the annual SMD ROSES 

solicitations. ROSES-2012, planned for release in February 2012, will result in grants funded with FY 

2013 funding and two subsequent years. The Earth Science Research program is based on full and open 

competition, and at least 90 percent of the funds of the program are competitively awarded to 

investigators from academia, the private sector, and NASA Centers. All proposals in response to NASA 

ROSES and other related announcements are peer reviewed and selected based on defined criteria. 

Additionally, the program continues the funding of research tasks solicited in prior year ROSES 

solicitations as they progress into their subsequent years. 

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INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Relevance NASA Advisory 

Council (NAC) 

Earth Science 

Subcommittee 

(ESS)

2011 NAC ESS reviews progress towards 

Earth Science objectives in the NASA 

Strategic Plan annually. During its 2011 

meeting, the ESS reviewed and rated the 

Earth Science Division science metrics 

based on submitted accomplishments 

and peer-reviewed publications for FY 

2011 in support of reporting 

requirements of the Government 

Performance and Results Act (GPRA) 

Modernization Act of 2010. All six 

science focus areas were rated "green" as 

documented in the FY 2011 

Performance and Accountability Report. 

The next review is scheduled for 2012.

2012

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EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 841.2 881.1 886.0 787.6 813.2 835.6 756.4

Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) 133.6 92.9 88.0 66.2 19.1 18.1 10.2

Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM) 166.0 159.3 54.7 2.1 2.1 2.2 2.3

Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite 

(ICESat-II) 59.7 120.5 157.2 145.4 89.7 92.7 14.1

Soil Moisture Active and Passive (SMAP) 92.5 176.3 237.4 89.1 86.7 15.9 11.3

Other Missions and Data Analysis 389.5 332.0 348.7 484.7 615.7 706.7 718.5

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 4.9

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 0.6%

On August 27, 2011, Hurricane Irene's center was still 

over eastern North Carolina. This visible image was 

captured by the MODIS instrument on NASA's Aqua 

satellite. 

Earth Systematic Missions (ESM) includes a 

broad range of multi-disciplinary science 

investigations aimed at developing a scientific 

understanding of the Earth system and its 

response to natural and human-induced forces and 

changes. Understanding these forces will help in 

determining how to predict future changes, 

possibly to mitigate them if possible, and how to 

adapt where mitigation is not possible. The 

regional consequences of these forces e.g. 

changes in precipitation patterns, length of 

growing seasons, severity of storms, change of sea 

level, must be understood to determine which 

aspects of climate change are most harmful and 

how to adapt to those changes that cannot be 

mitigated. 

The ESM program develops Earth observing 

research satellite missions, manages the operation 

of NASA facility research missions once on orbit, 

and produces standard mission products in 

support of NASA and National research, 

applications, and policy communities. 

Interagency and international partnerships are a central element throughout the ESM program. Several of 

the on-orbit missions provide data products in near-real time for use by U.S. and international 

meteorological agencies and disaster responders. Five of the on-orbit missions involved significant 

international or interagency collaboration in development, and a four satellite A-Train formation flying 

constellation (Aqua, CloudSat, CALIPSO, and Aura) consists of both NASA and international missions. 

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EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

One of the six ESM program’s foundational missions presently in development involve interagency 

collaboration (LDCM), while two others are joint projects with international partners: GPM is being done 

in cooperation with the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and the GRACE Follow On 

(GRACE-FO) mission is a partnership between NASA and the German Space and Earth Science 

agencies. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

The program has adjusted the mission timelines and budgets to accommodate increasing launch vehicle 

costs (for SMAP) and the reallocation of funding based on Agency priorities. The SMAP launch date and 

funding profile is driven by launch vehicle availability and the current plan supports an early FY 2015 

launch. The Agency continues with the pre-formulation studies, formulation, and development of other 

Decadal and climate missions such as DESDynI, GRACE FO, SWOT, PACE, and on pre-formulation 

studies for the OCO-3 instrument, CLARREO, ASCENDS, ACE, GEO-CAPE, and HypIRI. However, 

several of these projects will be delayed, some by a year and others two or more years. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

LDCM made progress towards completing the development phase (Phase C) and beginning the 

integration and test phase (Phase D). Progress toward completion of the spacecraft development 

culminated with the Systems Integration Review (SIR) during the fourth quarter of FY 2011 in 

preparation for instrument integration onto the LDCM observatory. Development and test of one of the 

two main instruments, the Operational Land Imager (OLI), was completed in preparation for delivery and 

integration onto the Observatory. The Thermal Infrared Sensor (TIRS) has completed development of the 

instrument and began environmental testing during the fourth quarter of FY 2011. 

The GPM GMI instrument Pre-Environmental Review was successfully completed and environmental 

testing was initiated in the fourth quarter of FY2011. Additionally, the ground system-Precipitation 

Processing System (PPS) Build 3 review was held, and a propulsion system integration to the Core 

Observatory was completed. 

SMAP successfully passed the Key Decision Point-B (KDP-B) review in January 2010, and is now in 

Phase B of the mission. Phase B has a strong emphasis on risk reduction, and on requirements and 

interface maturation. In FY2011 SMAP has completed the Preliminary Design Reviews for the flight 

system, instrument and spacecraft in preparation for the mission system PDR. 

Suomi NPP, formerly the NPOESS Preparatory Project or NPP, is the next spacecraft in the nation’s 

future polar operational meteorological satellite systems. In FY 2011 all of the remaining instruments 

were delivered to the spacecraft and Suomi NPP completed its Phase D assembly integration and test 

activities in preparation for a launch in October 2011. Suomi NPP is a NASA research mission involving 

a collaboration between NASA, NOAA, and DoD, designed to extend selected scientific data sets 

initiated by the NASA Earth Observing System and to serve as risk reduction demonstrations for key 

instruments to be used 

ES-12 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE

EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

ICESat-2 successfully completed its Phase A activities and passed its KDP-B review. The spacecraft 

vendor was selected in August 2011. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

NASA will complete environmental testing for LDCM and will deliver it to the launch site in early first 

quarter FY 2013 in preparation for launch. The launch is currently scheduled for January 25, 2013 with an 

initial 90-day on-orbit checkout and commissioning. 

The GPM project will complete its GPM Core Observatory and complete the environmental testing. 

NASA will prepare the core observatory for shipment to Japan for its launch. 

In FY 2013, SMAP will pursue development and implementation activities and milestone reviews 

targeting an estimated launch in October 2014. The project will also conduct the Systems Integration 

Review. 

In FY 2013, the ICESat-2 spacecraft will undergo its Critical Design Review (CDR). The SAGE III 

instrument will conduct its development phase C and complete the instrument CDR. 

The GRACE FO mission will complete Phase B. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $886.0 million. This represents a $4.9 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($881.1 million). 

This increase is primarily due to the ramp up of SMAP and ICESat-2 mission activities and launch 

vehicles costs. 

Projects 

The six current flight missions in formulation or development contained in the ESM program are the 

GPM, LDCM, ICESat-2, SMAP, SAGE III, and GRACE FO. Detailed information about each of the 

projects is outlined separately. 

Also included within the ESM program is a group of projects and activities collectively called “Other 

Missions and Data Analysis.” This group includes many operating missions. Detailed information about 

each of the projects is outlined separately.

ES-13 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

GLOBAL PRECIPITATION MEASUREMENT (GPM)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority Actual Estimate LCC 

(in $ millions) Prior FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 BTC Total 

FY 2013 President’s 

Budget Request

504.8 133.6 92.9 88.0 66.2 19.1 18.1 10.2 0.0 932.8

2012 MPAR Project 

Cost Estimate 504.8 133.6 92.9 88.0 66.2 19.1 18.1 10.2 0.0 932.8

Formulation

Development/ 

Implementation

Operations/close-out

349.2

155.6

0.0

0.0

133.6

0.0

0.0

92.9

0.0

0.0

88.0

0.0

0.0

44.5

21.6

0.0

3.2

15.9

0.0

1.5

16.6

0.0

0.0

10.2

0.0

0.0

0.0

349.2

519.3

64.3

Change From FY 2012 

Estimate

Percent Change From FY 

2012 Estimate

-- -- -4.9

-- -- -5.3%

  

 

The upcoming Global Precipitation Measurement 

mission (artist’s conception shown) will provide 

improved measurements of rain and snow globally. 

The data can reveal new information on hurricane 

eyewall development and intensity changes, measure 

hazard-triggering rainfall events contributing to 

flooding and landslides, provide inputs to climate, 

weather, and land surface models for improved 

predictions, and offer new insights into agricultural 

productivity and world health. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

In October 2011, GPM received approval for a 

re-plan with a launch delay. This delay from July 

2013 to June 2014 was due to development 

delays of the NASA-developed spacecraft bus 

and GPM Microwave Imager (GMI) and 

development delays of the JAXA-supplied Dualfrequency Precipitation Radar (DPR), due in part 

to the impact of the March 2011 earthquake in 

Japan. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

The GPM mission will advance the measurement 

of global precipitation, making possible high 

spatial resolution precipitation measurements. A 

joint mission with JAXA, GPM will provide the 

first opportunity to calibrate measurements of 

global precipitation (including the distribution, 

amount, rate, and associated heat released) 

across tropical, mid-latitude, and polar regions. 

ES-14 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

GLOBAL PRECIPITATION MEASUREMENT (GPM)

Formulation Development Operations

The GPM mission has several scientific objectives: 

• Advance precipitation measurement capability from space through combined use of active and 

passive remote-sensing techniques. These advanced measurements will be used to calibrate 

dedicated and operational passive microwave sensors with the goal of achieving global sampling; 

Advance understanding of global water/energy cycle variability and fresh water availability. 

Improved measurements of the space-time variability of global precipitation will substantially 

close the water/energy budget and elucidate the interactions between precipitation and other 

climate parameters; 

Improve climate prediction by providing the foundation for better understanding of surface water 

fluxes, soil moisture storage, cloud/precipitation microphysics and latent heat release in Earth’s 

atmosphere; 

Advance numerical weather prediction skills through more accurate and frequent measurements 

of instantaneous rain rates with better error characterizations, and the development of improved 

data assimilation methods; and 

Improve flood-hazard and fresh water-resource prediction capabilities through better temporal 

sampling and wider spatial coverage of high-resolution precipitation measurements, and 

innovative designs in hydro-meteorological modeling. Such innovation includes understanding 

the quantitative nature and physical causes of differences in surface fluxes simulated by hydrometeorological models operating in different modes. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

For more information see http://science.hq.nasa.gov/missions/earth.html. 

PROJECT PARAMETERS

The NASA-provided element of the GPM project includes a Core Observatory spacecraft and a GMI. The 

Core Observatory will leverage passive microwave measurements from other operating and planned 

“satellites of opportunity” by calibrating their measurements to its own. The exact sampling rate over 

different areas of the globe will depend on the number and orbits of the satellites of opportunity, but given 

the prevalence of passive microwave instruments on operational satellite systems, the global sampling 

will be robust. The Core Observatory includes two scientific instruments which will provide active and 

passive microwave measurements of precipitation. 

The GMI instrument is a conically scanning radiometer that will provide significantly improved spatial 

resolution over the TRMM Microwave Imager. The satellites of opportunity will fly at multiple altitudes 

and inclinations. 

The JAXA-supplied DPR instrument has cross-track swath widths of 245 kilometers and 120 kilometers, 

in Ku-band and Ka-band, providing three-dimensional observation of rain and an accurate estimation of 

rainfall rate. The KuPR (13.6 gigahertz) subsystem of the DPR is an updated version of the highly 

successful radar flown on TRMM. 

The Core Observatory with both the GMI and the DPR will be launched from Tanegashima Space Center, 

Japan on a JAXA-provided HIIA launch vehicle. DPR and GMI data will be relayed using the TDRSS 

ES-15 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

GLOBAL PRECIPITATION MEASUREMENT (GPM)

Formulation Development Operations

multiple access and single access services. The NASA Core Observatory will fly in a 65 degree inclined 

orbit at an altitude of 407 kilometers; the 65 degree orbit provides improved latitude coverage over the 

TRMM (which is 35 degrees). 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

During FY 2011, the GMI instrument Pre-Environmental Review was successfully completed. 

Additionally, the ground system- PPS Build 3 review was held, and a propulsion system integration to the 

Core Observatory was completed. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

NASA will complete the environmental testing for the core observatory and will be prepare it for 

shipment to Japan for its launch. 

SCHEDULE COMMITMENTS/KEY MILESTONES

Development Milestones Confirmation Baseline 

Date

FY 2013 PB Request Date

KDP-C Dec-09 Dec-09

KPD-D Mar-12 Mar-12

Launch Jul-13 Jun-14

End of Prime Mission Sep-16 Aug-17

ES-16 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

GLOBAL PRECIPITATION MEASUREMENT (GPM)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Schedule 

KDP-C

12/2009

KDP-D

03/2012

Launch

06/2014

End of Prime 

Mission

08/2017

Development Cost and Schedule 

Due to the mission’s critical international partnership and the desire to maintain continuity of the 

precipitation record established by the long-lived TRMM, NASA and JAXA will strive to launch GPM in 

February 2014. The GPM project has been directed to execute all necessary actions to accomplish the 

February 2014 launch. Consistent with NASA policies regarding commitments to cost and schedule, the 

GPM launch shall be no later than June 2014. 

Current 

Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Base Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Current 

Year 

Milestone 

Date

Cost 

Change 

(%)

Base Year 

Milestone 

Date

Milestone 

Change 

(months)

Base Current 

Year

Key 

Year JCL (%) Milestone

2010 555.2 70 2012 519.3 -6.5% Launch Jul-13 Jun-14 11

Readiness

Note: The confidence level estimates reported reflect an evolving process as NASA improves its probabilistic estimation 

techniques and processes. The estimate above reflects the practices and policies at the time it was developed. Estimates that 

include combined cost and schedule risks are denoted as joint confidence level; all other confidence levels reflect cost 

confidence without necessarily factoring the potential impacts of schedule changes on cost.

ES-17 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

GLOBAL PRECIPITATION MEASUREMENT (GPM)

Formulation Development Operations

Development Cost Details (in $M) 

Reductions in the Total, Payloads, Ground Systems, Science/Technology, and Other Direct Project Costs 

lines are due to the elimination of the Low-Inclination Observatory GMI-2 instrument, associated TDRSS 

communications subsystem, payload accommodation, ground system, and operations costs in 2012. 

Increases in the Aircraft/Spacecraft and Systems I&T lines are due to spacecraft development issues and 

the extension of integration and testing activities supporting the replanned launch readiness date. 

Element

Base Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Current Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Change from Base 

Year Estimate

TOTAL: 555.2 519.3 -35.9

Aircraft/Spacecraft 151.2 230.2 79.0

Payloads 91.2 83.1 -8.1

Systems I&T 6.8 11.7 4.9

Launch Vehicle 1.5 1.8 0.3

Ground Systems 30.5 29.4 -1.1

Science/Technology 28.4 28.0 -0.4

Other Direct Project Costs 245.6 135.0 -110.6

Project Management & Commitments 

GSFC has project management responsibility. GPM, initiated by NASA and JAXA as a global successor 

to TRMM, comprises a consortium of international space agencies, including Centre National d’Etudes 

Spatiales (CNES), Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), NOAA, European Organisation for the 

Exploitation of Meterological Satellite (EUMETSAT), and others. 

ES-18 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

GLOBAL PRECIPITATION MEASUREMENT (GPM)

Formulation Development Operations

Project/Element

Core Observatory

Provider

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: 

Description

Provides platform for the 

GMI and JAXA-supplied 

DPR instruments.

FY 2012 PB 

R t Same

FY 2013 PB 

R t Same

Core Observatory 

GMI

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share:

Provides 13 microwave 

channels ranging in frequency 

from 10 GHz to 183 GHz; 

four high frequency, 

millimeter-wave, channels 

Same Same

Core Observatory 

DPR

Provider: JAXA

Project Management: JAXA

NASA Center: 

Cost Share: JAXA

Provides cross-track swath 

widths of 245 and 120 

kilometers, for the Ku 

precipitation radar (KuPR) 

and Ka-band precipitation 

Same Same

Launch vehicle and

services

Provider: JAXA

Project Management:

NASA Center:

Cost Share: JAXA

H-IIA Same Same

Ground System Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: JAXA

Provides control of Core 

Observatory operations, 

science data processing, and 

distribution.

Same Same

ES-19 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

GLOBAL PRECIPITATION MEASUREMENT (GPM)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: Instrument deliveries are further delayed,

Then: GPM integration and testing schedule 

reserve would be reduced.

Flexibility in integration and testing plans allow schedule modifications to 

allow delivery delays. Implement extended shifts and weekend work to 

recover schedule.

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

The GPM instrument was selected through open competition in FY 2005. 

Element Vendor/Provider Location

GMI Ball Aerospace and Technologies Corp. Boulder, CO

DPR JAXA provided

GPM Core Spacecraft GSFC Greenbelt, MD

Launch Vehicle JAXA provided

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance SRB Dec-09 Systems Integration Review (SIR) Feb-12

Performance HQ and GSFC N\A Key Decision Point D (KDP-D) Mar-12

ES-20 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

LANDSAT DATA CONTINUITY MISSION (LDCM) 

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority Actual Estimate LCC 

(in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s 

Budget Request

2012 MPAR Project 

Cost Estimate

Prior

541.2

541.2

FY 2011

166.0

166.0

FY 2012

159.3

159.3

FY 2013

54.7

54.7

FY 2014

2.1

2.1

FY 2015

2.1

2.1

FY 2016

2.2

2.2

FY 2017 BTC

2.3 1.3

2.3 1.3

Total 

931.2

931.2

Formulation 341.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 341.4

Development/ 

Implementation

199.8 166.0 159.3 52.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Operations/close-out 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.6 2.1 2.1 2.2 2.3 1.3

Change From FY 2012 

Estimate -- -- -104.6

Percent Change From FY 

2012 Estimate -- -- -65.7%

577.2

12.5

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

The project has made excellent progress with 

delivery of the Operational Land Imager (OLI) and 

integration with the spacecraft as well as 

completion of the Thermal InfraRed Sensor (TIRS) 

environmental testing. The LDCM budget is 

reduced by $10.4 million reflecting the retirement 

of key cost risks associated with these 

accomplishments. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

The purpose of LDCM is to extend the record of 

multi-spectral, moderate resolution Landsat-quality 

data and to meet government operational and 

scientific requirements for observing land use and 

land change. 

Unprecedented changes in land cover and use are 

having profound consequences for weather and 

climate change, ecosystem function and services, 

carbon cycling and sequestration, resource 

management, the national and global economy, 

Landsat satellites have taken specialized digital 

photographs of Earth’s continents and surrounding 

coastal regions for over three decades. Landsat data 

have been used to monitor water quality, glacier

recession, sea ice movement, invasive species 

encroachment, coral reef health, land use change, 

deforestation rates and population growth. 

Observations from the Landsat satellites have also 

helped to assess damage from natural disasters such 

as fires, floods, and tsunamis, and subsequently, plan

disaster relief and flood control programs.

ES-21 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

LANDSAT DATA CONTINUITY MISSION (LDCM) 

Formulation Development Operations

human health, and society. The Landsat data series, begun in 1972, is the longest continuous record of 

changes in Earth’s surface as seen from space and the only satellite system designed and operated to 

repeatedly observe the global land surface at moderate resolution. Landsat data are now available at no 

cost, providing a unique resource for people who work in agriculture, geology, forestry, regional 

planning, education, mapping, and global climate change research. 

For more information, see: http://ldcm.nasa.gov. 

PROJECT PARAMETERS

LDCM consists of a two science instruments (the Operational Land Imager and the Thermal Infrared 

Sensor), a spacecraft, and a mission operations element. LDCM is in implementation and system level 

requirements are baselined to provide the following system-level performance parameters: 

• Earth Spatial-Temporal Coverage: 16-day repeat coverage of the global land mass; 

Spatial Resolution: 30 meters (visible, near infrared, shortwave infrared), 120 meters (thermal); 

15 meters (panchromatic); 

Radiometric Performance: accuracy, dynamic range, and precision sufficient to detect land cover 

change using historic Landsat data; 

Data: 185-kilometer cross track-by-180-kilometer along track multi-spectral image of Earth’s 

surface; and 

Mission Life: five years. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, the LDCM project made progress towards completing the development phase (Phase C) and 

beginning the integration and test phase (Phase D). Progress toward completion of the spacecraft 

development culminated with the systems integration review in the fourth quarter of FY 2011 in 

preparation for instrument integration onto the LDCM observatory. Development and test of one of the 

two main instruments, the OLI, was completed in preparation for delivery and integration onto the 

observatory. The project has completed development of TIRS and is currently in the environmental test 

phase as of the fourth quarter of FY 2011. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

NASA will complete the integration and test phase for the LDCM observatory in FY 2012 and deliver it 

to the launch site in early FY 2013 in preparation for launch. The launch is currently scheduled for 

January 25, 2013, with an initial 90-day on-orbit checkout and commissioning. 

ES-22 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

LANDSAT DATA CONTINUITY MISSION (LDCM) 

Formulation Development Operations

SCHEDULE COMMITMENTS/KEY MILESTONES

Development Milestones Confirmation Baseline 

Date

FY 2013 PB Request Date

CDR Apr-10 Apr-10

ORR Sep-12 Sep-12

Launch Jun-13 Jun-13

Handover of Operations to 

USGS

Sep-13 Sep-13

Project Schedule 

CDR

04/2010

ORR

09/2012

Launch

06/2013

Handover of 

Operations to USGS

09/2013

ES-23 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

LANDSAT DATA CONTINUITY MISSION (LDCM) 

Formulation Development Operations

Development Cost and Schedule 

The LDCM project has been directed to execute all necessary actions to accomplish the January 2013 

launch. Consistent with NASA policies regarding commitments to cost and schedule, the LDCM launch 

shall be no later than June 2013. 

Current 

Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Base Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Current 

Year 

Milestone 

Date

Cost 

Change 

(%)

Base Year 

Milestone 

Date

Milestone 

Change 

(months)

Base Current 

Year

Key 

Year JCL (%) Milestone

2010 583.4 70 2012 577.2 -1.1 Launch Jun-13 Jun-13 0

Readiness

Note: The confidence level estimates reported reflect an evolving process as NASA improves its probabilistic estimation 

techniques and processes. The estimate above reflects the practices and policies at the time it was developed. Estimates that 

include combined cost and schedule risks are denoted as joint confidence level; all other confidence levels reflect cost 

confidence without necessarily factoring the potential impacts of schedule changes on cost.

Development Cost Details (in $M) 

The major change in the development cost was an exchange of responsibilities with USGS for the 

development of the ground system, resulting in an increase in the ground systems development cost but 

offset by a reduction in operations costs. Minor changes included increases for the development of the 

two science instruments, increased support for systems integration and testing, and a redistribution of 

project funds across the project elements.

Element

Base Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Current Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Change from 

Base Year 

Estimate

TOTAL: 583.4 577.2 -6.2

Aircraft/Spacecraft 116.7 106.1 -10.6

Payloads 131.3 147.0 15.7

Systems I&T 1.7 2.1 0.4

Launch Vehicle 126.4 128.1 1.7

Ground Systems 10.7 13.7 3.0

Science/Technology 13.3 8.7 -4.6

Other Direct Project Costs 183.3 171.5 -11.8

ES-24 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

LANDSAT DATA CONTINUITY MISSION (LDCM) 

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

LDCM is being developed in cooperation with the USGS and managed by GSFC. When LDCM reaches 

orbit and is deployed, operations responsibilities will be transferred to USGS. 

Project/Element

Operational Land 

Imager

Provider

Provider: Ball Aerospace

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Description

Provide moderate resolution, 

FY 2012 PB 

R t Same

FY 2013 PB 

R t Same

multi-channel, wide swath 

visible imaging of Earth's 

surface, consistent with 

previous LandSat missions.

Thermal Infrared Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Provide Landsat equivalent Same Same

Sensor thermal infrared data and 

extend Landsat data series for 

three years.

Spacecraft Provider: Orbital Sciences Corporation

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Platform to provide 

performance commensurate 

with OLI and TIRS 

requirements.

Same Same

Ground System Provider: USGS

Project Management: USGS

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: USGS

Provide Landsat equivalent Same Same

data series and extend Landsat 

data for five years.

Mission 

Operations 

Element

Provider: Hammers Corp,

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: USGS

Provide software and system Same Same

for capability for command 

and control, mission 

scheduling, long-term trending 

and flight dynamics analysis.

ES-25 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

LANDSAT DATA CONTINUITY MISSION (LDCM) 

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: TIRS development is behind schedule due Management developed alternate observatory integration and test scenarios to 

allow for late arrival of TIRS. A flyable mass model has been developed if 

TIRS is not delivered per the required schedule.

to late addition of sensor to the instrument 

complement,

Then: TIRS will not be delivered on 

schedule.

Acquisition Strategy 

The LDCM instrument builder was selected through open competition in FY 2007. The Ball Aerospace 

and Technologies Corporation is building the OLI instrument. LDCM spacecraft uses the Rapid 

Spacecraft Development Office (RSDO) selection process, and selected General Dynamics (now Orbital 

Sciences Corporation). The TIRS instrument was a directed development, assigned to the GSFC and is 

being built in-house at GSFC. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

OLI Ball Aerospace and Technology, Corp. Boulder, CO

TIRS GSFC Greenbelt, MD

Spacecraft Orbital Sciences Corporation Gilbert, AZ

Launch Vehicle ULA Centennial, CO

Mission Operations Element Hammers, Corp. Greenbelt, MD

ES-26 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

LANDSAT DATA CONTINUITY MISSION (LDCM) 

Formulation Development Operations

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance SRB N/A Operations Readiness Review Oct-12

ES-27 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

ICE, CLOUD, AND LAND ELEVATION SATELLITE (ICESAT)-2

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate

Budget Authority (in $ millions) Prior FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 87.2 59.7 120.5 157.2 145.4 89.7 92.7 14.1

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate

-- -- 36.7

-- -- 30.5%

• 

• 

• 

• 

ICESat-2, among other observations, will monitor 

polar ice levels that scientists believe to be an 

indicator of climate change. ICESat-2 will use a 

laser-ranging, light detection and ranging technique 

to measure the topography of the Greenland and 

Antarctic ice sheets as well as the thickness of Arctic 

and Antarctic sea ice. The satellite LIDAR also will 

measure vegetation canopy heights and support other 

NASA environmental monitoring missions.

PROJECT PURPOSE

ICESat-2 is the second-generation of the laser 

altimeter ICESat mission, launched by NASA in 

January 2003. ICESat-2 will continue the 

measurements begun with the ICESat mission, but 

will improve upon the first ICESat design by 

incorporating a micro-pulse multi-beam laser to 

provide dense cross-track sampling, improving 

elevation estimates over inclined surfaces and very 

rough (e.g., crevassed) areas and improving lead 

detection for sea ice freeboard estimates. ICESat-2 

is a Tier-1 decadal survey mission that entered 

formulation in FY 2010 and is being developed for 

a target launch in 2016. 

Some of the key science objects are to: 

Quantify polar ice-sheet contributions to 

current and recent sea-level change and the 

linkages to climate conditions; 

Quantify regional signatures of ice-sheet 

changes to assess mechanisms driving 

those changes and improving predictive ice 

sheet models; 

Estimate sea-ice thickness to examine 

ice/ocean/atmosphere exchanges of energy, 

mass, and moisture; and 

Measure vegetation canopy height as a basis for estimating large-scale biomass and biomass 

change. 

For more information, see http://icesat.gsfc.nasa.gov/icesat2. 

ES-28 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

ICE, CLOUD, AND LAND ELEVATION SATELLITE (ICESAT)-2

Formulation Development Operations

EXPLANATION OF PROJECT CHANGES

Since entering the early formulation phase, the project has revised its launch vehicle implementation 

approach and is now pursuing a co-manifested launch vehicle. The planned launch date range is April to 

November 2016. The change in the launch date range has led to an increase of the estimated life cycle 

cost. 

PROJECT PRELIMINARY PARAMETERS

The ICESat-2 observatory employs a dedicated spacecraft with a multi-beam photon-counting surface 

elevation lidar. It will be launched into a 495 kilometer, 94 degree, 91 day repeat orbit. 

The ICESat-2 project is working toward a mature (Technology Readiness Level – 6) baseline instrument 

concept in preparation for formal mission confirmation (KDP-C) at the end of FY 2012. This includes the 

photon-counting approach to provide cross-track measurement capabilities. As part of this engineering 

process, the project has used and will continue to use an airborne instrument to simulate the space-based 

measurements to optimize the final instrument design and to develop algorithms. Based on cost and 

schedule analysis of the ICESat-2 preliminary design, a baseline budget and launch readiness date will be 

established at mission confirmation. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, ICESat-2 successfully completed KDP-B. The spacecraft vendor was selected in August 

2011. ICESat-2’s sensor successfully completed its instrument Preliminary Design Review (PDR) in 

December 2011. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, the spacecraft will undergo its Critical Design Review (CDR). 

ESTIMATED PROJECT SCHEDULE

ICESat-2 is planned for launch within April to November 2016 for a three-year prime mission. 

ES-29 
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ICE, CLOUD, AND LAND ELEVATION SATELLITE (ICESAT)-2

Formulation Development Operations

Development Milestones Formulation Agreement 

Estimate

FY 2013 PB Request Date

KDP-C Jul-12 Jul-12

KDP-D Dec-14 Dec-14

Launch Nov-16 Nov-16

Project Schedule 

KDP-C

07/2012

KDP-D

12/2014

Launch

11/2016

Formulation Estimated Life Cycle Cost Range and 

Schedule Range Summary 

LCC estimates are preliminary. A Baseline cost commitment does not occur until KDP-C, following a 

Non-Advocate Review and/or Preliminary Design Review. 

KDPB Date Estimated Life Cycle Cost 

Range ($M)

Key Milestone Key Milestone Estimated 

Date Range

Jul-11 686-776 Launch Readiness 4/2016-11/2016

ES-30 
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ICE, CLOUD, AND LAND ELEVATION SATELLITE (ICESAT)-2

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

GSFC has project management responsibility for ICESat-2. 

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 

R t

PB FY 2013 PB 

Atlas Instrument Provider: GSFC New

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Advanced Topographic Laser 

Altimeter System

TBD

Spacecraft Provider: Orbital Science Corporation

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Provides platform for the 

instrument

TBD New

Ground System Provider: Orbital Science Corporation

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Provides control of 

Observatory operations, 

science data processing, and 

distribution.

N/A New

Launch Vehicle Provider: TBD

Project Management: TBD

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share: TBD

TBD Same Same

ES-31 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

ICE, CLOUD, AND LAND ELEVATION SATELLITE (ICESAT)-2

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: A dual manifest launch has been 

baselined,

Then: A delay or failure to secure a dual 

manifest agreement would force the project 

outside the current planned budget.

Continue to work with potential co-manifest partners to secure an agreement 

for a shared launch. Develop off-ramps and options if dual manifest 

milestones are not achieved. 

Acquisition Strategy 

The ICESat-2 lidar instrument will be designed and tested at GSFC using component procurements from 

industry. The spacecraft vendor was competitively selected and the spacecraft bus will be procured via 

RSDO. The mission operations element will be provided by the spacecraft vendor via a contract option. 

The source and selection method for launch services will be determined during formulation. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Spacecraft Orbital Sciences Corporation Dulles, VA

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance SRB New Preliminary Design Review Jun-12

ES-32 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

SOIL MOISTURE ACTIVE AND PASSIVE (SMAP)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate

Budget Authority (in $ millions) Prior FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 210.8 92.5 176.3 237.4 89.1 86.7 15.9 11.3

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate

-- -- 61.1

-- -- 34.7%

SMAP has the potential to enable a diverse range of 

applications involving drought and flood estimation, 

agricultural productivity estimation, weather 

forecasting, climate modeling, and other factors 

affecting human health and security. For example, 

SMAP can benefit the emerging field of landscape 

epidemiology where direct observations of soil 

moisture can provide valuable information on vector 

population dynamics, such as identifying and 

mapping habitats for mosquitoes that spread malaria. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

SMAP project is one of four first-tier missions 

recommended by the National Academies. SMAP 

data have both high science value and high 

applications value. The accuracy, resolution, and 

global coverage of SMAP soil moisture and 

freeze/thaw measurements are unprecedented and 

will enable new developments across many science 

and applications disciplines including hydrology, 

climate, carbon cycle, and the meteorological, 

environmental and ecology applications 

communities. The SMAP data, when assimilated into 

existing and updated Earth system science models, 

will lead to improved weather forecasts, flood and 

drought forecasts, and predictions of agricultural 

productivity and climate change, as well as improved 

understanding of the sources and sinks of carbon. 

Future water resources are a critical societal impact 

of climate change, and scientific understanding of 

how such change may affect water supply and food 

production is crucial for policy makers. Current 

climate models’ uncertainties result in disagreement 

on whether there will be more or less water 

regionally compared to today. SMAP data will help 

enable climate models to be brought into agreement on future trends in water resource availability. For 

these reasons, the Committees Water Resources Panel gave SMAP the highest mission priority within its 

field of interest. 

SMAP will provide a capability for global mapping of soil moisture and freeze/thaw state with 

unprecedented accuracy, resolution, and coverage. SMAP science objectives are to acquire space-based 

hydrosphere state measurements over a three-year period to: 

ES-33 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

SOIL MOISTURE ACTIVE AND PASSIVE (SMAP)

Formulation Development Operations

• Understand processes that link the terrestrial water, energy and carbon cycles; 

Estimate global water and energy fluxes at the land surface; 

Quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes; 

Enhance weather and climate forecast skill; and 

Develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

For more information, see: http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. 

EXPLANATION OF PROJECT CHANGES

Potential launch vehicle cost increases have resulted in the need to increase the projects life cycle cost 

estimate in FY 2013 to FY 2016. 

PROJECT PRELIMINARY PARAMETERS

The SMAP observatory employs a dedicated spacecraft and will be launched into a near-polar, sunsynchronous orbit on an expendable launch vehicle. The SMAP baseline instrument suite includes a 

radiometer and synthetic aperture radar operating at L-band frequencies (1.215 to 1.427 gigahertz). The 

instrument is designed to make coincident measurements of surface emission and backscatter, with the 

ability to sense the soil conditions through moderate vegetation cover. The instrument measurements will 

be analyzed to yield estimates of soil moisture and freeze/thaw state. The measurement swath width is 

1000 kilometers, providing global coverage within three days at the equator and two days at boreal 

latitudes (greater than 45 degrees North). Data will be acquired for a period of three years and a 

comprehensive validation program will be used to assess random errors and regional biases in the soil 

moisture and freeze/thaw estimates. 

The standing review board will assess the design plan and cost/schedule estimates. Life cycle costs will 

be evaluated with respect to other Earth Systematic Missions and anticipated funding for FY 2013-1018. 

A decision on SMAP movement to development phase is expected in FY 2012. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

SMAP successfully passed the KDP-B review in January 2010, and is now in the formulation phase of the 

mission. The formulation phase emphasizes risk reduction and requirements and interface maturation. 

SMAP has completed preliminary designs for the flight system, instrument and spacecraft. The project 

has also built engineering models for most electronics systems and has initiated integrated tests of these 

systems. 

ES-34 
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SOIL MOISTURE ACTIVE AND PASSIVE (SMAP)

Formulation Development Operations

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, SMAP will pursue development and implementation activities and milestone reviews, 

targeting an estimated launch in October, 2014. The project will also conduct the Systems Integration 

Review. 

ESTIMATED PROJECT SCHEDULE

SMAP is scheduled to launch in October, 2014 for a three year prime mission. 

Formulation Milestones Formulation Agreement 

Estimate

FY 2013 PB Request Date

KDP-C May-12 May-12

KDP-D Apr-13 Apr-13

Launch Oct-14 Oct-14

Project Schedule 

KDP-C

05/2012

KDP-D

04/2013

Launch

10/2014

ES-35 
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SOIL MOISTURE ACTIVE AND PASSIVE (SMAP)

Formulation Development Operations

Formulation Estimated Life Cycle Cost Range and 

Schedule Range Summary 

Life cycle cost estimates are preliminary and considered internal planning/management numbers. A 

baseline cost commitment does not occur until KDP-C. 

KDPB Date Estimated Life Cycle Cost 

Range ($M)

Key Milestone Key Milestone Estimated 

Date Range

Jan-10 872-926 Launch Readiness 10/2014-1/2015

Project Management & Commitments 

JPL has project management responsibility for SMAP. 

Project Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB FY 2013 PB 

Spacecraft Provider: JPL

Project Management: JPL

NASA Center: JPL

Cost Share: N/A

Provides platform for the 

instruments

R t Same R t Same

L-Band SAR Provider: JPL

Project Management: JPL

NASA Center: JPL

Cost Share: N/A

Combined with Radiometer, 

provides soil moisture 

measurements in the top 5 cm

of soil through moderate 

vegetation cover

Same Same

L-Band Radiometer Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Combined with SAR provides 

soil moisture measurements in 

the top 5 cm of soil through 

moderate vegetation cover

Same Same

Launch Vehicle Provider: TBD

Project Management: TBD

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share: TBD

TBD Same Same

ES-36 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

SOIL MOISTURE ACTIVE AND PASSIVE (SMAP)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: launch service selection is not made,

Then: it prevents definition of project 

baseline for KDP-C.

Project team is developing a strategy to preserve the observatory design and 

implementation schedule, while accommodating new Headquarters direction 

for launch services selection approach and timetable.

Acquisition Strategy 

The deployable antenna/boom and instrument spin assemblies will be procured through open competition. 

The source and selection method for launch services will be determined later in formulation. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

None. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance Directorate 

Program 

Management 

Council (DPMC)

New Successfully established an approach 

and timetable to achieve KDP-C.

Apr-12

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OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

Actual

FY 2011

Estimate

FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 

Notional

2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Earth Systematic Mission Research

Ocean Surface Topography Science Team

Earth Observations Systems Research

Quick Scatterometer 

TRMM

Decadal Survey Missions

Earth Science Program Management

OSTM

Precipitation Science Team

Ocean Vector Winds Science Team

Land Cover Science Program Office

Glory Mission

Suomi NPP

Terra

Aqua

Aura

ACRIMSat

SORCE

Jason

Earth Observing 1 

ICESat

389.5

7.3

5.4

25.2

3.6

9.2

72.8

26.8

0.9

6.5

3.2

1.5

12.9

101.9

33.5

32.5

29.7

1.3

4.6

4.6

2.5

3.8

332.0

11.2

6.3

25.8

3.6

9.8

107.7

38.0

1.1

7.2

4.7

1.5

0.0

8.7

31.6

32.2

28.3

1.3

5.3

4.5

2.4

0.7

348.7

9.1

5.8

23.6

3.7

10.2

144.0

24.8

1.2

7.2

4.4

1.5

0.0

7.0

32.4

33.0

27.1

1.3

5.2

4.6

2.5

0.0

484.7

9.1

6.0

24.1

3.8

10.2

279.6

24.9

1.2

7.2

4.4

1.5

0.0

7.0

31.9

33.0

26.8

1.3

5.4

4.8

2.5

0.0

615.7

9.3

6.1

24.5

3.9

10.4

407.3

25.4

1.2

7.4

4.5

1.6

0.0

6.7

32.5

34.2

27.7

1.4

5.6

4.8

1.3

0.0

706.7

9.5

6.3

25.3

3.9

10.7

493.7

28.2

1.2

7.5

4.6

1.6

0.0

6.3

32.6

35.0

28.4

1.4

5.7

4.8

0.0

0.0

718.5

25.5

5.1

509.7

27.5

33.1

35.4

28.7

1.4

5.8

4.9

0.0

0.0

Change From FY 2012 Estimate --

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate --

-- 16.7

-- 5.0%

9 .6

6.4

4.0

1.2

7.7

4.7

1.6

0.0

6.3

ES-38 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

The ESM program includes missions from the former 

Earth Observing System (EOS) and the future Earth 

Science Decadal Survey (ESDS) missions. The artist’s 

conception shows the complete armada of satellites, 

current and future, that contribute to the program’s goals 

of understanding the Earth as a system (its water-air-land 

interactions). 

ESM program provide critical, global earth 

science data ranging from ozone, aerosols, 

rainfall, ocean wave heights, winds, land and 

ice cover, forest canopy density, and earth 

radiation balance, etc. The ESM program 

includes instrument and mission science teams 

which define the scientific requirements for 

their respective instruments, and generate the 

algorithms used to process the data into useful 

data products for the investigations. The science 

teams are responsible for validating their own 

algorithms and data products. The research 

projects execute competitively selected ROSES 

investigations that are related to specific 

mission measurements. 

Operating Missions 

There are 11 operating missions within the 

ESM program. Each mission offers unique and 

critical science to the global community. Except 

for Suomi NPP, each of these missions is beyond its design life and has completed its prime operations 

phase. For missions in extended operations, NASA conducts a biennial Senior Review to identify those 

missions whose continued operation contributes cost-effectively to both NASA’s goals and the Nation’s 

operational needs. Such a review was conducted in 2011, using a panel of senior scientists drawn from the 

Earth Science community, and further supplemented by evaluations from partner agencies within the U.S. 

Federal and state governments. The 2011 Senior Review endorsed the continuation of all missions. 

EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS RESEARCH

Earth Systematic Missions Research funds science teams for the Earth Systematic missions, currently the 

Suomi NPP mission. This is individual investigator competitively selected research to analyze data from 

the missions to address related science questions. In particular, the Suomi NPP science investigations are 

focused on developing climate data records from EOS observations continued by the NPOESS 

operational observing system. 

OCEAN SURFACE TOPOGRAPHY MISSION (OSTM) 

OSTM, or Jason-2, measures sea surface height, enabling scientists to assess climate variability and 

change and water and energy cycles. This mission is a follow-on to Jason, and recently completed its 

prime operations phase in June 2011. OSTM is a joint mission with NOAA, CNES, and EUMETSAT. 

ES-39 
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OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

EARTH OBSERVATION SYSTEMS (EOS) 

EOS Research funds science for the EOS missions, currently Terra, Aqua, Aura, ICESat, and Landsat 

missions. These individual investigator, competitively selected research projects analyze data from the 

missions to address related science questions. Some funded projects continue algorithm improvement and 

validation for the EOS instrument data products, while overall the selected activities focus on science data 

analyses and the development of Earth system data records including climate data records, relevant to 

NASA’s research program. 

QUICK SCATTEROMETER (QUIKSCAT) 

QuikSCAT carries the SeaWinds instrument, originally designed to measure global radar backscatter and 

ocean surface wind speed and direction under nearly all-weather conditions. Since the antenna stopped 

rotating in 2009, several years past its design life, the sensor has become the ‘gold standard’ for crosscalibration with other ocean wind scatterometers, enabling both the continuation of the high-quality ocean 

winds dataset and the operational forecasts. The 2011 Senior Review specifically endorsed the 

continuation of the mission with this cross-calibration objective. 

TROPICAL RAINFALL MEASURING MISSION (TRMM) 

TRMM measures precipitation, clouds, and lightning over tropical and subtropical regions and extends 

our knowledge about how the energy associated with rainfall interacts with other aspects of the global 

climate. The TRMM sensor suite provides a three-dimensional map of storm structure, yielding 

information on rain intensity and distribution. TRMM is a joint mission with Japan. 

DECADAL SURVEY MISSIONS

Decadal Survey Missions contains missions recommended by the National Academies Earth Science 

decadal study, as well as a variety of climate change missions. All the projects within this line are either 

in early pre-Phase A early formulation work or still in the mission study phase. The current portfolio of 

missions includes the OCO-3 instrument, SWOT, PACE, ASCENDS, GEO-CAPE, ACE, and HyspIRI. It 

also contains funding for a potential Earth Radar Mission. While GRACE-FO and SAGE III have recently 

transitioned into formulation, their budgets are still retained in this project. 

EARTH SCIENCE PROGRAM MANAGEMENT (ES PM) 

ES PM supports the Center Earth Science Project Offices program management including the ESM 

Program Office at the GSFC, the Earth System Science Pathfinder (ESSP) Program Office at LaRC, and 

the Earth Science Flight Project Office at JPL. ES PM also supports the GSFC Conjunction Assessment 

ES-40 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

Risk Analysis function, which performs analysis regarding maneuvers required to avoid potential 

collisions between instruments and to avoid debris; LaRC Committee on Earth Observation Satellites 

(CEOS), which provides technical and management support to the international Earth Satellite planning 

committee and facilitates the development of strategic space-based implementation plans using systems 

engineering methods; and Independent Program and Assessment Office, which supports the various 

project reviews for development projects in Earth Science. 

OCEAN SURFACE TOPOGRAPHY SCIENCE TEAM

Ocean Surface Topography Science Team uses scientific data received from the OSTM and Jason 

satellites, which measures global sea surface height. Previously this project was associated with the Earth 

Systematic Missions area, wherein the OSTM mission is managed. 

SUOMI NATIONAL POLAR ORBITING PARTNERSHIP (SUOMI NPP) 

Suomi NPP extends selected scientific data sets initiated by the NASA Earth Observing System and 

serves as risk reduction demonstrations for key instruments to be used in the nation’s future polar 

operational meteorological satellite systems. Suomi NPP launched in October 2011 to ensure critical 

continuity in the nation’s operational meteorological measurements from the afternoon orbit. The five 

instruments on Suomi NPP will provide visible and infrared multi-spectral global imagery, atmospheric 

temperature and moisture profiles, total ozone and stratospheric ozone profiles, and measurements of 

Earth’s radiation balance. In addition to a wide range of applications studies, the NASA science focus 

areas served by Suomi NPP will include: atmospheric composition climate variability and change carbon 

cycle, ecosystems, and biogeochemistry water and energy cycles, and weather. 

NASA renamed the project on January 24, 2012, honoring the late Verner E. Suomi, a meteorologist at 

the University of Wisconsin who is recognized widely as "the father of satellite meteorology." The 

renaming also acknowledges the fact that the mission is the product of a partnership between NASA, 

NOAA, DoD, the private sector, and academic researchers. 

PRECIPITATION SCIENCE TEAM

Precipitation Science Team uses scientific data received from the TRMM satellite to improve the 

forecasting of weather and severe storm events. Previously this project was associated with the Earth 

Systematic Missions area wherein the TRMM is managed. This science team also supports development 

of supporting algorithms for the GPM mission. 

ES-41 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE: EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

OCEAN VECTOR WINDS SCIENCE TEAM

Ocean Vector Winds Science Team uses scientific data received from the QuickSCAT satellite, which 

measures ocean surface wind vectors by sensing ripples caused by winds near the ocean’s surface. From 

these data, scientists can compute the winds’ speed and direction, acquiring hundreds of times more 

observations of surface wind velocity each day than can ships and buoys. Previously, this project was 

associated with the Earth Systematic Mission area, wherein the QuikSCAT mission is managed. 

THE LAND COVER PROJECT SCIENCE OFFICE (LCPSO) 

GSFC works to maintain the science quality of satellite data used for land-cover/land-use change 

research. The focus of this office is on the moderate-resolution (<100m) sensors such as Landsat, and ALI 

and Hyperion on EO-1. They maintain over a 40-year calibration record for the Landsat-1 through 

Landsat-7 series of satellites. The office also provides community software tools to make it easier for 

users to work with moderate-resolution data. In collaboration with USGS, the Land cover Project Science 

Office supports improvements in the Landsat-7 Long-term Acquisition Plan and provision of 

preprocessed data sets for land-cover change analysis. 

TERRA

Terra is one of the Earth Observing System flagship missions, carrying five instruments (MODIS, MISR, 

CERES, MOPITT, ASTER). It enables a wide range of interdisciplinary studies of atmospheric 

composition: carbon cycle, ecosystems, and biogeochemistry; climate variability and change; Earth’s 

surface and interior; water and energy cycles; and weather. Terra is a joint mission with Japan and 

Canada. 

AQUA

Aqua is one of the Earth Observing System flagship missions, carrying six sensors (MODIS, AMSR-E, 

CERES, and the AIRS/AMSU/HSB suite). Aqua improves our understanding of Earth’s water cycle and 

the intricacies of the climate system by monitoring atmospheric, land, ocean, and ice variables. As part of 

the “Afternoon Constellation,” Aqua is routinely evaluated as one of the most valuable of the Earth 

Science missions. During FY 2011, the AMSR-E antenna rotation stopped and analysis is currently in 

process to determine whether rotation can re-start. Aqua is a joint mission with Brazil and Japan. 

AURA

Aura is the third of the Earth Observing System flagship missions, and carries four sensors, of which 

three remain functional (MLS, OMI, and TES). The mission enables study of atmospheric composition, 

climate variability and change, and weather, by measuring atmospheric chemical composition, 

tropospheric/stratospheric exchange of energy and chemicals, chemistry-climate interactions, and air 

ES-42 
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OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

quality. Aura is also part of the “Afternoon Constellation,” or A-Train. Aura is a joint mission with the 

Netherlands, Finland, and the United Kingdom. 

ACTIVE CAVITY RADIOMETER IRRADIANCE MONITOR SATELLITE (ACRIMSAT) 

ACRIMSat monitors total solar irradiance, contributing to assessments of climate variability and change. 

SOLAR RADIATION AND CLIMATE EXPERIMENT (SORCE) 

SORCE measures the total and spectral solar irradiance incident at the top of Earth’s atmosphere, 

contributing to assessments of climate variability and change. 

JASON

Jason makes precise measurements of ocean height to support the study of ocean circulation and sea level 

rise. The Jason mission is a collaboration between NASA and the Centre National d’Études Spatiales 

(CNES). 

EARTH OBSERVING-1 (EO-1) 

EO-1 allows paired scene comparisons of: carbon cycle, ecosystems, and biogeochemistry; and Earth 

surface and interior. It supports the dual data collection system of the EO-1 Advanced Land Imager and 

the Landsat-7 Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus. 

Recent Achievements 

TERRA: HURRICANE KATIA

MODIS on NASA’s Terra satellite captured this 

natural-color image at 11:15 a.m. Atlantic Standard 

Time on September 7. Hurricane Katia sports the 

spiral shape and distinct eye typical of strong storms. 

Data from instruments like MODIS are processed by 

NASA’s Rapid Response system. Rapid Response 

provides daily MODIS images in near real time 

presented by geographic regions or orbit overpass 

time. The Rapid Response team is also developing an 

interactive Web Mapping Service that includes imagery from MODIS and other instruments. 

ES-43 
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OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

AQUA: MONITORING ARCTIC SEA ICE

Every year, the frozen Arctic Ocean emerges from winter 

and thaws under the 24-hour light of the summer sun. Each 

year is different: sometimes ice retreats from the shores in 

dramatic fashion and other years have a more gradual melt; 

2011 proved to be a year of extreme melt. By early 

September, the area covered by sea ice in the Arctic Ocean 

was approaching a record low. This image is the last of a 

series of measurements taken by AMSR-E on NASA’s Aqua 

satellite between March 7 and September 9. The image 

shows the sea ice at its lowest point so far this season. Most 

notably, the Northwest Passage, the sea route that threads 

through the islands of northern Canada to link the Atlantic 

and Pacific Oceans, is entirely ice free. 

The last five years showed the lowest sea ice since records began in 1979, and according to climate 

experts, much of that trend has been caused by climate change. 

AURA: ASSESSING FIRE AND SMOKE

This image from the OMI instrument on the Aura 

satellite shows nitrogen dioxide levels from July 7 to 

12, 2011 in central Africa pertaining to agricultural 

fires. The highest levels of NO2 appear as a dark red 

butterfly over the southern Democratic Republic of the 

Congo. Detection of NO2 is important because it reacts 

with sunlight to create low-level ozone or smog and 

poor air quality. Low-level ozone (smog) is hazardous 

to the health of both plants and animals, and ozone in 

association with particulate matter causes respiratory 

problems in humans. Measurements like this help 

scientists predict poor air conditions and implement 

human safety countermeasures. 

ES-44 
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OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

TRMM: EARLY WEATHER WARNINGS

An array of passive microwave and active radar sensors on 

the TRMM satellite are valuable tools for observing tropical 

cyclones around the globe. TRMM captured this image of 

the typhoon, Roke, as it was nearing the Japanese coast. 

This image shows the horizontal pattern of rain intensity 

within the storm. Rain rates in the center swath are based on 

the TRMM Precipitation Radar , and those in the outer 

swath on the TRMM Microwave Imager. The rain rates are 

overlaid on visible and infrared data from the TRMM 

Visible Infrared Scanner. 

SUOMI NPP WEATHER FORECASTING

Suomi NPP successfully launched on October 28, 

2011. Suomi NPP represents a critical first step in 

building the next-generation Earth-observing satellite 

system that will collect data on both long-term climate 

change and short-term weather conditions. 

Suomi NPP will extend and improve upon the Earth 

system data records established by NASA’s EOS fleet 

of satellites that have provided critical insights into the 

dynamics of the entire Earth system: clouds, oceans, 

vegetation, ice, solid Earth and atmosphere. 

ES-45 
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EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE PATHFINDER

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

OCO-2

182.8

89.0

188.3

98.4

219.5

75.3

270.9

57.9

275.6

45.4

224.2

16.0

234.4

4.0

Venture Class Missions 32.0 53.6 106.2 173.6 190.1 167.1 188.9

Other Missions and Data Analysis 61.7 36.3 38.0 39.4 40.1 41.1 41.5

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 31.2

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 16.6%

  

Distinguishing between pollution high in the 

atmosphere and that near the surface where people 

live and breathe is one of the most challenging 

problems for Earth observations from space. An 

Earth Venture-1 project, DISCOVER-AQ, where AQ 

stands for air quality, is studying specific locations 

known for exceeding air quality standards, such as the 

Maryland-DC area shown. Instruments aboard 

research aircraft are essentially measuring gaseous 

and particulate pollution concentrations through a 

slice of air about two miles thick. The data, which is 

showing heavier concentrations toward the mid- to 

lower- portion of the slice, will be used to understand 

how satellites could make similar, consistent 

measurements over time. Potential outcomes such as 

better air quality forecasts and the ability to 

determine pollutant sources will help society deal 

more effectively with lingering pollution problems

Earth System Science Pathfinder (ESSP) provides an 

innovative approach to Earth science research by 

providing frequent, regular, competitively selected 

opportunities that accommodate new and emerging 

scientific priorities and measurement capabilities. 

These opportunities represent a series of relatively 

low-to-moderate cost, small-to-medium sized 

missions. They are competitively selected, principle 

investigator lead missions that focus on scientific 

objectives to support a selected subset of studies of 

the atmosphere, oceans, land surface, polar ice 

regions, or solid Earth. Projects include development 

and operation of space missions, space-based remote 

sensing instruments for missions of opportunity, and 

extended duration airborne science missions, and the 

conduct of science research utilizing data from these 

missions. ESSP projects include developmental, 

high-risk, high-return Earth science missions and 

often involve partnerships with other U.S. agencies 

and/or with international science and space 

organizations. This portfolio of missions and 

investigations provides opportunity for investment in 

innovative Earth science that enhances NASA’s 

capability for better understanding the current state 

of the Earth system and to enable continual 

improvement in the prediction of future changes. 

ES-46 
SCIENCE: EARTH SCIENCE

EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE PATHFINDER

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

The increase in the ESSP program line has been driven by the expected increase in the launch vehicle cost 

for the OCO-2 mission, and the accompanying increase in the Project direct costs. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

All pre-flight operations were completed for Aquarius and the mission was launched in June 2011. 

Aquarius completed its instrument and satellite checkout period and began science operations in August 

2011. 

The Earth Venture 2 Announcement of Opportunity was made in Spring 2011; winning selections will be 

announced in early FY 2012. 

All five Earth Venture 1 (EV-1) airborne science campaigns completed their confirmation reviews in 

FY2011 and moved into science operations phase. DISCOVER-AQ conducted its first series of flights in 

July 2011. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA will continue with results from all three legs of the Earth Venture line of competitive 

opportunities: 

• Continuing with the second year of science data from the EV-1 investigations; 

Continuing in the formulation phase of the EV-2 small mission, which will have been selected in 

FY 2012; 

Evaluating and selecting winning proposal from the first EV-Instrument mission of opportunity; 

and 

Developing and releasing the second sub-orbital Earth Venture call, EV-3. 

• 

• 

• 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $219.5 million. This represents a $31.2 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($188.3 million). 

This is primarily due to the increase to Venture Class funding resulting from increased EV2 orbital and 

EV-Instrument 1 suborbital activities, and additional funding for OCO-2 launch vehicle costs. 

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ORBITING CARBON OBSERVATORY 2 (OCO-2)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority Actual Estimate Notional LCC 

(in $ millions) Prior FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 BTC Total 

FY 2013 President’s 

Budget Request 91.1 89.0 98.4 75.3 57.9 45.4 16.0 4.0 0.0 477.2

2012 MPAR Project 

Cost Estimate 91.1 89.0 98.4 75.3 57.9 45.4 16.0 4.0 0.0 477.2

Formulation

Development/ 

Implementation

Operations/close-out

60.9

30.2

0.0

0.0

89.0

0.0

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 60.9

Under Review

Under Review

Change From FY 2012 

Estimate -- -- -23.1

Percent Change From FY 

2012 Estimate -- -- -23.5%

  

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

The planned launch vehicle for the OCO-2 satellite was the Taurus XL. Following the Taurus XL failure 

in March 2011 and the loss of NASA’s Glory mission, NASA put the contract for the Taurus XL on hold 

pending the outcome of a failure investigation. As a result, the planned OCO-2 launch readiness date will 

be changed. SMD has allocated additional budget to the OCO-2 mission in anticipation that the launch 

vehicle issues could delay the launch to 2015. The cost and schedule are currently under review. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

Carbon dioxide is a critical component of the Earth’s atmosphere. Since the beginning of the industrial 

age, the concentration of carbon dioxide has increased by about 38 percent. Scientific studies indicate that 

carbon dioxide is one of several gases that trap heat near Earth’s surface. These gases are known as 

greenhouse gases. Most scientists have concluded that substantial increases in the abundance of carbon 

dioxide will generate an increase in the Earth’s surface temperature. Historical records provide evidence 

of this trend, which is often called global warming (i.e., the overall increase Earth’s surface temperature 

globally). Current research indicates that continuing increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide may modify 

the environment in a variety of ways. Although Earth’s surface temperature may increase globally, 

specific regions on Earth may be affected differently. These changes may impact ocean currents, the jet 

stream, and rain patterns. Some parts of the Earth might actually cool while the average temperature 

increases. The purpose of the OCO-2 mission is to monitor one source of this climate change, carbon 

dioxide. 

For more information see http://oco.jpl.nasa.gov/. 

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ORBITING CARBON OBSERVATORY 2 (OCO-2)

Formulation Development Operations

OCO-2 is designed to make space-based measurements 

of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2), an important 

greenhouse gas emitted by natural and man-made 

sources. The global coverage, spatial resolution, and 

accuracy of OCO-2 measurements will provide a basis 

to characterize and monitor the geographic 

distribution of where CO2 is emitted (sources) and 

absorbed (sinks), and quantify their variability. The 

gas is absorbed by the planet's oceans and plants, but 

the mystery is that only about half of the CO2 that 

doesn't remain in the atmosphere can be accounted for 

by these sinks. Dubbed "missing sinks," detection and 

understanding of these unknown absorption processes 

are a key target of observations. 

PROJECT PARAMETERS

The OCO-2 spacecraft will carry three highresolution grating spectrometers and fly in the “Atrain” of Earth observing satellites. By using this 

space-based platform, OCO-2 will collect highresolution measurements, which will provide a 

greater spatial distribution map of carbon dioxide 

over the entire globe. These measurements will be 

combined with data from ground-based networks to 

provide scientists with the information that they 

need to better understand the processes that 

regulate atmospheric carbon dioxide and its role in 

the carbon cycle. This enhanced understanding is 

essential for improving predictions of future 

atmospheric carbon dioxide increases and its 

impact on Earth’s climate. This information will 

help policy makers and business leaders make 

better decisions to ensure climate stability and 

retain quality of life. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011 the OCO-2 project completed the 

assembly of all instrument subsystems, as well as 

most spacecraft subsystems. The project initiated 

spacecraft integration in August 2011. OCO-2 also 

initiated instrument integration in August 2011 and remains on schedule for instrument delivery in April 

2012. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013 the OCO-2 project will complete observatory integration and testing, and deliver the craft to 

environmentally controlled stable storage in early FY 2013. It will stay in storage until some time prior to 

the revised launch date, when it will be taken out for completion of environmental testing and readiness 

for flight. The mission launch date will be defined when the launch vehicle is defined in FY 2012. 

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ORBITING CARBON OBSERVATORY 2 (OCO-2)

Formulation Development Operations

SCHEDULE COMMITMENTS/KEY MILESTONES

Development Milestones Confirmation Baseline 

Date

FY 2013 PB Request Date

KDP-C Sep-10 Same

CDR Sep-10 Same

Launch Feb-13 Under review

End of Prime Mission Jun-15 Launch + 27 months

Project Schedule 

KDP-C

09/2010

CDR

09/2010

Launch

Under Review

End of Prime 

Mission

Launch +27 months

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ORBITING CARBON OBSERVATORY 2 (OCO-2)

Formulation Development Operations

Development Cost and Schedule 

With the delay associated with the new approach to the launch vehicle, NASA will have to revisit the 

project plan and its associated costs and launch date.

Current 

Year 

Development

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Base Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Current 

Year 

Milestone 

Date

Cost 

Change 

(%)

Base Year 

Milestone 

Date

Milestone 

Change 

(months)

Base Current 

Year

Key 

Year JCL (%) Milestone

2011 249 70 2012 under review under LRD Feb-13 under 

review

under 

review review

Note: The confidence level estimates reported reflect an evolving process as NASA improves its probabilistic estimation 

techniques and processes. The estimate above reflects the practices and policies at the time it was developed. Estimates that 

include combined cost and schedule risks are denoted as joint confidence level; all other confidence levels reflect cost 

confidence without necessarily factoring the potential impacts of schedule changes on cost.

Development Cost Details (in $M) 

Element

Base Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Current Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Change from 

Base Year 

Estimate

TOTAL: 249.0 under review under review

Aircraft/Spacecraft 42.0 under review under review 

Payloads 39.4 under review under review 

Systems I&T 2.4 under review under review 

Launch Vehicle 67.6 under review under review 

Ground Systems 7.5 under review under review 

Science/Technology 10.0 under review under review 

Other Direct Project Costs 80.1 under review under review

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ORBITING CARBON OBSERVATORY 2 (OCO-2)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

JPL has project management responsibility for OCO-2. OCO-2 was procured as a single source selection, 

in order to maintain the same configuration as the previous mission, OCO. 

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB FY 2013 PB 

R t R t OCO-2 instrument Provider: JPL

Project Management: JPL

NASA Center: JPL

Cost Share partner: None

Three channel, high-resolution 

grating spectrometer 

measuring carbon dioxide and 

diatomic oxygen near-infrared 

absorptions from reflected 

Same Same

Spacecraft Provider: Orbital

Project Management: JPL

NASA Center: JPL

Cost Share partner: None

Provides platform for the 

instrument.

Same Same

Ground system Provider: Orbital

Project Management: JPL

NASA Center: JPL

Cost Share partner: None

Provides mission operations 

for satellite

Same

Taurus XL

Same

Launch vehicle Provider: Under review Under review

Project Management: KSC

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share partner: None

Launch vehicle under review 

following failure of Glory 

Taurus XL

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ORBITING CARBON OBSERVATORY 2 (OCO-2)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: Single string component failure,

Then: Potential loss of mission.

OCO-2 (based on the competed OCO design) was designed to have some 

single string components. Thorough analyses and testing is being performed 

to mitigate this risk as much as possible.

If: Suspension of Launch Vehicles activities,

Then: Delay of launch; with a potential cost 

increase.

OCO-2 launch vehicle activities have been suspended until completion of the 

Glory Mishap Investigation. Based on the results of the investigation NASA 

will make decisions on the OCO-2 launch vehicle.

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Spacecraft Orbital Sciences Corporation Dulles, VA

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Formulation Development Operations

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance SRB Aug-10 SIR/CDR will determine readiness to 

proceed to Observatory-level integration 

and test.

Feb-12

Performance SRB N/A ORR/Determine readiness of project to 

support mission operations prior to 

launch.

Nov-12

Performance NASA HQ N/A FRR/Determine readiness of project to 

proceed to launch.

Dec-12

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VENTURE CLASS MISSIONS

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) Prior FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 6.3 32.0 53.6 106.2 173.6 190.1 167.1 188.9

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate

-- -- 52.6 

-- -- 98.1%

Carbon in Arctic Reservoirs Vulnerability Experiment 

(CARVE) airborne observations over Alaska will be 

integrated with data from strategically located groundbased sites, as depicted in the artist concept. CARVE 

science fills a critical gap in Earth science knowledge on 

the fundamental elements of the complex Arctic 

biological-climatologic-hydrologic system. 

The Venture Class Missions consists of a series of 

new science-driven, competitively selected, low 

cost missions that will provide opportunity for 

investment in innovative Earth science to enhance 

our capability to better understand the current state 

of the Earth system and to enable continual 

improvement in the prediction of future changes. 

NASA’s Venture Class Missions are a series of 

uncoupled, relatively low-to-moderate cost, small 

to medium-sized, competitively selected, full 

orbital missions, instruments for orbital missions 

of opportunity and sub-orbital projects. 

Venture Class Missions have been established to 

respond to recommendations in the Earth Science 

and Applications from Space: National Imperatives 

for the Next Decade and Beyond (The National 

Academies Press, 2007) to initiate a series of 

missions deemed "venture class". The Venture 

Class Missions formulation activities have resulted 

in a scientifically broad-reaching program element 

that will solicit, through a series of frequent openly 

competed solicitations, innovative research and 

application missions that might address any area of 

Earth science. Solicitations for competitive, peerrefereed proposals will alternate between space-borne and airborne/suborbital opportunities. 

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VENTURE CLASS MISSIONS

Formulation Development Operations

The current Venture Class missions include Earth Venture-1 selections: 

• Airborne Microwave Observatory of Subcanopy and Subsurface (AirMOSS) addresses the 

uncertainties in existing estimates by measuring soil moisture in the root zone of representative 

regions of major North American ecosystems; 

Airborne Tropical Tropopause Experiment (ATTREX) studies chemical and physical processes at 

different times of year from bases in California, Guam, Hawaii, and Australia; 

Carbon in Arctic Reservoirs Vulnerability Experiment (CARVE) collects an integrated set of data 

that will provide experimental insights into Arctic carbon cycling, especially the release of the 

important greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane; 

Deriving Information on Surface Conditions from COlumn and VERtically Resolved 

Observations Relevant to Air Quality (DISCOVER-AQ) improves the interpretation of satellite 

observations to diagnose near-surface conditions relating to air quality; and 

Hurricane and Severe Storm Sentinel studies hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean basin using two 

NASA Global Hawks flying high above the storms for up to 30 hours. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

None 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The EV-2 Announcement of Opportunity was made in spring 2011; winning selections will be announced 

in early FY 2012. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA will produce results from all three legs of the Earth Venture line of competitive 

opportunities: 

• Continue with the second year of science data from the EV-1 investigations; 

Continue the formulation phase of the EV-2 small mission, which will be selected in FY 2012; 

Evaluate and select the winning proposal from the first EV-Instrument mission of opportunity; 

and 

Develop and release the second sub-orbital Venture call, EV-3. 

• 

• 

• 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $106.2 million. This represents a $52.6 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($53.6 million). 

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VENTURE CLASS MISSIONS

Formulation Development Operations

The project workforce is increasing, in preparation for more Venture missions and instruments reaching 

development. 

SCHEDULE COMMITMENTS/KEY MILESTONES

Mission Type of Mission Selection Date Est. Major Milestone

EV-1 Suborbital 2009 2010 N/A

EV-2 Full Orbital 2011 2012 LRD ~2017

EV-Instrument 1 Instrument Only 2011 2012 Deliver ~2017

EV-Instrument 2 Instrument Only 2013 2013 Deliver ~2018

EV-3 Suborbital 2013 2014 N/A

EV-Instrument 3 Instrument Only 2014 2015 Deliver ~2018

EV-Instrument 4 Instrument Only 2015 2016 Deliver ~2019

EV-4 Full Orbital 2015 2016 LRD ~2021

EV-Instrument 5 Instrument Only 2016 2017 Deliver ~2020

EV-Instrument 6 Instrument Only 2017 2017 Deliver ~2021

Project Schedule 

EV-1

2010

EV-2

2012

EV-I1

2012

EV-I2

2013

EV‐3

2014

EV‐I3

2015

EV‐I4

2016

EV‐4

2016

EV‐I5

2017

EV‐I6

2017

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VENTURE CLASS MISSIONS

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

The Venture class of missions are managed within the ESSP program, managed out of the LaRC program 

office. Program management responsibility for implementation has been assigned to the ESSP Program 

Manager, located at LaRC; the LaRC Center Director is responsible for providing the Center resources 

required to execute the program. Programmatic authority is delegated from the SMD Associate 

Administrator to the ESD Director to the Associate Director for Flight Programs to the ESSP Program 

Manager. The program office oversees projects’ implementation to ensure technical, cost, and schedule 

commitments are met, and advocates for projects with ESD and SMD. 

Project/Element Provider Description

AirMoss Provider: U Mich/JPL

Project Management: LaRC 

NASA Center: LaRC

Cost Share: None

Soil Moisture

ATTREX Provider: ARC

Project Management: ARC 

NASA Center: ARC

Cost Share: None

Temporal changes in chemical and 

physical processes

CARVE Provider: JPL

Project Management: JPL 

NASA Center: JPL

Cost Share: None

Arctic carbon cycling.

DISCOVER-AQ Provider: LaRC

Project Management: LaRC 

NASA Center: LaRC

Cost Share: None

Air quality monitoring

HS3 Provider: GSFC/ARC Huricane and severe storms

Project Management: GSFC/ARC

NASA Center: GSFC/ARC

Cost Share: None

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VENTURE CLASS MISSIONS

Formulation Development Operations

Acquisition Strategy 

It is anticipated that NASA will issue a solicitation for Venture-Class Missions every year, and that the 

program will have the following characteristics: 

• The Venture-class mission series will incorporate an optimal mix of suborbital (airborne) 

missions, small space-based missions and instruments of opportunity, which fly on a separately 

funded partner spacecraft; 

Venture-class missions will emphasize exploratory science results instead of technology 

demonstrations; 

The maximum development schedule for a Venture-class mission is five years for a satellite or 

instrument mission, with a shorter schedule for airborne/suborbital missions; and 

Venture-class missions will be capped at $150 million for a satellite mission, which includes 

launch vehicle costs. Solicitations for airborne/sub-orbital missions, instruments or missions of 

opportunity selected within the total cap from each solicitation. 

• 

• 

• 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

None. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance SRB N/A EV-2 KDP-B/ Enter preliminary design 

phase.

Mar-12

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Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 61.7 36.3 38.0 39.4 40.1 41.1 41.5

ESSP Missions Research 13.3 14.0 13.4 13.9 14.2 14.6 14.8

Aquarius 28.1 0.1 4.7 5.5 5.4 5.6 5.6

GRACE 4.5 5.2 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4

Cloudsat 9.0 10.5 8.2 8.2 8.3 8.5 8.6

CALIPSO 6.7 6.5 6.6 6.8 6.9 7.1 7.2

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 1.6

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 4.5%

Earth System Science Pathfinder program’s cadre of 

satellites represents missions characterized by innovative 

design and relatively rapid implementation. These are 

focused missions that uniquely examine important 

components and physical processes within the global climate 

systems, including atmospheric carbon dioxide distribution, 

sea surface salinity variation, mass water movement, and the 

vertical structure of clouds and aerosols. 

The ESSP program provides opportunities 

that represent a series of relatively low-tomoderate cost, small-to-medium sized, 

competitively selected, principle investigatorled missions. They are an innovative 

approach to Earth science research, providing 

periodic, competitively selected opportunities 

that accommodate new and emerging 

scientific priorities, and focused scientific 

objectives, supporting a subset of studies of 

the atmosphere, oceans, land surface, polar 

ice regions, or solid Earth. 

Projects include development and operation 

of space missions, space-based remote 

sensing instruments for missions of 

opportunity and airborne science missions, 

and the conduct of science research utilizing 

data from these missions. ESSP Projects 

include developmental, high-risk, high-return 

Earth Science missions and often involve 

partnerships with other U.S. agencies and/or 

with international science and space 

organizations. These missions consist of a 

series of new science-driven, competitively 

selected, low cost missions that will provide 

innovative Earth science to enhance understanding of the current state of the Earth system and to enable 

continual improvement in the prediction of future changes. 

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Formulation Development Operations

Operating Missions 

ESSP currently has four operating missions: GRACE, CloudSat, CALIPSO, and Aquarius. Aquarius is 

the only mission in prime operations, having been launched in June 2011. The other three missions are all 

in extended operations. All three participated in the 2011 Earth Science Division Senior Review for 

mission extension, and were endorsed officially for extension through 2013 and preliminary through 

2015. These three missions are also expected to participate in the next Senior Review in 2013. 

ESSP MISSIONS RESEARCH

ESSP Missions Research provides funds for the science teams for the ESSP missions. The science teams 

are comprised of competitively selected individual investigators who analyze data from the missions to 

address the related science questions. 

AQUARIUS

Aquarius, launched in June 2011, has a three-year mission life. Aquarius will observe and model seasonal 

and year-to-year variations of sea-surface salinity and how these variations relate to changes in the water 

cycle and ocean circulation. The mission will provide the first global observations of sea surface salinity, 

covering Earth’s surface once every seven days. In its three-year mission life, Aquarius will collect as 

many sea surface salinity measurements as the entire 125-year historical record from ships and buoys. 

The science focus areas served by Aquarius will include climate variability and change and water and 

energy cycles. 

GRAVITY RECOVERY AND CLIMATE EXPERIMENT (GRACE) 

The GRACE, launched in FY 2002, measures Earth’s gravity field and its variations with time. GRACE 

consists of two spacecraft flying in tandem to measure Earth’s gravitational field very precisely. These 

measurements enable a better understanding of ocean surface currents and ocean heat transport. The 

mission is able to measure changes in sea-floor pressure and show how the mass of the oceans change. It 

also measures and monitors ice sheets and changes in the storage of water and snow on the continents. 

CLOUDSAT

CloudSat, launched in FY 2006 along with CALIPSO, measures cloud characteristics to increase 

understanding of the role of optically thick clouds in Earth’s radiation budget. This mission specifically 

provides estimates of the percentage of Earth’s clouds that produce rain, provides vertically-resolved 

estimates of how much water and ice are in Earth’s clouds, and estimates how efficiently the atmosphere 

produces rain from condensates. CloudSat is collecting information about the vertical structure of clouds 

and aerosols unavailable from other Earth observing satellites. This data is improving our models and 

providing a better understanding of the human impact on the atmosphere. Policy makers and business 

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Formulation Development Operations

leaders can make more informed long-term environmental decisions about public health and the economy 

and better day-to-day weather predictions will be possible as a result of these missions. 

CLOUD-AEROSOL LIDAR AND INFRARED PATHFINDER SATELLITE 

OBSERVATION (CALIPSO) 

CALIPSO launched in FY 2006 along with CloudSat, provides the next generation of climate 

observations, drastically improving the climate change prediction capabilities and to study breathable air. 

The mission provides statistics on the vertical structure of clouds, the geographic and vertical distribution 

of aerosols and detects subvisible clouds in the upper troposphere and polar stratospheric cloud. Also, the 

mission provides an indirect estimate of how much clouds and aerosols contribute to atmospheric 

warming. The CALIPSO payload consists of three co-aligned nadir-viewing instruments; the CloudAerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization, the Imaging Infrared Radiometer, and the Wide Field 

Camera. 

Recent Achievements 

AQUARIUS MAPS OCEAN SALINITY

Aquarius, which is aboard the Aquarius/Satélite de 

Aplicaciones Científicas (SAC-D) observatory, 

launched successfully June 10, 2011, from 

Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. 

Commissioning of the instrument began in August 

following final orbit maneuvers by the spacecraft, 

and science operations began August 25. The 

mission’s first global map of ocean surface salinity 

was available approximately two weeks later. To 

produce the map, Aquarius scientists compared the 

early data with ocean surface salinity reference data. 

Although the early data contain some uncertainties, and months of additional calibration and validation 

work remain, scientists are impressed by the data’s quality. The map shows several well-known ocean 

salinity features such as higher salinity in the subtropics; higher average salinity in the Atlantic Ocean 

compared to the Pacific and Indian oceans; and lower salinity in rainy belts near the equator, in the 

northernmost Pacific Ocean, and elsewhere. These features are related to large-scale patterns of rainfall 

and evaporation over the ocean, river outflow, and ocean circulation. Aquarius will monitor how these 

features change and study their link to climate and weather variations. Other important regional features 

are evident, including a sharp contrast between the arid, high-salinity Arabian Sea west of the Indian 

subcontinent, and the low-salinity Bay of Bengal to the east, which is dominated by the Ganges River and 

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south Asia monsoon rains. The data also show important smaller details, such as a larger-than-expected 

extent of low-salinity water associated with outflow from the Amazon River. 

This artist's concept shows the CloudSat spacecraft and its 

extremely sensitive cloud profiling radar (CPR). Short 

pulses of microwave energy are sent down into the 

atmosphere, and by recording the way these pulses are 

scattered back to the satellite, the CPR generates a picture 

of the structure and water content of clouds, and in effect, 

allows scientists to weigh the clouds. Collecting 

information about the vertical structure of clouds is 

helping answer key questions about how they form, evolve 

and affect our weather, climate and water supply. 

CLOUDSAT STUDIES CLOUD 

STRUCTURES

CloudSat is recovering from a severe battery 

anomaly, which occurred on April 17, 2011. The 

spacecraft lost one or more additional cells and 

required development of a new operational 

science mode. Recovery from the anomaly has 

been complicated by the need to maintain safe 

operations with the A-Train constellation of 

satellites (Aqua, Aura, CALIPSO, CloudSat, 

PARASOL), where CloudSat was in formationflight with CALIPSO at the time of the anomaly. 

Following the contingency procedures 

developed by the A-Train Constellation mission 

operations managers, CloudSat exited the ATrain in late June and achieved a stable standby 

mode by late July. The mission team turned on 

the Cloud Profiling Radar for the first time since 

the anomaly on September 29, and after 

extended health assessment testing over the next 

month, determined that the radar is fully 

functional and capable of continuing the science 

mission. The mission transitioned to the new 

science “Daylight-Only” operating mode on November 2. Re-entry to the A-Train constellation or an 

alternative science orbit is still under analysis, and return to full science operations is anticipated in 

FY 2012. 

CALIPSO OBSERVES RARE EVENT

CALIPSO observed an unusual mountain wave polar 

stratospheric cloud near the east coast of Greenland on 

January 4, 2011. Although orographically-induced 

wave ice PSCs are common in the Arctic (CALIPSO 

observes them every year), this event was remarkable 

because the cloud extended to altitudes above 30 

kilometers. This is the highest wave ice polar 

stratospheric cloud observed by CALIPSO in the 

Arctic during its five-year mission. The propagation of 

mountain waves to such high altitudes is a rare 

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Formulation Development Operations

phenomenon that occurs about once per winter. On that day the tropospheric jet stream was aligned with 

the edge of the polar vortex, which produces ideal conditions for vertical mountain wave propagation. 

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FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 147.4 163.4 161.7 170.2 172.9 176.5 177.6

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -1.7

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -1.0%

 

The Earth Observing System Data and Information 

System (EOSDIS) is a major core capability within 

NASA’s Earth Science Data Systems Program. 

EOSDIS ingests, processes, archives and distributes 

data from a large number of Earth observing 

satellites. EOSDIS consists of a set of processing 

facilities and Earth Science Data Centers 

distributed across the United States and serves 

hundreds of thousands of users around the world, 

providing hundreds of millions of data files each 

year covering many Earth science disciplines.

The Earth Science Multi-Mission Operations program 

acquires, preserves, and distributes observational data 

from operating spacecraft to support Earth Science 

focus areas in conformance with national science 

objectives. The Earth Science focus areas are: climate 

variability and change; atmospheric composition; 

carbon cycle, ecosystems, and biogeochemistry; water 

and energy cycles; weather; and Earth surface and 

interior. 

NASA’s principal Earth Science information system is 

EOSDIS, which has been operational since August 

1994. EOSDIS acquires, processes, archives, and 

distributes Earth Science data and information 

products created from satellite data, which arrive at the 

rate of more than four trillion bytes (four terabytes) 

per day. Having successfully created this system, 

NASA is using IT advances to expand its capabilities 

while providing continuous service to the user 

community. The current budget request includes the 

Science Data Segment for Suomi NPP, and supports 

data archive and distribution for upcoming missions 

including OCO-2 and SMAP. EOSDIS project 

management is working with additional decadal 

survey mission teams to understand their mission data 

characteristics and guide further improvements and 

system evolution, in order to support new data types and better characterization (e.g. quantitative error 

information) of all NASA archived data. A system plan for 2015 and beyond will take into account 

evolutionary needs for new missions being developed in response to the National Academies decadal 

survey. These very modest investments will enable the system to keep technologically current, and 

incorporate new research data and services. 

NASA Earth Science information is archived at eight Distributed Active Archive Centers (DAACs) and 

four disciplinary data centers located across the United States. The DAACs specialize by topic area, and 

make their data available to researchers around the world. 

For more information, see: http://www.science.nasa.gov/earth-science/earth-science-data/. 

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Research opportunities related to EOSDIS are available through NASA’s ROSES announcements. For 

more information on the Advanced Collaborative Connections for Earth System Science (ACCESS) see 

http://science.nasa.gov/earth-science/earth-science-data/access/. 

Research opportunities related to Making Earth System data records for Use in Research Environments 

(MEaSUREs) through NASA’s ROSES announcements. For more information on MEaSUREs see 

http://science.nasa.gov/earth-science/earth-science-data/Earth-Science-Data-RecordsPrograms/#ESDR_in_research_environments. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

None. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The successful completion of the Evolution of EOSDIS Elements effort has increased efficiency and 

operability and increased data usability by the research, application, and modeling communities. EOSDIS 

provides services and tools to enable use of NASA’s Earth Science data in next-decadal models, research 

results, decision support system benchmarking, and improved support for end users. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

The FY 2013 request includes all the requirements for the operations and maintenance of the EOSDIS, 

including DAACs and Data Centers, the Science Investigator-led Processing Systems, the EOSDIS 

CORE system, Science Data Processing System, and all the accompanying infrastructure and functions; 

all post-launch requirements for Suomi NPP Science Data Processing System Product Evaluation and 

Analysis Tool Element product analysis support; post launch processing for Cloud and Earth Radiant 

Energy System (CERES) and Ozone Mapper Profile Suite (OMPS)-Limb; and support for development 

and operations of the Land Atmosphere Near real-time Capability for EOS (LANCE) near-real-time 

system. 

The budget request for FY 2013 incorporates cost savings from EOSDIS and supports upcoming missions 

including OCO-2, SMAP, and GPM. EOSDIS project management is working with decadal survey 

mission teams to understand their mission data characteristics and guide further improvements and system 

evolution. 

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BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $161.7 million. This represents a $1.7 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($163.4 million). 

This decrease is due to revised demand for the data centers and other multi-mission operations (MMO) 

support for delayed Earth science missions. 

Projects 

EARTH OBSERVING SYSTEM DATA AND INFORMATION SYSTEM (EOSDIS) 

The EOSDIS project provides science data to a wide community of users, including NASA, Federal 

agencies, international partners, academia, and the public. EOSDIS provides users with the services and 

tools they need in order to use NASA’s Earth science data in research and creation of next-decadal 

models. EOSDIS archives and distributes data through standardized science data products, using 

algorithms and software developed by Earth Science investigators. 

EARTH SCIENCE MULTI-MISSION OPERATIONS

This project funds the Elements of EOSDIS Evolution, aimed at improving the efficiency and 

effectiveness of EOSDIS while reducing the cost. It also supports the eight nationwide DAAC 

installations that collect, disseminate, and archive Earth science data. Each DAAC focuses on a specific 

Earth system science discipline and provides users with data products, services, and data-handling tools 

unique to that specialty: 

• The Alaska Synthetic Aperture Radar Facility, which collects data and information on sea ice, 

polar processes, and geophysics; 

The GSFC Earth Sciences Data and Information Services Center, which collects information on 

atmospheric composition, atmospheric dynamics, global precipitation, ocean biology, ocean 

dynamics, and solar irradiance; 

The Langley Research Center DAAC, which collects data on Earth’s radiation budget, clouds, 

aerosols, and tropospheric chemistry; 

The Land Processes DAAC, which collects land processes data; 

The National Snow and Ice Data Center, which collects snow and ice data, as well as information 

about the cryosphere and climate; 

The Oak Ridge National Laboratory DAAC, which collects data on biogeochemical dynamics 

and ecological data for studying environmental processes; 

The Physical Oceanography DAAC, which collects information on oceanic processes and air-sea 

interactions; and 

The Socioeconomic Data and Applications Center, covering population, sustainability, 

multilateral environmental agreements, natural hazards, and poverty. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

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Program Schedule 

ROSES-2012 

solicitation

02/2012

ROSES-2012 

selection within 6-9 

months of receipt of 

proposals

Program Management & Commitments 

The Science Mission Directorate and the Program Management Council have oversight responsibility for 

the program. The EOSDIS Project Office at GSFC has primary responsibility for day-to-day operations. 

DAACs are also co-located with other agencies (USGS-EDC, DOE-ORNL) and at the following 

universities: University of Alaska at Fairbanks, University of Colorado, and Columbia University. 

Project/Element Provider

EOSDIS core 

system, and 

Evolution of 

EOSDIS upgrades

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Distributed Active 

Archive Centers 

(DAACs)

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC, each DAAC has local project 

management

NASA Center: GSFC, LaRC, MSFC, JPL

Cost Share: None

Precipitation 

Processing System 

(PPS)

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Provider: SMD

Project Management: Selected via ROSES

NASA Center: All

Cost Share: None

ACCESS, 

MEaSUREs

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Acquisition Strategy 

The EOSDIS Core System is a high-performance software system that provides science data ingest, 

archive and distribution capabilities for a multitude of Earth science instruments. Maintenance and 

operations for this system, utilized by three DAAC’s post-Step 1 Evolution of EODIS Elements, is 

performed under contract procured by GSFC. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

None. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Independent reviews of customer satisfaction (the customers are the users of NASA Earth science data) 

are conducted by the American Consumers Satisfaction Index (ACSI) Survey. EOSDIS has been 

conducting the ACSI surveys of its data users annually since 2004. 

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Survey ASCI 2011 In addition to the company-level 

satisfaction scores, ACSI produces 

scores for the causes and consequences 

of customer satisfaction and their 

relationships.

2012

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EARTH SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM (ESTP)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 52.8 51.2 49.5 50.1 52.1 54.1 56.1

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -1.7

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -3.3%

 

During two weeks of ground testing in July 2011, the 

Optical Autocovariance Wind Lidar (OAWL) made 

line-of-sight aerosol wind measurements alongside a 

reference wind lidar from NOAA. OAWL flew several 

airborne validation tests in early FY 2012 onboard the 

NASA WB-57 aircraft. This emerging technology may 

enable a fundamentally new kind of spaceborne 

instrument for global measurements of wind speed and 

direction within the troposphere (the lowest 5 to 12 

miles of the atmosphere) for the accurate, reliable, longterm weather forecasts of tomorrow. 

Advanced technology plays a major role in 

enabling Earth research and applications programs 

by advancing understanding of the total Earth 

system and the effects of natural and humaninduced changes on the global environment. ESTP 

enables previously unforeseen and previously 

infeasible science investigations; improves 

existing measurement capabilities; and reduces the 

cost, risk, and/or development times for Earth 

science instrumentation. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

None. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA continued to focus on 

priorities provided by the National Academies 

decadal survey and NASA’s plan for climatecentric observations Responding to the Challenge 

of Climate and Environmental Change. During 

this period, NASA sponsored technology developments and prototype demonstrations for the majority of 

second-tier decadal missions and, in particular, produced a breakthrough development related to the 

proposed third-tier 3D-Winds mission. 

This year 31 new investments were added to the Earth Science Technology Office (ESTO) portfolio by 

solicitations through the Instrument Incubator Program (IIP) and the Advanced Component Technologies 

(ACT) programs. Through these solicitations, NASA continues to build a strong history of technology 

development and infusion. During FY 2011, 50 percent of active technology projects advanced at least 

one Technology Readiness Level, and many projects achieved infusion into science measurements, 

system demonstrations, or other applications. Overall, of the more than 550 projects completed in the 

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EARTH SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM (ESTP)

portfolio, 36 percent have already been infused and an additional 44 percent have a path identified for 

future infusion. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, ESTO will plan and develop new remote-sensing and information systems technologies for 

infusion into future science missions and airborne campaigns to enable, or dramatically enhance, 

measurements and data system capabilities. Planning starts with measurement priorities established by the 

science community, leading to systematically developed technology requirements and priorities. Studies 

may be conducted to assess measurement options for meeting technology performance requirements. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $49.5 million. This represents a $1.7 million decrease from the FY 2012 estimate 

($51.2 million). 

This is due to the reallocation of funding based on Agency priorities. 

Projects 

INSTRUMENT INCUBATOR

This element develops instrument and measurement techniques at the system level, including laboratory 

breadboards and operational prototypes for airborne validation. Currently, 37 IIP projects are funded. In 

this program, a significant investment is being made towards development of an accurate measurement 

technique for carbon dioxide, whereby several candidate instruments prototypes are under development. 

Another IIP project is developing technologies to enable measurement in a broad spectral range from 

ultraviolet to visible to infrared. IIP also supported the development of a unique type of lidar that could 

one day be used to make three-dimensional wind measurements. 

In FY 2011, a novel system for future Doppler wind measurements completed an important ground 

demonstration that showed good correlation with a calibrated ground source. The Optical Autocovariance 

Direct Detection Wind Lidar offers a hybrid approach that uses a single 355-nm laser to measure winds 

from both aerosol and molecular backscatter. This single laser system has the potential to greatly simplify 

the sensor for, and reduce the cost of, the 3D-Winds mission. 

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ADVANCED INFORMATION SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY

This element develops end-to-end information technologies that enable new Earth observation 

measurements and information products. The technologies are used to process, archive, access, visualize, 

communicate, and understand science data. Currently, 20 projects focus on three areas needed to support 

future Earth science measurements: Sensor System Support, which nurtures autonomy and rapid response 

in the sensing process to improve the science value of data; Advanced Data Processing, designed to 

enhance the information extracted from the data stream; and Data Services Management, whose 

investments manage the growing body of Earth science data and allow for efficient exchange. The active 

projects seek to reduce the cost and risk of future Earth Science missions. The most recent solicitation 

occurred under ROSES-2011; with selections expected in early 2012. 

In FY 2011, NASA used the Real Time Mission Monitor (RTMM) for two field campaigns: the Light 

Precipitation Evaluation Experiment and the Winter Storms and Pacific Atmospheric Rivers experiment. 

RTMM is a tool that autonomously integrates data sets, weather information, vehicle operations data, and 

model and forecast outputs to help manage field experiments that involve a variety of space, airborne and 

ground assets. During both campaigns, RTMM optimized decision making by presenting timely data and 

visualizations and improving real-time situational awareness. 

Processing strategies developed by the Multi-Sensor Data Synergy Advisor (MDSA) project are being 

used to improve the quality and usability of selected atmospheric data products from MODIS instruments 

onboard the Terra and Aqua satellites. MDSA is a series of tools that enable data access and 

interoperability, provide data provenance, and improve comparisons between data sets. 

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY INITIATIVES

The Advanced Technology Initiatives element enables development of critical component and subsystem 

technologies for instruments and platforms, mostly in support of the Earth science decadal survey. The 

most recent solicitation for advanced component technologies occurred under ROSES-2010, where 15 

new selections were made that focused on areas such as space-qualified laser transmitters, passive optical 

technologies, and microwave and calibration technologies. Other awards support measurements of solar 

radiance, ozone, aerosols, and atmospheric gas columns for air quality and ocean color for coastal 

ecosystem health and climate emissions. 

In FY 2011, the first airborne measurements of atmospheric oxygen in the 1.26 micron band were 

successfully demonstrated on board the NASA DC-8 aircraft. The all fiber-based transmitter 

demonstrated 1.5 watts of modulated continuous wave power and represents the first-ever modulated high 

power narrow line-width source at this wavelength. This accomplishment marks significant progress 

towards a key risk reduction for the oxygen component measurement recommended for the future global 

carbon dioxide sensing ASCENDS mission. 

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Program Schedule 

ROSES-2012 

solicitation

02/2012

ROSES-2012 

selection within six 

to nine months of 

receipt of proposals

Program Management & Commitments 

ESTO at GSFC provides strategic, science-driven technology assessments and requirements development 

for the program. The office coordinates its technology investments with the Agency-wide technology 

program through the Science Mission Directorate’s Assistant Director for Innovation and Technology, a 

member of the NASA Technology Executive Council. 

Project/Element Provider

Instrument 

Incubator

Provider: ESTO

Project Management: ESTO

NASA Center: GSFC, JPL, LaRC, ARC, GRC, JSC, DFRC

Cost Share: None

Advanced 

Information 

Systems

Provider: ESTO 

Project Management: ESTO

NASA Center: GSFC, JPL, LaRC, ARC, GRC, MSFC

Cost Share: None

Provider: ESTO 

Project Management: ESTO

NASA Center: GSFC, JPL, LaRC

Cost Share: None

Advanced 

Technology 

Initiatives

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Acquisition Strategy 

ESTO will plan and implement development of new remote-sensing and information systems 

technologies for infusion into future science missions in order to enable, or dramatically enhance, 

measurements and data system capabilities. Tasks are procured primarily through full and open 

competition, such as the ROSES announcements. 

In 2013, NASA will issue the next Instrument Incubator solicitation through the ROSES call for new 

instrument technologies including those that will support future decadal survey measurements. It is 

anticipated that individual awards will no exceed $4.5 million each for a three-year activity. 

NASA will also continue supporting and managing awards made in the FY 2011 Advanced Information 

Systems Technology solicitation. Planning and preparations and will be made for issuing the next round 

of solicitation to be released in FY 2014. 

Finally, in 2013 NASA will continue supporting and managing component technologies made in the 

FY 2010 Advanced Component Technology solicitation. Planning and preparations and will be made for 

issuing the next round of solicitation to be released in FY 2014. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

The performance of technology program activities is measured in multiple ways. NASA addresses several 

specific goals with associated outcomes in the NASA annual performance plan, which is outlined in a 

separate section. ESTP provides a summary of Government Performance and Results Act Modernization 

Act metrics and performance assessments in the ESTO Annual Report. Current and prior annual reports 

are available on the ESTO Web site at http://esto.nasa.gov/. 

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Annual Technology

Evaluation

NAC Earth Science

Subcommittee

2009 The Earth Science Subcommittee 

reviewed the Earth Science Technology 

Program for infusion of new 

technologies and participation of 

universities in developing the new 

generation of technologists. The 

committee was overall pleased with the 

technology program; it wanted to ensure 

that tasks focus on being able to reduce 

cost in missions and are directed 

towards enabling/enhancing specific 

measurements.

2012

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APPLIED SCIENCES

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 36.6 36.4 34.6 35.0 36.7 38.4 40.1

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -1.8

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -4.9%

 

The Program focuses on both applied research and 

targeted, decision-support projects in 9 areas of national 

priority: Disasters; Agriculture; Ecological Forecasting; 

Climate; Health & Air Quality; Energy; Water 

Resources; Oceans; and Weather. 

The NASA Applied Sciences program leverages 

NASA Earth Science satellite measurements and 

new scientific knowledge to enable innovative and 

practical uses by public and private sector 

organizations. The Applied Sciences program 

supports applied research and applications projects 

to enable near-term uses of Earth science 

knowledge, discover and demonstrate new 

applications, and facilitate adoption of 

applications by non-NASA stakeholder 

organizations. 

Applied research and applications projects are 

designed to improve decision-making activities to 

help the Nation better manage its resources, 

improve quality of life, and strengthen the 

economy. NASA develops Earth science 

applications in collaboration with end-users in 

public, private, and academic organizations. 

Examples include: improved public health 

tracking systems for infectious diseases with the 

Centers for Disease Control; advances in accuracy 

of volcanic ash advisories for airplane pilots with 

the National Weather Service and the Federal Aviation Administration; improved wildfire smoke 

predictions with the U.S. Forest Service to reduce downwind public exposure; advances in assessing 

impacts of climate change on U.S. National Park ecosystems and improving land management strategies; 

improved assessment of flooding and landslide conditions with International Red Cross to plan mitigation 

and response activities; development of drought indicators with National Drought Mitigation Center to 

support end users’ conservation and agriculture decisions; and international disaster management support 

with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). 

The program’s primary outcomes are the routine, sustained uses of NASA Earth science products in user 

organizations’ policy, business, and management decisions to serve society; the impacts are the resulting 

socioeconomic benefits from the improved decisions. The program enables operational users to imagine 

and anticipate possible applications from upcoming satellite missions and to provide input to mission 

development teams to increase the societal benefits of NASA missions. 

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EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

None. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, under Applied Sciences, scientists demonstrated reliable detection of volcanic ash clouds 

using Aura/OMI SO2 data and other NASA Earth science satellites. Products from these sensors were 

used by NOAA to formulate and produce volcanic ash advisories for aviators across the Gulf of Mexico 

due to the February 2011 eruption of the Popocatepetl volcano in Mexico. 

GRACE satellite data was used to provide insights into subsurface water fluctuations at regional to 

national scales. The National Drought Mitigation Center monitors the Nations drought conditions (and 

publishes a Drought Monitor) and now distributes three maps each week based on the GRACE satellite 

data. One shows long-term fluctuation in deep groundwater, another shows change down to a meter 

below the surface, and a third shows change in the top two centimeters. Efforts in FY 2012 and FY 2013 

will build on these achievements and lead to more accurate drought assessments, ultimately benefitting 

the many stakeholders who depend on the assessments. 

The SERVIR activity within Applied Sciences developed a series of satellite-based products used by the 

government of the Dominican Republic and USAID prior, during, and after tropical storm Emily. Emily 

was the fiftieth extreme event (since 2004) for which NASA provided SERVIR assistance to Latin 

America and the Caribbean. 

As part of an Administration pilot program for impact evaluations, the program completed impact 

analyses of two projects during FY 2011 to assess the change in decision-making performance by partner 

organizations through the use of NASA Earth science data. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

A set of applications will provide NASA with feasibility studies in the areas of water resources, wildfires, 

and disasters. To increase focus on high-reward projects, the Applied Science program will down-select 

the studies and fund a sub-set in each area that will proceed to three-year implementation projects. The 

program will issue new project solicitations in FY 2013, particularly to enable use of the Suomi NPP and 

LDCM satellites and to prepare applications for SMAP and ICESat-2 missions. 

NASA will deliver a risk assessment project on changes in the Himalayan glaciers. This project will apply 

Earth observations on impacts of glacier change to water availability, management of water resources, 

and decision making related to flooding and agriculture. NASA, in conjunction with other interested 

agencies, will initiate up to three new hubs (selected in FY 2012) to expand the SERVIR program and 

advance the use of Earth observations to serve U.S. international development interests.

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BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $34.6 million. This represents a $1.8 million decrease from the FY 2012 estimate 

($36.4 million). 

This is due to the reallocation of funding based on Agency priorities. 

Projects 

Pathways has two primary lines of business, Applications and Capacity Building. The Applications 

themes are Health and Air Quality, Disasters, Ecological Forecasting, and Water Resources, including 

climate-related influences and impacts within each of these themes. The Capacity Building elements 

focus on foreign and domestic activities to build skills and capabilities in uses of Earth observations, 

including international and economic development. 

Program Schedule 

ROSES-2012 

solicitation

02/2012

ROSES-2012 

selection within six 

to nine months of 

receipt of proposals

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APPLIED SCIENCES

Program Management & Commitments 

The Applied Sciences program responsibility resides within the Earth Science Division of the Science 

Mission Directorate. The program also has collaborations with state agencies; regional organizations, 

such as Western Governors’ Association, and Gulf of Mexico Alliance; and non-profit intergovernmental 

organizations, such as United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization. 

Project/Element Provider

Earth Science 

Applications

Provider: SMD

Project Management: NASA HQ

NASA Center: GSFC, LaRC, SSC, JPL, MSFC, and ARC

Cost Share: EPA, NOAA, USDA, USGS, NPS, USFWS, 

CDC, USAID

Acquisition Strategy 

The Earth Science Applied Science acquisitions are based on full and open competition. Grants are peer 

reviewed and selected based on NASA research announcements and other related announcements. The 

program emphasizes cost sharing in projects, especially with Decision Support projects, which 

incorporate Earth science applications into decision making for societal benefit. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Relevance NRC Oct-07 The Applied Sciences program strategy 2013

and implementation.

Relevance Applied Sciences Nov-10 Applied Sciences program strategy and 2012

Analysis Group implementation. Annual reports to 

NASA Advisory Council from its Earth 

Science Subcommittee.

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PLANETARY SCIENCE

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

FY 2011

1,450.8

FY 2012

1,501.4

FY 2013

1,192.3

FY 2014

1,133.7

FY 2015 FY 2016

1,102.0 1,119.4

FY 2017

1,198.8

Planetary Science Research 158.8 174.1 188.5 222.5 233.4 231.7 230.3

Lunar Quest Program 130.2 139.9 61.5 6.2 0.0 0.0 0.0

Discovery 192.0 172.6 189.6 242.2 235.6 193.8 134.3

New Frontiers 213.2 160.7 175.0 269.8 279.6 259.9 155.1

Mars Exploration 547.4 587.0 360.8 227.7 188.7 266.9 503.1

Outer Planets 91.9 122.1 84.0 80.8 78.8 76.2 76.3

Technology 117.3 144.9 132.9 84.6 85.9 90.9 99.6

PLANETARY SCIENCE RESEARCH ............................... PS- 2 

Other Missions and Data Analysis PS- 7 

LUNAR QUEST PROGRAM .......................................... PS- 10 

Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer PS- 14 

(LADEE) [Development] 

DISCOVERY ........................................................... PS- 20 

Other Missions and Data Analysis PS- 23 

NEW FRONTIERS .................................................... PS- 27 

OSIRIS-REx [Formulation] PS- 29 

Other Missions and Data Analysis PS- 35 

MARS EXPLORATION ................................................ PS- 39 

2013 Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN PS- 42 

(MAVEN) [Development] 

Other Missions and Data Analysis PS- 49 

OUTER PLANETS ..................................................... PS- 56 

TECHNOLOGY ......................................................... PS- 61

PS-1 
PLANETARY SCIENCE

PLANETARY SCIENCE RESEARCH 

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President's Budget Request

Planetary Science Research and Analysis

FY 2011

158.8

122.3

FY 2012

174.1

122.3

FY 2013

188.5

125.3

FY 2014

222.5

130.1

FY 2015 FY 2016

233.4

133.5

231.7

134.6

FY 2017

230.3

135.5

Other Missions and Data Analysis 24.0 27.4 38.8 64.6 72.1 69.5 66.9

Education and Directorate Management 4.6 4.0 4.0 7.3 7.3 7.1 7.4

Near Earth Object Observations 7.8

Change From FY 2012 Estimate --

20.4 20.5 20.5 20.5 20.5 20.5

-- 14.5

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 8.3%

So much NASA planetary science activity occurred 

between October 2010 and August 2012 that the 

Planetary Science Division refers to this period as the 

"Year of the Solar System," although it is a Martian 

year rather than an Earth year. It takes Mars about 23 

Earth-months to orbit the Sun, and during the Year of 

the Solar System triple the usual number of launches, 

flybys and orbital insertions will occur. The Year of 

the Solar System concludes in August 2012 when 

Curiosity lands on Mars. The roving nuclear-powered 

science laboratory is expected to open a new chapter in 

exploration of the Red Planet.

The Planetary Science Research program develops 

analytical and theoretical tools as well as laboratory 

data needed to support flight missions data analysis. 

The program also initiates development of new and 

better instrument ideas that will potentially fly on 

future missions. These capabilities allow Planetary 

Science to answer specific questions about, and 

increase the understanding of, the origin and 

evolution of the solar system. The program 

represents an essential complement to planetary 

flight missions, providing the scientific research 

and the theoretical foundation to allow the Nation 

to plan and fully use the unique data sets returned 

from the missions exploring the solar system. It is 

also NASA’s primary interface with university 

faculty and graduate students in this field, and the 

research community in general. The research 

program achieves this by supporting research grants 

solicited annually and subjected to a careful peer 

review before selection and award. The content of 

the program includes mission supporting Research 

and Analysis (R&A), Other Missions and Data 

Analysis, and the Near Earth Object Observation 

program (NEOO). 

PS-2 
PLANETARY SCIENCE

PLANETARY SCIENCE RESEARCH 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

The Joint Robotics Program for Exploration project has been added to the program. This project will 

support the integration of Exploration and Planetary science efforts, including jointly funding instruments 

on planetary spacecraft. The funding increase in research and analysis enables NASA to select an 

increased number of highly rated peer reviewed proposals for maximum scientific benefits. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

NEOO achieved greater than 90-percent completeness for documenting the population of one kilometer 

and larger objects, and continued efforts for finding and characterizing smaller asteroids approaching 

Earth that may be destinations and resources for our exploration of the solar system and ones that could 

become potential impact hazards to the Earth. Competitive announcements were released soliciting R&A 

proposals and the Research program continued to curate and distribute solar system samples 

(astromaterials) returned by NASA planetary missions such as Stardust, Genesis, and Hayabusa. The 

program also provided continued support for the Rosetta mission’s arrival at comet ChuryumovGerasimenko in January 2014. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In pursuit of fundamental science that guides planetary exploration, the Planetary Science Research 

program will continue to select highly rated R&A proposals that support Planetary missions and goals. 

Planetary science will continue to archive and distribute relevant mission data to the science community 

and the public in a timely manner. The Planetary Science Research Program is archiving data from all of 

Planetary’s active missions. In addition to digital data, many scientists funded within the R&A program 

will be allocated samples of asteroid Itokawa, collected by the Hayabusa mission run by JAXA. The first 

samples were delivered to NASA in late 2011, and will be available for research in spring 2012. Proposed 

research includes studies of space weathering on asteroids, critical for planning future missions to 

asteroids, and the search for organic matter among samples relevant to future Exploration activities. 

Support will also continue for the Rosetta mission, as well as NEOO and JRPA. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $188.5 million. This represents a $14.5 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($174.1 million). 

Most of the increase is a result of adding the new project JRPA ($10 million) to the program for the 

benefit of supporting the integration of Science and Exploration future missions and goals. Additional 

funding increases were made to Planetary R&A to accommodate more proposals and Rosetta for 

preparations for the selection of science observations, software tools, and operations risk reduction. 

PS-3 
PLANETARY SCIENCE

PLANETARY SCIENCE RESEARCH 

Non-Operating Missions 

RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS

The scope of Planetary’s mission supporting R&A is very broad, addressing NASA goals and providing 

the foundation for the formulation of new scientific questions and strategies for accomplishing those 

goals. R&A will provide new theories and instrumentation concepts that will enable the next generation 

of flight missions. Discoveries and concepts developed in the R&A project aid in the genesis of scientific 

priorities, missions, instrumentation, and investigations. R&A supports research tasks in areas such as: 

astrobiology and cosmochemistry; the origins and evolution of planetary systems; and the atmospheres, 

geology, and chemistry of the solar system’s planets, other than Earth. R&A provides for instrument and 

measurement concepts, and supports the initial definition of mission concepts and development of 

instruments for future Discovery, New Frontiers, Mars, or outer planets missions. 

EDUCATION AND DIRECTORATE MANAGEMENT

The Robotics Alliance Project (RAP) is dedicated to increasing interest in STEM disciplines among youth 

in the U.S. Annual activities and events expose students to challenging applications of engineering and 

science. RAP supports national robotic competitions in which high school students team with engineers 

from government, industry, and universities to gain hands-on experience and mentoring from engineering 

and technical professionals. 

The Directorate Management project supports SMD-wide administrative and programmatic requirements. 

NEAR EARTH OBJECT OBSERVATIONS (NEOO) 

The NEOO project detects and tracks at least 90 percent of the near Earth objects (NEOs), asteroids and 

comets that come within 1.3 astronomical units of the Sun. It finds those as small as 140 meters in size 

and that have any potential to collide with Earth and do significant damage to the planet. Planetary objects 

that could be viable targets for robotic and crewed exploration will also be discovered and initially 

characterized where possible. 

In FY 2011, NASA, in accordance with the findings and recommendations of the January 2010 National 

Academies study on the NEO hazard, continued to: collect, archive, and analyze the small body data 

collected by NASA’s WISE mission, and supported increased follow-up and analysis of this data; enabled 

collection of NEO detection and characterization data by the USAF Panoramic Survey Telescope and 

Rapid Reporting System (Pan-STARRS) and investigated the use of other USAF space surveillance assets 

for this mission; supported the continued operation of planetary radar capabilities at the NSF’s Arecibo 

and NASA’s Goldstone facilities; and finally, investigated both ground and space-based concepts for 

increasing capacity to detect, track and characterize potentially hazardous objects down to sizes of 140 

meters and below. These efforts will continue in 2013. 

For more information on NEOO, visit the Web site at: http://neo.jpl.nasa.gov. 

PS-4 
PLANETARY SCIENCE

PLANETARY SCIENCE RESEARCH 

Program Schedule 

AO Solicitation

06/2013

AO Solicitation

06/2014

Senior Review

06/2014 

AO Solicitation

06/2015

Senior Review of 

Data

06/2015

AO Solicitation

06/2016

Senior Review

06/2016 

AO Solicitation

07/2017

Program Management & Commitments 

Project/Element Provider

R&A Provider: NASA

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: ARC, GRC, GSFC, JPL, JSC, LaRC, 

MSFC, HQ

Cost Share: N/A

NEOO Provider: NASA

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: HQ, GSFC, JPL, ARC

Cost Share: NSF, USAF, Smithsonian 

Observatory (SAO) 

Astrophysical 

Acquisition Strategy 

The R&A budget will fund competitively selected activities from the ROSES omnibus research 

announcement. NEOO data processing nodes are located at the Minor Planet Center (Cambridge, MA) 

and the Sentry high precision orbit determination node at JPL. 

PS-5 
PLANETARY SCIENCE

PLANETARY SCIENCE RESEARCH 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Quality Planetary Science 2011 Review to assess goals and objectives of 

program; recommendation was to 

maintain a strong program consistent 

with the decadal survey 

recommendation

TBD

Subcommittee

PS-6 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE RESEARCH

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 B UDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

FY 2011

24.0

FY 2012

27.4

FY 2013

28.8

FY 2014

54.6

FY 2015 FY 2016

62.1 59.5

FY 2017

56.9

Joint Robotics Program for Exploration 0.0 0.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0

Planetary Science Directed R&T 0.0 0.0 0.0 19.4 30.3 32.8 37.3

Planetary Data System 11.5 13.6 13.3 13.7 13.8 13.8 13.8

Astromaterial Curation 5.5 5.8 4.9 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3

Rosetta

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

6.3

--

8.0

--

10.6

1.4

16.5 12.8 7.6 0.5

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 5.1%

Visible on this 17-pound Antarctic meteorite is a dark 

fusion crust of melted material, created during highspeed entry through Earth’s atmosphere. JSC 

curators have sent 17,000 meteorite samples to more 

than 500 scientists worldwide. 

The Other Missions and Data Analysis portion of the 

Research program includes supporting mission 

functions such as the Planetary Data Systems and the 

Astromaterials Curation as well as supporting the 

NASA portion of the ESA Rosetta mission. 

Non-Operating Missions 

JOINT ROBOTICS PROGRAM FOR 

EXPLORATION

Beginning in FY 2013, the Planetary Science 

Division, working closely with the HEOMD, will 

invest in a joint robotics precursor activity that will 

develop instruments relevant to human exploration 

beyond low Earth orbit, and fund a research and 

analysis effort with the goal of turning the data 

gathered by these instruments, as well as the data of 

other SMD instruments and missions, into strategic 

knowledge in support of human spaceflight planning 

and systems development. Many of these research and analyses activities will be jointly conducted with 

HEOMD to maximize the mutual benefit to both science and exploration objectives, as was done with the 

highly successful LRO mission. 

PS-7 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE RESEARCH

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

PLANETARY SCIENCE DIRECTED RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY

This project funds the civil service staff that will work on emerging Planetary Science flight 

projects, instruments and research. The workforce and funding will transfer to projects by the 

beginning of FY 2013. 

PLANETARY DATA SYSTEMS

Planetary Data Systems facilitates achievement of NASA’s planetary science goals by efficiently 

collecting, archiving, and making accessible digital data produced by, or relevant to, NASA’s planetary 

missions, research programs, and data analysis. It is the active data archive for NASA’s Planetary Science 

theme. The archives include data products derived from a wide range of measurements, including imaging 

experiments, magnetic and gravity field measurements, orbit data, and various spectroscopic 

observations. The Planetary Data Systems archives make available space-borne, ground-based, and 

laboratory experiments from over 50 years of NASA-funded exploration of comets, asteroids, moons, and 

planets. 

ASTROMATERIAL CURATION

The Astromaterials Curation Facility at JSC is responsible for the curation of all extraterrestrial material 

under NASA control. Curation is an integral part of any sample return mission. It comprises initial 

characterization of new samples, preparation and allocation of samples for research and education, and 

provides a clean and secure storage for the benefit of current and future generations. Samples currently 

include Apollo lunar samples, Antarctic meteorites, solar wind, comet and interplanetary dust particles, 

soil, and rocks. 

Flight Operating Missions 

ROSETTA

Rosetta, an ESA/NASA comet rendezvous mission in operations phase that launched in March 2004, will 

arrive at comet Churyumov-Gerasimenko in FY 2014. Rosetta will enable study of the nature and origin 

of comets, the relationship between cometary and interstellar material, and the implications of comets 

with regard to the origin of the solar system. The Rosetta spacecraft will be the first to undertake the longterm exploration of a comet at close quarters. It comprises a large orbiter, which is designed to operate for 

a decade at large distances from the Sun, and a small lander. Each of these elements carries a large 

number of scientific experiments and examinations designed to complete the most detailed study of a 

PS-8 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE RESEARCH

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

comet ever attempted. Rosetta will allow scientists to look back 4,600 million years to a time when no 

planets existed and only a vast swarm of asteroids and comets surrounded the Sun. 

Recent Achievements 

ROSETTA

Rosetta has completed all of its pre-hibernation activities 

and has begun its science planning phase while the 

spacecraft prepares for its approach to comet 

Churyumov-Gerasimenko currently scheduled for 2014. 

The spacecraft will remain in hibernation as it continues 

toward the comet. 

PS-9 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

LUNAR QUEST

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 130.2 139.9 61.5 6.2 0.0 0.0 0.0

Lunar Science 61.7 66.7 17.3 3.7 0.0 0.0 0.

Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment 

Explorer

Surface Science Lander Technology

64.5

4.0

70.4

2.8

41.4

2.8

2.5

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.

0.

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -78.4

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -56.0%

0

0

0

An LRO Narrow Angle Camera image shows the Apollo 17 

landing site. This final mission of the Apollo program 

(December 1972) returned the richest collection of lunar 

materials from any lunar site. 

Lunar Quest conducts scientific exploration of 

the Moon through research and analysis and 

through the development of small-to-medium 

satellite and possibly surface missions. Lunar 

Quest addresses the science priorities identified 

in the National Academies report, "The 

Scientific Context for Exploration of the 

Moon.” Lunar Quest complements other lunar 

missions sponsored by NASA and international 

agencies. 

Projects included are the Lunar Atmosphere 

and Dust Environment Explorer (LADEE) 

mission, Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) 

mission, Lunar Management, and Lunar 

Science Research. These projects address Lunar 

Quest objectives, which include providing 

opportunities to conduct lunar-focused science 

missions and research; re-establishing lunar 

science and a lunar science community; and 

facilitation of new technologies to support 

flight missions. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

Consistent with the priorities of the 2011 National Academies decadal survey for Planetary Science, 

Lunar Quest will end shortly after the LADEE mission completion, currently scheduled for FY 2014. The 

remaining ongoing science will be absorbed within the Discovery program. 

PS-10 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

LUNAR QUEST

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

Striking new lunar images and maps have been added to the already comprehensive collection of raw 

lunar data and high-level products, including mosaic images, which LRO has made possible. The 

spacecraft’s seven instruments delivered more than 192 terabytes of data with an unprecedented level of 

detail. This comprehensive data set will provide a deeper understanding of the Moon and its environment 

and be used to support the extension of human presence in the solar system. Sites will be identified that 

are close to potential resources and have high scientific value, favorable terrain, and the environment 

necessary for safe future robotic and human lunar missions. 

The Surface Science Lander Technology project conducted its second free-flight test of a robotic Lander 

prototype on June 16, 2011. During test, the Lander successfully executed its planned flight profile, 

autonomously ascending to a six-foot hover and descending to conduct a controlled soft landing. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

LADEE Operational Readiness and Flight Readiness Reviews are currently scheduled for September 

2013. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $61.5 million. This represents a $78.4 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($139.9 million). 

Non-Operating Missions 

SURFACE SCIENCE LANDER TECHNOLOGY

The Surface Science Lander Technology project was established to create a new generation of small, 

smart, versatile robotic landers that will achieve scientific and exploration goals on the surface of the 

moon and other airless planetary bodies, including near-Earth asteroids. The lander capability being 

developed will pave the way for many exciting robotic scientific missions. NASA’s Robotic Lander Test 

Bed conducts test activities to prove the design of this new generation of robotic landers. MSFC and the 

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU-APL) engineers are currently conducting 

studies and test activities to aid in the design of this new generation of multi-use landers for future robotic 

space exploration. 

In 2013, the project will continue to test and develop its robotic lander technology that will be capable of 

performing science and exploration research at multiple destinations in the solar system. The technology 

will provide a means to test sensors, avionics, software, landing legs, and integrated system elements to 

support autonomous landings on airless planetary bodies in the solar system. 

PS-11 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

LUNAR QUEST

LUNAR SCIENCE RESEARCH 

The Lunar Science Research project was established to enhance participation and collaboration within the 

lunar science community. It is composed of competed research and analysis opportunities that include: 

the NASA Lunar Science Institute (NLSI), a virtual institute of geographically dispersed researchers and 

institutions, directed by ARC for management and implementation; the Lunar Advanced Science and 

Exploration Research program, a lunar-only element in the annual ROSES competitive research 

announcement; and Lunar Data, which supports lunar data archives and distribution to the science 

community. 

LUNAR MANAGEMENT

Lunar Management provides management and oversight of selected flight missions 

reviews. 

LUNAR RECONNAISSANCE ORBITER

The primary objective of the HEOMD LRO mission was to conduct investigations that prepare for future 

human lunar exploration. Specifically LRO scouted for safe and compelling landing sites, located 

potential resources (with special attention to the possibility of water ice) and characterized the effect of 

prolonged exposure to the lunar radiation environment. Final delivery of LRO exploration data to the 

Planetary Data System occurred on March 15, 2011, fully satisfying the ESMD’s mission requirements. 

Following completion of its mission for HEOMD, LRO was transferred into the Science Mission 

Directorate in September 2010, and NASA adjusted its operations to focus on rich scientific data that will 

help us to better understand the moon’s topography and composition. LRO is now devoting the 

capabilities of the seven LRO instruments to five science investigations: the bombardment history of the 

Moon; the lunar geologic processes and their role in the evolution of the crust and lithosphere; the 

processes that have shaped the global lunar regolith; the types, sources, sinks, and transfer mechanisms 

associated with volatiles on the Moon; and how the space environment interacts with the lunar surface, in 

order to advance our understanding of the origin and evolution of the Moon. 

In FY 2012, LRO will complete its primary science mission operations (completing the data analysis in 

FY 2013). NASA will consider extending LRO science operations for an additional two years as part of a 

Senior Review of operating Planetary Science missions. 

Program Schedule 

The Lunar Quest program will end shortly after the LADEE mission completion, currently scheduled for 

FY 2014.

PS-12 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

LUNAR QUEST

Program Management & Commitments 

MSFC has program management responsibility for the Lunar Quest program, providing overall mission 

management oversight. 

Project/Element Provider

LRO Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: JSC, JPL, JHU-APL

Cost Share: N/A

Surface Science 

Lander

Provider: MSFC

Project Management: MSFC

NASA Center: MSFC, JHU-APL

Cost Share: N/A

Provider: HQ

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: ARC, GSFC, MSFC, JPL, JSC

Cost Share: N/A

Lunar Science

Acquisition Strategy 

All major procurements are in place. No new awards are expected in FY 2013. 

PS-13 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: LUNAR QUEST

LUNAR ATMOSPHERE & DUST ENVIRONMENT EXPLORER 

(LADEE) 

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority Actual Estimate LCC 

(in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s 

Budget Request

2012 MPAR Project 

Cost Estimate

Prior

84.1

84.1

FY 2011

64.5

64.5

FY 2012

70.4

70.4

FY 2013

41.4

41.4

FY 2014

2.5

2.5

FY 2015

0.0

0.0

FY 2016

0.0

0.0

FY 2017

0.0

0.0

BTC

0.0

0.0

Total 

262.9

262.9

Formulation 79.5 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 79.5

Development/ 

Implementation

Operations

Change From FY 2012 

Estimate

Percent Change From FY 

2012 Estimate

4.7

--

64.5

--

--

--

70.4

--

--

--

36.2

5.2

-29.0

-41.2%

--

2.5

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

175.8

7.7

The National Academies report The Scientific Context for 

Exploration of the Moon lists studies of the pristine state 

of the lunar atmosphere and dust environment as two of 

eight major priorities for future lunar science missions. 

LADEE was developed to address these two priorities. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

Calendar year 2013 is the year of transition from 

development to operations. The increase of $7.6 

million in development reflects current detailed 

phasing plans for this transition. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

The purpose of LADEE is to determine the global 

density, composition, and time variability of the 

lunar atmosphere. LADEE’s measurements will 

determine the size, charge, and spatial 

distribution of electrostatically transported dust 

grains. Additionally, LADEE will carry an 

optical laser communications demonstrator that 

will test high-bandwidth communication from 

lunar orbit. LADEE will measure lunar dust and examine the lunar atmosphere. In addition, it will 

broaden the scientific understanding of other planetary bodies regarding exospheres or very thin 

atmospheres, like the moon. 

PS-14 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: LUNAR QUEST

LUNAR ATMOSPHERE & DUST ENVIRONMENT EXPLORER 

(LADEE) 

Formulation Development Operations

PROJECT PARAMETERS

LADEE will deliver its science using three instrument packages: the Neutral Mass Spectrometer (NMS), 

the Ultra Violet Spectrometer (UVS), and Lunar Dust EXperiment (LDEX). The mission will be testing a 

new first-of-its-kind spacecraft architecture called the “Modular Common Bus,” developed by NASA as a 

flexible, low cost, rapid turn-around spacecraft for both orbiting and landing on the Moon and other deep 

space targets. It is hoped that such a capability will enable the Agency to perform future science goals for 

reduced cost. 

In addition to three science instruments, LADEE will carry the Lunar Laser Communications 

Demonstration (LLCD) sponsored by HEOMD to demonstrate high-bandwidth optical communications 

for the first time from lunar orbit. LADEE will be launched on a Minotaur V, procured by the Air Force, 

from NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility (WFF). LADEE is an in-house development project, the first 

spacecraft to be built internally at ARC. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

LADEE completed its Critical Design Review on May 20, 2011. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

LADEE is scheduled to complete all integration and testing and be delivered to the WFF launchpad in FY 

2013. 

SCHEDULE COMMITMENTS/KEY MILESTONES

Development Milestones Confirmation Baseline 

Date

FY 2013 PB Request Date

KDP-C Aug-10 Aug-10

CDR May-11 May-11

SIR Nov-12 Nov-12

Launch Nov-13 Nov-13

End of Prime Mission Apr-14 Mar-14

PS-15 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: LUNAR QUEST

LUNAR ATMOSPHERE & DUST ENVIRONMENT EXPLORER 

(LADEE) 

Formulation Development Operations

Project Schedule 

KDP-C

08/2010

CDR

05/2011

SIR

11/2012

Launch

11/2013

End of Prime 

Mission

04/2014

Development Cost and Schedule 

Current 

Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Base Year 

Development

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Current 

Year 

Milestone 

Date

Cost 

Change 

(%)

Base Year 

Milestone 

Date

Milestone 

Change 

(months)

Base 

Year

Current 

Year

Key 

JCL (%) Milestone

2011 168.2 70 2012 175.8 4.5 LRD Nov-13 Nov-13 0

Note: The confidence level estimates reported reflect an evolving process as NASA improves its probabilistic estimation 

techniques and processes. The estimate above reflects the practices and policies at the time it was developed. Estimates that 

include combined cost and schedule risks are denoted as joint confidence level; all other confidence levels reflect cost 

confidence without necessarily factoring the potential impacts of schedule changes on cost. 

PS-16 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: LUNAR QUEST

LUNAR ATMOSPHERE & DUST ENVIRONMENT EXPLORER 

(LADEE) 

Formulation Development Operations

DEVELOPMENT COST DETAILS (IN $M) 

Element

Base Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Current Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Change from 

Base Year 

Estimate

TOTAL: 168.2 175.8 7.6

Aircraft/Spacecraft 34.8 36.7 1.9

Payloads 15 16.0 1.0

Systems I&T 6.7 8.9 2.2

Launch Vehicle 45.7 47.0 1.3

Ground Systems 3.5 5.6 2.1

Science/Technology 0.8 1.2 0.4

Other Direct Project Costs 61.7 60.5 -1.2

PS-17 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: LUNAR QUEST

LUNAR ATMOSPHERE & DUST ENVIRONMENT EXPLORER 

(LADEE) 

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

LADEE operates under the Lunar Quest program of the SMD Planetary Science Division. The decision 

authority is the SMD Associate Administrator. ARC has day-to-day overall management. 

Project Element

Spacecraft

Provider

Provider: ARC

Project Management: ARC

NASA Center: ARC

Cost Share: N/A

Description

Design, build and deliver the 

spacecraft

FY 2012 PB 

R t Same

FY 2013 PB 

R t Same

Neutral mass 

Spectrometer 

(NMS) Instrument

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Design, build and deliver the 

NMS instrument. Also 

responsible for integrating of 

LDEX and UVS

Same Same

UV Spectrometer 

(UVS) Instrument

Provider: ARC

Project Management: ARC

NASA Center: ARC

Cost Share: N/A

Design, build and deliver. Same Same

Lunar Dust 

EXperiment 

(LDEX) 

Instrument

Provider: Univ of Colorado, LASP

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Design, build and deliver. Same Same

Launch Vehicle Provider: USAF

Project Management: AF

NASA Center: WFF

Cost Share: N/A

Integrate vehicle and provide 

launch service

Nomenclature 

of rocket 

(from IV+ to 

V)

Same

PS-18 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: LUNAR QUEST

LUNAR ATMOSPHERE & DUST ENVIRONMENT EXPLORER 

(LADEE) 

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

The LLCD team adjusted the testing sequence and ARC adjusted their I&T 

flow, to ensure meeting the need dates

If: LLCD Optical Module delivery is late,

Then: the delay will impact the LADEE 

launch readiness date.

Acquisition Strategy 

All major acquisitions are in place. The spacecraft bus was directed to ARC and will provide the Ultra 

Violet Spectrometer in partnership with GSFC who will provide the Neutral Mass Spectrometer. The 

Lunar Dust Experiment was competitively selected through stand alone missions of opportunity notices 

and awarded to the University of Colorado LASP. The USAF Orbital/Suborbital program and Orbital 

Sciences Corporation are providing the launch vehicle. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

SIR SRB Nov-11 The purpose is to evaluate the readiness 

of the overall system to commence 

integration and test, to review the 

verification and validation plans, 

integration plans, and test plans, and to 

ensure test articles (hardware/software), 

test facilities, support personnel, and 

test procedures are ready for testing and 

data acquisition, reduction, and control. 

The outcome resulted in a requirement 

to conduct Internal Readiness Reviews 

prior to radiator panel integration and 

structure assembly and test, and a delta 

SIR prior to Observatory integration..

late spring 2012

PS-19 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

DISCOVERY

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

192.0

--

FY 2012

172.6

--

FY 2013

189.6

16.9

FY 2014

242.2

FY 2015 FY 2016

235.6 193.8

FY 2017

134.3

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 9.8%

All completed Discovery missions have achieved groundbreaking science, each taking a unique approach to space 

exploration, doing what’s never been done before, and 

driving new technology innovations. 

NASA’s Discovery program provides 

scientists the opportunity to dig deep into their 

imaginations and find innovative ways to 

unlock the mysteries of the solar system. 

When it began in 1992, this program 

represented a breakthrough in the way NASA 

explores space. For the first time, scientists 

and engineers were called on to assemble 

teams and design exciting, focused planetary 

science investigations that would deepen our 

knowledge about our solar system. 

The Discovery program goal is to achieve 

outstanding results by launching many smaller 

missions using fewer resources and shorter 

development times. The main objective is to 

enhance our understanding of the solar system 

by maximizing the different missions to 

explore the planets, their moons, and small 

bodies such as comets and asteroids. The 

program also seeks to improve performance 

through the use of new technological 

achievements. 

The scientific requirements of solar system exploration have driven some of the most remarkable 

engineering achievements of the past five decades. For example, prior to the Dawn mission, only 

chemical propulsion had been used on all previous planetary missions. A major step forward in 

interplanetary transportation technology occurred in 2001 with the successful flight of Deep Space 1, 

powered by solar electric, or ion, propulsion. This technology can reduce the propellant required to reach 

certain planetary destinations by a factor of 10 or more. Dawn is the first planetary science mission to use 

solar electric propulsion (demonstrated by Deep Space 1) which will allow it to orbit two asteroids on one 

trip through space. 

PS-20 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

DISCOVERY

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

As a result of the planned phase out of the Lunar Quest program, the Discovery program is absorbing 

ongoing lunar science activities. The FY 2013 President’s Budget Request supports the launch of a 

Discovery 12 mission within the advertised 24 month window. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

Exciting accomplishments during 2011 include the Stardust NExT encounter of Tempel 1, DAWN 

orbiting the asteroid Vesta, and the GRAIL launch. On February 14, 2011, the Stardust spacecraft flew 

past the nucleus of comet Tempel 1 to provide images of the crater left by the Deep Impact mission on 

this same comet in July 2005. The spacecraft also produced images of new territory on the comet that had 

not been seen before. 

DAWN entered orbit around Vesta, the second most massive object in the asteroid belt between Mars and 

Jupiter, in July 2011 and will remain there for about a year, lowering the orbit altitude in steps to collect 

more detailed data and images. The spacecraft will then use its ion thrusters to leave Vesta orbit in mid2012 and begin its journey to Ceres, the largest asteroid in the belt. 

GRAIL launched successfully from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FL, on September 10, 2011 and 

began a three-and-a-half-month journey to the Moon. GRAIL will create a gravity map of the Moon using 

two spacecraft that orbit in tandem and make very precise measurements of the changes in their 

separation distance caused by the Moon’s gravity field. NASA solicited the help of U.S. students to 

provide names for the twin spacecraft, previously called GRAIL-A and GRAIL-B. The naming contest 

was open through November 2011 to students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The new names 

recently selected are Ebb and Flow. 

In addition, the Discovery program has selected three new and exciting concepts studies and will downselect to one in the summer of 2012. All previously completed Discovery missions have achieved groundbreaking science, each taking a unique approach to space exploration, doing what’s never been done 

before, and driving new technology innovations that may also improve life on Earth. In support of 

NASA’s education program goals, the Discovery program helps communicating the excitement and 

meaning of space exploration to students and the public. The program has offered workshops to educators 

across the country, interactive websites for the public, exhibits, special events, newsletters, and other 

forms of communication. 

For more information on the Discovery program, please see http://discovery.nasa.gov/index.html. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

The GRAIL mission will complete its collection of gravity data for the Moon. The selected Discovery 12 

mission will enter the Preliminary Design Phase. 

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DISCOVERY

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $189.6 million. This represents a $16.9 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($172.6 million). 

Though some project’s budgets, such as GRAIL, DAWN, and MESSENGER, will be reduced as they 

continue into their Operations phase, the overall increase in the Discovery program is a result of 

beginning the execution of the Discovery 12 mission selection. 

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OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

Actual

FY 2011

Estimate

FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014

Notional

FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Discovery Research

Discovery Future Missions

Discovery Management

Strofio

GRAIL

Dawn

MESSENGER

ASPERA-3

Deep Impact

Stardust

Moon Mineralogy Mapper

192.0 172.6 189.6 242.2 235.6 193.8 134.3

17.4 17.5 16.9 15.9 16.1 16.3 16.3

4.5 60.7 138.3 197.4 195.5 163.9 96.2

7.5 9.0 11.3 11.8 12.1 12.4 12.5

6.2 1.6 0.9 1.3 0.7 0.8 0.8

103.4 29.8 8.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

14.8 14.3 8.1 10.1 11.3 0.4 8.5

22.7 34.9 4.6 5.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

0.9 0.9 0.8 0.6 0.0 0.0 0.0

5.3 4.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

7.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

1.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 16.9

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 9.8%

Dawn mission data has revealed the rugged 

topography and complex textures of the asteroid 

Vesta’s surface. Soon other pieces of data such as 

the chemical composition, interior structure, and 

geologic age will help scientists understand the 

history of this remnant protoplanet and its place in 

the early solar system. After a year orbiting Vesta, 

the Dawn spacecraft will depart in July 2012 for the 

dwarf planet Ceres, where it will arrive in 2015. 

Other Missions and Data Analysis funds all Discovery 

activities, except for major missions being readied for 

launch. It includes missions of opportunity (e.g. 

Strofio and ASPERA-3) with lifecycle costs to NASA 

of less than $35 million; operating missions (GRAIL, 

Dawn, MESSENGER); missions whose operations 

have ceased (Deep Impact, Stardust, Moon Mineralogy 

Mapper); competed research; funding for future 

mission selections; and management activities. 

Non-Operating Missions 

DISCOVERY RESEARCH

Discovery Research includes funding for: the 

Discovery Data Analysis program, analyzing archived 

data from Discovery missions; Laboratory Analysis of 

Returned Samples which is building new instruments 

for use in terrestrial laboratories, to analyze samples 

returned from NASA Planetary Science missions; and 

participating scientists for the MESSENGER, Dawn 

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OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

and GRAIL missions. Data access through Discovery Research allows broader science community 

analysis of the data and samples, and also allows research to continue for many years after a mission has 

been completed. Research proposals are made by scientists in the U.S. planetary community and are 

competitively selected through peer review. 

DISCOVERY FUTURE MISSIONS

Discovery Future Missions provides funds for future Discovery flight missions to be selected via a 

competitive Announcement of Opportunity process. Three concept studies are currently underway as a 

result of the Discovery 12 Announcement of Opportunity. Final selection of one mission is planned for 

June 2012. 

DISCOVERY MANAGEMENT

Discovery Program Management provides for the management oversight of flight missions selected for 

the program. It also supports the mission selection process, through the development of Announcements 

of Opportunity and the establishment of independent panel reviews to evaluate mission proposals. 

Operating Missions 

STROFIO

Strofio (Exospheric Sample of Mercury’s Surface Composition) is the U.S. contribution of an instrument 

to the European Space Agency’s BepiColombo mission, scheduled for launch in 2014. Strofio will 

provide valuable information about Mercury’s exosphere and its interaction with the magnetosphere and 

surface. 

GRAVITY RECOVERY AND INTERIOR LABORATORY (GRAIL) 

GRAIL is composed of two functionally identical spacecraft (called Ebb and Flow) that fly in tandem 

around the Moon to precisely measure and map variations in the Moon’s gravitational field. The mission 

will provide the most accurate global gravity field to date for any planet, including Earth. This detailed 

information will reveal differences in the density of the Moon’s crust and mantle and will help answer 

fundamental questions about the Moon’s internal structure, thermal evolution, and history of collisions 

with asteroids. Launched in September 2011, GRAIL will complete its prime mapping operations in 

2012. FY 2013 funding will be used to analyze the data collected during mission operations in FY 2012. 

DAWN

The Dawn mission is on a journey to the two oldest and most massive space rocks in the asteroid belt 

between Mars and Jupiter, Vesta and Ceres. Their surfaces are believed to contain a snapshot of the 

conditions present in the solar system’s first 10 million years, allowing Dawn to investigate both the 

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OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

origin and the current state of the solar system. By observing asteroid Vesta and dwarf planet Ceres with 

the same set of instruments, Dawn has the unique ability to compare and contrast them and answer 

questions about the formation and evolution of the early solar system. Launched in September 2007, 

Dawn reached Vesta in July 2011, and will arrive at Ceres in February 2015. 

MERCURY SURFACE, SPACE ENVIRONMENT, GEOCHEMISTRY, AND RANGING 

(MESSENGER) 

The MESSENGER mission is a scientific investigation of the planet Mercury, the smallest and least 

explored of the terrestrial planets. It is the only planet besides Earth to possess a global magnetic field. 

Understanding Mercury and the forces that have shaped it is fundamental to understanding the origin and 

evolution of the four rocky inner planets in our solar system. Launched in August 2004, MESSENGER 

entered Mercury orbit in March 2011 for a one year prime mission. The excellent science return and 

health of the spacecraft allowed approval of a one year mission operations extension to March 2013. 

ANALYZER OF SPACE PLASMA AND ENERGETIC ATOMS (ASPERA-3) 

ASPERA-3 is one of seven scientific instruments aboard the European Space Agency’s Mars Express 

spacecraft launched in June 2003 that are performing remote sensing measurements designed to answer 

questions about the Martian atmosphere, structure, and geology. ASPERA-3 is measuring ions, electrons, 

and energetic neutral atoms in the outer atmosphere to reveal the number of oxygen and hydrogen atoms 

(the constituents of water) interacting with the solar wind and the regions where such interaction occurs. 

Mars Express is now on its second mission extension. 

Recent Achievements 

GRAIL 

The twin GRAIL spacecraft successfully launched 

on September 10, 2011. Successful orbit insertion 

occurred on December 31, 2011, and January 1, 

2012. The mission will begin its operations phase 

by mapping the moon’s gravity with a precision 

formulation-flying technique. The end of the 

primary mission is scheduled for June 2012. 

DAWN

The spacecraft entered its year-long orbital mission around Vesta in July 2011, becoming the first 

spacecraft to orbit an object in the main asteroid belt. 

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OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

DEEP IMPACT

The Deep Impact project successfully completed its 

repurposed science missions, referred to as EPOXI. 

EPOXI was comprised of two components; Extrasolar 

Planet Observations and Characterization (EPOCh) and 

the Deep Impact Extended Investigation (DIXI). The 

spacecraft reached the comet Hartley 2 in November 4, 

2010. The data gathered from the Hartley 2 flyby will be 

compared to the data gathered from Tempel 1 and used 

for determining which cometary features represent 

primordial differences and which result from subsequent 

evolutionary processes. 

STARDUST

Stardust-NExT (Stardust-New Exploration of 

Tempel) completed its flyby of comet 

Tempel 1 on February 14, 2011. The data 

gathered was used to detect if any changes 

have occurred since the flyby of July 2005 by 

the Deep Impact mission. Scientists are still 

analyzing the disturbance to the surface on 

comet Tempel 1 where the Deep Impact 

collision occurred. 

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NEW FRONTIERS

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

FY 2011

213.2 160.7 175.0 269.8 279.6 259.9 155.1

FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

OSIRIS-Rex 4.9 110.3 137.5 228.8 224.2 202.1 44.9

Other Missions and Data Analysis

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

208.3 50.5 37.5 41.0 55.4 57.8 110.1

-- -- 14.3

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 8.9%

The New Frontiers program seeks to contain total mission 

cost and development time and improve performance 

through the use of validated new technologies, efficient 

management, and control of design, development and 

operations costs while maintaining a strong commitment 

to flight safety. The program objective is to launch highscience-return planetary science investigations twice per 

decade. 

The New Frontiers program constitutes a critical 

element of NASA’s solar system exploration 

capability that will perform high-quality focused 

scientific investigations. Initiated in 2003, the 

New Frontiers program was defined to pursue 

high-quality planetary missions that require 

resources beyond those available in the 

Discovery program. Unlike the Discovery 

program, the choice of destinations and the 

science goals for each New Frontiers 

opportunity are limited to the National 

Academies recommended science targets. These 

include: Venus In Situ Explorer, Saturn Probe, 

Trojan Tour and Rendezvous, the Comet Surface 

Sample Return, and Lunar South Pole-Aitken 

Basin Sample Return. 

New Horizons is the first peer-review selected 

mission of the New Frontiers program and is 

currently on its way to its primary target, Pluto. 

It will conduct reconnaissance of Pluto and its 

moons Charon, Nixa, and Hydra. The dwarf 

planet Pluto has been revealed to be a multiobject system of small and large moons, never 

before seen up close. This mission will tell us a 

lot about how the Kuiper belt orbits form and 

their role in the early formation of the solar 

system. 

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NEW FRONTIERS

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

The third New Frontiers down-selection of one mission to proceed to the subsequent phases occurred as 

planned in late CY 2011. This project, OSIRIS-REx, entered its formulation phase in FY 2012 as 

planned. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

Juno, the second New Frontiers mission with an overarching scientific goal to understand the origin and 

evolution of Jupiter and planetary formation, launched on August 5, 2011. OSIRIS-REx, the third New 

Frontiers mission, was selected in May 2011. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In March 2013, OSIRIS-REx will complete its Preliminary Design Review (PDR) and proceed to design 

and development phase (phases C and D). 

New Horizons will conduct and complete two instrumentation status checks during its cruise to Pluto. 

Juno will use a gravity assist speed boost from Earth via an Earth flyby in October 2013. 

For more information on the New Frontiers program, see http://newfrontiers.nasa.gov/index.html. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $175.0 million. This represents a $14.3 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($160.7 million). 

The project workforce on OSIRIS-REx is increasing, in preparation for launch in 2016. 

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ORIGINS-SPECTRAL INTERPRETATION-RESOURCE 

IDENTIFICATION-SECURITY-REGOLITH EXPLORER (OSIRISREX) 

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority Actual Estimate LCC 

(in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s 

Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 

Estimate

Prior

0.0 4.9 110.3 137.5 228.8 224.2 202.1 44.9 0.0 952.7

FY 2011

-- -- 27.2

FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 BTC Total 

Percent Change From FY 

2012 Estimate -- -- 24.7%

• 

• 

• 

Asteroids are leftovers formed from the cloud of gas 

and dust, the solar nebula, that collapsed to form the 

Sun and the planets about 4.5 billion years ago. As 

such, they contain the original material from the solar 

nebula, which can tell scientists about the conditions of 

the solar system’s birth. In sampling the near Earth 

asteroid designated 1999 RQ36 in 2019, OSIRIS-REx 

will be opening a time capsule from the birth of the 

solar system.

PROJECT PURPOSE

Origins-Spectral Interpretation-Resource 

Identification-Security-Regolith Explorer (OSIRISREx) tentatively planned to launch in 2016 

OSIRIS-REx will perform the following: 

Return and analyze a sample of pristine 

asteroid soil in an amount sufficient to 

study the nature, history, and distribution of 

its constituent minerals and organic 

material; 

Map the global properties, chemistry, and 

mineralogy of a primitive carbonaceous 

asteroid to characterize its geologic and 

dynamic history and provide context for the 

returned samples; 

Document the texture, morphology, volatile 

chemistry, and spectral properties of the 

regolith at the sampling site at scales down 

to the sub-millimeter; 

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ORIGINS-SPECTRAL INTERPRETATION-RESOURCE 

IDENTIFICATION-SECURITY-REGOLITH EXPLORER (OSIRISREX) 

Formulation Development Operations

• Accurately measure the “Yarkovsky effect” on a potentially hazardous asteroid and constrain the 

asteroid properties that contribute to this effect; and 

Characterize the integrated global properties of a primitive carbonaceous asteroid to allow for 

direct comparison with ground-based telescopic data of the entire asteroid population. 

• 

The Yarkovsky effect is a small push caused by the Sun on an asteroid, as it absorbs sunlight and re-emits 

that energy as heat. The small push adds up over time, but it is uneven due to an asteroid’s shape, wobble, 

surface composition and rotation. For scientists to predict an Earth-approaching asteroid’s path, they must 

understand how the effect will change its orbit. OSIRIS-REx will study the orbit of asteroid RQ36 to 

ascertain its trajectory and devise future strategies to mitigate possible Earth impacts from celestial 

objects. 

EXPLANATION OF PROJECT CHANGES

None 

PROJECT PRELIMINARY PARAMETERS

OSIRIS-REx will tentatively launch in September 2016, encountering the target asteroid in October 2019. 

The mission will study the asteroid for up to 505 days, globally mapping the surface from distances of 5 

kilometers to 0.7 kilometers. The spacecraft cameras and instruments will photograph the asteroid and 

measure its surface topography, composition, and thermal emissions. Radio science will provide mass and 

gravity field maps. This information will help the mission team select the most promising sample site, 

from which it will collect and return to Earth at least 60 grams of pristine material from asteroid RQ36. 

The sample return will use a capsule similar to that which returned the samples of comet 81P/Wild on the 

Stardust spacecraft, allowing the sample to return and land at the Utah Test and Training Range in 2023. 

The capsule will then be transported to JSC for processing by a dedicated research facility. Subsamples 

will be made available for research to the world-wide science community. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

Final selection of OSIRIS-REx for the third New Frontiers mission occurred as planned in FY 2011, 

allowing the New Frontiers 3 mission to proceed into Phase B in FY 2012. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In March 2013, the project will complete its Preliminary Design Review (PDR) and proceed to design and 

development phase (phases C and D). 

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Formulation Development Operations

ESTIMATED PROJECT SCHEDULE

OSIRIS-REx is tentatively scheduled for launch in the 3rd quarter of FY 2016 to an asteroid for a sample 

return mission. This project is being reported for the first time in this FY 2013 budget submission. 

Formulation Milestones Formulation Agreement 

Estimate

FY 2013 PB Request Date

Formulation Authorization May-11 May-11

Mission Definition Review May-12 May-12

KDP-C May-13 May-13

Integrated Baseline Review Aug-13 Aug-13

CDR Apr-14 Apr-14

KDP-D Mar-15 Mar-15

Launch Sep-16 Sep-16

Asteroid Acquisition Oct-19 Oct-19

Asteroid Departure Mar-21 Mar-21

Sample Earth Return Sep-23 Sep-23

Sample Analysis Complete Jun-25 Jun-25

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Formulation Development Operations

Project Schedule

Formulation 

Authorization

05/2011

MDR

05/2012

KDP-C

05/2013

IBR

08/2013

CDR

04/2014

KDP-D

03/2015

Launch

09/2016

Asteroid Acquistion

10/2019

Asteroid Depature

03/2021

Sample Earth Return

09/2023

Sample Analysis 

Complete

06/2025 

Formulation Estimated Life Cycle Cost Range and 

Schedule Range Summary 

KDP-B Date Estimated Life Cycle Cost 

Range ($M)

Key Milestone Key Milestone Estimated 

Date Range

5/2011 1085-1210 LRD 3/2016-9/2016

Project Management & Commitments 

The OSIRIS-REx project will be managed by GSFC, which will also provide systems engineering, safety 

and mission assurance, project scientists, flight dynamics, and the OVIRS instrument. JSC will curate and 

manage the returned sample, and MSFC will manage the project under its New Frontiers Program Office. 

The University of Arizona will provide the principle investigator, science team coordination, Planetary 

Data Systems archiving, education and public outreach, and provide the OCAMS instrument.

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Formulation Development Operations

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB 

R t

FY 2013 PB 

R t Spacecraft Provider: Lockheed Martin

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

The OSIRIS-REx payload N/A New

includes instruments from the 

University of Arizona, GSFC, 

Arizona State University in 

Tempe and CSA

Spacecraft Provider: KinetX

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Radio science provides RQ36 N/A New

Navigation mass and gravity field maps

OSIRIS-REx Provider: University of Arizona

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Provides long-range 

acquisition of RQ36, along 

with global mapping, samplesite characterization, sample 

acquisition documentation, 

and sub-mm imaging

N/A New

Camera Suite 

(OCAMS)

OSIRIS-REx Laser Provider: CSA

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: CSA

Provides ranging data; global N/A New

Altimeter (OLA) topographic mapping; and 

local topographic maps of 

candidate sample sites

OSIRIS-REx Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Provides mineral and organic N/A New

Visible and IR 

Spectrometer 

(OVIRS) 

spectral maps and local 

spectral information of 

candidate sample sites 

OSIRIS-REx Provider: Arizona State University

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Provider: Boeing

Project Management: KSC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Provides mineral and thermal N/A New

Thermal Emission 

Spectrometer 

(OTES) 

emission spectral maps and 

local spectral information of 

candidate sample sites 

Launch Vehicle Launch vehicle N/A New

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ORIGINS-SPECTRAL INTERPRETATION-RESOURCE 

IDENTIFICATION-SECURITY-REGOLITH EXPLORER (OSIRISREX) 

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: The launch vehicle vibro-acoustic loads 

exceed heritage design capabilities and/or 

qualifications,

Then: Redesign or requalification of heritage 

designs at the higher load levels may be 

necessary with cost and schedule impacts,

Perform early vibro-acoustic analysis with KSC to demonstrate more accurate 

vibro-acoustic loads. After analysis, new launch vehicle load information will 

be provided to determine propagated loads and effects on heritage designs.

If: The Sample Return Capsule reentry is 

anomalous,

Then: The return sample will be 

compromised (lost or contaminated).

Designate a lead for the Entry/Descent/Landing at Lockheed Martin; use same 

experienced flight dynamics/Entry/Descent/Landing team as Stardust; use 

same designs, fabrication, and test program as Stardust for the Sample Return 

Capsule.

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Due to the recent down selection of the project in late FY 2011, there are no major contracts currently in 

place. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance SRB None Preliminary Design Review Mar-13

Performance SRB None Non-Advocate Review Apr-13

Performance SRB None Critical Design Review Apr-14

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OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

FY 2011

208.3 50.5 37.5 41.0 55.4 57.8 110.1

FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

New Frontiers Future Missions 2.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.5 65.3

New Frontiers Management 5.7 6.4 6.4 6.5 6.7 6.9 7.0

New Frontiers Research 1.2 0.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

New Horizons 9.7 12.4 13.3 16.4 26.8 18.5 4.5

Juno

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

189.2

--

31.4

--

17.8

-13.0

18.1 21.8 29.9 33.4

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -25.8%

• 

• 

• 

• 

The Juno mission is the first time a spacecraft has 

used solar power so far out in space (Jupiter is five 

times farther from the Sun than Earth). To operate 

on the Sun’s light that far out requires solar panels 

about 9 feet wide by 29 feet long, about the size of 

the cargo section of a typical tractor-trailer. The 

panels will only generate enough power for five 

standard light bulbs, about 450 watts of electricity. 

If the arrays were optimized to operate at Earth, 

they would produce 12 to 14 kilowatts of power.

The New Frontiers program represents a critical step 

in the advancement of solar system exploration. The 

missions in the program will tackle specific solar 

system exploration goals identified as top priorities by 

consensus of the planetary community as reported in 

the planetary science decadal surveys conducted by 

the National Academies. NASA’s goals are to: 

Examine the "big picture" of solar system 

exploration today—what it is, how it fits into 

other scientific endeavors, and why it is a 

compelling goal; (i.e. understanding solar 

system beginnings, and searching for the 

requirements for life); 

Perform a broad survey of the current state of 

knowledge about our solar system (i.e. 

revealing planetary processes through time); 

Obtain an inventory of the top-level scientific 

questions that should provide the focus for 

solar system exploration in the next decade; 

and 

Generate a prioritized list of the most 

promising avenues for flight investigations 

and supporting ground-based activities. 

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OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

Non-Operating Missions 

NEW FRONTIERS FUTURE MISSIONS

The New Frontiers Future Missions project provides funds for future New Frontiers space missions to be 

selected via a competitive Announcement of Opportunity process. The third New Frontiers mission, 

OSIRIS-REx, was announced in May 2011. The fourth announcement of opportunity (NF-4) release for 

competition is currently planned for 2015. Based on their science value and projected costs, the 2013 

Planetary Science Decadal Survey committee identified five candidate New Frontiers missions, which can 

be found at http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=13117#toc. 

NEW FRONTIERS MANAGEMENT

New Frontiers Management provides for the management oversight of flight missions selected for the 

program. It also supports the mission selection process, through the development of Announcements of 

Opportunity and the establishment of independent panel reviews to evaluate mission proposals. 

Operating Missions 

NEW HORIZONS

New Horizons is the first scientific investigation to obtain a close look at Pluto and its moons Charon, 

Nix, Hydra, and S/2011 P1. Scientists hope to find answers to basic questions about the surface 

properties, geology, interior makeup and atmospheres on these bodies, the last in our solar system to be 

visited by a spacecraft. 

New Horizons launched on January 19, 2006. It performed a Jupiter gravity assist and scientific studies in 

early 2007 and will reach Pluto in July 2015. As part of an extended mission, the spacecraft would then 

head deeper into the Kuiper Belt to study one or more of the icy mini-worlds in the region one billion 

miles beyond Neptune’s orbit. 

To get to Pluto, which is three billion miles from Earth, in just 9.5 years, the spacecraft will fly by the 

dwarf planet Pluto and its four moons in 2015 at a velocity of about 27,000 miles per hour. The 

instruments on New Horizons will start taking data on Pluto and Charon months before it arrives. About 

three months from the closest approach, when Pluto and its moons are about 65 million miles away, the 

instruments will take images and spectra measurements and begin to make the first maps ever made of 

these bodies. 

The spacecraft will get as close as about 6,000 miles from Pluto and about 17,000 miles from Charon. 

During the half-hour when the spacecraft is closest to Pluto, it will take close-up pictures in both visible 

and near-infrared wavelengths. The best images should depict surface features as small as 200 feet across. 

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Formulation Development Operations

JUNO

Juno is a mission of discovery and exploration that will conduct an in-depth study of Jupiter, the most 

massive planet in our solar system. Peering through the clouds deep into Jupiter’s atmosphere, the 

mission will reveal fundamental processes of the formation and early evolution of our solar system. 

Juno’s goal is to understand the origin and evolution of the gas giant planet, which will pave the way to a 

better understanding of our solar system and other planetary systems being discovered around other stars. 

Juno was successfully launched on August 5, 2011 as scheduled and within the budget allocated for 

development of this mission. 

Using a spinning, solar-powered spacecraft, Juno will make maps of the gravity, magnetic fields, and 

atmospheric composition of Jupiter from a unique polar orbit. Juno will carry precise high-sensitivity 

radiometers, magnetometers, and gravity science systems. During its approximately one-year mission, 

Juno will complete 33 eleven-day-long orbits and will sample Jupiter’s full range of latitudes and 

longitudes. From its polar perspective, not mapped before, Juno combines in situ and remote sensing 

observations to explore the polar magnetosphere and determine what drives Jupiter’s remarkable auroras. 

Juno has a camera on board to produce images focused on education and public outreach. 

Recent Achievements 

NEW HORIZONS STUDENT DUST 

COUNTER INSTRUMENT BREAKS 

DISTANCE RECORD

The Student Dust Counter surpassed the previous 

record when it flew beyond 18 astronomical 

units, one unit is the distance between the Sun 

and the Earth, or 1.67 billion miles, approaching 

the orbit of Uranus. The only other dedicated 

instruments to measure space dust beyond 

Jupiter’s orbit were aboard Pioneers 10 and 11 in 

the 1970s. Additionally, the instrument is the 

first science instrument on a planetary mission to 

be designed, tested and operated by students. The 

instrument was built by students from the 

University of Colorado. The New Horizons 

project is managed by the Southwest Research 

Institute (SwRI). 

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OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

FOURTH MOON AROUND PLUTO 

CONFIRMED BY NEW HORIZONS

New Horizons mission team scientists confirmed the 

discovery of a fourth moon around Pluto, first discovered 

via the Hubble Space Telescope in June 2011. The New 

Horizons project is managed by SwRI. 

NASA’S JUNO SPACECRAFT 

LAUNCHES TO JUPITER

NASA’s first solar-powered spacecraft to Jupiter 

lifted off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station 

aboard an Atlas V rocket, to begin a five-year journey 

to Jupiter. Juno’s detailed study of the largest planet 

in our solar system will help reveal Jupiter’s origin 

and evolution. As the archetype of giant gas planets, 

Jupiter can help scientists understand the origin of our 

solar system and learn more about planetary systems 

around other stars. The Juno project is managed by 

JPL. 

PS-38 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

MARS EXPLORATION

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

FY 2011

547.4

FY 2012

587.0

FY 2013

360.8

FY 2014

227.7

FY 2015 FY 2016

188.7 266.9

FY 2017

503.1

MAVEN 160.6 245.7 146.4 37.6 17.3 5.3 0.0

Other Missions and Data Analysis 386.8

Change From FY 2012 Estimate --

341.4 214.4 190.1 171.4 261.6 503.1

-- -226.2

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -38.5%

Every time we feel close to understanding Mars, new 

discoveries send us straight back to the drawing board to 

revise existing theories. NASA’s discovered that today’s 

Martian wasteland hints at a formerly volatile world 

where volcanoes once raged, meteors plowed deep 

craters, and flash floods rushed over the land. Mars 

continues to throw out new enticements with each landing 

or orbital pass made by spacecraft.

The Mars Exploration program is a sciencedriven program that seeks to understand whether 

Mars was, is, or can be, a habitable world. To 

find out, we need to understand how geologic, 

climatic, and other processes have worked to 

shape Mars and its environment over time, as 

well as how they interact today. As the most 

Earth-like planet in our solar system, Mars has a 

land mass approximately equivalent to the 

Earth’s as well as many of the same familiar 

features such as riverbeds, past river deltas, and 

volcanoes. Mars has the best planetary record of 

the first billion years of our solar system and 

holds scientific clues to the development of the 

solar system, planets, and maybe life itself. Mars 

also has many of the same "systems" that 

characterize our home world, such as an 

atmosphere, a hydrosphere, a cryosphere and a 

lithosphere. In other words, Mars has systems of 

air, water, ice, and geology that all interact to 

produce the Martian environment. What we 

don’t know yet is whether Mars ever developed 

or maintained a biosphere, an environment in 

which life could thrive. The key to understanding the past, present or future potential for life on Mars can 

be found in the four broad, overarching goals for Mars Exploration: determine whether life ever arose on 

Mars, characterize the climate of Mars, characterize the geology of Mars, and prepare for human 

exploration. The Mars Exploration program has been developed to conduct a rigorous, incremental, 

discovery-driven exploration of Mars to determine the planet’s physical, dynamic, and geological 

characteristics. This coupled mission and research strategy has yielded significant success in answering 

many key questions as the program “Followed the Water,” and in only a single decade is now able to 

move to more challenging inquiries of “Seeking the Signs of Life.” 

Projects under the Mars Exploration program include the current operating missions 2001 Mars Odyssey, 

2003 Mars Exploration Rover (MER), Mars Express with the European Space Agency, 2005 Mars 

PS-39 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

MARS EXPLORATION

Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO), and the 2011 Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) that successfully launched 

in November 2011. The 2013 MAVEN mission is in development. 

The Mars Exploration program also includes Mars Program Management, Mars Technology, Mars 

Operating and Extended Missions, and Mars Research and Analysis. JPL has program management 

responsibility for the Mars Exploration program, providing overall mission implementation management. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

After 2013 MAVEN, the Mars Exploration program is working towards defining future missions that will 

build upon scientific discoveries from past missions and incorporate the lessons learned from previous 

mission successes and failures. NASA is terminating further activity on the formulation activity for the 

NASA/ ESA ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter 2016 (EMTGO) mission and planning for the previous 

NASA/ESA Mars 2018 mission concept. NASA remains committed to an ongoing Mars Exploration 

program of robotic exploration missions in support of an integrated strategy of scientific and human 

exploration, and intends to work with the science community and our international partners in the 

formulation of a restructured mission. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

On June 22, 2011, NASA announced Gale Crater as the landing site for MSL’s car-sized rover, Curiosity. 

This was one of the important last milestones for preparing the mission for launch. The MSL mission 

successfully launched MSL and its Curiosity rover, NASA’s largest rover yet, toward Mars in November 

2011, and will spend most of FY 2012 cruising to its destination. Curiosity is scheduled to land on the 

surface of Mars in August 2012 using a groundbreaking “Sky Crane” landing system that will assist in the 

very difficult task of entry, descent, and landing, which is also intended as a workhorse for landing largemass systems on the surface of Mars for the foreseeable future. 

2013 MAVEN entered the development phase in the opening days of FY 2011 and successfully 

completed its CDR on July 15, 2011. This review granted permission to the mission team to begin 

manufacturing flight and ground hardware. 2013 MAVEN is working toward System Integration Review 

to enable approval to enter Phase D, including Operational and Flight Readiness Reviews, by the end of 

FY 2012. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

MSL will have landed on Mars at the beginning of FY 2013 and will have just started surface science 

operations. These science operations will extend throughout FY 2013, and constitute the first half of the 

primary mission for MSL. 2013 MAVEN will ship to KSC in mid-2013 for launch in early FY 2014. 

Future mission concepts will mature and one or more will enter the pre-formulation phase. 

PS-40 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

MARS EXPLORATION

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $360.8 million. This represents a $226.2 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($587.0 million). 

With the successful launch of MSL in early FY 2012, the mission entered Operations phase and requires 

much less funding indicative of significant reductions in the workforce. 2013 MAVEN funding 

requirements will also decrease in FY 2013 as the project sheds workforce and enters assembly, test, and 

launch operations in preparation for an early FY 2014 launch. In FY 2012, NASA is ending work on the 

EMTGO 2016 and the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA). A future Mars mission planned 

within the Mars Next Decade project is being defined. 

Mars Exploration program re-planning efforts have begun with a cross-discipline team from the Science 

Mission Directorate, Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate, and the Office of the Chief 

Technologist. This team will engage the broader community in early February 2012 to begin to create a 

Mars program architecture that includes missions to synergize science and human exploration goals and 

objectives, plus opportunities for demonstration of key related technologies. The team will look to take 

advantage of the favorable relative location of Mars and Earth in 2018 and 2020, with pathway options 

for missions later in the 2020s based on science discovery and human destination requirements. NASA 

will inform Congress as the new program architecture is defined, and will identify the first mission in the 

FY 2014 budget request. 

PS-41 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: MARS EXPLORATION

2013 MARS ATMOSPHERE & VOLATILE EVOLUTION

(MAVEN) 

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority Actual Estimate LCC 

(in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s 

Budget Request

2012 MPAR Project 

Cost Estimate

Prior

58.4 160.6 245.7 146.4 37.6 17.3 5.3 0.0 0.0 671.2

58.4 160.6 245.7 146.4 37.6 17.3 5.3 0.0 0.0 671.2

FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 BTC Total 

Formulation

Development/ 

Implementation

58.4 5.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 63.9

Operations/close-out

Change From FY 2012 

Estimate

0.0 155.0 245.7 146.4 20.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 567.2

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 17.5 17.3 5.3 0.0 0.0 40.1

-- -- -99.3

-- -- -40.4% Percent Change From FY 

2012 Estimate

After arriving at Mars in the fall of 2014, MAVEN will 

use its propulsion system to enter an elliptical orbit 

ranging 90 to 3,870 miles above the planet. The 

spacecraft’s eight science instruments will take 

measurements for a full Earth year, obtaining critical 

measurements that the National Academy of Science 

listed high priority in their 2003 decadal survey on 

planetary exploration. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

2013 MAVEN completed its Critical Design 

Review on July 15, 2011, progressing towards a 

November 2013 launch date. The above funding 

estimate reflects the October 2010 decision to 

allow the project to enter development phase. This 

reflects the addition of Electra, a UHF software 

defined radio designed to communicate with other 

spacecraft as they approach, land, and operate on 

Mars, and the awarded launch vehicle costs. The 

project’s development and life cycle cost estimates 

and schedule in this document are consistent with 

the KDP-C memo and its baseline report. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

2013 MAVEN was selected under the Mars Scout 

program, which supports smaller, low-cost 

competed missions led by a principal investigator. 

2013 MAVEN will provide a comprehensive 

picture of the Mars upper atmosphere, ionosphere, 

solar energetic drivers, and atmospheric losses. 

PS-42 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: MARS EXPLORATION

2013 MARS ATMOSPHERE & VOLATILE EVOLUTION

(MAVEN) 

Formulation Development Operations

2013 MAVEN will deliver answers to long-standing questions regarding the loss of the Mars atmosphere, 

climate history, liquid water, and habitability. 2013 MAVEN will provide the first direct measurements 

ever taken to address key scientific questions about Mars’ evolution. Specific 2013 MAVEN science 

objectives are to determine structure and composition of the atmosphere and ionosphere; determine the 

physical and chemical processes that control loss processes; determine escape rates of neutrals; determine 

escape rates of ions; determine the external inputs that control upper atmosphere and ionosphere structure 

and that drive escape; and determine the relative escape rates of the stable isotopes and the resulting 

isotopic fractionation. As with all Mars Exploration program orbiters, 2013 MAVEN will also carry an 

Electra radio for communications with surface assets. 

PROJECT PARAMETERS

2013 MAVEN will deliver its science using three instrument packages: A stand-alone neutral gas and ion 

mass spectrometer, capable of measuring thermal neutrals and ions; a stand-alone imaging ultraviolet 

spectrometer; and the Particles and Fields package, consisting of six instruments measuring ionospheric 

properties, energetic ions, solar wind and solar energetic particles, magnetic fields, and solar extreme 

ultraviolet irradiance. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

2013 MAVEN completed its Critical Design Review on July 15, 2011. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

2013 MAVEN will ship to Cape Canaveral in July 2013 and commence launch operations processing 

shortly thereafter for launch in November 2013. 

PS-43 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: MARS EXPLORATION

2013 MARS ATMOSPHERE & VOLATILE EVOLUTION

(MAVEN) 

Formulation Development Operations

SCHEDULE COMMITMENTS/KEY MILESTONES

Development Milestones Confirmation Baseline 

Date

FY 2013 PB Request Date

KDP-C Oct-10 Oct-10

CDR Jul-11 Jul-11

SIR Jun-12 Jun-12

Launch Nov-13 Nov-13

End of Prime Mission Oct-15 Oct-15

Project Schedule 

KDP-C

10/2010

CDR

07/2011

SIR

06/2012

Launch

11/2013

End of Prime 

Mission

10/2015

PS-44 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: MARS EXPLORATION

2013 MARS ATMOSPHERE & VOLATILE EVOLUTION

(MAVEN) 

Formulation Development Operations

Development Cost and Schedule 

Current 

Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Base Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Current 

Year 

Milestone 

Date

Cost 

Change 

(%)

Base Year 

Milestone 

Date

Milestone 

Change 

(months)

Base 

Year

Current 

Year

Key 

JCL (%) Milestone

2011 567.2 70 2012 567.2 0 LRD Nov-13 Nov-13 0

Note: The confidence level estimates reported reflect an evolving process as NASA improves its probabilistic estimation 

techniques and processes. The estimate above reflects the practices and policies at the time it was developed. Estimates that 

include combined cost and schedule risks are denoted as joint confidence level; all other confidence levels reflect cost 

confidence without necessarily factoring the potential impacts of schedule changes on cost. 

Development Cost Details (in $M) 

Element

Base Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Current Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Change from 

Base Year 

Estimate

TOTAL: 567.2 567.2 0.0

Aircraft/Spacecraft 146 164.2 18.2

Payloads 51.1 53.2 2.1

Systems I&T 23 21.6 -1.4

Launch Vehicle 187 186.3 -0.7

Ground Systems 5.2 5.9 0.7

Science/Technology 2.2 2.2 0.0

Other Direct Project Costs 152.7 133.8 -18.9

PS-45 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: MARS EXPLORATION

2013 MARS ATMOSPHERE & VOLATILE EVOLUTION

(MAVEN) 

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

The 2013 MAVEN project is part of the Mars Exploration program managed for NASA by the Mars 

Program Office at JPL. The principle investigator for 2013 MAVEN is from the University of Colorado 

and has delegated the day-to-day management of the 2013 MAVEN project to GSFC. 

Project/Element

Spacecraft

Provider

Provider: Lockheed Martin

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Description

MRO heritage spacecraft bus 

and avionic suite, with cross 

strapping and monopropellant 

propulsion

FY 2012 PB 

R t Same 

FY 2013 PB 

R t Same

Launch Vehicle Provider: ULA

Project Management: 

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share: N/A

KSC

Atlas V launch vehicle and 

related launch services

Same 

(reported as 

intermediate 

class launch 

service, Atlas 

V now 

selected)

Same

Neutral gas and ion 

mass spectrometer

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

Design, build, and deliver the 

instrument

Same Same

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Magnetometer Provider: GSFC

Project Management: 

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

GSFC

Design, build, and deliver 

(part of the MAVEN Particle 

and Fields Instrument 

package)

Same Same

Imaging Ultraviolet 

Spectrometer 

Provider: University of Colorado, LASP

Project Management: GSFC

Design, build, and deliver 

remote sensing instrument 

package.

Same Same

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Electra Provider: JPL

Project Management: GSFC

Design, build, and deliver 

UHF Data Relay payload

Same Same

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

PS-46 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: MARS EXPLORATION

2013 MARS ATMOSPHERE & VOLATILE EVOLUTION

(MAVEN) 

Formulation Development Operations

Project/Element

Supra Thermal Ion 

Composition

Provider: SSL

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Provider Description

Design, build, and deliver 

(part of Particle and Fields 

Instrument package)

FY 2012 PB 

R t Same

FY 2013 PB 

R t Same

Solar Energetic 

Particles

Provider: SSL

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Design, build, and deliver 

UHF Data Relay payload

Same Same

Solar Wind 

Electron Analyzer 

Provider: SSL

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Design, build, and deliver 

UHF Data Relay payload

Same Same

Solar Wind Ion 

Analyzer 

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Design, build, and deliver the 

NGIMS instrument

Same Same

Lanamuir Probe 

and Waves and 

EUV 

Provider: SSL

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Design, build, and deliver 

UHF Data Relay payload

Same Same

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: single point failures on the input of the 

HEPS card occur,

Then: permanent loss of spacecraft electrica

power will result.

The project and GSFC Mission Assurance Office are identifying and 

understanding HEPS-specific manufacturing techniques; identifying all single 

l point failures to inspect during assembly to mitigate against shorts; 

developing a plan for insight/oversight of the 2013 MAVEN-specific HEPS 

card build; reviewing board requirements with an eye towards design 

robustness and remaining design requirements.

PS-47 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: MARS EXPLORATION

2013 MARS ATMOSPHERE & VOLATILE EVOLUTION

(MAVEN) 

Formulation Development Operations

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Spacecraft, flight system, integration & 

test, mission operations

Lockheed Martin Space Systems 

Company

Denver, CO

Launch Vehicle & services United Launch Alliance Florida

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance SRB Jul-11 The 2013 MAVEN Project passed the N/A

CDR conducted by the independent 

Standing Review Board in July 2011.

Performance SRB N/A Assess readiness to proceed to Jun-12

observatory integration and test 

PS-48 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: MARS EXPLORATION

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

Actual

FY 2011

Estimate

FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014

Notional

FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Mars Research and Analysis

Mars Technology 

Mars Mission Operations

Mars Extended Operations

Mars Next Decade

Mars Program Management

2001 Mars Odyssey

2003 Mars Exploration Rover 

Mars Express 

2005 Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter

2011 Mars Science Laboratory

Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer

2016 ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter

386.8

17.4

2.5

1.6

0.0

8.0

21.0

10.1

13.6

0.9

30.1

242.9

6.0

32.6

341.4

19.0

5.0

1.8

0.0

4.3

27.5

12.8

15.0

2.1

40.4

174.0

11.9

27.6

214.4

15.2

3.0

1.8

53.7

62.0

13.5

0.0

0.1

0.0

0.1

65.0

0.0

0.0

190.1

15.2

4.0

1.8

40.1

72.8

17.6

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

38.5

0.0

0.0

171.4

15.3

7.0

1.9

56.3

72.8

18.1

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

261.6

15.3

23.0

1.9

51.2

151.7

18.5

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

503.1

15.3

75.0

1.9

51.4

346.1

13.4

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

Change From FY 2012 Estimate --

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate --

-- -127.0

-- -37.2%

NASA’s Mars Exploration program has been developed to conduct a rigorous, incremental, discoverydriven exploration of Mars to determine the planet’s physical, dynamic, and geological characteristics. 

The Other Missions and Data Analysis budget line currently includes five operating missions: 2001 Mars 

Odyssey, 2003 Mars Exploration Rover, Mars Express, 2005 Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO), and 

the 2011 Mars Science Laboratory that successfully launched in November 2011. Six non-mission 

components are also included: Mars Research and Analysis, Mars Technology, Mars Mission Operations, 

Mars Extended Operations, Mars Next Decade, and Mars Program Management. 

PS-49 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: MARS EXPLORATION

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

• 

• 

• 

• 

Home to the largest volcano in the solar 

system, the deepest canyon, and crazy weather 

and temperature patterns, Mars will become 

host to Mars Science Laboratory (MSL), 

whose scheduled arrival is Aug. 5, 2012, PDT 

(Aug. 6, EDT and Universal Time). The MSL 

mission will use its car-size rover, Curiosity, to 

investigate whether the selected region inside 

Gale Crater has offered environmental 

conditions favorable for supporting microbial 

life and preserving clues about whether life 

existed on Mars. 

Non-Operating Missions 

MARS RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS

Mars Research and Analysis provides funding for research 

and analysis of Mars mission data in order to understand 

how geologic, climatic, and other processes have worked 

to shape Mars and its environment over time, as well as 

how they interact today. Specific investments include: 

Mars Fundamental Research program, which 

funds fundamental research in laboratory studies, 

field studies, or theoretical studies that inform us 

about Mars; 

Mars Data Analysis, which analyzes archived data 

collected on Mars missions; 

Critical Data Products, which provides data for the 

safe arrival, aero-maneuver, entry, descent, and 

landing at Mars; and 

MRO and MSL Participating Scientists programs 

that fund participating scientists for the MRO 

mission. 

Data access through Mars R&A allows a much broader, 

and perhaps more objective analysis of the data and 

samples, and also allows research to continue for many 

years after the mission has been completed. Areas for 

additional data analyses are proposed by scientists throughout the U.S. planetary community and are 

competitively selected with major input from science community peer review. 

MARS TECHNOLOGY

Mars Technology focuses on technology investments that lay the groundwork for successful future Mars 

missions, such as instrument capabilities; sample handling and processing technologies; entry, descent 

and landing capabilities; and surface-to-orbit communications improvements (e.g. Electra). 

MARS MISSION OPERATIONS

Mars Mission Operations provides management and leadership for the development and execution of 

Mars multi-mission operations. Mars Mission Operations supports and provides common operational 

systems and capabilities at a lower cost and risk than having Mars projects produce systems individually. 

PS-50 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: MARS EXPLORATION

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

MARS EXTENDED OPERATIONS

Mars Extended Operations provides funding to missions that have concluded their primary mission phase, 

thereby allowing for science operations and discoveries. Funding for mission extensions is allocated 

based on the findings of an annual, competitive senior review board process. Their review of each mission 

enables them to make recommendations for the allocation of the extended operations budget based on 

scientific merit. 

MARS NEXT DECADE

Mars Next Decade provides funds for the planning of future missions to Mars that build on scientific 

discoveries from past missions and incorporate the lessons learned from previous mission successes and 

failures. The Mars Exploration program is working with the HEOMD to define future robotic missions 

that support science and exploration requirements in an integrated strategy. 

MARS PROGRAM MANAGEMENT

Mars Program Management provides for the implementation and management of the Mars Exploration 

program’s selected flight missions. This line also supports independent panel reviews, Mars education 

and public outreach, planetary protection, advanced studies and program architecture, program science, 

and telecommunications integration. 

Operating Missions 

2001 MARS ODYSSEY

2001 Mars Odyssey, currently in its third extended 

mission operation phase, is still in orbit around Mars 

and has collected more than 130,000 images and 

continues to send information to Earth about Martian 

geology, climate, and mineralogy. Measurements by 

Odyssey have enabled scientists to create maps of 

minerals and chemical elements and identify regions 

with buried water ice. Images that measure the 

surface temperature have provided spectacular views 

of Martian topography. Odyssey helped support the 

landing site selection for the Phoenix Scout Mission 

and continues to provide future mission landing site 

data. Early in the mission, Odyssey determined that 

radiation in low-Mars orbit, an essential piece of 

information for eventual human exploration because 

of its potential health effects, is twice that in lowPS-51 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: MARS EXPLORATION

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

Earth orbit. Odyssey has provided vital support to ongoing exploration of Mars by relaying nearly 100 

percent of the data from Spirit/Opportunity to Earth via the spacecraft’s UHF system. 

2003 MARS EXPLORATION ROVER

2003 Mars Exploration Rover, the rover named 

Opportunity, currently in its extended operation phase, 

continues to explore geological settings on the surface of 

Mars using a suite of remote sensing and in-situ 

instruments. Its objective is to expand our understanding 

of the history and the geological processes that shaped 

Mars, particularly those involving water. Opportunity has 

trekked for miles across the Martian surface conducting 

field geology and making atmospheric observations, 

finding evidence of ancient Martian environments where 

intermittently wet and habitable conditions existed, and 

sending back to Earth more than 100,000 spectacular, 

high-resolution, full-color images from Martian terrain to 

detailed microscopic images of rocks and soils. Special 

rock abrasion tools, never before sent to another planet, 

have enabled scientists to peer beneath the dusty and weathered surfaces of rocks to examine their 

interiors. Opportunity is now preparing to weather a predictably harsh Martian winter, with dirty solar 

arrays, high atmospheric dust, and low light levels. 

MARS EXPRESS

Mars Express, currently in its second extended 

mission operation phase, is a European Space Agency 

and Italian Space Agency mission whose objective is 

to search for sub-surface water from orbit. NASA 

contributed components for the MARSIS and 

ASPERA instrument aboard Mars Express and 

participates in the scientific analysis of mission data, 

including the recent investigations into the mysterious 

deposits of the Medusae Fossae Formation. Seven 

scientific instruments on the orbiting spacecraft have 

conducted rigorous investigations to help answer 

fundamental questions about the geology, 

atmosphere, surface environment, history of water, 

and potential for life on Mars. Examples of 

discoveries, still debated by scientists, by Mars 

Express are evidence of recent glacial activity, explosive volcanism, and methane gas. 

PS-52 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: MARS EXPLORATION

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

2005 MARS RECONNAISSANCE 

ORBITER

2005 Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO), 

currently in extended operations phase, carries the 

most powerful camera ever flown on a planetary 

exploration mission for homing in on details of 

Martian terrain with extraordinary clarity. While 

previous cameras on other Mars orbiters were able 

to identify objects no smaller than a dinner table, 

this camera is able to spot something as small as a 

dinner plate. This capability provides not only an 

astoundingly detailed view of the geology and 

structure of Mars, but helps identify obstacles that 

could jeopardize the safety of future landers and 

rovers. The 2007 Phoenix landing site in the Martian 

arctic was changed after MRO identified an 

excessive number of large boulders in the landing ellipse, and MRO was the main data source for 

evaluating the safety of the final 4 MSL landing sites. MRO also carries a sounder to find subsurface 

water, an important consideration in selecting scientifically worthy landing sites for future exploration. 

Other science instruments on this multitasking, multipurpose spacecraft identify surface minerals and 

study how dust and water are transported in the Martian atmosphere. A second camera acquires mediumresolution images that provide a broader geological and meteorological context for more detailed 

observations from higher-resolution instruments. MRO also serves as the first installment of an 

"interplanetary Internet," a crucial service for future spacecraft as the first link in a communications 

bridge back to Earth, for surface missions. 

2011 MARS SCIENCE LABORATORY (MSL) 

2011 Mars Science Laboratory, currently on cruise to Mars, takes a major step forward in Mars 

exploration, both technically and scientifically, using a new entry, descent, and landing system, a longduration rover, and ten payload instruments for definitive mineralogical and organics measurements. The 

primary scientific objective is to explore and quantitatively assess a local region on Mars as a potential 

habitat for life, and is the transitional mission from the "Follow the Water" theme to the "Seeking the 

Signs of Life" theme. MSL will lay the groundwork for future scientific missions and will provide key 

information for human exploration. Twice as long and three times as heavy as the MER rover 

Opportunity, the MSL Curiosity rover will collect Martian soil and rock samples and analyze them for 

organic compounds and environmental conditions that could have supported microbial life now or in the 

past. The mission is a truly international partnership, with a neutron-based hydrogen detector for locating 

water provided by the Russian Federal Space Agency, a meteorological package provided by the Spanish 

Ministry of Education and Science, and a spectrometer provided by CSA. MSL is the first planetary 

mission to use precision landing techniques, steering itself toward the Martian surface similar to the way 

the space shuttle controls its entry through the Earth’s upper atmosphere. In this way, the spacecraft is 

able to fly to a desired location above the surface of Mars before deploying its parachute for the final 

PS-53 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: MARS EXPLORATION

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

landing. In the final minutes before touchdown, the spacecraft will activate its parachute and retro rockets 

before lowering the rover package to the surface on a tether (similar to the way a skycrane helicopter 

moves a large object). This landing method will enable the rover to land in an area about 20 kilometers in 

diameter, about the size of a small crater or wide canyon, and three to five times smaller than previous 

landing zones on Mars. 

Recent Achievements 

2011 MARS SCIENCE LABORATORY

2011 Mars Science Laboratory successfully launched 

on November 26, 2011. The cruise to Mars will take 

nine months. Upon landing in August 2012, the MSL 

rover, named Curiosity through a student competition, 

will complete a series of automated computer sequences 

to make sure all systems are operating as expected and 

to check the immediate environment. After all of these 

tasks are complete, the rover will make its first drive 

from the landing zone into the scientifically rich 

landscape of Gale Crater. The rover will test the many 

science instruments on board as exploration begins. The 

end of the primary mission is scheduled for September 

2014. 

2005 MARS RECONNAISSANCE ORBITER

Using the 2005 MRO data, there is a growing collection of 

evidence indicating that the present surface of Mars is still 

geologically active. One of the most exciting discoveries is 

dark markings or streaks, 0.5-5 meters in width on steep 

slopes (greater than 25 degrees) that form and incrementally 

grow in late spring to summer, then fade or disappear in fall. 

They reform at nearly the same locations in multiple Mars 

years, extending down-slope from bedrock outcrops or rocky 

areas, and are often associated with small channels on 

equator-facing slopes in the southern hemisphere. The 

streaks grow in temperatures at which brines (waters that 

have high concentrations of dissolved minerals, largely salts) 

would be liquid. The exact mechanism of the streak activity 

is not completely understood, but brines are the best 

explanation to date. MRO is also updating its software to 

PS-54 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE: MARS EXPLORATION

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

prepare for supporting the MSL/Curiosity entry/descent/landing and surface operations. 

2003 MARS EXPLORATION ROVER

2003 Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity’s study of sulfate-rich sands at Eagle and Endurance Craters 

revealed evidence of playa lakes that repeatedly formed and evaporated. The sands were subsequently 

reworked by water and wind, solidified into rock, and soaked by groundwater. Opportunity examined 

more sedimentary bedrock exposures on its way from Endurance to Victoria Crater, and explored the area 

around Victoria Crater for two years. Opportunity’s measurements indicated that the environmental 

conditions responsible for the rocks previously studied in Meridiani Planum pervaded a wide, regional 

area. Fragments of the meteorite that may have excavated the crater were also found. In August 2011, 

after a 19 kilometer (12 mile) journey, Opportunity achieved a significant milestone by arriving at 

Endeavour Crater, where the compositions of rocks vary in age from recent to ancient. Rocks in the area 

show evidence of chemical reactions with liquid water and will help elucidate the environmental 

conditions of the earlier history of Mars. In addition, these rocks show for the first time the formation 

within the volcanic bedrock of the mineral gypsum, which precipitated in water and may indicate 

conditions hospitable for life. 

2001 MARS ODYSSEY

2001 Mars Odyssey has become the longest-lived Martian spacecraft in history (more than 10 years). 

Odyssey’s longevity enables continued science, including the monitoring of seasonal changes on Mars 

from year to year and the most detailed full-globe maps ever made of the planet. Odyssey also continues 

to serve as the primary communication relay for the MER Opportunity, and will be a key communications 

link for MSL. 

PS-55 
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OUTER PLANETS

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

91.9

--

FY 2012

122.1

--

FY 2013

84.0

-38.1

FY 2014

80.8

FY 2015 FY 2016

78.8 76.2

FY 2017

76.3

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -31.2%

Cassini completed its initial four-year mission to explore the 

Saturn System in June 2008 and the first extended mission, 

called Cassini Equinox, in July 2010. The healthy spacecraft 

is now seeking to make exciting new discoveries in a second 

extended mission called Cassini Solstice. The mission 

extension, which goes through September 2017, is named for 

the Saturnian summer solstice occurring in May 2017. 

The Outer Planets program consists of three 

strategic elements: the ongoing Cassini 

mission to Saturn; Supporting Research and 

Technology (SR&T); and a pre-formulation 

study effort for a potential future outer planets 

mission. These elements enable science 

investigations across a broader array of 

disciplines and in more depth than smaller, 

tightly focused competed missions. The 

science discoveries made by these strategic 

missions are significant and provide answers 

to long-held questions and theories about the 

origin and evolution of outer planets. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR 

CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

None. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

Cassini captured the first-ever, up-close 

images and sounds of a Saturn thunderstorm 

that extended over eight times the entire size 

of Earth. The storm was about 500 times 

larger than the biggest storm previously seen by Cassini during several months from 2009 to 2010. 

Scientists studied the sounds of the new storm’s lightning strikes and analyzed images taken between 

December 2010 and February 2011. Data from Cassini’s radio and plasma wave science instrument 

showed the lightning flash rate as much as ten times more frequent than during other storms monitored 

since Cassini’s arrival to Saturn in 2004. The origin of these storms is unknown, and has never been seen 

a storm of this magnitude on Saturn before. 

Cassini also captured the icy face and spectacular water plumes of Saturn’s moon Enceladus during its 

successful flyby on Nov. 6, 2011. During this Enceladus encounter, the 16th of Cassini’s mission, the 

PS-56 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

OUTER PLANETS

spacecraft passed the moon at distance of about 300 miles (500 kilometers). The most intense plumes 

were seen coming from long cracks in the ice that line up in the direction of Saturn indicating that stress 

plays a major role in producing these water plumes or geysers. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

The Uranus study initiated in FY 2012 will be completed and the delivered to NASA. In addition, the 

Enceladus study will be initiated as described in the planetary decadal study. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $84.0 million. This represents a $38.1 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($122.1 million). 

The decrease in the funding for Outer Planets program in the outyears is due to the completion of three 

major mission architecture studies solely on Europa. Study funding will be needed for initiating a study 

on the third highest rated flagship, a mission to Uranus and a study on Enceladus. 

Non-Operating Missions 

OUTER PLANETS FLAGSHIP

In FY 2013, the Outer Planets Flagship mission will study and initiate technology improvements as 

necessary for future Outer Planets missions such as radiation tolerance of science instruments, lower mass 

and power spacecraft design, and precision landing for in situ exploration. Two preliminary studies will 

also be initiated for a Uranus orbiter and probe, and an Enceladus orbiter. The objectives of the Uranus 

mission will include inserting an orbiter into Uranus orbit to study the atmosphere, rings, magnetic field, 

magnetosphere, and noble gas abundances of Uranus, as well as deploying a small atmospheric in situ 

probe to conduct a tour of the larger satellites. The mission will also seek to answer long-standing 

questions about Uranus regarding its lack of heat radiation like other gas giants in our solar system, the 

origin and reason for its apparent tilted axis, and the seasonal weather patterns of Uranus. The primary 

objectives of the Enceladus orbiter will include determining the nature and source of its remarkably active 

cryovolcanic activity, and the internal structure and chemistry of Enceladus. The mission would also 

attempt to determine how Enceladus interacts with the rest of the Saturnian system, characterize the 

surface for future landing sites, and the nature of the surfaces and interiors of Rhea, Dione, and Tethys. 

OUTER PLANETS RESEARCH

Outer Planets Research increases the scientific return of NASA outer planets missions and guides current 

mission operations (e.g., selecting Cassini imaging targets) as well as future mission planning (e.g., 

mission concept studies for Titan missions). The competitive programs within Outer Planets Research 

PS-57 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

OUTER PLANETS

effort increase understanding of the origin and evolution of the outer solar system and broadens the 

science community’s participation in the analysis of data returned by Cassini, Galileo, and other missions. 

Operating Missions 

CASSINI

Cassini, in its extended operations phase, is a flagship mission in orbit around Saturn that has profoundly 

altered our understanding of the planet, its famous rings, magnetosphere, icy satellites, and particularly 

the moons, Titan and Enceladus. It was launched in October 1997 and arrived at Saturn in July 2004 in 

order to explore the Saturn system in detail, including its rings and moons. A major focus is Saturn’s 

largest moon, Titan, with its dense atmosphere, methane-based meteorology, and geologically active 

surface. Cassini completed its prime mission in July 2008, completed its Equinox extended mission in 

July 2010, and began the Solstice extended mission in October 2010. The Solstice mission will observe 

seasonal and temporal change in the Saturn system, especially at Titan, to understand underlying 

processes, and prepare for future missions. The Solstice mission will continue to operate and conduct data 

analysis through March 2018. The Solstice mission enables another 155 revolutions around the planet, 54 

flybys of Titan and 11 flybys of Enceladus. In 2017, an encounter with Titan will change its orbit in such 

a way that, at closest approach to Saturn, it will be only 3,000 km above the planet’s cloud tops, and 

below the inner edge of the D ring. This sequence of "proximal orbits" will end when another encounter 

with Titan will send the Cassini probe into Saturn’s atmosphere. 

Project Schedule 

Initiate 

Uranus Study

04/2012

Three Europa

Studies to 

Congress

05/2012

Complete

Uranus

Study

05/2013

Begin

Encaldus Study

06/2013

Seven 

Cassini Titan

Flybys

2013

Six Cassini Titan 

Flybys

2014

Five Cassini Titan 

Flybys

2015

Six Cassini Titan 

Flybys

2016

Six Cassini Titan 

Flybys

2017

End of Cassini Mission

09/2017

PS-58 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

OUTER PLANETS

Program Management & Commitments 

Management responsibility for Cassini, and for pre-formulation of the Outer Planets future mission 

concept development, resides at JPL. Scientific mission priorities for the program and the research efforts 

reside within SMD/Planetary Science Division. 

The Cassini mission is a cooperative project of NASA, the ESA and the Italian Space Agency. JPL 

manages the mission. The Cassini orbiter and its two onboard cameras were designed, developed and 

assembled at JPL. 

Cassini is committed to continue delivery of science data until 2018, contingent upon health and status of 

the spacecraft. Outer Planets Research is included in the annual ROSES NRA. 

Project/Element Provider

Outer Planets 

Flagship (PreProject 

Formulation)

Provider: JPL

Project Management: JPL

NASA Center: JPL

Cost Share: None

Outer Planets 

Research

Provider: HQ

Project Management: 

NASA Center: Multiple

Cost Share: None

Provider: JPL

Project Management: JPL

NASA Center: JPL

Cost Share: The Italian Space Agency provided Cassini's 

high-gain communication antenna and the Huygens probe 

was built by ESA.

Cassini

Acquisition Strategy 

All major acquisitions contracts for Cassini are in place. As a result of the planetary decadal survey, the 

Outer Planets program will continue to conduct studies for a future flagship mission opportunity within 

the existing funding horizon. 

PS-59 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

OUTER PLANETS

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Quality Senior Review 

Panel

Feb-09 Cassini senior review for the Solstice 

extended mission recommended 

approval of the extended mission 

science.

Feb-12

PS-60 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

TECHNOLOGY

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 117.3 144.9 132.9 84.6 85.9 90.9 99.6

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -12.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -8.3%

NEXT (NASA’s Evolutionary Xenon Thruster) could 

revolutionize the way we send science missions deeper 

into the solar system. NEXT will have a significant 

increase in power, efficiency and system performance 

characteristics compared to the Deep Space 1 ion 

thruster. Modern Hall thrusters are capable of 

propelling a spacecraft up to about 112,000 miles per 

hour, compared to the Space Shuttle’s top speed of 

around 18,000 miles per hour. The tradeoff for the 

spacecraft to reach this high top speed is low 

acceleration over a long time. 

Planetary Science missions demand advances in 

both power and propulsion systems to enable 

successful trips to harsh environments, far from the 

Sun, with highly challenging trajectories and 

operations. To meet these needs, the Planetary 

Science Technology program includes the In-Space 

Propulsion (ISP), Radioisotope Power Systems 

(RPS), and Advanced Multi-Mission Operations 

System (AMMOS) projects. The ISP project 

develops in-space propulsion technologies that can 

enable or benefit near- and midterm NASA 

missions. These technologies will enhance the 

performance of planetary science missions by 

allowing increased science payload mass, reduced 

launch costs, and decreased mission trip times. The 

RPS project advances the capabilities of spacecraft 

power systems, thereby making it possible for 

missions to travel to destinations distant from the 

sun, or where sunlight is obscured or infrequent. 

RPS is developing flight Advanced Stirling 

Radioisotope Generators (ASRG) for the 2014 time 

frame. AMMOS provides planetary science 

missions with a set of operations, navigation and 

design software tools and services for flight mission 

training, mission operations, space communications 

resources allocation, and improved space 

communication. 

The budget for restarting the Nation’s plutonium production capacity is included in the program. 

Managed in close cooperation with OCT, these technology investments focus on the unique needs of 

robotic planetary missions, and leverage Agency cross-cutting efforts in space propulsion, power, and 

automation/operations technologies. 

PS-61 
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TECHNOLOGY

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

No program changes. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

ISP completed the electric propulsion Hall thruster development task in FY 2011. The NASA 

Evolutionary Xenon Thruster (NEXT) completed a long duration test, demonstrating a 600 kg Earth 

return payload capability. Down-select and propulsion system component development was completed for 

the Mars Ascent Vehicle. Aerocapture transitioned to a flight validation mission. Preliminary 

development of a light weight tank was completed for Sample Return Propulsion. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

The ISP will continue toward completion of the NEXT electric propulsion life validation, and will initiate 

technology study and feasibility on the Mars Ascent Vehicle. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $132.9 million. This represents a $12.0 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($144.9 million). 

Although overall program funding from FY 2012 to FY 2013 is less, the current budget reflects an 

increase in RPS to complete the development of an ASRG in order to demonstrate an improved capability 

over the utilization of Multi-Mission Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator technology. 

Projects 

IN-SPACE PROPULSION (ISP) 

ISP will enable access to more challenging and interesting science destinations, including sample return 

missions. ISP continues to advance several propulsion technologies in support of future Flagship, 

Discovery, Mars, and New Frontiers missions. ISP invests in high-priority technology areas such as the 

electric propulsion and aerocapture/Earth entry, descent, and landing technologies identified in the 

Planetary Decadal survey. ISP will continue increasing its emphasis on sample return propulsion 

technology development. The foci will be: completing Earth Entry Vehicle heat shield 

micrometeoroid/orbital debris characteristics studies, a preliminary design of a Multi-Mission Earth Entry 

Vehicle concept and continuing this technology development; and initiating thruster long-duration testing 

and continuing other subsystem technology developments for the High Voltage Hall Accelerator thruster 

technology applicable to Earth Return Vehicles, transfer stages, and low-cost electric propulsion systems 

for Discovery-class missions. The ISP project is responsive to the Planetary 2011 decadal survey. 

PS-62 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

TECHNOLOGY

RPS continues low-level investments in advanced Stirling, thermoelectric conversion, and thermal 

photovoltaic technologies in response to mission needs identified by the planetary decadal survey. 

RADIOISOTOPE POWER SYSTEMS (RPS) 

The RPS program was chartered for implementation on March 24, 2011. The RPS program is focused on 

the development of radioisotope power capabilities to enable NASA solar system exploration, the first of 

which is the Advanced Stirling Radioisotope Generator (ASRG). The RPS program also funds crosscutting multi-mission activities to keep the development, implementation, and approval of radioisotope 

power systems off the critical path for future RPS missions. This work includes the National 

Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process development, multi-mission launch vehicle data book 

development, safety analysis and testing, and radiological contingency response process improvement. 

All of this work is critical to facilitate the application of RPS. RPS is structured to manage both the 

technology investments and systems development, such as the development and testing of the ASRG. The 

program transitions acquisition of flight units to a mission-specific user. The program also assumes 

responsibility for performing RPS mission studies, sustaining needed RPS capabilities, and providing 

crosscutting launch approval activities. However, funds are not included within the RPS budget for the 

procurement of nuclear material required to support missions in formulation. 

In FY 2013, RPS will complete an extended performance testing of the Advanced Stirling Radioisotope 

Generator (ASRG) engineering unit, and complete the development of a flight qualification unit to enable 

delivery of one ASRG flight unit for the 2016-2017 Discovery flight opportunity. RPS will continue the 

development of advanced radioisotope thermoelectric generator couples by validating lifetime and fourcouple module power. RPS will also fund DoE safety testing to verify safety models for solid upper 

stages. 

ADVANCED MULTI-MISSION OPERATION SYSTEM (AMMOS) 

AMMOS provides multi-mission operations, navigation, design, and training tools for Planetary Science 

flight missions, and invests in improved communications and navigation technologies. The AMMOS 

project will continue to provide and develop multi-mission software tools for spacecraft navigation and 

mission planning throughout FY 2013. In addition, AMMOS will pursue complimentary collaborations 

with the Agency’s cross-cutting Space Technology program. 

PLUTONIUM

NASA and DoE have initiated project planning and activities for implementing a Plutonium (Pu-238) 

production restart. NASA continues to work with DOE to assess the need and schedule for plutonium 

supplies to respond to the diminishing inventory of Pu-238 available to NASA missions from past U.S. 

production and material purchased from Russia. DoE continues to negotiate with Russia to re-establish a 

contract in which the United States would purchase Pu-238. In 2009, the Russian government cancelled 

the contract for purchasing the remaining material that they had agreed to sell to the United States. 

Meanwhile, studies of the Planetary decadal survey mission set, conducted by the RPS program have 

PS-63 
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TECHNOLOGY

revalidated the need for Pu-238 production to support NASA missions, as current inventory will be 

exhausted by scheduled missions within the next decade. 

Program Schedule 

RPS- Advanced 

thermoelectric converter 

independent review

02/2012

RPS- Advanced Stirling 

radioisotope generator 

final design review

03/2012

RPS-Advanced stirling 

converter (ASC) initial 

flight units build complete

01/2013

RPS- ASC controller flight 

qualified unit build 

complete

02/2013

Program Management & Commitments 

SMD provides overall oversight of the Technology program. GRC is responsible for the ISP and RPS 

projects. JPL is responsible for the AMMOS project. 

In FY 2013, the ISP program will continue long-duration tests for the Hi/HAC Engineering Model (EM) 

Thruster and NEXT. The goal of NEXT is to achieve 750 kilograms of Xenon throughput. (Based on an 

initial set of design reference missions, the original throughput design point for NEXT was 300 

kilograms, with a 1.5 times demonstration validation requirement of 450 kilograms. By demonstrating 

>750 kilograms throughput, the qualified design point for the NEXT thruster can be set at 500 kilograms, 

which matches the maximum throughput requirement seen in recent mission studies.) 

PS-64 
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TECHNOLOGY

PS-65 

Project/Element Provider

ISP Provider: GRC

Project Management: GRC

NASA Center: GRC, MSFC, JPL, LaRC, ARC, GSFC

Cost Share: None

RPS Provider: GRC

Project Management: GRC

NASA Center: GRC, JPL, KSC

Cost Share: Department of Energy

AMMOS Provider: JPL

Project Management: JPL

NASA Center: JPL

Cost Share: None

Provider: Department of Energy

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: GRC

Cost Share: None

Plutonium

Acquisition Strategy 

Technology activities are solicited using NASA ROSES NRA, and selections are made using a 

competitive, peer-reviewed process. DoE completed an acquisition for ASRG flight system development: 

Lockheed Martin for RPS. JPL provides management and the navigation and space communication 

software tools. 
SCIENCE: PLANETARY SCIENCE

TECHNOLOGY

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor Location

Advanced Stirling Radioisotope 

Generator (ASRG)

Department of Energy Idaho National Laboratory, Los Alamos 

National Lab, Oak Ridge National Lab

Denver, CO

Elkton, MD

Denver, CO

Los Angeles, CA

Lockheed Martin

Mars Ascent Vehicle ATK

Lockheed Martin

Northrop Grumman

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Relevance National 

Academies

Dec-10 Assessing the restart and sustainment of 

domestic production of radioisotope 

heat source material for deep space and 

other exploration missions. Assessing 

the development of and standards for 

flight certification of ASRG for flagship 

and other missions.

TBD

Performance SRB/IPAO Sep-10 Program Implementation Review. Based 

on the program readiness and SRB 

recommendation, subsequent Agency 

approval was granted to the RPS 

program on December 9, 2010, by the 

Agency Program Management Council.

Sep-12

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ASTROPHYSICS

ASTRO-1 

Actual Estimate

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 631.1 672.7 659.4 703.0 693.7 708.9 710.2

Astrophysics Research 146.9 164.1 176.2 189.1 205.1 211.5 218.7

Cosmic Origins 229.1 237.3 240.4 228.5 215.1 205.3 205.7

Physics of the Cosmos 108.7 108.3 111.8 109.6 96.3 92.7 74.6

Exoplanet Exploration 46.4 50.8 56.0 41.6 43.3 42.4 45.6

Astrophysics Explorer 100.0 112.2 75.1 134.3 133.9 157.0 165.6

Notional

ASTROPHYSICS RESEARCH ......................................... ASTRO- 2 

Other Missions and Data Analysis ASTRO- 8 

COSMIC ORIGINS ..................................................... ASTRO- 11 

Hubble Space Telescope ASTRO- 13 

Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy ASTRO- 17 

(SOFIA) [Development] 

Other Missions and Data Analysis ASTRO- 27 

PHYSICS OF THE COSMOS .......................................... ASTRO- 30 

EXOPLANET EXPLORATION .......................................... ASTRO- 36 

ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER .......................................... ASTRO- 41 

Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR) ASTRO- 43 

[Development] 

Gravity Extreme Magnetism (SMEX 13) (GEMS) ASTRO- 49 

[Formulation] 

Other Missions and Data Analysis ASTRO- 55
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

ASTROPHYSICS RESEARCH 

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Astrophysics Research and Analysis

FY 2011

146.9

59.6 

FY 2012

164.1

64.6 

FY 2013

176.2

64.2 

FY 2014

189.1

65.5

FY 2015 F

205.1

66.8

Y 2016

211.5

68.2

FY 2017

218.7

69.5

Balloon Project 26.8 31.6 31.3 31.2 32.8 34.2 34.3

Other Missions and Data Analysis 60.5 

Change From FY 2012 Estimate --

67.9 80.6 92.3 105.4 109.2 114.8

-- 12.1

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 7.4%

Large unmanned helium balloons provide NASA with an 

inexpensive means to place payloads into a space 

environment. Scientific ballooning has contributed 

significantly to NASA’s science program, both directly 

with science coming from measurements made by 

balloon-borne instruments, and indirectly by serving as a 

test platform on which instruments have been developed 

that were subsequently flown on NASA space missions. 

The Astrophysics Research program provides 

funding to analyze the data from NASA 

missions to understand astronomical events such 

as the explosion of a star, the birth of a distant 

galaxy, or the motion of planets around their 

parent stars. The program also enables the early 

development of new technologies for future 

missions, and suborbital flights of experimental 

payloads on balloons and sounding rockets. 

The program facilitates basic research for 

scientists to work out the consequences of their 

theories, and to understand how they can best 

use data from NASA missions to develop new 

knowledge about the cosmos. 

For more information on the Astrophysics 

Research program, see 

http://nasascience.nasa.gov/researchers/sara/. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

Additional funds in FY 2013 will support 

operating mission extensions as recommended 

by the Senior Review. 

ASTRO-2 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

ASTROPHYSICS RESEARCH 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, the Astrophysics Research program changed its emphasis to enhance development of optics, 

detectors, and other key technologies for use in future missions. During the year, NASA received 677 

proposals for competitive research awards, 21 percent more than in FY 2010. NASA announced a new 

technology fellowship program, that will develop early career researchers who can lead future 

astrophysics flight instruments, projects, and missions. 

The Balloon program conducted 18 scientific balloon launches during five campaigns from the U.S., 

Sweden, Australia, and Antarctica, including Balloon-borne Large Aperture Sub-millimeter Telescope for 

Polarization, which circled Antarctica for ten days, mapping sub-millimeter radiation from extremely 

distant galaxies. In a 22 day flight over Antarctica, NASA successfully tested a super-pressure balloon 

that can allow months-long flights. Two high altitude student payload missions were flown, each carrying 

12 payloads, and involved 95 students from 14 institutions in 10 states and Puerto Rico. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA will review and extend operating missions per the recommendations of the 2012 

Senior Review process. The Senior Review is a bi-annual review of all operating missions that have, or 

are about to, successfully complete their prime mission operations phase. 

In the competed research programs, NASA plans to maintain the same level funding level for suborbital 

payloads, for laboratory astrophysics, and for the Astrophysics Theory Program. 

Three long duration balloon flights are planned from Antarctica, carrying experiments to measure the 

cosmic rays that fill the Milky Way, and to map the tiny fluctuations in the cosmic microwave 

background that are the seeds of the largest cosmic structures. A fourth experiment could also be flown on 

the super-pressure balloon. An advanced pointing system that can stabilize a balloon borne telescope to 

better than an arc-second should be ready for use, enabling observations of planets in our own solar 

system and those circling other stars. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $176.2 million. This represents a $12.1 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($164.1 million). Additional funds will support extended mission operations, as recommended 

by the 2012 Senior Review. 

ASTRO-3 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

ASTROPHYSICS RESEARCH 

Projects 

RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS

This project supports basic research, solicited through NASA’s Research Opportunites in Space and Earth 

Sciences (ROSES)-2012 announcement. NASA solicits investigations relevant to the Astrophysics 

programs over the entire range of photon energies, gravitational waves, and particles of cosmic origin. 

Scientists and technologists from a mix of disciplines review proposals and make merit based selections. 

The Astrophysics Research and Analysis program (APRA) solicits detector and technology development 

for instruments that may be candidates for future space flight opportunities, and science and technology 

investigations using sounding rockets, high-altitude balloons, and similar platforms. The first step in 

developing a new technology for future NASA missions is to show that it can work in the laboratory. A 

new type of scientific instrument is often flown first on a stratospheric balloon mission, or on a sounding 

rocket flight that takes it briefly outside Earth’s atmosphere. Instruments for balloons and sounding 

rockets are not as costly as those for an orbital mission, and they can be built quickly to respond to 

unexpected opportunities. The equipment is usually retrieved after the flight, so that novel instruments 

can be tested, improved, and flown again. These suborbital flights are important in training the next 

generation of scientists and engineers to better compete in the 21st century, and to maintain U.S. 

leadership in science, engineering, and technology. APRA also supports laboratory astrophysics and 

limited ground-based observations. 

The Astrophysics Theory Program (ATP) solicits basic theory investigations needed to interpret data from 

NASA’s space astrophysics missions, and to develop the scientific basis for future missions. Astrophysics 

Theory topics are fundamental ones: star formation; supernova explosions and gamma-ray bursts; the 

birth of the galaxies; dark matter, dark energy and the cosmic microwave background. 

In FY 2011, NASA created a new Technology Fellowship in Astrophysics to develop early career 

researchers who could lead future astrophysics flight instruments, projects and missions. A first cohort of 

fellows will be chosen in FY 2012. 

In FY 2013, the Research and Analysis program will support a vigorous enabling technology program of 

laboratory astrophysics, to improve state-of-the-art detector technology. 

BALLOONS

The Balloons project is managed out of the Wallops Flight Facility. The project offers inexpensive, highaltitude flight opportunities for scientists to conduct research and test new technologies prior to 

spaceflight application. Balloon experiments cover a wide range of disciplines in astrophysics, solar and 

heliospheric physics, as well as Earth upper-atmosphere chemistry. Observations from balloons have even 

detected echoes of the Big Bang, and probed the earliest galaxies. The Balloons project continues to work 

to increase balloon size and enhance capabilities, including an accurate pointing system to allow detection 

of planets around other stars, and a super pressure balloon that maintains the balloon’s integrity at a high 

altitude to allow much longer flights. 

ASTRO-4 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

ASTROPHYSICS RESEARCH 

In FY 2011, the project flew two high altitude student payload missions, each carrying 12 payloads 

involving 95 students from 14 institutions in ten states and Puerto Rico. 

In FY 2013, three long-duration balloon flights are planned from Antarctica, carrying experiments to 

measure the cosmic rays that fill the Milky Way, and to map the tiny fluctuations in the cosmic 

microwave background that are the seeds of the largest cosmic structures. A fourth experiment could be 

flown on the super-pressure balloon. An advanced pointing system that can stabilize a balloon-borne 

telescope to better than an arc-second should be ready for use, enabling observations of planets in our 

own solar system and those circling other stars. 

Program Schedule 

The program issues solicitations every year. A Senior Review process assesses all missions in the 

extended operations phase every two years, and all data archives every four years. 

NASA Research 

Announcement 

(NRA) Solicitation

2013

Senior Review

2014

NRA Solicitation

2014

Senior Review of

Data Archives

2015

NRA Solicitation

2015

Senior Review

2016

NRA Solicitation

2016

NRASolicitation

2017

ASTRO-5 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

ASTROPHYSICS RESEARCH 

Program Management & Commitments 

Project/Element Provider

Research and 

Analysis Project

Provider: All NASA Centers

Project Management: HQ (SMD)

NASA Center: All

Cost Share: None

Balloon Project Provider: WFF

Project Management: GSFC and WFF

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Acquisition Strategy 

Solicitations go out through ROSES-2012 competition every year. A Senior Review process reviews all 

missions in extended operations phase every two years, and all data archives every four years. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Balloon Management New Mexico State 

University Balloon Factory

Palestine, TX

ASTRO-6 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

ASTROPHYSICS RESEARCH 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type

Quality

Quality

Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Mission Senior 

Review Panel

Apr-10 A comparative evaluation of 

Astrophysics operating missions. A 

report ranking the operating missions 

will be released 

2012, 2014

Archives Senior 

Review Panel

May-11 A comparative evaluation of 

Astrophysics data archives. A report 

evaluating the value of each archive will 

be released.

2015

ASTRO-7 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS RESEARCH

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

FY 2011

60.5

FY 2012

67.9

FY 2013

80.6

FY 2014

92.3

FY 2015 FY 2016

105.4 109.2

FY 2017

114.8

Directed Research and Technology 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.3 5.2 5.6 6.4

Keck Single Aperture 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.4 2.5 2.5 2.5

Directorate Support 10.1 13.7 13.5 13.9 14.0 14.5 14.5

Education and Public Outreach 13.2 15.4 10.1 10.1 10.1 10.1 10.1

Astrophysics Senior Review 0.0 0.0 16.3 24.5 33.5 35.2 40.0

ADP 14.1 16.3 18.3 18.5 18.5 19.1 19.1

Astrophysics Data Curation and Archival

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

20.8

--

20.1

--

20.0

12.7

19.6 21.7 22.1 22.2

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 0.2

Astrophysics archives make mission data available to all 

researchers. For example, researchers used Wilkinson 

Microwave Anisotropy Probe data to produce this sky map of the 

polarized portion of the cosmic microwave background signal. 

AstrophysicsResearch programs prepare 

for the next generation of missions through 

both theoretical research and applied 

technology investigations. They also use 

data from current missions and use 

suborbital science investigations to 

advance NASA science goals. The ultimate 

goal is to create new knowledge as 

explorers of the universe, and to use that 

knowledge for the benefit of all 

humankind. 

Non-Operating Missions 

DIRECTED RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY

This project funds the civil service staff that will work on emerging Astrophysics projects, instruments 

and research. The workforce and funding will transfer to projects by the beginning of FY 2014. 

ASTRO-8 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS RESEARCH

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

KECK SINGLE APERTURE (KSA)

KSA manages NASA time on the 10 meter ground-based Keck Telescopes by issuing proposal 

solicitations, conducting peer reviews, communicating selections for investigations, and providing 

support to observers. KSA also manages the Keck archives for the High Resolution Echelle Spectrometer 

(HIRES), and the Near Infrared Spectrometer (NIRSPEC) instruments. The HIRES primarily measures 

the radial velocity data used to find and characterize exoplanets and NIRSPEC is a general-purpose nearinfrared spectrometer widely used by Keck observers. 

DIRECTORATE SUPPORT

Space Science Project provides for critical safety and mission product inspections and contract audit 

services from the Defense Contract Management Agency and Defense Contract Audit Agency, 

respectively, as well as providing for supplier assurance contract audits, assessments and surveillance by 

the NASA Contract Assurance Services Program. 

EDUCATION AND PUBLIC OUTREACH

SMD’s Education and Public Outreach project provides a return on the public’s investment in NASA’s 

scientific research by sharing the story, the science and the adventure of NASA’s scientific explorations 

of our home planet, the solar system, and the universe beyond. Experts create stimulating and informative 

activities and experiences, which are then delivered effectively and efficiently to learners of many 

backgrounds via proven conduits. 

ASTROPHYSICS SENIOR REVIEW

The funding requested will extend the life of currently operating missions. Every other year, Astrophysics 

conducts a Senior Review to do comparative evaluates of all operating missions (both Explorers and 

strategic missions) that have already successfully completed or are about to complete their prime mission 

operation phase. A ranking based on science output is key to determining which missions will continue to 

receive funding for extended operations. The next senior review will take place in April 2012. 

ASTRO-9 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS RESEARCH

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

ASTROPHYSICS DATA ANALYSIS PROGRAM (ADP)

ADP solicits research that emphasizes the analysis of NASA space astrophysics data that are archived in 

the public domain at one of NASA’s Astrophysics Data Centers. Recent years have seen a dramatic 

growth in both the size and scope of the archival astronomical data available to ADP researchers, 

including data from such major strategic missions as Spitzer and Kepler. These data are already bought 

and paid for. Every dollar invested in archival research using this data brings additional value to the 

Nation’s investment in the NASA mission. The steady increase in the program budget in coming years is 

designed to ensure continued effective use of this scientific resource as data holdings continue to grow. 

ASTROPHYSICS DATA CURATION AND ARCHIVAL RESEARCH (ADCAR) 

The Astrophysics Data Centers constitute an ensemble of archives that receive processed data from 

individual missions and make them accessible to the scientific community. After the completion of a 

mission, the relevant active multi-mission archive takes over all data archiving activities. ADCAR covers 

the activities of the Astrophysics Data Centers, and NASA’s participation in the Virtual Astronomical 

Observatory. Priorities from the FY 2011 Archival Senior Review are being implemented in FY 2012 and 

beyond. For example, the NASA Exoplanet Archive will provide value-added science to the Kepler 

mission by disseminating the Kepler data, and serve as a clearinghouse for the follow-up ground-based 

observations required to confirm the nature of the Kepler exoplanet candidates. 

ASTRO-10 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

COSMIC ORIGINS

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

FY 2011

229.1

FY 2012

237.3

FY 2013

240.4

FY 2014

228.5

FY 2015 FY 2016

215.1 205.3

FY 2017

205.7

Hubble Space Telescope

Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared 

Astronomy (SOFIA)

Other Missions and Data Analysis

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

91.7

79.9

57.6

--

95.7

84.2

57.4

--

98.3

85.5

56.6

3.1

98.3

88.0

42.2

94.3

88.0

32.8

90.2

86.0

29.1

90.5

85.9

29.3

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 1.3%

This Hubble Space Telescope image shows one of the 

most massive young star clusters in the Milky Way 

Galaxy surrounded by a vast region of dust and gas. 

About 20,000 light years away and spanning roughly 

17 light-years, this image reveals stages in the life cycle 

of stars.

The Cosmic Origins program investigates the 

evolution of the universe and its components, from 

the cosmic Big Bang to the present. Topics in 

Cosmic Origins research include: When did the 

first stars and galaxies form? How are stars and 

planets created? When did the universe first create 

elements critical for life? How do galaxies, stars, 

and planets change with cosmic time? Missions 

within Cosmic Origins have and continue to make 

important advances in finding answers to these 

questions. 

Celebrating more than 20 years of operation, the 

Hubble Space Telescope (Hubble) continues to 

inspire through its exploration of the universe. 

Hubble images have enabled important discoveries 

on diverse topics, such as the violent and everevolving state of the solar system, new asteroid 

collisions, and the universe-wide "warming" that 

occurred 11 billion years ago when fierce blasts of 

radiation from voracious black holes stunted the 

growth of some small galaxies for a stretch of 500 

million years. Through its annual call for observing 

proposals and online data archive, Hubble will 

serve thousands of astronomers with data over the 

full scope of Cosmic Origins questions. 

The Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) airborne telescope has completed its 

early science flights and promises to enable optical through far-infrared astronomy for decades. SOFIA is 

uniquely capable of studying the chemistry of the universe. It will help scientists study the chemical 

processes in star forming regions within this galaxy. SOFIA’s far-infrared instruments will also study 

ASTRO-11 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

COSMIC ORIGINS

distant galaxies. SOFIA will allow instrument upgrades through the coming years to leverage new 

technologies and reach new science goals. 

Other Missions and Data Analysis supports NASA’s partnership with ESA on Herschel, the newest 

operating Cosmic Origins telescope, which has made a critical finding about how water is formed in 

space. Analysis of Herschel data has revealed that ultraviolet starlight is the key ingredient for making 

water in space. Many more discoveries are expected over the next three years until Herschel’s helium 

cryostat is depleted. 

For more information, see http://nasascience.nasa.gov/about-us/smd-programs/cosmicorigins. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

No programmatic changes have been made. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $240.4 million. This represents a $3.1 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($237.3 million). The budget provides additional funding to support more robust technology development 

Cosmic Origins Strategic Research and Technology (SR&T) activities, as well as additional science 

funding for the Hubble Space Telescope. 

ASTRO-12 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

COSMIC ORIGINS

distant galaxies. SOFIA will allow instrument upgrades through the coming years to leverage new 

technologies and reach new science goals. 

Other Missions and Data Analysis supports NASA’s partnership with ESA on Herschel, the newest 

operating Cosmic Origins telescope, which has made a critical finding about how water is formed in 

space. Analysis of Herschel data has revealed that ultraviolet starlight is the key ingredient for making 

water in space. Many more discoveries are expected over the next three years until Herschel’s helium 

cryostat is depleted. 

For more information, see http://nasascience.nasa.gov/about-us/smd-programs/cosmicorigins. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

No programmatic changes have been made. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $240.4 million. This represents a $3.1 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($237.3 million). The budget provides additional funding to support more robust technology development 

Cosmic Origins Strategic Research and Technology (SR&T) activities, as well as additional science 

funding for the Hubble Space Telescope. 

ASTRO-12 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE

Formulation Development Operations

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, after 21 years of mission operations, the Hubble Mission Operations Center staffing 

transitioned from round-the-clock to single-shift/weekday-only, significantly decreasing the cost of 

operating the spacecraft. This was the culmination of a two-year effort to develop the automated systems 

and procedures required to minimize science data losses while ensuring that the health and safety of the 

spacecraft would not be compromised. 

On July 4, 2011, Hubble conducted its one-millionth science observation, a spectroscopic measurement of 

the planet HAT-P-7b, a gas giant planet larger than Jupiter orbiting a star hotter than our sun. 

Astronomers using the Hubble Space Telescope and the Chandra X-ray Observatory have found the first 

direct evidence that massive black holes are actively growing in the centers of the most distant galaxies 

known (galaxies forming within 950 million years of the Big Bang). Astronomers have long known that 

most galaxies in the present-day universe, including the Milky Way, harbor massive black holes at their 

hearts, but the origin of these black holes has long remained a mystery. They also predicted that a 

population of young black holes existed in the early universe, but had not observed them until now. Data 

obtained by Hubble and Chandra suggest that the baby black holes found in the early universe will 

eventually grow to become like the giant black holes seen in the current universe. Further, Hubble 

reached the unique milestone, as 10,000 refereed papers have been published using Hubble data. That 

makes Hubble one of the most prolific astronomical endeavors in history. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013 and beyond, NASA will support mission operations, systems engineering, software 

maintenance, ground systems support, and guest observer science grants. Hubble Cycle 21 observations 

will be selected. Based on Cycle 19, in which requested observational orbits outnumbered the available 

orbits by a factor of nine to one, this should be another highly selective process. 

For Cycle 20 and beyond, data from all large and treasury programs will normally be shared immediately 

with the entire scientific community. Large and treasury programs are special classes of investigations 

that allow the kinds of discoveries only possible using large quantities of data, often taken over multiple 

years. Direct research grants comprise 25 to 30 percent of the Hubble budget, allowing scientists across 

the country to maximize the scientific value of the data collected by the telescope. Additional science 

funding will be dependent on the outcome of the Senior Review process in 2012. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $98.3 million. This represents a $2.6 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($95.7 million) and provides additional funds to ensure robust science selections. 

ASTRO-14 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

Project/ Element Provider Description

Observatory 

operations

Provider: Lockheed Martin

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Responsibilities include safe and 

efficient control and utilization of 

Hubble, maintenance and operation of 

its facilities and equipment, as well as 

creation, maintenance, and utilization 

of Hubble operations processes and 

procedures

Science 

management

Provider: STScI

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: ESA

Evaluate proposals for telescope time 

and manage the science program

Acquisition Strategy 

All new grant and research selections are made competitively. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Observatory operations Lockheed Martin Littleton, CO

Science management Space Telescope Science 

Institute

Baltimore, MD

ASTRO-15 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE

Formulation Development Operations

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance Senior Review N/A Determine is mission operations should 

be extended, and if approved extend 

science operations.

2012, 2014, 2016

ASTRO-16 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

STRATOSPHERIC OBSERVATORY FOR INFRARED 

ASTRONOMY (SOFIA)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority Actual Estimate LCC 

(in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s 

Budget Request

2012 MPAR Project 

Cost Estimate

Prior

812.4

812.4

FY 2011

79.9

79.9

FY 2012

84.2

84.2

FY 2013

85.5

85.5

FY 2014

88.0

88.0

FY 2015

88.0

88.0

FY 2016

86.0

86.0

FY 2017

85.9

85.9

BTC

1,593.1

1,593.1

Total 

3,002.9

3,002.9

Formulation 35.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 35.0

Development/ 

Implementation

777.4 79.9 84.2 85.5 88.0 13.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 1,128.5

Operations/close-out

Change From FY 2012 

Estimate

0.0 0.0

--

0.0

--

0.0

1.3

0.0 74.5 86.0 85.9 1,593.1 1,839.5

Percent Change From FY 

2012 Estimate -- -- 1.5%

NASA is developing SOFIA as a world-class airborne 

observatory that will complement the Hubble, Spitzer, 

Herschel and the James Webb Space Telescope. SOFIA's 

ability to return to earth after each flight also makes it an 

outstanding laboratory for developing and testing new 

astronomical instrumentation and detector technology 

throughout its lifetime. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

There have been no schedule or scope changes. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

SOFIA is a unique airborne astronomical 

observatory, whose primary mission is to study 

many different kinds of astronomical objects and 

phenomena. SOFIA will investigate star birth and 

death and the formation of new solar systems; it 

will identify complex molecules in space; and it 

will observe planets, comets and asteroids in our 

solar system, as well as nebulae and dust in 

galaxies. The infrared light of these objects is 

only partially visible from the ground due to 

water vapor in the Earth’s atmosphere. However, 

at high altitudes, the influence of water vapor is 

negligible, allowing better observation of these 

astronomical objects. 

ASTRO-17 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

STRATOSPHERIC OBSERVATORY FOR INFRARED 

ASTRONOMY (SOFIA)

Formulation Development Operations

During its 20-year expected lifetime, SOFIA will be capable of enabling "Great Observatory" class 

astronomical science. SOFIA will soon be NASA’s only far-infrared mission, as Spitzer cryogens have 

been depleted and Herschel’s cryogens will be exhausted by 2013. It is the only mid-infrared mission 

until JWST becomes operational. SOFIA’s reconfigurability and flexibility ensures the integration of 

cutting edge technology and the ability to address emerging scientific questions. 

PROJECT PARAMETERS

SOFIA is designed as a highly modified Boeing 747SP aircraft with a large open-port cavity aft of the 

wings, housing a 2.5 meter telescope optimized for infrared/sub-millimeter wavelength astronomy. 

SOFIA will operate in flight at 41,000 feet, and at full operational capability (FOC) will have four 

instruments, with additional instruments available after full operational capability. SOFIA will ramp up to 

960 science hours per year. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

SOFIA completed its early science campaign, consisting of 29 science flights. Early Science employed 

the Faint Object InfraRed CAmera for the SOFIA Telescope (FORCAST) and the German Receiver for 

Astronomy at Terahertz Frequencies (GREAT). This work was accomplished in parallel with continued 

development of the Observatory. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

SOFIA will complete Cycle 1 science observations, or the first full set of observing campaigns with 

general observers. Further, the SOFIA program will complete the Systems Requirements Review for the 

initial second generation SOFIA instrument. 

ASTRO-18 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

STRATOSPHERIC OBSERVATORY FOR INFRARED 

ASTRONOMY (SOFIA)

Formulation Development Operations

SCHEDULE COMMITMENTS/KEY MILESTONES

SOFIA began Early Science flights in 2011 and will be in full operational capability by December 2014. 

Development Milestones Confirmation Baseline 

Date

FY 2013 PB Request Date

First Flight 2000 2007

First science (Early Science) N/A 2011

Full operational capability N/A 2014

End of Prime Mission N/A 2034

Project Schedule 

First Flight

2007

First Science

(Early Science)

2011

Full Operational 

Capability

2014

ASTRO-19 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

STRATOSPHERIC OBSERVATORY FOR INFRARED 

ASTRONOMY (SOFIA)

Formulation Development Operations

Development Cost and Schedule 

Current 

Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Base Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Current 

Year 

Milestone 

Date

Cost 

Change 

(%)

Base Year 

Milestone 

Date

Milestone 

Change 

(months)

Base Current 

Year

Key 

Year JCL (%) Milestone

2007 919.5 70 2012 1,128.40 23 FOC Dec-13 Dec-14 12

Note: The confidence level estimates reported reflect an evolving process as NASA improves its probabilistic estimation 

techniques and processes. Estimate reflects the practices and policies at the time it was developed. Estimates that include 

combined cost and schedule risks are denoted as JCL (Joint Confidence Level); all other CLs (Confidence Levels) reflect cost 

confidence without necessarily factoring the potential impacts of schedule changes on cost. 

Development Cost Details (in $M) 

Element

Base Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Current Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Change from 

Base Year 

Estimate

TOTAL: 919.5 1128.4 208.9

Aircraft/Spacecraft 657.7 768.4 110.7

Science/Technology 199.6 225.7 26.1

Other Direct Project Costs 62.2 134.3 72.1

ASTRO-20 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

STRATOSPHERIC OBSERVATORY FOR INFRARED 

ASTRONOMY (SOFIA)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

The overall SOFIA project and SOFIA airborne system are managed by DFRC. SOFIA science is 

managed by ARC. 

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB Request FY 2013 PB Request

Platform Provider: DFRC/L3

Project Management: 

DFRC

NASA Center: DFRC

Cost Share: DLR/DSI

Refurbished Boeing 

747SP modified to 

accommodate telescope

Same Same

Science Operations 

Center

Provider: ARC/USRA

Project Management: 

ARC

NASA Center: ARC

Cost Share: DLR/DSI

Science operations 

center will schedule 

observations, and 

manage data acquisition 

and processing

Same Same

Telescope Provider: GermanyDLR/DSI

Project Management: 

DFRC

NASA Center: DFRC

Cost Share: DLR/DSI

2.5 meter diameter, dual 

mirror

Same Same

Flight Operations Provider: DFRC/CSC 

DynCorp

Project Management: 

DFRC

NASA Center: DFRC

Cost Share: DLR/DSI

Flight crew, 

maintenance, and fuel

Same Same

ASTRO-21 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

STRATOSPHERIC OBSERVATORY FOR INFRARED 

ASTRONOMY (SOFIA)

Formulation Development Operations

Project/ Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB Request FY 2013 PB Request

High-speed 

Photometer for 

Occulations 

(HIPO)

Provider: Lowell 

Observatory

Project Management: 

ARC

NASA Center: ARC

Simultaneous high-speed 

time-resolved imaging 

photometry at two 

optical wavelengths

Same Same

Cost Share: N/A

First Light Infrared 

Test Experiment 

Camera 

(FLITECAM)

Provider: UCLA

Project Management: 

ARC

NASA Center: ARC

Cost Share: N/A

Large field-of-view, 

narrow- and broad-band 

photometric imaging and 

low-resolution 

spectroscopy from 1 to 

5.5 micrometers

Same Same

FORCAST Provider: Cornell 

University

Project Management: 

ARC

Large field-of-view, 

narrow- and broad-band 

photometric imaging and 

moderate-resolution 

Same Same

NASA Center: ARC

Cost Share: N/A

spectroscopy from 4 to 

42 micrometers

Echelon-Cross -

Echelle 

Spectrograph 

(EXES)

Provider: ARC

Project Management: 

ARC

NASA Center: ARC

Cost Share: N/A

Echelon spectrometer, 5-

28 microns R=105, 104, 

or 3000

Same Same

High-resolution 

Airborne Wideband 

Camera (HAWC)

Provider: University of 

Chicago

Project Management: 

ARC

Far-infrared bolometer 

camera, 50-240 microns

Same Same

NASA Center: ARC

Cost Share: N/A

ASTRO-22 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

STRATOSPHERIC OBSERVATORY FOR INFRARED 

ASTRONOMY (SOFIA)

Formulation Development Operations

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB Request FY 2013 PB Request

German Receiver 

for Astronomy at 

Terahertz 

Frequencies 

(GREAT)

Provider: GermanyDLR/DSI

Project Management: 

ARC

NASA Center: ARC

Cost Share: DLR/DSI

IR heterodyne 

spectrometer

60 to 200 microns

Same Same

Field Imaging FarInfrared Line 

Spectrometer (FIFI 

LS)

Provider: GermanyDLR/DSI

Project Management: 

ARC

NASA Center: ARC

Cost Share: DLR/DSI

Imaging spectrometer

42 to 210 microns

Same Same

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: Telescope image quality goals cannot be 

met,

Then: Some planned science observations 

will not be possible.

Appointed the joint U.S.- German SOFIA Pointing Optimization Team to 

study telescope pointing performance and make recommendations for 

improvements. Installed active mass dampers on telescope to reduce image 

jitter.

If: Primary mirror is damaged due to 

handling mishaps,

Then: Observatory will be inoperable during 

mirror repair and/or replacement.

Have contract in place to move Mirror Coating Facility from SOFIA Science 

Center (Moffett Field, CA) to Aircraft Operations Facility (Palmdale, CA). 

This will allow coating to take place at home base of Observatory. Also have 

developed snow cleaning techniques to preserve telescope optical 

characteristics as long as possible without recoating. Implementing a 

contamination control program. 

ASTRO-23 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

STRATOSPHERIC OBSERVATORY FOR INFRARED 

ASTRONOMY (SOFIA)

Formulation Development Operations

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Platform L3 Communications Waco, TX

Cavity Door Drive System MPC Products Corporation Skokie, IL

Aircraft Maintenance Support CSC DynCorp El Segundo, CA

Science Operations University Space Research Association Columbia, MD

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance SRB N/A Assess progress toward establishing 

Full Operational Capability milestone.

Nov-12

Performance SRB N/A Evaluate observatory performance 

against Level 1 requirements and 2ndgeneration instrument interfaces. Review 

overall operational efficiency of 

Observatory.

Nov-14

Performance SRB Nov-14 Evaluate Observatory performance 

against Level 1 requirements and 

instrument interfaces. Review overall 

Nov-16

operational efficiency of Observatory.

ASTRO-24 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

STRATOSPHERIC OBSERVATORY FOR INFRARED 

ASTRONOMY (SOFIA)

Formulation Development Operations

CORRECTIVE ACTION PLAN AS REQUIRED BY SECTION 1203 OF NASA 2010

AUTHORIZATION ACT

SOFIA is an airborne observatory that will study the universe in the infrared spectrum. These infrared 

observations allow scientists to study the dust between stars, the formation of stars and new solar systems, 

the chemistry of the universe, and the deep universe where the most distance galaxies are seen in infrared 

light. SOFIA will host a complement of scientists, computer engineers, graduate students, and educators 

on nightlong research missions. SOFIA will be a major factor in the development of observational 

techniques and of new instrumentation and in the education of young scientists and teachers in the 

discipline of infrared astronomy. 

NASA and DLR, Germany’s Aerospace Research Center and Space Agency, are working together to 

construct SOFIA, a Boeing 747SP aircraft which was modified by L3 Communications Integrated 

Systems to accommodate a 2.5 meter reflecting telescope. SOFIA will be the largest airborne observatory 

in the world and will make observations that are impossible for even the largest and highest of groundbased telescopes. SOFIA will operate at 41,000 feet using U.S. and German instruments and flights will 

last, on average, six to eight hours.

ASTRO-25 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

STRATOSPHERIC OBSERVATORY FOR INFRARED 

ASTRONOMY (SOFIA)

Formulation Development Operations

2010 Issues Corrective Action Plan

Issue 1: Definition of Full Operational Capability Programmatic: Programmatic – Review of the definition of 

Milestone Requirements the Full Operational Capability milestone technical

Current Status: The Full Operational Capability

milestone requirements have been revised to

emphasize science instrument observational capability

(4 science instruments), the overall program has been

replanned in terms of schedule (no change in Full Operational 

Capability date, however), and the NASA Agency Program 

Management Council has approved the replan.

requirements by the independent Standing Review

Board (SRB) resulted in a finding by the SRB that the

original definition (800 flight hours per year) was an

improper definition in that insufficient science emphasis

was contained in the definition. Therefore, the definition

of Full Operational Capability was revised to focus on 

science instrument capability (the requirement was revised to 

four available science instruments, consistent with the 

MPAR definition), and the overall program was replanned

around that definition. The replanned program plan was

approved by the NASA Agency Program Management

Council (APMC) on October 6, 2010. This did not

cause a change in the externally-committed FOC date

of December 2014, but does emphasize science in the

definition.

Issue 2: Late delivery of Cavity Door Drive Programmatic: Late delivery of software that operates

System the telescope observation doors on the aircraft resulted

Current Status: The cavity door drive system

controller and actuator was delivered and integrated in

the SOFIA observatory, and flight testing to clear the

full flight envelope has been completed. This permits

the continuation of SOFIA system testing, leading up to

in later-than-planned initiation of open door flight testing

and science observation. NASA stationed

representatives at Woodward’s facility to support and

oversee the vendor until delivery of the cavity controller

and actuator.

the first science flights in December 2010.

ASTRO-26 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 57.6 57.4 56.6 42.2 32.8 29.1 29.3

Cosmic Origins Program Management 1.7 4.0 4.9 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5

Cosmic Origins SR&T 7.9 10.6 19.4 19.5 20.7 21.7 21.8

Cosmic Origins Future Missions 0.7 1.0 1.7 1.7 1.0 2.0 2.0

Spitzer 22.7 17.8 9.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Herschel 24.6 24.0 20.8 15.8 5.8 0.0 0.0

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -0.8

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -1.4%

To understand how the universe has changed from its initial simple state following the Big Bang into the 

magnificent universe seen in the current night sky, NASA must understand how stars, galaxies and 

planets are formed over time. Activities within Cosmic Origins are aimed at enabling research into the big 

question: "How did the universe originate and evolve to produce the galaxies, stars, and planets we see 

today?" 

Non-Operating Missions 

COSMIC ORIGINS PROGRAM MANAGEMENT

Cosmic Origins program management provides programmatic, technical, and business management, as 

well as program science leadership and coordination for education and public outreach products and 

services. 

COSMIC ORIGINS STRATEGIC RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY (SR&T) 

Cosmic Origins SR&T supports Hubble fellowships, program-specific research and advanced technology 

development efforts such as the Strategic Astrophysics Technology solicitation issued in FY 2011, and 

detectors for NASA’s contribution to a partnership with ESA on the Euclid mission. Three investigations 

were selected under this solicitation to advance the technology readiness level in the areas of UV 

detectors, optical coatings, and large optical components. In addition, funding supports the study of a 

future UV-optical space capability, wide-field infrared imaging and spectroscopy, particularly in the area 

of advanced detector technology, and Hubble de-orbit planning. 

ASTRO-27 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

COSMIC ORIGINS FUTURE MISSIONS

The Cosmic Origins Future Missions element funds concept studies for future missions in accordance 

with the NASA strategic plan. 

This is a false-color composite image of the Orion 

Nebula created from Spitzer and Hubble Space 

Telescope data. It exposes the chaos that baby stars 

are creating 1,500 light-years away. The cosmic 

cloud is also our closest massive star-formation 

factory, and astronomers believe it contains more 

than 1,000 young stars. 

Operating Missions 

SPITZER SPACE TELESCOPE

The Spitzer Space Telescope launched in 2003 and is 

now in extended operations. Spitzer is an infrared 

telescope using two channels of the Infrared Array 

Camera instrument to study the atmosphere of 

exoplanets, looking for the earliest clusters of 

galaxies, near Earth asteroids and providing a 360 

degree map of the galaxy. Spitzer completed its 

cryogenic mission in FY 2009, and warm operations 

have been extended through FY 2013. The outcome of 

the 2012 Senior Review will authorize beyond 2013, 

if appropriate. 

HERSCHEL SPACE OBSERVATORY

The Herschel Space Observatory is a collaborative mission with ESA which launched on May 14, 2009. 

Herschel can see the coldest and dustiest objects in space, for example, cool cocoons where stars form 

and dusty galaxies bulk up with new stars. It has the largest single mirror ever built for a space telescope 

and it will collect long wavelength radiation from some of the coldest and most distant objects in the 

universe. NASA has contributed key technologies to two instruments onboard Herschel, and also hosts 

U.S. astronomer access to data through the NASA Herschel Science Center. 

ASTRO-28 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: COSMIC ORIGINS

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

Recent Achievements 

SPITZER DISCOVERS “SUPER-EARTH”

NASA’s Spitzer Space Telescope has gathered 

surprising new details about a supersized and 

superheated world referred to as 55 Cancri e. 

Astronomers first discovered 55 Cancri e in 2004, 

and continued investigation of the exoplanet has 

shown it to be a truly unusual place. The world 

revolves around its sun-like star in the shortest time 

period of all known exoplanets just 17 hours and 40 

minutes. In other words, a year on 55 Cancri e lasts 

less than 18 hours. 

The new observations from Spitzer reveal 55 Cancri e to have a mass 7.8 times and a radius just over 

twice that of Earth. Those properties place 55 Cancri e in the "super-Earth" class of exoplanets, a few 

dozen of which have been found. However, what makes this world so remarkable is its low density. The 

Spitzer results suggest that about a fifth of the planet’s mass must be made of light elements and 

compounds, including water. In the intense heat of 55 Cancri e’s close sun, those light materials would 

exist in a "supercritical" state, between that of a liquid and a gas, and might sizzle out of the planet’s 

surface. 

At just 40 light years away, 55 Cancri e stands as the smallest transiting super-Earth in our stellar 

neighborhood. In fact, 55 Cancri is so bright and close that it can be seen with the naked eye on a clear, 

dark night. Please read about Spitzer’s other achievements at http://www.spitzer.caltech.edu/. 

COLD WATER VAPOR SEEN BY HERSCHEL

Using the Herschel Space Observatory, astronomers have 

for the first time detected cold water vapor in a 

protoplanetary disk. Located in a thin layer at intermediate 

depths in the disc, the cold vapor hints at a much larger 

reservoir of water ice hidden deeper in the disc and 

amounting to several thousand times the mass of water that 

makes up our planet’s oceans. The discovery sheds new 

light on the presence and role of water in the early 

formation stages of a planetary system. 

Read about Herschel’s achievements at 

http://sci.esa.int/sciencee/www/area/index.cfm?fareaid=16. 

ASTRO-29 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

PHYSICS OF THE COSMOS (PCOS)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

108.7 

--

FY 2012

108.3 

--

FY 2013

111.8 

3.5

FY 2014

109.6 

FY 2015 FY 2016

96.3 92.7 

FY 2017

74.6 

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 3.2%

This diagram reveals changes in the rate of expansion since 

the universe’s birth 15 billion years ago. The discovery that 

the expansion of space is accelerating presents one of the most

important scientific problems of our time. The implication 

that the universe is dominated by an unknown entity, now 

called "dark energy," that counters the attractive force of 

gravity, may revolutionize our understanding of cosmology 

and fundamental physics.

The universe can be viewed as a laboratory 

that enables scientists to study some of the 

most profound questions at the intersection 

of physics and astronomy. How did the 

universe begin? How do matter, energy, 

space, and time behave under the 

extraordinarily diverse conditions of the 

cosmos? The Physics of the Cosmos (PCOS) 

program incorporates cosmology, highenergy astrophysics, and fundamental 

physics projects that address central 

questions about the nature of complex 

astrophysical phenomena such as black 

holes, neutron stars, dark matter and dark 

energy, Cosmic microwave background, and 

gravitational waves. 

The operating missions within the PCOS 

program are just beginning to provide 

answers to the fundamental questions above. 

Scientists using data from the Fermi mission 

are trying to determine what composes 

mysterious dark matter, which will help 

explain how black holes accelerate immense 

jets of material to nearly the speed of light. Planck is observing the earliest moments of the universe and 

is providing a high-resolution map of the cosmic microwave background. X-Ray Multi-Mirror Mission 

(XMM)-Newton has helped scientists solve cosmic mysteries, ranging from enigmatic black holes to the 

origins of the universe itself. Chandra continues to reveal new details of celestial x-ray phenomena, such 

as the collisions of galaxies that directly detect the presence of dark matter, and has unveiled a population 

of faint, obscured massive black holes that may provide the early seeds for galaxy formation and growth. 

PCOS includes a vigorous program of development of technology to detect the imprint of gravitational 

waves on the cosmic microwave background produced during the first few moments of the universe, and 

to detect the waves produced by the mergers of massive black holes in galaxies. 

For more information, see http://nasascience.nasa.gov/about-us/smd-programs/physics-of-the-cosmos. 

ASTRO-30 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

PHYSICS OF THE COSMOS (PCOS)

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

NASA and ESA are re-evaluating their mission priorities and available funding in Astrophysics for the 

next decade. The NASA/ESA partnership on formulation activities for a gravitational wave mission, the 

Laser Interferometer Space Antenna, (LISA), and an advanced x-ray telescope, the International X-ray 

Observatory or IXO have been discontinued. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, scientists using NASA’s Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope detected beams of antimatter 

produced above thunderstorms on Earth, a phenomenon never seen before. The scientists found that these 

antimatter particles, called positrons, were the result of a terrestrial gamma-ray flash, a brief burst 

produced inside thunderstorms known to be associated with lightning. They estimate that about 500 

terrestrial gamma-ray flashes occur around the world daily, but most go undetected. The data collected by 

Fermi was the first direct evidence that thunderstorms make antimatter particle beams. 

The PCOS Program Analysis Group appointed its Executive Committee. This group serves as a forum for 

soliciting and coordinating input and analysis from the scientific community in support of PCOS program 

objectives. The PCOS program also released the inaugural Program Annual Technology Report. This 

report summarizes the status of technology development funded by the program in FY 2011 and describes 

the prioritization of future technology needs. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA will continue to develop strategic PCOS technologies. NASA plans to solicit 

technologies in x-ray astrophysics, gravitational wave astrophysics, cosmic microwave background 

polarization measurements, and fundamental physics. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $111.8 million. This represents a $3.5 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($108.3 million) and provides additional funds to augment technology development activities and to 

ensure a robust Fermi science program. 

ASTRO-31 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

PHYSICS OF THE COSMOS (PCOS)

Non-Operating Missions 

PCOS SUPPORTING RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY

PCOS Supporting Research and Technology supports Einstein Fellowships and program-specific research 

and early technology development efforts such as x-ray and gravitational wave detectors. The Space 

Technology (ST)-7 project to fly on the ESA LISA Pathfinder mission is supported within this budget and 

is now scheduled for launch in 2014. NASA is developing a disturbance reduction system with enhanced 

thruster technology, which will work with enhanced sensor technology provided by ESA. Together, these 

technologies will demonstrate precision positioning of the spacecraft to ensure that the planned 

gravitational experiment is conducted in a truly weightless environment. The ST-7 thrusters will be able 

to achieve millimeter positioning of the spacecraft by applying thrust equivalent to the weight of a single 

grain of sand. 

In FY 2011, the program began developing core technology investment strategy. It is anticipated that 

activities in 2012 and 2013 will focus on the development of x-ray and gravity wave detection 

technologies. 

PCOS PROGRAM MANAGEMENT

PCOS program management provides programmatic, technical, and business management, as well as 

program science leadership and coordination for education and public outreach products and services. 

PCOS FUTURE MISSIONS

PCOS Future Missions funding supports future mission concept studies. 

Operating Missions 

PLANCK

Planck, launched in May 2009, is an ESA-led mission with substantial NASA contributions. Planck is 

peering back to the edge of the universe to observe the earliest moments of creation, using the coldest 

instruments in space. Planck’s objective is to analyze, with the highest accuracy ever achieved, the 

remnants of the radiation that filled the universe immediately after the Big Bang and that we observe 

today as the Cosmic Microwave Background. Planck enables scientists to help elucidate a number of 

fundamental questions, such as the initial conditions for the evolution in the universe, the overall 

geometry of space, the rate at which the universe is expanding, and the nature and amount of the 

constituents of the universe. 

ASTRO-32 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

PHYSICS OF THE COSMOS (PCOS)

In FY 2011, Planck completed most of its fourth sky survey with instruments and spacecraft performing 

well. In 2012 the dilution cooler phase of the mission will conclude. Project management will propose an 

extended, “warm” mission in the 2012 Senior Review. Operations in 2013 will depend on the results of 

that review. 

FERMI

The Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope is a joint NASA/DoE mission with strong international 

involvement. Fermi was launched in June 2008 and is currently in its prime operational phase. Fermi’s 

two instruments, the Large Area Telescope and the Gamma-ray Burst Monitor, have discovered hundreds 

of gamma ray bursts, expanding our knowledge of their high-energy properties. Fermi has uncovered a 

new class of pulsars, seen only at gamma-rays energies. Fermi has monitored more than a thousand 

galaxies whose supermassive black holes generate high-speed jets of material directed toward the Earth 

from across the universe. Fermi data are also providing new insight into the origin of cosmic rays. 

In FY 2011 Fermi continued prime mission operations. In 2013, Fermi will continue operations and 

program managers will select another cohort of guest investigators. 

CHANDRA

Chandra is transforming our view of the universe with its high quality x-ray images, providing unique 

insights into violent events and extreme conditions such as explosions of stars, collisions of galaxies, and 

matter around black holes. The contributions of Chandra to astrophysics are numerous. Among the most 

notable are its observations of the Bullet Cluster of Galaxies that provided direct evidence for the 

existence of dark matter. In addition, studies of clusters of galaxies using Chandra data have greatly 

strengthened the case for the existence of dark energy. Chandra observations of the remains of exploded 

stars, or supernovas, have advanced our understanding of the behavior of matter and energy under 

extreme conditions. In addition, Chandra has discovered and studied of hundreds of supermassive black 

holes in the centers of distant galaxies. 

In FY 2011, Chandra continued in its extended mission phase. Continued operations beyond FY 2012 are 

dependent upon the results of the 2012 Senior Review. 

XMM-NEWTON

XMM-Newton launched in December 1999, is an ESA-led mission with substantial NASA contributions. 

XMM-Newton provides unique data for studies of the fundamental processes of black holes and neutron 

stars. It also studies the evolution of chemical elements in galaxy clusters and the distribution of dark 

matter in galaxy clusters and elliptical galaxies. NASA provides the NASA Guest Observer Facility at 

GSFC. 

In FY 2011, XMM-Newton continued extended operations. The results of the 2012 Senior Review will 

determine further operations in 2013 are dependent on the results of the 2012 Senior Review. 

ASTRO-33 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

PHYSICS OF THE COSMOS (PCOS)

Program Management & Commitments 

PCOS program management is the responsibility of GSFC. 

Project/Element Provider

Fermi Provider: SpectrumAstro, now Orbital

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: DOE, Japan, Italy, France, Sweden, Germany

Planck Provider: ESA

Project Management: JPL

NASA Center: JPL

Cost Share: ESA

Chandra Provider: TRW, now Northrup Grumman

Project Management: MSFC

NASA Center: MSFC

Cost Share: None

XMM Provider: ESA

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: ESA

Provider: JPL

Project Management: JPL

NASA Center: JPL

Cost Share: ESA

ST-7

Acquisition Strategy 

Technology awards will be made in response to annual NRAs released in ROSES-2012. 

ASTRO-34 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

PHYSICS OF THE COSMOS (PCOS)

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance SRB 2011 Review the implementation plans for 

the PCOS program 

2013

Quality Senior Review 2010 Determine which mission operations 

should be extended

2012, 2014

ASTRO-35 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

EXOPLANET EXPLORATION 

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Kepler

Keck Operations

Exoplanet Exploration SR&T

Large Binocular Telescope Interferometer

Exoplanet Exploration Program 

Management

Exoplanet Exploration Future Missions

Wide Field Infrared Space Telescope

Keck Interferometer

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate

Actual

FY 2011

46.4

16.8

3.6

14.9

1.5

4.8

1.2

3.6

0.1

--

--

Estimate

FY 2012

50.8

19.6

3.2

18.1

2.0

6.0

1.5

0.0

0.4

--

--

FY 2013

56.0

13.6

3.3

28.0

3.8

6.1

1.2

0.0

0.0

5.2

10.3%

FY 2014

41.6

0.2

3.4

28.2

2.9

5.7

1.2

0.0

0.0

FY 

Notional

2015 FY 2016

43.3 42.4

0.0 0.0

3.5 3.5

30.8 31.1

2.0 0.5

5.9 6.0

1.2 1.2

0.0 0.0

0.0 0.0

FY 2017

45.6

0.0

3.5

34.3

0.5

6.0

1.2

0.0

0.0

This artist’s conception shows a planet orbiting its parent 

star. The Kepler mission will observe thousands of such 

stars in its search for Earth-like planets. Results from this 

mission will allow us to place our solar system within the 

continuum of planetary systems in the Galaxy. 

Humankind stands on the threshold of a voyage 

of unprecedented scope and ambition, promising 

insight into some of the most timeless questions: 

Are we alone? Is Earth unique, or are planets 

like ours common? One of the most exciting 

new fields of research within the NASA 

Astrophysics portfolio is the search for planets, 

particularly Earth-like planets, around other 

stars. 

During the last 15 years, astronomers have 

discovered over 500 planets orbiting nearby 

stars. Most of these planets are gas giants, 

similar in size to the four outer planets in this 

solar system, and orbit much closer to their 

parent stars than do the giant planets in this 

system. NASA’s Exoplanet Exploration 

program is taking the first steps along a path of 

discovery that will lead to a point where 

scientists can directly study the atmospheres and 

surface features of habitable, rocky planets, like Earth, around other stars in the solar neighborhood. 

To date, most of the known extrasolar planets, or simply exoplanets, have been discovered with groundbased telescopes. However, the 2009 launch of NASA’s Kepler mission, NASA’s first mission dedicated 

to the study of extrasolar planets, has ushered in a new chapter in the search for planets around other stars. 

From its unique vantage point of space, Kepler is capable of detecting much smaller planets than are 

ASTRO-36 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

EXOPLANET EXPLORATION 

possible with even the most powerful ground based telescopes. Kepler has already provided data that has 

shown us that small planets are more abundant than giant planets. Within two years of launch, Kepler will 

double the number of known exoplanets, including many rocky planets only a few times larger than Earth. 

By the end of its prime mission, Kepler will enable the first measurements of just how common habitable, 

Earth-sized planets are in the galaxy. 

NASA’s Exoplanet Exploration program creates images and spectroscopy of rocky planets in the 

habitable zones of stars in the solar neighborhood. These capabilities allow NASA to take the pivotal step 

from identifying an exoplanet as Earth-sized, to determining whether it is truly Earth-like, and possibly 

even if it bears the fingerprints of life. As such an ambitious goal includes significant technological 

challenges, an important component of the Exoplanet Exploration effort will be a robust technology 

development program focused on technologies that feed into the candidate architectures for a future direct 

detection mission. 

For more information, see: http://exep.jpl.nasa.gov/. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

The budget provides additional funding for the Large Binocular Telescope Interferometer instrument to 

support more robust science, for example improved detection of emission from faint dust clouds. Funds 

originally intended for the Wide Field Infrared Survey Telescope technology development have been 

descoped. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In February 2011, astronomers using Kepler found the first Earth-size planet candidates and the first 

candidates in the habitable zone, a region where liquid water could exist on a planet’s surface and that 

could potentially host life. Kepler also found six confirmed planets orbiting a sunlike star. This is the 

largest group of transiting planets orbiting a single star ever discovered outside the solar system. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

The Exoplanet Advisory Group has begun defining science requirements and the technical framework for 

concept studies on the next exoplanet exploration mission. Initial concept studies will begin in FY 2013 

commensurate with available funds. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $56.0 million. This represents a $5.2 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($50.8 million) and provides additional funds to ensure robust technology development activities. 

ASTRO-37 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

EXOPLANET EXPLORATION 

Non-Operating Missions 

EXOPLANET EXPLORATION PROGRAM MANAGEMENT

Exoplanet Exploration program management provides programmatic, technical, and business 

management, as well as program science leadership and coordination for education and public outreach 

products and services. 

EXOPLANET EXPLORATION FUTURE MISSIONS

Exoplanet Exploration Future Missions funding will support the next EXEP mission once it is selected. 

Operating Missions 

KEPLER

Kepler, launched in March 2009, is specifically designed to survey the distant stars in this region of the 

Milky Way galaxy to detect and characterize rocky planets in or near the "habitable zone" of their host 

star. The habitable zone encompasses the distances from a star where liquid water can exist on a planet’s 

surface. As time progresses, smaller and smaller planets with longer and longer orbital periods will begin 

to emerge from the data. 

In FY 2011, Kepler completed its second year of science operations. Kepler observations have resulted in 

numerous scientific discoveries and the project has released a substantial data set to the astronomical 

community. The Kepler prime mission will be completed in November 2013. Future Kepler observations 

to further characterize planetary candidates will depend on the outcome of the 2012 Senior Review.

KECK OPERATIONS

Keck Operations is the NASA portion of the Keck Observatory partnership. NASA uses its share of 

observing time in support of all Astrophysics science programs. Observation time is competed, selected, 

and managed by the NASA Exoplanet Science Institute. A significant portion of the NASA Keck 

competed time has been awarded to Kepler follow-up observations on potential planet candidates and 

radio-velocity observations for new exoplanet discoveries. 

ASTRO-38 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

EXOPLANET EXPLORATION 

EXOPLANET EXPLORATION STRATEGIC RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY

Exoplanet Exploration Strategic Research and Technology supports the prestigious Sagan Postdoctoral 

Fellowships, program-specific scientific research, and technology development activities that support and 

enable future Exoplanet Exploration missions. 

In FY 2011, NASA supported approximately 17 Sagan fellows, supported an exoplanet exploration 

program conference, and awarded over $3 million for competitively selected technology development 

activities. In 2013, NASA will continue to maintain the capabilities essential to carrying out technology 

development, such as testbeds and vacuum chambers, and partially fund procurement of detectors for 

NASA’s contribution to a Euclid partnership with ESA. NASA will continue the competitive technology 

awards to work on internal coronagraphs, external occulters and visible nulling coronagraphs. At least 17 

Sagan fellows will be supported. 

LARGE BINOCULAR TELESCOPE INTERFEROMETER

The Large Binocular Telescope Inferometer (LBTI) is the NASA portion of the Large Binocular 

Telescope (LBT) partnership. The project is funded by NASA and managed by JPL. The instrument and 

project development are provided by the Steward Observatory of the University of Arizona. The 

instrument is currently under development, and will be ready for full science operations in FY 2012. 

LBTI will enable the study of the formation of solar systems and will be capable of directly detecting 

giant planets outside this solar system. LBTI will help scientists determine the amount of dust that is 

found in nearby planetary systems. This is an important factor to take into consideration for the 

development of a direct detection mission, one of the primary challenges for the next exoplanet mission. 

In FY 2011, development of the interferometer continued, and will be complete in 2012. In 2013, LBTI 

will conduct key science operations to characterize planetary systems orbiting other stars. 

ASTRO-39 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

EXOPLANET EXPLORATION 

Program Management & Commitments 

JPL manages the Exoplanet Exploration Program. 

Project Element Provider

Kepler Provider: JPL

Project Management: ARC

NASA Center: ARC

Cost Share: None

Keck Observatory Provider: Caltech and University of California

Project Management: JPL

NASA Center: None

Cost Share: Various private entities

LBTI Provider: University of Arizona

Project Management: JPL

NASA Center: None

Cost Share: University of Arizona

Acquisition Strategy 

NASA will make technology awards in response to annual NRAs released in ROSES-2012 solicitations. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

None 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Quality Senior Review 2010 Determine which mission operations 

should be extended

2012, 2014

ASTRO-40 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President's Budget Request

Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array

100.0 

36.1 

112.2 

11.8 

75.1 

4.7 

134.3 

4.4

133.9 

0.0

157.0 

0.0

165.6

0.0

Gravity and Extreme Magnetism 23.0 63.2 46.4 32.9 2.7 0.2 0.0

Other Missions and Data Analysis 41.0 37.2 24.1 97.1 131.2 156.8 165.6

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -37.1

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -33.1%

A collection of galaxy specimens from the Wide-field 

Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) mission showcases 

galaxies of several types.

The Astrophysics Explorer program provides 

frequent flight opportunities for world-class 

astrophysics and heliophysics investigations 

using innovative and streamlined management 

approaches for spacecraft development and 

operations. Explorer missions are highly 

responsive to new knowledge, new technology, 

and updated scientific priorities by launching 

smaller missions that can be conceived and 

executed in a relatively short development 

cycle. Priorities are based on an open 

competition of concepts solicited from the 

scientific community. The program emphasizes 

missions that can be accomplished under the 

control of the scientific research community 

within constrained mission life-cycle costs. The 

program also seeks to enhance public 

awareness of space science by incorporating 

educational and public outreach activities as 

integral parts of space science investigations. 

The standard Explorer missions are 

investigations characterized by definition, 

development, and mission operations and data analysis costs up to $200 million, not including launch 

services. Small Explorers (SMEX) may cost up to $120 million, not including launch services. Explorer 

missions of opportunity (MO) have a total NASA cost of under $55 million and may be of several types. 

The most common are partner MOs, investigations characterized by being part of a non-NASA space 

mission. These missions are conducted on a no-exchange-of-funds basis with the organization sponsoring 

the mission. Other possible types are new science missions using existing spacecraft, and small complete 

missions. NASA intends to solicit proposals for missions of opportunity with each announcement of 

opportunity issued for Explorer and SMEX investigations, and perhaps more frequently. 

ASTRO-41 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS

ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

Currently, there is one Astrophysics SMEX mission scheduled for launch in 2012: the Nuclear 

Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR). The Gravity and Extreme Magnetism SMEX (GEMS) is in 

formulation. In 2011, NASA selected two missions for concept studies: First Infrared Exoplanet 

Spectroscopy Survey Explorer (FINESSE), and Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS).NASA 

selected two MOs for concept studies: Galactic/Xgalactic Ultra long duration balloon Spectroscopic 

Stratospheric THz Observatory (GUSSTO), and Neutron star Interior Composition ExploreR (NICER). 

NASA will make final selections in early 2013. 

Other Missions and Data Analysis also supports the Astro-H Soft X-ray Spectrometer mission of 

opportunity, currently in development, as well as four previously launched Explorer missions, as they 

continue to produce world-class science in their extended mission phases. It also supports program 

management functions, and funding for future mission selections. 

For more information on Explorer missions, see http://explorers.gsfc.nasa.gov/missions.html. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

NASA created a dedicated Astrophysics program management line to manage the Explorer missions, 

which will be done in conjunction with the Heliophysics division. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $75.1 million. This represents a $37.1 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($112.2 million). This change reflects planned reductions to workforce as GEMS, NuSTAR, and 

Astro-H near launch. 

ASTRO-42 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

NUCLEAR SPECTROSCOPIC TELESCOPE ARRAY (NUSTAR) 

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority

(in $ millions) Prior

Actual

FY 2011

Estimate

FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Est. ($M)

Percent Change From FY 2012 Est.

111.6

111.6

36.1

36.1

--

--

11.8

11.8--

--

4.7

4.7

-7.1

-60.2%

4.4

4.4

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

Note: Current LCC for NuSTAR is $164.9, budget includes $3.7M of extended operations not included in LCC. 

The NuSTAR observatory is prepared for launch, and

will make the first census of supermassive black holes 

throughout cosmic space and time. Using advanced 

mirrors that can focus much more energetic X-rays, 

NuSTAR, will image the densest, hottest, and most 

energetic regions in the Universe. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

NuSTAR launch is now planned for March 2012, 

contingent upon clearing the Pegasus launch 

vehicle for launch by late February 2012. 

NuSTAR received $3.7 million of additional 

funding between FY 2013 and FY 2014 for 

extended science operations and a guest 

investigator program. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

The purpose of the NuSTAR mission is to observe 

the universe at high x-ray energy levels. By 

focusing higher energy x-rays, NuSTAR will start 

to answer fundamental questions about the 

universe including: How are black holes 

distributed through the cosmos? How were heavy 

elements forged in the explosions of massive 

stars? What powers the most extreme active 

galaxies? 

NuSTAR’s primary science goal is to make the 

first deep observations of regions of the sky in the 

high energy x-ray band. This will allow scientists 

to locate massive black holes in other galaxies, 

locate and examine the remnants of collapsed stars 

in our galaxy, observe selected very high energy

gamma-ray sources, and observe any supernovae 

ASTRO-43
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

NUCLEAR SPECTROSCOPIC TELESCOPE ARRAY (NUSTAR)

Formulation Development Operations

in our galaxy, observe selected very high energy gamma-ray sources, and observe any supernovae of 

opportunity in the local group of galaxies. NuSTAR’s key science products will be sensitive high-energy 

x-ray survey maps of the celestial sky that will guide the x-ray astronomy community research for several 

years to come. In addition to its core science program, NuSTAR will offer opportunities for a broad range 

of science investigations, ranging from probing cosmic ray origins, to studying the extreme physics 

around collapsed stars, to mapping microflares on the surface of the Sun. NuSTAR will perform followup observations to discoveries made by Chandra and Spitzer scientists, and NuSTAR research teams will 

team with those using Fermi to make simultaneous observations. 

PROJECT PARAMETERS

NuSTAR will image the sky in the high- energy x-ray band, 6 to 79 kiloelectronvolts, and the spacecraft 

will be three-axis stabilized. The primary science instruments will be two identical focusing x-ray 

telescopes that use an extendable 10 meter mast. The launch vehicle will be a Pegasus XL. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The NuSTAR observatory completed thermal vacuum testing, vibration/acoustics testing, and 

electromagnetic interference testing in preparation for shipment to Vandenberg Air Force Base in January 

2012. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

NuSTAR will conduct nominal science operations and data analysis. 

ASTRO-44 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

NUCLEAR SPECTROSCOPIC TELESCOPE ARRAY (NUSTAR)

Formulation Development Operations

SCHEDULE COMMITMENTS/KEY MILESTONES

Development Milestones Confirmation Baseline 

Date

FY 2013 PB Request Date

KDP-C Aug-09 Aug-09

CDR Feb-10 Feb-10

Launch Jan-12 Mar-12

End of Prime Mission Sep-14 Oct-14

Project Schedule 

KDP-C

08/2009

CDR

02/2010

Launch

03/2012

End of Prime 

Mission

10/2014

ASTRO-45 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

NUCLEAR SPECTROSCOPIC TELESCOPE ARRAY (NUSTAR)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

JPL is responsible for NuSTAR project management. The principal investigator at the California Institute 

of Technology is responsible for mission science. 

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB Request FY 2013 PB Request

Spacecraft Provider: Orbital

Project Management: 

JPL

NASA Center: JPL

Cost Share: N/A

Spacecraft design, 

fabrication and testing.

Same Same

Mission 

operations, focal 

plane assembly and 

instrument 

electronics

Provider: University of 

California, Berkeley

Project Management: 

JPL

NASA Center:

Aperture stop, active 

shield module and 

mechanical enclosures

Same Same

Cost Share: N/A

X-ray optics Provider: Columbia 

University and the 

Danish Technical 

University

Project Management: 

JPL

NASA Center: GSFC 

Cost Share: N/A

Overall optics assembly 

management and 

manufacturing

Same Same

Mast, canister 

instrument 

structure

and Provider: ATK

Project Management: 

JPL

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Delivery of mast, 

canister and instrument 

structure for the 

spacecraft

Same Same

Launch Vehicle Provider: KSC

Project Management: 

KSC

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share: N/A

Pegasus XL Same Same

ASTRO-46 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

NUCLEAR SPECTROSCOPIC TELESCOPE ARRAY (NUSTAR)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: the launch vehicle schedule is delayed 

beyond March 2011,

Then: the project will incur increased 

mission costs.

Track launch vehicle status closely. Identify sources of funding to cover the 

potential cost increase.

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

All major acquisitions are in place. NuSTAR was selected via a NASA Explorers AO. 

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Spacecraft Orbital Dulles, VA

X-ray Optics Columbia University New York, NY

Mast and Canister Alliant Techsystems Arlington, VA

ASTRO-47 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

NUCLEAR SPECTROSCOPIC TELESCOPE ARRAY (NUSTAR)

Formulation Development Operations

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance SRB 11-Jan SIR. Evaluates the readiness of the 

project to start flight aseembly, 

test, and integration.

N/A

Performance SRB N/A Operations Readiness Review. 

Examines the actual system 

characteristics and the procedures 

used in the system or product's 

operation and ensures that all 

system and support hardware, 

software, personnel, and 

procedures are ready for 

operations.

12-Feb

ASTRO-48 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

GRAVITY AND EXTREME MAGNETISM SMEX (GEMS)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate

Budget Authority (in $ millions) Prior FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 5.6 23.0 63.2 46.4 32.9 2.7 0.2 0.0 

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -16.8

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -26.6%

Some of the fundamental questions scientists hope GEMS will 

answer include: Where is the energy released near black 

holes? Where do the X-ray emissions from pulsars and 

neutron stars originate? What is the structure of the magnetic 

fields in supernova remnants? 

PROJECT PURPOSE

The Gravity and Extreme Magnetism SMEX 

(GEMS) mission will explore the edges of 

space-time in the vicinity of black holes and 

test the extreme physics of compact objects 

that are formed at the end of normal stellar 

lives. GEMS will use an X-ray telescope to 

explore how space is distorted by a spinning 

black hole’s gravity, and probe the structure 

and effects of the formidable magnetic field 

around magnetars, dead stars with magnetic 

fields trillions of times stronger than that of 

Earth. These studies will illuminate the 

destiny of stars, and probe the accelerators of 

cosmic ray particles. GEMS will be better 

able to tell the shapes of the x-ray-emitting 

matter trapped near black holes than existing 

or prior missions by measuring polarization 

of the x-rays at least ten times better than 

previous experiments. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

The GEMS mission is still in formulation with an expected launch readiness date of November 2014. 

ASTRO-49 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

GRAVITY AND EXTREME MAGNETISM SMEX (GEMS)

Formulation Development Operations

PROJECT PRELIMINARY PARAMETERS

The nominal science mission is nine months in duration. The X-ray Polarimeter Instrument (XPI) consists 

of two identical, co-aligned telescopes with detectors that will be sensitive from 2 to 10 kiloelectronvolts 

and able to detect polarization amplitude and angle of observed x-rays. The orbit altitude is 575 

kilometers with an inclination of 28.5 degrees. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

NASA completed the PDR for the GEMS spacecraft. NASA expects to complete mission PDR in 

February 2012. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

The GEMS project will be in implementation phase in FY 2013 if it successfully passes KDP-C planned 

for April 2012. During implementation, the polarimeter instrument will be delivered to the spacecraft to 

begin integration and testing. 

ESTIMATED PROJECT SCHEDULE

GEMS is planned for a launch in November 2014 for a nine-month prime mission. 

Formulation Milestones Formulation Agreement 

Estimate

FY 2013 PB Request Date

Formulation Authorization Oct-09 Oct-09

SRR Jun-10 Oct-10

SIR May-13 Nov-13

PDR Aug-11 Feb-12

KDP C Jul-11 Apr-12

Launch Apr-14 Nov-14

ASTRO-50 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

GRAVITY AND EXTREME MAGNETISM SMEX (GEMS)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Schedule 

 

SRR

10/2010

PDR

02/2012

KDP-C

04/2012

SIR 

11/2013

Launch

11/2014

Formulation Estimated Life Cycle Cost Range and 

Schedule Range Summary 

KDPB Date Estimated Life Cycle 

Cost Range ($M)

Key Milestone Key Milestone 

Estimated Date Range

9-Jun 173.8 - 230 Launch Nov-14 - Sep-15

ASTRO-51 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

GRAVITY AND EXTREME MAGNETISM SMEX (GEMS)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB Request FY 2013 PB Request

Project and Science 

Management

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: 

GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Project manager, 

principal investigator, 

and project scientist

Same Same

Spacecraft Provider: Orbital 

Sciences Corporation 

Project Management: 

ARC

NASA Center: None

Cost Share: N/A

Spacecraft design, 

fabrication and testing

Same Same

X-ray Polarimeter 

Instrument (XPI)

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: 

GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: N/A

It comprises two 

telescopes which focus 

source flux into 

photoelectric 

polarimeters which 

employ a time 

projection chamber 

readout geometry

Same Same

Launch Vehicle Provider: KSC

Project Management: 

KSC

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share: N/A

Pegasus-class 

vehicle

launch Same Same

ASTRO-52 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

GRAVITY AND EXTREME MAGNETISM SMEX (GEMS)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

Tracking release of Orbital subcontracts as they are finalized. Current OSC 

phase C/D/E contract is under negotiation.

If: Orbital’s final costs are higher than the 

phase C/D/E proposal,

Then: there will be cost overruns.

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Spacecraft, Observatory I&T and 

Launch Site Campaign, Mission 

Operations Center

Orbital Science Corporation Dulles, VA

ASTRO-53 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

GRAVITY AND EXTREME MAGNETISM SMEX (GEMS)

Formulation Development Operations

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance SRB N/A PDR. Determine if the 

project is ready to 

proceed into 

development.

Feb-12

Performance SMD Directorate 

Mission Program 

Council

N/A Confirmation Review 

(KDP-C). Determine 

whether to give the 

project the authority to 

proceed into the 

development phase

Apr-12

Performance SRB N/A SIR. Evaluates the 

readiness of the overall 

system to commence 

integration and testing.

Nov-13

ASTRO-54 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

Actual Estimate

FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 

Notional

2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Astro-H (SXS)

Astrophysics Explorer Future Missions

Astrophysics Explorer Program 

Management

Wide-Field Infrared Survey Explorer

SWIFT

Suzaku (ASTRO-E II)

Rossi X-Ray Timing Explorer 

GALEX

Wilkinson Microwave Anistropy Probe 

41.0

16.9

0.0

0.0

7.3

6.3

1.8

0.9

6.2

1.6

37.2

16.2

3.1

7.3

4.5

4.3

0.3

0.0

0.6

1.0

24.1

4.4

10.6

4.1

0.2

4.4

0.3

0.0

0.0

0.0

97.1

1.8

85.6

5.3

0.0

4.4

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

131.2

1.0

124.0

6.2

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

156.8

0.9

149.6

6.3

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

165.6

0.0

159.3

6.4

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

Change From FY 2012 Estimate --

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate --

-- -13.1

-- -35.3%

NASA's Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe has 

mapped the cosmic microwave background radiation 

(the oldest light in the universe) and produced the first 

fine-resolution (0.2 degree) full-sky map of the 

microwave sky. 

Astrophysics Explorers program provides 

frequent flight opportunities for world-class 

scientific investigations from space utilizing 

innovative, streamlined and efficient management 

approaches within the Heliophysics and 

Astrophysics science areas. This budget funds 

Astrophysics missions already in operation and 

supports future mission selections. 

Non-Operating Missions 

ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER FUTURE 

MISSIONS

Astrophysics Explorer Future Missions funding 

supports future Explorer missions and missions 

of opportunity through concept studies and 

selections. 

ASTRO-55 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER PROGRAM MANAGEMENT

Astrophysics Explorer program management provides programmatic, technical, and business 

management of ongoing missions in formulation and development. 

Operating Missions 

THE WIDE-FIELD INFRARED SURVEY EXPLORER (WISE) 

WISE is a Medium Explorer class mission that launched in December 2009. It has surveyed the entire sky 

in four mid-infrared bands and mapped it with better sensitivity than previous infrared all-sky surveys. 

During its six-month mission, WISE mapped the sky in infrared light, searching for the nearest and 

coolest stars, the origins of stellar and planetary systems, and the most luminous galaxies in the universe. 

Its legacy is a rich database that will enable astronomers to address questions posed by the Cosmic 

Origins program. WISE’s infrared survey provided an essential catalog for JWST. NASA is currently 

finishing final WISE data verification, with a final catalog release expected in March 2012. 

SWIFT

Swift is a medium explorer class mission that launched in 2004 and is now in extended mission 

operations. It is a multi-wavelength space-based observatory that studies the position, brightness, and 

physical properties of gamma-ray bursts. Swift was designed to instantly respond to transient events, 

allowing identification and follow-up across many parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. This ability also 

allows extremely flexible and efficient observing of astronomical objects. 

Swift is in extended operations through FY 2012. Senior Review results will determine operations in 

FY 2013 and beyond

SUZAKU

Suzaku is Japan’s fifth x-ray astronomy mission, which launched in July 2005. It was developed at the 

Institute of Space and Astronautical Science of Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (ISAS/JAXA) in 

collaboration with U.S. (NASA/GSFC, Massachusetts Institute of Technology) and Japanese institutions. 

NASA provides software to analyze Suzaku data and operates a Guest Observer Facility for U.S. 

observers. 

ASTRO-56 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

Suzaku is a powerful orbiting observatory for studying extremely energetic processes in the universe. 

Sensitive x-ray spectrometers enable precise measurements of high-energy processes in stars, supernova 

remnants, galaxies, clusters of galaxies, and the environments around neutron stars and black holes. 

Suzaku is in extended operations through FY 2012. Senior Review results will determine support in 2013

ASTRO-H (SXS)

Astro-H (SXS) is a mission of opportunity, currently in development, through which NASA will provide 

the High-Resolution Soft X-Ray Spectrometer (SXS) instrument. Astro-H SXS is scheduled for a 2014 

launch onboard the Japanese Astro-H –IIA spacecraft. The observatory will carry a suite of four science 

instruments spanning virtually the entire x-ray energy band. The SXS instrument is a cryogenically 

cooled high-resolution x-ray spectrometer that will allow the most detailed studies of the high-energy 

spectra of a wide range of astronomical systems from nearby stars to distant active galaxies. Using this 

unprecedented capability, the mission will conduct a number of fundamental studies, including tracing the 

growth history of the largest structures in the universe, obtaining insights into the behavior of material in 

extreme gravitational fields, determining the spin of black holes, probing shock acceleration structures in 

clusters of galaxies, and investigating the detailed physics of jets. 

Recent Achievements 

WISE COMPLETES ASTEROID 

SURVEY

New observations by WISE show there are 

significantly fewer near-Earth asteroids in the 

mid-size range than previously thought. The 

findings also indicate NASA has found more than 

90 percent of the largest near-Earth asteroids, 

thereby accomplishing a task mandated by 

Congress in 1998. 

Astronomers now estimate there are roughly 19,500, not 35,000, mid-size near-Earth asteroids. Scientists 

say this improved understanding of the population may indicate the hazard to Earth could be somewhat 

less than previously thought. However, the majority of these mid-size asteroids remain to be discovered. 

More research also is needed to determine if fewer mid-size objects (between 330 and 3,300-feet wide) 

also mean fewer potentially hazardous asteroids, those that come closest to Earth. 

The results come from the most accurate census to date of near-Earth asteroids, the space rocks that orbit 

within 120 million miles (195 million kilometers) of the sun into Earth’s orbital vicinity. WISE observed 

ASTRO-57 
SCIENCE: ASTROPHYSICS: ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

infrared light from those in the middle to large-size category. The survey project, called NEOWISE, is the 

asteroid-hunting portion of the WISE mission. 

SWIFT DOES DOUBLE DUTY

As asteroid 2005 YU55 swept past Earth in the early 

morning hours of Wednesday, November 9, 2011, 

telescopes aboard NASA’s Swift satellite joined 

professional and amateur astronomers around the 

globe in monitoring the fast-moving space rock. The 

unique ultraviolet data will aid scientists in 

understanding the asteroid’s surface composition. 

Although Swift is better known for studies of highenergy outbursts and cosmic explosions, the versatile 

satellite has made valuable observations of passing 

comets and asteroids as well. All told, the spacecraft 

has observed ten asteroids, including Vesta, which is 

now being studied close-up by NASA’s Dawn 

spacecraft, and Scheila, which brightened 

unexpectedly in late 2010 after colliding with a much smaller asteroid. 

ASTRO-58 
SCIENCE: JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE (JWST)

Budget Authority Actual Estimate Notional

(in $ millions) Prior FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 BTC Total

FY 2013 President’s 

Budget Request 2,992.1 476.8 518.6 627.6 659.1 646.6 621.6 571.1 1,649.5 8,762.9

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE (JWST) ....................... JWST- 2 

JWST-1 
SCIENCE

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE (JWST)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority 

(in $ millions) Prior

Actual

FY 2011

Estimate

FY 2012 2013

Notional

FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 BTC Total

FY 2013 President’s 

Budget Request 2,992.1 476.8 518.6 627.6 659.1 646.6 621.6 571.1 1,649.5 8,762.9

2012 MPAR Project 

Cost Estimate 3,013.7 515.3 530.6 627.6 659.1 646.6 621.6 571.1 1,649.5 8,835.0

Formulation

Development/ 

Implementation

Operations/ Close-out

1,800.1

1,213.6

--

--

515.3

--

--

530.6

--

627.6

--

659.1

--

--

646.6

--

--

621.6

--

--

571.1

--

--

812.5

837.0

1,800.1

6,198.0

837.0

Change From FY 2012 

Estimate

Percent Change From 

FY 2012 Estimate

-- -- 109.0

-- -- 21.0%

Note: These pages fulfill the Congressional requirement under 51 USC 30104 (c)(2) for a Baseline Report on the new baseline for JWST. 

Under subsection (c)(2)(E), the JWST Program Director at NASA Headquarters has primary responsibility for overseeing the JWST Program. 

The 2012 MPAR Project Cost Estimate includes $72.1 million for Construction of Facilities (CoF) funds in FY 2010 to FY 2012 which are 

budgeted in the CECR account. The life cycle cost (including CoF funds) is $8.835 billion. 

The first six flight-ready James Webb Space Telescope 

primary mirror segments are prepped to begin final 

cryogenic testing at MSFC. A total of 18 segments will form 

the telescope’s primary mirror for space observations. 

Engineers began final cryogenic testing to confirm that the 

mirrors will respond as expected to the extreme 

temperatures of space prior to integration into the telescope's 

permanent housing structure. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR 

CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

NASA has rebaselined JWST project, making 

significant changes in the management in 

2011, in response to the poor cost and 

schedule performance and the 

recommendations of the Independent 

Comprehensive Review Panel (ICRP) report 

(http://www.ngst.nasa.gov/resources/James 

WebbSpaceTelescopeIndependentCompre

hensiveReviewPanelReport.pdf). As a result 

of the rebaseline, the launch date moved from 

2014 to 2018, and the development cost 

increased from $2.581 to $6.198 billion. The 

new Headquarters-based program office 

worked closely with the project office, senior 

NASA managers, and stakeholders to 

improve project management. 

Communications have greatly improved between Headquarters, Centers, and contractors, particularly at 

JWST-2 
SCIENCE

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE (JWST)

Formulation Development Operations

senior management levels. There now is open and honest dialogue, quick identification of issues, and 

agreement on fixes. 

The program office commissioned an in-depth, independent analysis of alternatives, which was completed 

in April 2011. The analysis indicated that the baseline JWST design was still the best value to achieve the 

primary scientific objectives of the mission. The Agency completed a replan of the JWST cost and 

schedule baseline on September 23, 2011, and sent the revised cost and schedule requirements, along with 

the analysis of alternatives, to Congress on October 24, 2011, in a breach report pursuant to Section 103 

of the NASA Authorization Act of 2005 (P.L. 109-155): Baselines and Cost Controls. 

The FY 2013 President’s Budget Request officially establishes a new baseline for JWST (as shown in the 

Budget Summary table above) consistent with direction in NASA’s FY 2012 appropriation to cap JWST 

formulation and development costs at $8.0 billion. The rebaselined budget supports an October 2018 

launch date with adequate cost and schedule margin, consistent with the ICRP recommendation. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

JWST is a large, deployable, space-based infrared astronomical observatory. The mission is the scientific 

and technological successor to the Hubble Space Telescope, extending Hubble's discoveries by looking 

into the infrared spectrum. The infrared spectrum is where the highly red-shifted early universe must be 

observed, where astronomical objects like protostars and protoplanetary disks strongly emit infrared light 

and where dust obscures shorter wavelengths. 

The four main science goals are to: 

• Search for the first galaxies or luminous objects formed after the Big Bang;

Determine how galaxies evolved from their formation until now; 

Observe the formation of stars from the first stages to the formation of planetary systems; and 

Measure the physical and chemical properties of planetary systems and investigate the potential 

for life in those systems. 

• 

• 

• 

While Hubble has greatly improved knowledge about distant objects, its infrared coverage is limited. 

Light from distant galaxies is redshifted by the expansion of the universe into the infrared part of the 

spectrum (from the visible). By examining light redshifted beyond Hubble’s sight, with more lightcollecting area than Hubble and near to mid-infrared-optimized instruments, JWST will be able to 

observe things farther away, as their light has taken longer to reach the Earth. JWST will effectively be 

looking even further back in time. 

JWST will explore the mysterious epoch when the first luminous objects in the universe came into being 

after the Big Bang. The focus of scientific study will include first light of the universe, assembly of 

galaxies, origins of stars and planetary systems, and origins of the elements necessary for life. 

JWST-3 
SCIENCE

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE (JWST)

Formulation Development Operations

The telescope will launch from Kourou, French Guiana, on an ESA-supplied Ariane 5 rocket. Its 

operational location is the Lagrange 2 point, which is about a million miles from Earth. 

For more information, please see http://www.jwst.nasa.gov. 

PROJECT PARAMETERS

JWST is an infrared optimized observatory that will be used to conduct imaging and spectrographic 

observations in the 0.6 to 27 microns wavelength range and will be 100 times more sensitive than Hubble. 

The 6.5-meter primary mirror consists of 18 actively controlled segments that (along with the rest of the 

telescope optics and instruments) are passively cooled to about 40 Kelvin by a large multilayer sunshield 

the size of a tennis court. JWST will operate in deep space about 1 million miles from Earth. 

JWST's instruments include the Near Infrared Camera (NIRCam), Near Infrared Spectrograph (NIRSpec), 

Mid Infrared Instrument (MIRI), and the Fine Guidance Sensor (FGS). 

NIRCam is an imager with a large field of view and high angular resolution. It covers a wavelength range 

of 0.6 - 5 micrometers and has 10 mercury-cadmium-telluride (HgCdTe) detector arrays. These are 

analogous to charge coupled devices found in ordinary digital cameras. In addition to a science 

instrument, NIRCam is a wavefront sensor, which is used to align and focus the optical telescope. 

NIRSpec enables scientists to obtain simultaneous spectra of more than 100 objects in a 9-squarearcminute field of view per exposure. It provides medium-resolution spectroscopy over a wavelength 

range from 0.6 to 5 micrometers. The instrument employs a micro-electromechanical system microshutter 

array for aperture control, and it has two HgCdTe detector arrays. 

MIRI is an imager/spectrograph that covers the wavelength range of 5 to 28 micrometers and has three 

arsenic-doped silicon detector arrays. The camera module provides wide-field broadband imagery, and 

the spectrograph module provides medium-resolution spectroscopy over a smaller field of view compared 

to the imager. The nominal operating temperature for MIRI is seven degrees above absolute zero, which 

is possible through an on-board cooling system. 

FGS is a guider camera that is incorporated into the instrument payload in order to meet the image motion 

requirements of JWST. This sensor is used for both guide star acquisition and fine pointing. The sensor 

operates over a wavelength range of 1 to 5 micrometers and has two HgCdTe detector arrays. Its field of 

view provides a 95 percent probability of acquiring a guide star for any valid pointing direction. The FGS 

tunable filter camera is a wide-field, narrow-band camera that provides imagery over a wavelength range 

of 1.6 to 4.9 micrometers, via a near infrared imager and slitless spectrograph that are configured to 

illuminate the detector array with a single order of interference at a user-selected wavelength. The camera 

has a single HgCdTe detector array. 

JWST-4 
SCIENCE

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE (JWST)

Formulation Development Operations

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In addition to rebaselining the program’s cost and schedule, the JWST project made significant technical 

progress in the past year: 

• As of December 2011, all mirror fabrication has been completed, including thermal vacuum 

testing, and the primary, secondary, and tertiary mirror systems which meet the highly exacting 

cryogenic optical surface specifications; 

Fabrication of the flight backplane structure that holds the primary mirror segments continued, 

and the center section neared completion; 

Integrated Science Instrument Module (ISIM) integration and testing is underway, with multiple 

hardware elements delivered, and science instrument deliveries to GSFC to begin in spring 2012; 

The project successfully completed testing a one-third-scale sunshield, and full-scale engineering 

development units are being delivered and tested in Huntsville, AL; 

All sunshield material for test units and for flight layers has been delivered; 

The project continues to mature the spacecraft design and many components have completed the 

Critical Design Review (CDR); the project has made progress on or completed engineering model 

development of other components; 

The flight solid state recorder is complete; 

Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems (NGAS) delivered the flight software to GSFC. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, JWST plans to: 

• Begin assembly of the Optical Telescope Element (OTE) backplane support fixture; 

Hold the sunshield manufacturing readiness review to determine if the procedures developed 

during the construction of the template sunshields are valid and ready to be used to construct the 

flight sunshield; 

Conduct the ISIM pre-environmental review to certify that the ISIM and integrated instruments 

are ready to enter into the thermal vacuum testing; and 

Complete build 2.4 for the ground segment software (common command and telemetry system). 

• 

• 

• 

JWST-5 
SCIENCE

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE (JWST)

Formulation Development Operations

SCHEDULE COMMITMENTS/KEY MILESTONES

JWST will launch in October 2018 to begin a five-year prime mission. The following timeline shows the 

development agreement schedule per the rebaseline plan. 

Development Milestones Rebaseline Date FY 2013 PB Request Date

KDP-C Jul-08 Jul-08

CDR Mar-10 Mar-10

SIR Jul-17 Jul-17

Launch Oct-18 Oct-18

Begin Phase E Apr-19 Apr-19

End of Prime Mission Apr-24 Apr-24

Project Schedule 

KDP-C

07/2008

CDR

03/2010

SIR

07/2017

Launch

10/2018 

Begin Phase E 

04/2019

JWST-6 
SCIENCE

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE (JWST)

Formulation Development Operations

Development Cost and Schedule 

This document establishes the new baseline for JWST as follows: 

Current 

Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Base Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Current 

Year 

Milestone 

Date

Cost 

Change 

(%)

Base Year

Milestone

Date

Milestone 

Change 

(months)

Base Current 

Year

Key 

Year JCL (%) Milestone

2012 6197.9 66 2012 6197.9 0 LRD Oct-18 Oct-18 0

The confidence level estimates reported reflect an evolving process as NASA improves its probabilistic estimation techniques and processes. The 

estimate above reflects the practices and policies at the time it was developed. Estimates that include combined cost and schedule risks are 

denoted as joint confidence level; all other confidence levels reflect cost confidence without necessarily factoring the potential impacts of 

schedule changes on cost. For the new JWST baseline, the associated cost confidence level is significantly higher than the 80% 

recommended by the ICRP. 

DEVELOPMENT COST DETAILS (IN $M) 

Element Base Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate 

($M)

Current Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate 

($M)

Change from 

Base Year 

Estimate ($M)

TOTAL: 6197.9 6197.9 0

Aircraft/Spacecraft 2955.0 2955.0 0

Payloads 695.1 695.1 0

Systems I&T 288.4 288.4 0

Launch Vehicle 0.9 0.9 0

Ground Systems 652.3 652.3 0

Science/Technology 42.7 42.7 0

Other Direct Project Costs 1563.5 1563.5 0

JWST-7 
SCIENCE

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE (JWST)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

GSFC is responsible for JWST project management.

Project/Element

Observatory 

Provider

Provider: NGAS and GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Description

Includes OTE, spacecraft, 

sunshield, observatory 

assembly integration and 

testing, and commissioning.

The observatory shall be 

designed for at least a fiveyear lifetime. NGAS has the 

lead for the OTE, sunshield, 

spacecraft bus, and selected 

assembly, integration, and 

testing activities. 

FY 2012 PB 

R t Same

FY 2013 PB 

R t Same

Mission 

management and 

system engineering

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Includes management of all 

technical aspects of mission 

development, and system 

engineering of all components

Same Same

Integrated Science 

Instrument Module 

(ISIM)

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Contains the science

instruments and FGS.

Provides structural,

thermal, power, command

and data handling

resources to the science 

instruments and FGS.

Same Same

Near Infrared 

Camera (NIRCam) 

Instrument

Provider: University of Arizona, 

Lockheed Martin

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Optimized for finding first

light sources, and operating

over the wavelength range

0.6 to 5 microns.

Same Same

Cost Share: None

Near Infrared 

Spectrometer 

(NIRSpec)

Provider: ESA

Project Management: ESA

NASA Center: None

Cost Share: ESA

Operating over the

wavelength range 0.6 to 

microns with three

observing modes.

5 

Same Same

JWST-8 
SCIENCE

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE (JWST)

Formulation Development Operations

Project/Element

Mid-Infrared 

Instrument (MIRI)

Provider

Provider: ESA, University of Arizona, 

JPL

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: JPL, ARC

Cost Share: ESA

Description

Operating over the

wavelength range 5 to 27 

microns, providing imaging, 

coronagraphy, and 

spectroscopy.

FY 2012 PB 

R t Same

FY 2013 PB 

R t Same

Fine Guidance 

Sensor (FGS)

Provider: CSA

Project Management: CSA

NASA Center: None

Cost Share: CSA

Provides scientific target 

pointing information to the

observatory's attitude

control sub-system.

Same Same

Launch vehicle and 

launch operations

Provider: ESA

Project Management: ESA

NASA Center: None

Ariane 5 Evolution 

Cryotechnique – Type A

Same Same

Cost Share: ESA

Ground control 

systems and 

science operations 

and control center

Provider: Space Telescope Science 

Institute (STScI)

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: None

Mission operations and 

science operations center

Same Same

Cost Share: None

JWST-9 
SCIENCE

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE (JWST)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: The double pass auto-collimating flat test

cannot work to sufficiently tight 

performance consistent with the error 

budgets, 

Then: the level 2 imaging requirements 

cannot be verified 

Test Assessment Team , SRB, and Test Design Review recommendations 

being implemented. New plan includes earlier checkout, more efficient testing. 

Baseline now includes checkout of all optical ground support equipment as 

part of OSGE 1 and 2 tests at JSC.

If: The thermal balance test fails to meet 

success criteria,

Then: disassembly, rework, and a re-test 

will be required

Test Assessment Team recommendations being implemented to reduce risk of 

test via second core test, Pathfinder thermal testing, cooler end-to-end test. 

Risk reduction pathfinder thermal test objectives have been established. 

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

All major contracts have been awarded. 

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Science and Operations Space Telescope Science 

Institute (STScI)

Baltimore, MD

Center

NIRCam University of Arizona;

Lockheed Martin

Tucson, AZ

Palo Alto, CA

Observatory NGAS

Ball Aerospace

ITT

Alliant Techsystems

Redondo Beach, CA

Boulder, CO 

Rochester, NY

Edina, MN

Near Infrared Detectors Teledyne Imaging Systems Camarillo, CA

JWST-10 
SCIENCE

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE (JWST)

Formulation Development Operations

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance Senior Review 

Board (SRB)

Apr-10 Critical Design Review. SRB found that 

mission design is mature and 

recommended a more in depth review of 

the integration and testing plan.

N/A

Quality Test Assessment 

Team

Aug-10 Evaluate the JWST plans for integration 

and testing. Team recommended several 

changes to test plan. See full report at 

http://www.jwst.nasa.gov/publications.

html.

N/A

Other Independent 

Comprehensive 

Review Panel

Oct-10 ICRP was to determine the technical, 

management and budgetary root causes 

of cost growth and schedule delay on 

JWST, and estimate the minimum cost 

to launch JWST, along with the 

associated launch date and budget 

profile, including adequate reserves. The 

report made 22 recommendations 

covering several areas of management 

and performance.

N/A

Other Aerospace Corp Apr-11 Analysis of alternatives. The analysis 

indicated that the baseline JWST design 

was still the best value to achieve the 

primary scientific objectives of the 

mission.

N/A

Other SRB May-11 Review proposed rebaselined project 

technical, cost, and schedule plans and 

made recommendations to Agency.

N/A

Performance SRB N/A Replan assessment review Jun-12

Performance SRB N/A Spacecraft Critical Design Review Jun-14

Performance SRB N/A Systems Integration Review Jul-17

Performance SRB N/A Flight Readiness Review Sep-18

JWST-11 
SCIENCE

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE (JWST)

Formulation Development Operations

CORRECTIVE ACTION PLAN AS REQUIRED BY SECTION 1203 OF NASA 2010

AUTHORIZATION ACT

JWST is an infrared observatory being built to study and answer fundamental astrophysical questions 

ranging from the formation and structure of the universe to the origin of planetary systems and the origins 

of life. Thousands of individual scientists and multiple international teams of astronomers will use this 

scientific successor to the Hubble Space Telescope and the Spitzer Space Telescope to conduct imaging 

and spectroscopic observations. 

In accordance with Section 103 of the NASA Authorization Act of 2005 (P.L. 109-155), NASA informed 

Congress by letters dated October 28, 2010, April 21, 2011, and October 24, 2011, that JWST had 

experienced a significant cost overrun and schedule delay. NASA has worked aggressively to address the 

root causes of the overrun and delays and has rebaselined the project with an executable budget and 

schedule. NASA’s April 21, 2011, letter transmitted the final report of the Independent Comprehensive 

Review Panel (ICRP). NASA’s detailed response to the ICRP included recommendations to correct past 

problems, reduce the risk of future cost growth and schedule delays, and improve JWST performance. 

At the time the April 21, 2011 letter was submitted, NASA was in the midst of a rigorous, 

comprehensive, bottom-up review of JWST, as recommended by ICRP, and had not completed the 

revised cost and schedule estimates or the analysis of impacts and alternatives, as required by Section 

103(d)(1)(C), and Section 103(d)(2) of P.L. 109-155. These have been completed and outlined in the 

enclosures to the October 24, 2011, letter. In addition, NASA completed the bottom-up review and 

finalized the revised cost and schedule baseline for JWST. The FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 

constitutes NASA’s new baseline for JWST. The current projected JWST launch readiness date is 

October 2018, the development cost estimate is $6.198 billion, and the life cycle cost estimate is $8.835 

billion. The revised JWST cost and schedule incorporates 13 months of schedule reserve within the 

planned funding for development. 

JWST-12 
SCIENCE

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE (JWST)

Formulation Development Operations

2010 Issues Corrective Action Plan

Issue 1: Cost and schedule overrun

Current Status: Revised cost and schedule baseline has been 

approved by the Agency and sent to Congress. Subsequent 

to the submission of the revised baseline to Congress, 

Congress approved the FY 2012 NASA appropriation and 

included the funding required to support the revised 

development cost and schedule baseline, and included 

language capping JWST formulation and development costs 

at $8 billion.

Programmatic: NASA revised the program management 

structure, with the creation of a NASA Headquarters 

program office reporting programmatically to the NASA 

Associate Administrator. NASA also increased visibility and 

communication at both the Agency and Center levels.

Technical: No action required.

Cost: Bottom-up review resulted in a revised life cycle cost 

estimate of $8.835 billion. This estimate is consistent with 

the 66 percent joint confidence level with a cost confidence 

level that is significantly higher than the 80 percent 

recommended by the ICRP.

Schedule: Bottom-up review resulted in a revised 

development schedule, with launch in October 2018. The 

revised schedule incorporates 13 months of funded schedule 

reserve.

Issue 2: Testing concerns

Current Status: Findings from the Independent Test 

Assessment Team have been incorporated into the plans for 

testing within the JWST integration and test phase and 

within the revised development cost and schedule baseline.

To address testing concerns from the mission CDR, NASA 

chartered an independent Test Assessment Team to conduct 

a review of plans for environmental and functional testing. 

The findings of this review have now been incorporated into 

the plans for testing within the JWST integration and test 

phase and the revised development cost and schedule 

baseline.

JWST-13 
SCIENCE

HELIOPHYSICS

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

FY 2011

639.2

FY 2012

620.5

FY 2013

647.0

FY 2014

643.0

FY 2015 FY 2016

636.7 638.3

FY 2017

661.6

Heliophysics Research 160.8 175.2 178.9 162.6 168.5 170.3 171.6

Living with a Star 218.4 196.3 232.6 212.2 286.2 336.6 351.7

Solar Terrestrial Probes 168.3 188.7 189.4 179.8 64.5 46.7 53.4

Heliophysics Explorer Program 91.7 60.2 46.1 88.4 117.5 84.8 84.8

New Millennium 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH .......................................... HELIO- 2 

Other Missions and Data Analysis HELIO- 9

LIVING WITH A STAR .................................................. HELIO- 16 

Radiation Belt Storm Probes (RBSP) [Development] HELIO- 19 

Solar Probe Plus [Formulation] HELIO- 25

Solar Orbiter Collaboration (SOC) [Formulation] HELIO- 30 

Other Missions and Data Analysis HELIO- 35

SOLAR TERRESTRIAL PROBES ...................................... HELIO- 39 

Magnetospheric MultiScale (MSS) [Development] HELIO- 41 

Other Missions and Data Analysis HELIO- 48

HELIOPHYSICS EXPLORER ...................................... HELIO- 51 

Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) HELIO- 53 

[Development] 

Other Missions and Data Analysis HELIO- 58

 

 

 

 

HELIO-1 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS

HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President's Budget Request

Heliophysics Research and Analysis

FY 2011

160.8

34.0

FY 2012

175.2

32.9

FY 2013

178.9

32.7

FY 2014

162.6

31.0

FY 2015 FY 2016

168.5

31.5

170.3

31.5

FY 2017

171.6

31.5

Sounding Rockets 45.9 52.3 56.1 51.6 56.3 53.0 53.0

Research Range 19.5 20.1 20.5 21.0 21.3 21.6 21.7

Other Missions and Data Analysis

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

61.4

--

69.9

--

69.6

3.7

58.9 59.5 64.2 65.5

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 2.1%

A Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State 

University experiment was launched February 2011 

from the Poker Flat Research Range in Alaska to 

measure the intensity of nitric oxide in the 

mesosphere and lower thermosphere in the polar 

region. Nitric oxide is believed to be a catalyst 

destroyer of ozone. The data will help scientists 

understand the abundance of nitric oxide in the 

lower thermosphere and its relationship to 

atmospheric processes.  

NASA’s Heliophysics Research program supports 

activities that address advancing understanding of the 

Sun and planetary space environments, including the 

origin, evolution, and interactions of space plasmas 

and electromagnetic fields throughout the heliosphere 

and in connection with the galaxy. The program 

focuses on understanding the origin and nature of solar 

activity and its interaction with the space environment 

of Earth. The program also seeks to characterize these 

phenomena on a broad range of spatial and temporal 

scales, understand the fundamental processes that 

drive them, understand how these processes combine 

to create space weather events, and enable a capability 

for predicting future space weather events. 

For more information, please see 

http://science.nasa.gov/about-us/smdprograms/heliophysics-research/. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR 

FY 2013 

No change to program content. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

For Heliophysics Research and Analysis, a number of studies made significant advancement in modeling 

space weather events based on the latest comparisons to data from our Heliophysics System Observatory. 

The study of solar wind turbulence research, which is a key aspect of heliospheric science at the root of 

the solar wind acceleration and particle propagation problems, has taken on a new dimension through 

HELIO-2 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS

HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

creation of a computer code generating model spacecraft data, which now aids in the interpretation of 

years of spacecraft observations. In October 2011, the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and 

Engineers was awarded to two scientists for their achievements funded by the Solar Heliospheric 

Supporting Research and Technology program. A final part of the Solar and Heliospheric program is the 

Low Cost Access to Space. This program supported two extremely successful balloon flights in FY 2011 

that provided key measurements of the cosmic ray modulation during this past unusual solar minimum. 

In the geospace area, progress during 2011 has focused on inner magnetosphere processes and 

reconnection processes in anticipation of the upcoming launches of the Radiation Belt Storm Probes 

(RBSP) and Magnetospheric MultiScale (MMS), respectively. Key progress in research on ultra low 

frequency and chorus waves in the radiation belts has shown that these are important processes that drive 

radiation belt acceleration and the precipitation of energetic particles into Earth’s atmosphere. The effect 

of solar storms on Earth’s extended atmosphere and its magnetosphere has had increased attention; 

articles published in National Geographic and New Scientist in 2011 describing how solar megastorms 

can cripple satellites have been based on Geospace-funded research. Other ongoing studies have led to an 

improved understanding of the mesosphere and lower thermosphere. Finally, a major focus of geospace 

studies in 2011 has been studying the causes and consequences of the minimum of Solar Cycle 24. 

The Sounding Rocket project provided support for technology demonstrations, workforce development 

and educational outreach. The establishment of the Wallops Rocket Academy for Teachers and Students 

also created new opportunities for K- 12 educators. In science accomplishments, most notable was the 

Solar Dynamics Observatory/Extreme Ultraviolet Variability Experiment rocket under flight, an essential 

step in calibrating the EVE dataset. 

In FY 2011, SMD launched 12 sounding rockets, supporting five science investigations, one workforce 

development and training mission, two educational projects, and three technology test and 

demonstrations. The program also completed a new Flight Termination System design meeting modern 

flight safety requirements, and worked with the motor vendor on various performance issues, and 

conducted one deployment campaign to Poker Flat Research Range, AK. In FY 2012, two deployments 

are planned, to Norway and to Kwajalein Island, in support of Geospace science objectives. 

For the operating missions, Interstellar Boundary EXplorer (IBEX) reached its End of Prime Mission in 

March 2011 and has moved into Extended Phase E. Voyager has had a great deal of press coverage as it is 

poised to enter the InterStellar Medium within the next few years, and has found that the boundary 

between the solar system and the InterStellar Medium is not as was previously thought; it is more 

turbulent and less uniform than suspected. SDO hit the front page of the Washington Post newspaper for 

the coronal mass ejection on June 7, 2011. Moreover, Artemis started science mode in January and 

February 2011, which marks the first time the solar wind has been measured in the region of space around 

the moon. 

HELIO-3 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS

HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

NASA’s Heliophysics Research program supports flight programs (sounding rockets, balloons, 

spacecraft, e.g.) by formulating the theories of the phenomena to be studied; designing the experiments to 

test these theories; developing the instrument technology needed to execute the experiments; and 

incorporating results into computational models that can be used to more fully characterize the present 

state and future evolution of the heliophysics system. 

The Supporting Research and Technology program will hold its annual competition for new awards. 

Participation will be open to all categories of U.S. organizations, from educational institutions to other 

government agencies. The Geospace Science and Solar and Heliospheric Science sub-elements will hold 

annual competition for new awards. These sub-elements support detailed research tasks that employ a 

variety of research techniques, analysis, interpretation of space data, development of new instrument 

concepts, and laboratory measurements of relevant atomic and plasma parameters. The Theory program 

supports large principle investigator-proposed team efforts that require a critical mass of expertise to 

make significant progress in understanding complex physical processes with broad importance. The LowCost Access to Space sub-element supports scientific investigation and new instrument concepts to be 

flown on sounding rockets or balloons, as well as to prepare payloads for future sounding rockets and 

balloon launches. 

Heliophysics data centers will be supported to continue the archival and distribution of collected science 

data. The Guest Investigator competition will support and extend the scientific impact of the currently 

operating missions. Science Data and Computing Technology will hold its annual competition for the 

Applied Information Systems Research program. The Science Data and Computing Technology program 

will continue to sustain the National Space Science Data Center. 

The Sounding Rocket project supports a baseline of 20 to 24 flights per year, including at least one 

campaign deployment. The 2013 program also includes investment to ensure continued access to motor 

performance that meets NASA’s science requirements. The Research Range project will provide 

communications, telemetry and tracking instrumentation for NASA suborbital and orbital projects. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $178.9 million. This represents a $3.7 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($175.2 million). 

This increase is for a one-time design and development effort for a sustainer motor (a Brant equivalent) 

for use on future NASA sounding rocket missions. The newly designed motor will provide industry 

suppliers with a manufacturing design that significantly increases reliability and performance. 

The budget for FY 2013 to FY 2016 is slightly more than the notional amounts in the runout of the 

FY 2012 budget, reflecting the addition of civil service labor. 

HELIO-4 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS

HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

Projects 

HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS

Heliophysics Research and Analysis routinely solicits proposals in several broad areas to advance 

knowledge in support of NASA strategic goals. In addition, NASA occasionally offers special 

solicitations to take advantage of research opportunities that arise from the current solar environment. 

Heliophysics Research and Analysis also funds scientific investigations based on suborbital platforms 

such as balloons or sounding rockets, and maintains some of the vital communications infrastructure at 

Wallops Flight Facility. The research and analysis and guest investigator projects fund more in-depth 

scientific investigations using all of this collected data via a competitive process that is held each year. 

U.S. Participating Investigators are complete science investigations that are realized through the 

participation of U.S. investigators on non-NASA missions and do not involve the development of 

hardware or software components or complete instruments or subsystems. The science investigations 

support the scientific goals of the Heliophysics Research and Analysis project. 

In FY 2011, NASA funded the Heliophysics Theory, Geospace, and the Solar and Heliophysics programs 

to better understand complex physical processes with broad importance, such as magnetic reconnection or 

particle acceleration. 

In 2013, NASA will continue to fund in-depth scientific investigations using data collected via a 

competitive process that is held each year. 

SOUNDING ROCKETS

This project funds all suborbital mission activities that support the science investigations using the 

Sounding Rocket Platform that have been funded in various SMD research and analysis programs, 

including the Heliophysics Research and Analysis project. 

In 2013, NASA will support up to 20 to 24 sounding rocket flights and initiate development of a sustainer 

motor that will replace the current motor. The current motor is used in more than half of all our science 

rocket flights, but has caused mission failures due to performance problems for the last five years. 

HELIO-5 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS

HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

RESEARCH RANGE

The Research Range effort supports NASA’s only test range, located at Wallops Flight Facility, for 

launch of suborbital and orbital vehicles, supporting launch operations, and tracking, telemetry and 

command capabilities. 

In FY 2011, NASA provided the mobile tracking, telemetry and communications support for a sounding 

rocket deployment to Alaska, and in early FY 2012 to Norway. The Research Range project also provided 

communications and tracking services to the final Space Shuttle missions, and completed upgrades and 

maintenance on several tracking radars, range data systems, the mission operations voice enhancement 

system, wind weighting and impact prediction systems, the lightning detection system, and other range 

instrumentation. 

In 2013, the Research Range program will continue to support sounding rocket campaigns to Alaska and 

Norway, and provide communications and tracking services for Commercial Resupply Services missions 

and unmanned aerial systems flights. The Mission Graphics system will be upgraded and certified for use. 

Program Schedule 

ROSES

02/2013

Senior Review of All 

Operating Missions

04/2013

ROSES

02/2014

Senior Review of 

Data Archives

04/2014

ROSES

02/2015

ROSES 

02/2016

Senior Review of All 

Operating Missions

04/2016

ROSES

02/2017

HELIO-6 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS

HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

Program Management & Commitments 

NASA Headquarters has program management responsibility for Heliophysics Research. 

Project/Element Provider

Research and 

Analysis

Provider: All NASA Centers

Project Management: SMD

NASA Center: All

Cost Share: None

Heliophysics 

Operating 

Missions

Provider: GSFC, JPL, and MSFC

Project Management: SMD

NASA Center: GSFC, JPL, and MSFC

Cost Share: None

Sounding Rockets 

and Research 

Range

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: SMD

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: SMD

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: None

Science Data and 

Computing

Acquisition Strategy 

All acquisitions in the NASA’s Heliophysics Research programs are based on full and open competition. 

Proposals are peer reviewed and selected based on NASA Research Opportunities in Space and Earth 

Sciences (ROSES). Universities, government research laboratories, and industry partners throughout the 

United States participate in research and analysis projects. The Heliophysics operating missions and 

instrument teams were previously selected from NASA Announcements of Opportunity. NASA evaluates 

the allocation of funding among the operating missions bi-annually through the Heliophysics Senior 

Review. Universities, government research labs, and industry partners throughout the United States 

participate in science data and computing technology research projects. 

HELIO-7 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS

HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

NASA Sounding Rockets Operations 

Contract

Orbital Science, Corp. Dulles, VA

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Quality Mission Senior Apr-10 A comparative evaluation of 

Heliophysics operating missions. A 

report ranking the operating missions 

will be released 

2013, 2016

Review Panel

Quality Archives Senior Jun-09 A comparative evaluation of 

Heliophysics data archives. A report 

evaluating the value of each archive will 

be released.

Mar-14

Review Panel

HELIO-8 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Science Planning and Research Support

Directed Research & Technology

SOLAR Data Center

SEC Data & Modeling Services

Space Physics Data Archive

SEC Guest Investigator Program

CCMC

Science Data & Computing

SSC MO Services

GSFC Building Support

Voyager 

SOHO

WIND 

GEOTAIL 

CLUSTER-II 

ACE 

RHESSI 

TIMED 

TRACE 

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate

Actual

FY 2011

61.4

5.2

0.0

1.0

3.8

1.4

11.3

1.8

4.8

9.9

3.0

4.4

1.9

2.1

0.3

2.1

3.4

1.7

3.0

0.3

--

--

Estimate

FY 2012

69.9

5.7

13.5

0.7

3.7

1.4

10.4

2.0

2.8

10.1

0.0

5.3

2.0

2.0

0.2

1.5

3.7

1.9

3.0

0.0

--

--

FY 2013

69.6

3.5

11.9

0.8

3.7

1.3

12.1

2.0

4.2

10.7

0.0

5.3

2.1

2.1

0.2

1.2

3.7

2.0

2.8

0.0

-0.2

-0.4%

FY 2014

58.9

3.6

4.4

0.8

3.7

1.3

11.9

1.8

4.0

11.0

0.0

5.4

2.2

2.2

0.0

0.8

3.7

2.1

0.0

0.0

Notional

FY 2015 FY 2016

59.5 64.2

3.7 3.7

6.9 7.4

0.8 0.9

3.8 3.8

1.3 1.4

10.5 13.8

1.8 1.8

4.2 4.4

11.3 11.6

0.0 0.0

5.4 5.5

1.9 1.9

2.2 2.2

0.0 0.0

0.0 0.0

3.7 3.8

2.0 2.1

0.0 0.0

0.0 0.0

FY 2017

65.5

3.8

8.4

0.9

3.9

1.4

13.8

1.8

4.4

11.7

0.0

5.5

1.9

2.2

0.0

0.0

3.8

2.1

0.0

0.0

NASA accumulates, archives, and distributes data collected by operating spacecraft managed by 

Heliophysics programs. By combining the measurements from all deployed space assets, a Heliophysics 

System Observatory is created that enables interdisciplinary science across the vast spatial scales of our 

solar system. Day-to-day operations, a guest investigator program, and space weather “research to 

operations” are all supported by NASA teams. Heliophysics data centers archive and distribute the 

collected science data from these missions whose operations are supported by the Living with a Star 

(LWS), Solar Terrestrial Probes (STP), and Explorers programs. It is this collective asset that enables the 

data, expertise, and research results that directly contribute to fundamental research on solar and space 

plasma physics and to the national goal of real-time space weather prediction. 

HELIO-9 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

The Earth is constantly bombarded with a stream of 

accelerated particles arriving from the Sun as well as 

interstellar and galactic sources. Study of these 

energetic particles by the Advanced Composition 

Explorer (ACE) spacecraft will contribute to our 

understanding of the formation and evolution of the 

solar system as well as the astrophysical processes 

involved. 

In April 2010, the operating missions underwent 

Senior Review while the data centers were reviewed 

in July 2010. 

Progress in space science is sparked by space 

observations which also provide the “ground truth” to 

test simulations, models, and predictions. It is 

essential the observations be properly recorded, 

analyzed, released, documented, and rapidly turned 

into scientific results. The Heliophysics Division has 

recognized these patterns and funds additional 

activities to facilitate a smooth data flow: the Solar 

Data Center, Sun Earth Connection Data and 

Modeling Services, the Space Physics Data Archive, 

Science Data and Computing, and Space Science 

Mission Office Services. These activities undergo a 

competitive senior review process with the level of 

support adjusted regularly, according to the 

anticipated scientific productivity and mission 

maintenance requirements. 

For more information, please see: 

http://science.nasa.gov/about-us/smdprograms/heliophysics-research/. 

Non-Operating Missions 

SCIENCE PLANNING AND RESEARCH

This project primarily supports proposal peer review panels, decadal surveys and National Research 

Council studies, all of which are key to accomplishment of science objectives in the Science Mission 

Directorate 

DIRECTED RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY

This project funds the civil service staff that will work on emerging Heliophysics projects, instruments 

and research. The workforce and funding will transfer to projects by the beginning of FY 2013. 

HELIO-10 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

SOLAR DATA CENTER

The Solar Data Center provides mission and instrument expertise to support the scientifically successful 

analysis of solar physics mission data. Additionally, it provides leadership for community-based, 

distributed development efforts to make it easier to identify and access solar physics data, including 

ground-based coordinated observations residing in the Virtual Solar Observatory. The center also 

provides a repository for software used to analyze these data. 

SEC DATA & MODELING SERVICES

This program provides a mechanism that allows missions which are in long-duration extended Phase E, 

and those transitioning to Phase F to better prepare their data holdings for long-term archival curation, as 

typically, missions at the end of their life cycle have insufficient resources to carry out such activities. 

This program also allows for the creation of higher-level data products, which are of significant use to the 

science community, and which were not funded in the prime Phase E mission. One-third of the program is 

competitively competed annually through the ROSES NRA. 

SPACE PHYSICS DATA ARCHIVE

The Space Physics Data Facility has a long history of data services from the 1990s. It ensures the longterm preservation and ongoing (online) access (with appropriate services) to non-solar NASA 

heliophysics science data. It operates key infrastructure components for the Heliophysics Data 

Environment including inventory and Web service interfaces to systems and data. Additionally, the Space 

Physics Data Facility provides unique enabling science data services including coordinated data analysis 

Web, satellite situation center Web/Four-dimensional Orbit Viewer, OMNIweb, and the custom data 

format standard. 

SUN-EARTH CONNECTION GUEST INVESTIGATOR PROGRAM

The Guest Investigator program enables a broad community of researchers in universities and other 

institutions to use the data from the Heliophysics System Observatory in new, innovative investigations 

pursuing the scientific goals of the division. The focus of the highly-competitive selected research 

continuously evolves to ensure that the most important questions are answered. 

COMMUNITY COORDINATED MODELING CENTER (CCMC) 

CCMC is a multi-agency partnership to enable, support and perform the research and development for 

next-generation space science and space weather models. The center provides the international research 

HELIO-11 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

community with access to modern space science simulations. In addition, it supports the transition to 

space weather operations of modern space research models. 

SCIENCE DATA AND COMPUTING

This program preserves NASA’s science data assets for the future generation by working with discipline 

data systems, their repositories, missions, and investigators. Science Data and Computing provides the 

space science community with stewardship, guidance, and support so that data made available to the 

research community by various repositories is well documented in order to provide independent usability. 

As a repository making unique data and metadata available, Science Data and Computing participates in 

Virtual Observatory development efforts to assist in the practical evolution of those concepts. 

SPACE SCIENCE MISSION OPERATIONS SERVICES 

Space Science Mission Operations Services manages on-orbit operations of GSFC Space Science 

missions. Services include consistent processes for missions operated at GSFC, Johns Hopkins University 

Applied Physics Laboratory, Orbital Science, Pennsylvania State University, University of California at 

Berkeley, and Bowie State University. Space Science Mission Operations also sustains an operational 

infrastructure for current and future missions of Flight Dynamics, the Operational Voice and Data 

network, GSFC Mission Services Evolution Center, GSFC operational facilities, conjunction assessment, 

and liaison with the tracking networks such as Ground Network, Space Network, Deep Space Network, 

and commercial providers. 

Operating Missions 

VOYAGER

The Voyager spacecraft continue their epic journey of discovery, traveling through a vast unknown region 

of the heliosphere on their way to the interstellar medium. Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 are both in the 

heliosheath, making the first in situ observations of the shocked solar wind beyond the termination shock, 

with the first crossings of the heliopause and the first in situ observations of the local interstellar medium 

to come. These encounters will address many basic, long-standing questions about the plasma and 

magnetic properties of the local interstellar medium, the nature of the termination shock and its role in the 

acceleration of the anomalous cosmic rays, and the role of the heliosheath in the modulation of galactic 

cosmic rays. 

HELIO-12 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

SOLAR AND HELIOSPHERIC OBSERVATORY (SOHO)

The Large Angle and Spectrometic Coronagraph (LASCO) (a coronagraph is a telescope that uses a disk 

to occult the sun, allowing us to see the corona, or solar atmosphere) on SOHO is a unique instrument 

resource at the L1 libration point that is critically important to the Nation’s space weather architecture. 

The extended mission of SOHO, primarily supports the observations of LASCO in the context of the 

Heliophysics System Observatory, however several of the other instruments can, and do, operate in the 

extended phase. LASCO is helping scientists understand coronal mass ejections – large bursts of plasma 

from the sun-and their effect on interplanetary space. 

WIND

The Wind spacecraft studies the solar wind and its impact on the near-Earth environment. It addresses 

wave-particle interaction processes in the space environment, the evolution of solar transients in the 

heliosphere, and the geomagnetic impact of solar activity. Wind enables in situ studies using unique 

capabilities, such as three-dimensional particle distributions over a wide range of energies, and delivery at 

higher time resolution than available from any other mission. Wind is the only near-Earth spacecraft with 

radio waves instrumentation. The Wind team continues to develop new data products, with analyses of 

these data products then funded by competitively-selected guest investigator projects. Wind provides 

important measurements for the understanding of space weather satellite anomalies. 

GEOTAIL

The Geotail mission is a collaborative project undertaken by the Japanese Institute of Space and 

Astronautical Science and NASA. Its primary objective is to study the tail of Earth’s magnetosphere. The 

information gathered is allowing scientists to assess data on the interaction of the solar wind and the 

magnetosphere. 

CLUSTER-II 

Cluster is a joint ESA and NASA program, part of ESA’s Horizons 2000 program. Cluster uses four 

spacecraft to make direct measurements of the particles trapped in Earth’s magnetic field. By varying 

spacecraft separations during repeated visits to regions, Cluster can measure the small scale fluctuations 

in interplanetary space. 

HELIO-13 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

ADVANCED COMPOSITION EXPLORER (ACE) 

ACE measures the composition of the solar-wind, solar energetic particles, anomalous cosmic rays , and 

galactic cosmic rays with sensitivity, precision, and energy ranges that are not found on any other 

Heliophysics System Observatory mission. ACE addresses heliophysics science goals such as 

understanding solar particle acceleration and transport, establishing the structure and evolution of the 

solar wind, probing the global heliosphere and interstellar medium; and characterizing the space 

environment. ACE also functions as a real-time upstream solar-wind monitor for NASA, NOAA, and 

other users. Because ACE is well past its predicted mission lifetime, the agencies responsible for space 

weather prediction are studying options for an ACE replacement mission. 

REUVEN RAMATY HIGH ENERGY SOLAR SPECTROSCOPE IMAGER (RHESSI) 

RHESSI studies solar flares in X-rays and gamma-rays. It explores the basic physics of particle 

acceleration and explosive energy release in these energetic events in the Sun’s atmosphere. Throughout 

its eight year duration, the RHESSI mission primarily has addressed one fundamental unsolved question 

in heliophysics: How are particles accelerated in solar eruptions? Observations will span nearly a full 

solar cycle by the end of the extended mission, allowing detection of any connections between flare 

particle characteristics and the phase of the cycle. 

THERMOSPHERE, ION, MESOSPHERE, ENERGETICS AND DYNAMICS (TIMED) 

The TIMED mission characterizes and studies the physics, dynamics, energetics, thermal structure, and 

composition of the least well-understood region of the Earth’s atmosphere, the mesosphere-lower 

thermosphere-ionosphere system. This region of interest, located between altitudes of approximately 60 

to180 kilometers above the surface of Earth, is the interface between the Earth’s lower atmosphere below 

and the magnetosphere above, and can be influenced by forcing from either of these regions. The 

mesosphere-lower thermosphere-ionosphere system can undergo rapid changes in character due to both 

natural and human-induced (anthropogenic) effects. 

   

HELIO-14 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

Recent Achievements 

VOYAGER

Observations from NASA’s Voyager spacecraft suggest 

the edge of our solar system may not be smooth, but filled 

with a turbulent sea of magnetic bubbles. While using a 

new computer model to analyze Voyager data, scientists 

found the Sun’s distant magnetic field is made up of 

bubbles approximately 100 million miles (160 million 

kilometers) wide. The bubbles are created when magnetic 

field lines reorganize. The new model suggests the field 

lines are broken up into self-contained structures 

disconnected from the solar magnetic field. The findings 

are described in the June 9, 2011 edition of the 

Astrophysical Journal. 

SOHO

After detailed analysis of data from the SOHO and 

Geodetic Earth Orbiting Satellite spacecraft, a team of 

European scientists has been able to shed new light on 

the role of solar flares in the total output of radiation 

from the nearest star. Their surprising conclusion is 

that x-rays account for only about one percent of the 

total energy emitted by these explosive events. 

HELIO-15 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS

LIVING WITH A STAR (LWS)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Radiation Belt Storm Probes

FY 2011

218.4

146.1

FY 2012

196.3

86.1

FY 2013

232.6

37.7

FY 2014

212.2

14.5

FY 2015 FY 2016

286.2

9.1

336.6

0.0

FY 2017

351.7

0.0

Solar Probe Plus 13.9 49.5 112.1 103.2 137.1 229.3 215.2

Solar Orbiter Collaboration 8.3 21.3 21.3 58.2 102.1 75.6 100.0

Other Missions and Data Analysis

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

50.2

--

39.3

--

61.5

36.3

36.3 37.8 31.8 36.5

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 18.5%

Solar cycle 23 was the 23rd solar cycle since 1755, when 

recording solar sunspot activity began. It lasted 12.6 

years, beginning in May 1996 and ending in December 

2008. During solar maximum, huge sunspots and intense 

solar flares are more frequent. Auroras can appear in 

Florida, radiation storms saturate satellite components, 

and radio blackouts impede emergency responders. The 

last solar maximum took pace in the years around 2000-

2001. During solar minimum, the opposite occurs, and 

solar flares and sunspots are less frequent. The next 

solar maximum, for solar cycle 24, is predicted to occur 

in early 2013. 

The LWS program targets specific aspects of the 

coupled Sun-Earth-planetary system that affects 

life and society and enables robotic and human 

exploration of the solar system. The LWS program 

emphasizes the science necessary to understand 

those aspects of the Sun and Earth’s space 

environment that affect life and society. The 

ultimate goal is to provide a predictive 

understanding of the system, and specifically of 

the space weather conditions at Earth and the 

interplanetary medium. LWS missions are 

formulated to answer the specific questions 

needed to understand the linkages among the 

interconnected systems that impacts humans and 

society. LWS products impact technology 

associated with space systems, communications 

and navigation, and ground systems such as power 

grids. Its products improve understanding of the 

ionizing radiation environment, which has 

applicability to human radiation exposure in ISS, 

to high-altitude aircraft flight, and to future space 

exploration with and without human presence. Its 

products impact life and society by improving the 

definition of solar radiation for global climate 

change, surface warming, and ozone depletion and 

recovery. 

For more information, please see 

http://science.nasa.gov/about-us/smdprograms/living-with-a-star/. 

HELIO-16 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS

LIVING WITH A STAR (LWS)

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

Funding for the Solar Orbiter Collaboration project was transferred from Other Missions and Data 

Analysis to a unique project line because the project has entered Phase B and begun the design phase. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The LWS program is making progress on the decadal survey highest priority missions. NASA 

successfully completed a Systems Integration Review of Radiation Belt Storm Probes and approved it to 

proceed to Phase D. Mission Design Review of Solar Probe Plus was successfully completed in 

November 2011. The project made significant progress during the first part of the formulation phase 

(Phase A) in advancing technology readiness levels of the major technology development efforts such as 

the thermal protection system, cooling system, and solar arrays. In addition, the science investigation 

instruments that were selected in September 2010 have been accommodated into the spacecraft reference 

design, and the project was well positioned to enter Phase B. Following a successful Systems 

Requirements Review (SRR) in June 2011 and KDP-B review in December 2011, the Solar Orbiter 

Collaborator project has transitioned into Phase-B. The SDO spacecraft watched a comet go behind the 

Sun and re-emerge for the first time during the Space Age. Until Comet Lovejoy, no Kruetz comet seen 

by space-based coronagraphs had been observed to survive perihelion passage. Comet Lovejoy was 

observed by SDO, Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO), Hinode, and RHESSI as it went 

through perihelion passage. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

The SPP project plans to mature the design of the thermal protection system, to build a test system for the 

Technology Readiness Level 6 demonstration for the solar array cooling system, and finalize the Mission 

Requirements Document and the Performance Assurance Implementation Plan. Additionally, the plan 

includes prototyping the data bus and making performance measurements to see if they match project 

models, prototyping the main CPU using the Real-Time Executive for Multiprocessor Systems operating 

system to make sure the processor operates properly with the flight software, and developing draft 

interface control documents for the instruments. After a successful launch and in-orbit check out, RBSP 

mission operations will start in November 2012. The SOC Mission Confirmation Review (KDP-C) is 

planned for January 2013. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $232.6 million. This represents a $36.3 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($196.3 million). 

Additional funding has been provided to SPP for its transition into the next phase (Phase B) of 

formulation. 

HELIO-17 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS

LIVING WITH A STAR (LWS)

The budget for FY 2013 to FY 2016 is less than the notional amounts in the runout of the FY 2012 

budget. The reduction affects future mission planning in this program. Funds were transferred to future 

mission planning in the STP program in accordance with the decadal NRC priorities. 

HELIO-18 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

RADIATION BELT STORM PROBES (RBSP)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate LCC 

Budget Authority (in $ 

millions) Prior FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 BTC Total 

FY 2013 President’s 

Budget Request 392.5 146.1 86.1 37.7 14.5 9.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 686.0

2012 MPAR Cost 

Estimate 392.5 146.1 86.1 37.7 14.5 9.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 686.0

Formulation 88.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 88.2

Development/ 

Implementation 304.3 146.1 64.1 14.6 1.0 0.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 530.9

Operations/Close-out 0.0 0.0 22.0 23.1 13.5 8.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 66.9

Change From FY 2012 

Estimate -- -- -48.5

Percent Change From FY 

2012 Estimate -- -- -56.3%

The RBSP mission is designed to help us 

understand the Sun’s influence on the Earth 

and near-Earth space by studying the planet’s 

radiation belts on various scales of space and 

time. Understanding the radiation belt 

environment and its variability has extremely 

important practical applications in the areas of 

spacecraft operations, spacecraft and 

spacecraft system design, mission planning, 

and astronaut safety. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR 

FY 2013 

The RBSP launch date changed from May 2012 to 

September 2012 to accommodate slips in the Atlas launch 

vehicle queue. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

The RBSP mission will observe the fundamental processes 

that energize and transport radiation belt electrons and 

ions in Earth’s inner magnetosphere, the area in and 

around Earth’s radiation belts. These observations will 

provide new knowledge on the dynamics and extremes of 

the radiation belts that are important to all technological 

systems that fly in and through geospace. RBSP will 

enable an understanding, ideally to the point of 

predictability, of how populations of relativistic electrons 

and penetrating ions in space form or change in response 

to variable inputs of energy from the Sun. The RBSP 

HELIO-19 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

RADIATION BELT STORM PROBES (RBSP)

Formulation Development Operations

mission lifetime will provide sufficient local time, altitude, and event coverage to improve understanding 

and determine the relative significance of the various mechanisms that operate within the radiation belts. 

PROJECT PARAMETERS

The RBSP mission is comprised of two identical spacecraft in elliptical, low-inclination orbits that travel 

independently through Earth’s radiation belts to distinguish time and space variations in the measured 

ions, electrons, and electric and magnetic fields. The twin spacecraft will each carry five instrument suites 

to observe changes in the radiation belts: 

• The energetic particle, composition, and thermal plasma suite (ECT); 

The electric and magnetic field instrument suite and integrated science (EMFISIS); 

The electric field and waves suite 

The radiation belt storm probes ion composition experiment (RBSPICE); and 

The relativistic proton spectrometer (RPS). 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Together, these instruments will provide the most complete set of observations of the radiation belts yet 

obtained. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

NASA successfully completed a Systems Integration Review of RBSP and approved it to proceed to 

Phase D. A replan was completed in August 2011 to accommodate slips in the Atlas V launch vehicle 

queue. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

After a successful launch and in orbit check out, mission operations will start in October 2012. 

HELIO-20 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

RADIATION BELT STORM PROBES (RBSP)

Formulation Development Operations

SCHEDULE COMMITMENTS/KEY MILESTONES

Development Milestones Confirmation Baseline 

Date

FY 2013 PB Request Date

KDP-C Jan-09 Jan-09

CDR Dec-09 Dec-09

SIR Nov-09 Oct-10

Launch May-12 Sep-12

Start Phase E / Full 

Operational Capability

Jul-12 Nov-12

End of Prime Mission Jul-14 Nov-14

Project Schedule 

KDP-C

01/2009

CDR

12/2009

SIR

10/2010

Launch

09/2012

Start Phase E /

Full Operational 

Capability

11/2012

End Prime Mission

11/2014

HELIO-21 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

RADIATION BELT STORM PROBES (RBSP)

Formulation Development Operations

Development Cost and Schedule 

Current 

Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Base Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Current 

Year 

Milestone 

Date

Cost 

Change 

(%)

Base Year

Milestone

Date

Milestone 

Change 

(months)

Base Current 

Year

Key 

Year JCL (%) Milestone

2009 533.9 70 (CL) 2012 530.9 -0.6 Launch May-12 Sep-12 4

Readiness

Note: The confidence level estimates reported reflect an evolving process as NASA improves its probabilistic estimation 

techniques and processes. The estimate above reflects the practices and policies at the time it was developed. Estimates that 

include combined cost and schedule risks are denoted as joint confidence level; all other confidence levels reflect cost 

confidence without necessarily factoring the potential impacts of schedule changes on cost. 

Development Cost Details (in $M) 

Element Base Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Current Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Change from 

Base Year 

Estimate

TOTAL: 533.9 530.9 -3.0

Aircraft/Spacecraft 85.6 117.0 31.4

Payloads 95.4 102.3 6.9

Systems I&T 36.9 59.2 22.3

Launch Vehicle 133.6 132.4 -1.2

Ground Systems 16.3 22.3 6.0

Science/Technology 3.1 3.9 0.8

Other Direct Project Costs 163 93.7 -69.6

HELIO-22 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

RADIATION BELT STORM PROBES (RBSP)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

The RBSP spacecraft and ground system are being designed, developed, and tested at the JHU-APL. 

Instrument development participants include the University of Iowa, University of Minnesota, New Jersey 

Institute of Technology, and the University of New Hampshire, as well as contributions from the National 

Reconnaissance Office (NRO). After launch, a space weather beacon network will be established; 

participants at this time are South Korea and the Czech Republic. International partners will join U.S. 

efforts to downlink real-time RBSP space weather data for use by world space weather prediction centers. 

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB 

Request

FY 2013 PB 

Request

Ground Systems Provider: JHU-APL

Project Management: JHU-APL

NASA Center: N/A

Cost Share partner: N/A

Design, development, and 

testing

same same

Spacecraft Provider: JHU-APL

Project Management: JHU-APL

NASA Center: N/A

Cost Share partner: N/A

Design, testing, and 

integration with instrument

same same

Mission 

Operations and 

Data Analysis

Provider: JHU-APL

Project Management: JHU-APL

NASA Center: N/A

Cost Share partner: Data AnalysisNRO

Provider: KSC

Project Management: JHU-APL

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share partner: N/A

Spacecraft operations and 

data collections and 

assessment

same same

Expendable Launch 

Vehicle

Procure and provide launch 

vehicle and launch support

same same

HELIO-23 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

RADIATION BELT STORM PROBES (RBSP)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: the integration of the last two of six 

Magnetic Electron Ion Spectrometer 

instruments in the ECT suite is delayed,

Then: the thermal vacuum testing will be 

delayed, reducing the schedule margin.

NASA will focus instrument experts on completing the last three Magnetic 

Electron Ion Spectrometer instruments and delivering them for integration. 

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Mission phase A-E JHU-APL Laurel, MD

Launch Vehicle United Launch Alliance Denver, CO

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

All SRB Oct-10 SIR recommended the project should 

start integration of flight articles as 

planned

Jun-12

HELIO-24 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

SOLAR PROBE PLUS (SPP)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

Prior

71.9

FY 2011

13.9

--

FY 2012

49.5

--

FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

112.1 103.2 137.1 229.3 215.2

62.6

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 126.3%

To test the survivability of the high 

temperatures and intense particle fluxes they 

will encounter, the Thermal Protection System 

ceramic coating was subjected to 1600 Celcius 

in a furnace setting and the expected mission 

solar flux using plasma lamps. This is to test 

the optical performance and survivability of 

the ceramic material on the carbon-carbon 

surface. In addition, the project has done ion 

exposure using a linear accelerator at 150 

percent of the expected mission radiation 

exposure. In all testing, the system survived 

with no problems.

PROJECT PURPOSE

SPP will explore the Sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, as 

it extends out into space. Approaching 3.7 million miles 

from the surface of the Sun, closer than any other 

spacecraft, SPP will repeatedly obtain direct in-situ 

coronal magnetic field and plasma observations in the 

region of the Sun that carries the solar wind and creates 

space weather. This will revolutionize knowledge and 

understanding of coronal heating and of the origin and 

evolution of the solar wind, answering critical questions in 

heliophysics that have been ranked as the top priority by 

the last decadal survey. Its seven year prime mission 

lifetime will permit observations to be made over a 

significant portion of a solar cycle. Direct sampling of 

plasma observations that cannot be accomplished in any 

other way will allow heliophysicists to verify and 

discriminate between a broad range of theory and models 

that describe the Sun’s coronal magnetic field and the 

heating and acceleration of the solar wind as well as 

characterize and forecast the radiation environment in 

which future space explorers will work and live. 

For more information about SPP, please see 

http://nasascience.nasa.gov/missions/solar_probe. 

EXPLANATION OF PROJECT CHANGES

None. 

HELIO-25 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

SOLAR PROBE PLUS (SPP)

Formulation Development Operations

PROJECT PRELIMINARY PARAMETERS

SPP’s first near-Sun pass occurs three months after launch, at a heliocentric distance of 35 solar radii. 

Over the next several years, successive Venus gravity assist maneuvers will gradually lower the 

spacecraft’s near-Sun pass to approximately 9.5 solar radii, by far the closest any spacecraft has ever 

come to the Sun. July 2018 is the earliest possible launch date within funding guidelines and technology 

capability. SPP will spend, during its seven year mission, a total of 27 hours inside 10 solar radii, 965 

hours inside 20 solar radii, and 2,134 hours inside 30 solar radii, sampling the solar wind as it evolves 

with rising solar activity toward an increasingly complex structure. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The project successfully completed the Mission Design Review (MDR) in November 2011, a major life 

cycle review that precedes Phase B of the Formulation Phase. The project made significant progress 

during the first part of the Formulation Phase (Phase A) in advancing technology readiness levels of the 

major technology development efforts such as the thermal protection system, cooling system, and solar 

arrays. In addition, the science investigation instruments that were selected in September 2010 have been 

accommodated into the spacecraft reference design, and they are well positioned to enter Phase B. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

NASA plans to mature the design of the thermal protection system to build a test system for the 

Technology Readiness Level 6 demonstration for the solar array cooling system, as well as finalize the 

Mission Requirements Document and the Performance Assurance Implementation Plan. 

The plan includes prototyping the data bus and making performance measurements to see if they match 

project models, prototyping the main CPU using the Real-Time Executive for Multiprocessor Systems 

operating system to make sure the processor operates properly with the flight software, and developing 

draft interface control documents for the instruments. 

ESTIMATED PROJECT SCHEDULE

SPP will launch in July 2018 following a successful Mission Readiness Review. 

HELIO-26 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

SOLAR PROBE PLUS (SPP)

Formulation Development Operations

Formulation Milestones Formulation Agreement 

Estimate

FY 2013 PB Request Date

Formulation Authorization Dec-09 Dec-09

MDR Nov-11 Nov-11

KDP-B Feb-12 Feb-12

KDP-B Jan-12 Jan-12

PDR Jan-14 Jan-14

KDP-C Jul-14 Jul-14

CDR Mar-15 Mar-15

KDP-D Mar-16 Mar-16

Launch Jul-18 Jul-18

Project Schedule 

Formulation 

Authorization

12/2009

MDR

11/2011

KDP-B

01/2012

KDP-B

01/2012

PDR

01/2014

KDP-C

07/2017

CDR

03/2015

KDP-D

03/2016

Launch

09/2018

HELIO-27 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

SOLAR PROBE PLUS (SPP)

Formulation Development Operations

Formulation Estimated Life Cycle Cost Range and Schedule 

Range Summary 

KDP-B Date Estimated Life Cycle Cost Key Milestone Key Milestone Estimated 

Range ($M) Date Range

Feb-12 1,233-1,439 Launch Readiness Jul-18

Project Management & Commitments 

JHU-APL will manage the project. GSFC is responsible for program management and science 

management 

Project/Element

Instruments

Provider

Provider: NASA-funded investigators

Project Management: JHU-APL

NASA Center: N/A

Cost Share partner: N/A

Description

Perform in situ measurements 

FY 2012 PB 

R t same

FY 2013 PB 

R t same

and remote observations of 

the Sun

Evolved 

Expendable Launch

Vehicle (EELV)

Provider: ULA

Project Management: JHU-APL

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share partner: N/A

Provider: JHU-APL

Project Management: JHU-APL

NASA Center: N/A

Cost Share partner: N/A

Provider: JHU-APL

Project Management: JHU-APL

 NASA Center: N/A

Cost Share partner: N/A

Deliver the spacecraft to 

operational orbit

same same

Ground Systems Receive science and telemetry same same

data from spacecraft, 

command spacecraft, and 

distribute science data to 

investigator teams

Spacecraft Transport instruments to same same

science destination, operate 

instruments, and modify 

orbit, including several Venus 

gravity assists

HELIO-28 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

SOLAR PROBE PLUS (SPP)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

The project will conducted early materials testing,

develop full scale prototype for test during Phase B, and 

allocate additional mass for the thermal protection system.

If: The thermal protection system design 

does not meet launch load requirements,

Then: The mass may increase to 

accommodate loads, or a different design 

option may be required.

Acquisition Strategy 

PIs selected through the announcement of opportunity will build science instruments. The spacecraft will 

be built by JHU-APL, with the spacecraft subassemblies, components, and parts competitively procured 

by JHU-APL. The ground system components will be defined during formulation and requirements will 

be defined by the project. The Phase E contracts will be managed by GSFC. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Phase B Formulation JHU-APL Laurel, MD

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

PDR SRB Nov-11 Gate review for KDP-B, successful Jan-14

HELIO-29 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

SOLAR ORBITER COLLABORATION (SOC)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

Prior

12.6

FY 2011

8.3

--

FY 2012

21.3

--

FY 2013

21.3

0.0

FY 2014

58.2

FY 2015

102.1

FY 2016

75.6

FY 2017

100.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 0.0%

Solar Orbiter will venture closer to the Sun than any previous 

mission. The spacecraft will also carry advanced 

instrumentation that will help untangle how activity on the 

sun sends out radiation, particles and magnetic fields that can 

affect Earth's magnetic environment, causing aurora, or 

potentially damaging satellites, interfering with GPS 

communications or even Earth’s electrical power grids.  

PROJECT PURPOSE

The NASA-ESA Solar Orbiter Collaboration 

(SOC) mission will explore the near-Sun 

environment to improve the understanding of 

the origins of the solar wind streams and the 

heliospheric magnetic field, the sources, 

acceleration mechanisms, and transport 

processes of solar energetic particles, and 

how coronal mass ejections evolve in the 

inner heliosphere. To achieve these 

objectives, in-situ measurements of the solar 

wind plasma, fields, waves, and energetic 

particles and imaging/spectroscopic 

observations will be made close enough to the 

Sun such that they are still relatively 

unprocessed. SOC will provide close-up 

views of the Sun’s polar regions and its far 

side and will tune its orbit to the direction of 

the Sun’s rotation to allow the spacecraft to 

observe one specific area for much longer 

than currently possible. This will provide 

better insight on the evolution of sunspots, 

active regions, coronal holes and other solar 

features and phenomena. 

ESA is providing the spacecraft and operations, the ESA member states provide the majority of the 

instruments, and NASA provides the launch vehicle and two science investigations/instruments. In return 

for its contributions, NASA will have access to the entire science mission data set. The NASA 

instruments will complete formulation in early FY 2013. 

For more information about SOC, please see http://nasascience.nasa.gov/missions/solar-orbiter. 

HELIO-30 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

SOLAR ORBITER COLLABORATION (SOC)

Formulation Development Operations

EXPLANATION OF PROJECT CHANGES

None. 

PROJECT PRELIMINARY PARAMETERS

A NASA-provided launch vehicle will place the ESA-provided SOC spacecraft into an inner heliospheric 

orbit around the Sun, with perihelia ranging from 0.23 to 0.38 astronomical units and aphelia from 0.73 to 

0.88 astronomical units. In the first portion of mission operations, SOC will orbit around the Sun’s 

equator at about the same rate as the Sun’s rotation. In the second portion, it will perform a Venus gravity 

assist between each rotation around the Sun. Each gravity assist will increase the Solar Orbiter inclination 

with respect to the Sun’s equator so that the inclination will reach 27.5 degrees by the end of prime 

mission operations and 34 degrees by the end of a three-year extended mission. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

Following a successful Systems Requirements Review in June 2011 and KDP-B in December 2011, the 

project has transitioned into Phase B. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

The Mission Confirmation Review (KDP-C) is planned for January 2013. 

HELIO-31 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

SOLAR ORBITER COLLABORATION (SOC)

Formulation Development Operations

ESTIMATED PROJECT SCHEDULE

SOC will launch no earlier than January, 2017. ESA’s delayed official selection of Solar Orbiter as the 

next mission in its Cosmic Visions program contributed to longer pre-formulation and Phase A studies. 

Formulation Milestones Formulation Agreement 

Estimate

FY 2013 PB Request 

Date

Formulation Jun-08 Jun-08

KDP-B Jan-12 Dec-11

KDP-C Jan-13 Jan-13

KDP-D Jul-13 Jul-13

Deliver SOC instruments Jan-15 Jan-15

Launch Jan-17 Jan-17

Project Schedule 

Formulation 

Authorization

06/2008

KDP-B

01/2012

KDP-C

01/2013 

KDP-D

07/2013

Deliver SOC 

Instruments to ESA

01/2015

Launch

01/2017

HELIO-32 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

SOLAR ORBITER COLLABORATION (SOC)

Formulation Development Operations

Formulation Estimated Life Cycle Cost Range and Schedule 

Range Summary 

KDP-B Date Estimated Life Cycle Cost 

Range ($M)

Key Milestone Key Milestone Estimated 

Date Range

Dec-11 371-424 Launch Readiness Jan-17

Project Management & Commitments 

GSFC has program management responsibility for LWS and the SOC project. All instruments provided 

by the United States are procured through an announcement of opportunity. 

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB 

R t

FY 2013 PB 

R t Solar and 

Heliospher

Imager (SoloHI)

ic 

Provider: Naval Research Laboratory

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Measure the solar wind 

disturbances, shock 

formation, and turbulence.

N/A New

Cost Share partner: N/A

Heavy Ion Sensor 

(HIS)

Provider: SxRI

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share partner: N/A

Measure the heavy ions in the 

solar wind as part of a solar 

wind analysis instrument 

suite.

N/A New

EELV Provider: ULA Launch vehicle N/A New

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share partner: N/A

HELIO-33 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

SOLAR ORBITER COLLABORATION (SOC)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

New instrument delivery and integration dates will be negotiated 

with ESA and project management risk resources will be used to cover the 

period of delay.

If: Aggressive instrument delivery schedule 

is maintained by ESA,

Then: NASA will not be able to meet the 

planned delivery schedule.

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Launch Vehicle United Launch Alliance KSC, FL

SoloHI Naval Research Laboratory Washington, D.C.

HIS Southwest Research Institute Austin, TX

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance SRB new Gate review for KDP-B Nov-12

HELIO-34 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

BARREL

50.2

1.6

39.3

1.6

61.5

1.9

36.3

1.5

37.8

0.3

31.8

0.0

36.5

0.0

Space Environment Testbeds 0.4 0.5 0.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Science 17.0 15.0 19.8 17.5 17.5 19.8 20.8

Program Mgmt and Future Missions 9.5 7.1 23.1 3.1 10.4 2.4 6.0

Solar Dynamics Observatory 21.8 15.1 16.3 14.2 9.6 9.6 9.7

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 22.2

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 56.4%

A magnetosphere is formed when a stream of charged 

particles, such as the solar wind, is deflected by the 

intrinsic magnetic field of a planet or similar body. Earth 

is surrounded by a magnetosphere, as are the other 

planets with intrinsic magnetic fields: Mercury, Jupiter, 

Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. This complex, highly 

coupled system protects Earth from the worst solar 

disturbances. Life on Earth developed and is sustained 

under the protection of this variable magnetosphere. 

LWS provides the opportunity to prototype and 

deploy space weather predictive capabilities that 

have far reaching applications within our society. 

The focus is on bringing together the complex, 

coupled nature of heliophysics science with the 

detailed observations made with the myriad of 

technologies deployed. This capability is 

essential for successful space exploration and for 

the increased use of complex technological 

systems on Earth. LWS accomplishes this goal 

with a combination of science missions and 

yearly science research grant opportunities. 

LWS missions are strategically defined and 

prioritized by NRC decadal surveys for 

heliophysics. NASA uses competitive peer 

review and selection for science investigations, 

both instruments on LWS missions and science 

grants. 

The LWS Other Missions and Data Analysis 

budget includes operating LWS missions, 

program management and limited funding for 

missions to be launched in the next decade. 

For more information please see the LWS 

program at http://lws.gsfc.nasa.gov/. 

HELIO -35 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

Non-Operating Missions 

THE BALLOON ARRAY FOR RBSP RELATIVISTIC ELECTRON LOSSES 

(BARREL) 

BARREL is a balloon-based mission of opportunity to augment the measurements of the RBSP mission. 

There will be two campaigns of five to eight long-duration balloons aloft simultaneously (over one 

month) to provide measurements of the spatial extent of relativistic electron precipitation and to allow an 

estimate of the total electron loss from the radiation belts. Observations are planned for when the balloon 

array will be conjugate with the RBSP spacecraft, such that direct comparison is possible between them. 

SPACE ENVIRONMENT TESTBEDS

The Space Environment Testbeds project will fly as a piggyback payload on the U.S. Air Force 

Deployable Structures Experiment mission. This will perform flight and ground investigations to 

characterize the space environment and its impact on hardware performance in space. 

SCIENCE

The LWS Science component addresses two needs. It provides grant funding to address unresolved 

questions and to develop specific, comprehensive models to represent the Sun-Earth connection as a 

system, particularly those that have an applied space weather operational aspect. This component also 

provides funding to train the next generation of heliophysics expert practitioners by conducting a 

Heliophysics graduate-level summer school, graduate course development, and support for a limited 

number of space weather postdoctoral positions at universities and government laboratories. 

PROGRAM MANAGEMENT AND FUTURE MISSIONS

Program Management and Future Missions provides the resources required to manage the planning, 

formulation, and implementation of all LWS missions. The program office provides oversight, support, 

and guidance to the mission teams. The office resolves technical and programmatic issues and risks, 

monitors and reports on progress, and is responsible for achieving overall LWS cost and schedule goals. 

Additionally, Future Missions supports the LWS strategic planning activities needed to address the 

recommendations of the heliophysics decadal survey, including the pre-formulation activities for missions 

that are not yet approved as projects. 

HELIO -36 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

Operating Missions 

SOLAR DYNAMICS OBSERVATORY (SDO) 

Launched on February 11, 2010, SDO seeks to understand the Sun’s influence on Earth and near-Earth 

space by studying the solar atmosphere on small scales of space and time and in many wavelengths 

simultaneously. SDO enables scientists to determine how the Sun’s magnetic field is generated and 

structured and how stored magnetic energy is converted and released in the form of solar wind, energetic 

particles, and variations in the solar irradiance. SDO collects data to help elucidate how solar activity is 

created and how space weather emerges as a product of that activity. Measurements of the interior of the 

Sun, the Sun’s magnetic field, the hot plasma of the solar corona, and the irradiance that creates Earth’s 

ionosphere are the primary data products. Currently in its prime operations phase, SDO’s images and 

spectra are key sources of data at solar science conferences and are essential in advancing knowledge of 

the Sun. 

Recent Achievements 

SDO SPOTS A LATE PHASE IN 

SOLAR FLARES

The images show a compilation of solar 

data from various instruments on SDO 

recording a flare on May 5, 2010. The 

images on top show the initial magnetic 

loops of the flare, and a delayed brightening 

of additional magnetic loops above the 

originals showing the late phase flare. 

Along the bottom, graphs from the Extreme 

Ultraviolet Variability Experiment show the extreme ultraviolet light peaking both in time with the main 

flare and the late phase flare. These new observations will provide a much more accurate estimate of the 

total energy input into the Earth’s environment (ionosphere and thermosphere). 

HELIO -37 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: LIVING WITH A STAR

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

SDO SPOTS EXTRA ENERGY IN THE 

SUN’S CORONA

These jets, known as spicules, were captured in 

an SDO image on April 25, 2010. Combined with 

the energy from ripples in the magnetic field, they 

may contain enough energy to power the solar 

wind that streams from the Sun toward Earth at 

1.5 million miles per hour. 

HELIO -38 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS

SOLAR TERRESTRIAL PROBES (STP)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

FY 2011

168.3

FY 2012

188.7

FY 2013

189.4

FY 2014

179.8

FY 2015 FY 2016

64.5 46.7

FY 2017

53.4

Magnetospheric MultiScale 150.8 170.3 168.3 157.6 42.9 20.4 12.5

Other Missions and Data Analysis

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

17.4

--

18.5

--

21.1

0.7

22.2 21.6 26.3 40.9

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 0.4%

  

The Earth’s night-time ionosphere displaying spatial 

structures of various scales (caused by small and largescale waves emanating upward from the troposphere). 

Such plasma bubbles and dropouts greatly affect 

communication and navigation. This program continues to 

make important contributions to the understanding of 

many of the processes that link the Earth’s upper 

atmosphere and ionosphere system.

STP provide insight into the fundamental 

plasma processes inherent in all astrophysical 

systems. To accomplish this goal, STP 

investigations focus on specific scientific areas 

to enhance understanding of how plasma 

behaves in the space between the Sun and 

Earth. STP missions address processes such as 

the variability of the Sun, the responses of the 

planets to these variations, and the interaction 

of the Sun and solar system. STP missions are 

strategically defined and investigations are 

competitively selected. Strategic mission lines 

afford the space physics community the 

opportunity to plan specific missions to address 

important research focus areas and thus make 

significant progress in elucidating the 

fundamental processes of heliophysics. 

For more information please see the STP 

program at http://stp.gsfc.nasa.gov/. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

No change. 

HELIO-39 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS

SOLAR TERRESTRIAL PROBES (STP)

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The STP program is making progress on the decadal survey highest priority large-sized mission. In 

January 2012, NASA completed a Systems Integration review for the instruments on MMS, the first 

large-sized STP class mission. The STEREO mission celebrated five incredible years of science. Over the 

course of its first five years, the orbits of the two STEREO spacecraft have caused them to separate to 

opposite sides of the Sun. This now allows scientists to view the entire surface of the Sun for the first 

time. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

The MMS project plans to deliver instrument suites to the observatory for integration and testing. 

Environmental testing on the first four observatories planned for FY 2013. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $189.4 million. This represents a $0.7 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($188.7 million). 

The budget for FY 2013 to FY 2016 is more than the notional amounts in the runout of the FY 2012 

budget for future mission planning. This increase is to support future missions in accordance with the 

soon-to-be-released heliophysics decadal survey priorities. 

HELIO-40 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: SOLAR TERRESTRIAL PROBES

MAGNETOSPHERIC MULTISCALE (MMS)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority Actual Estimate LCC 

(in $ millions) Prior FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 BTC Total 

FY 2013 President’s 

Budget Request 356.8 150.8 170.3 168.3 157.6 42.9 20.4 12.5 2.9 1,082.6

2012 MPAR Project 

Cost Estimate 356.8 150.8 170.3 168.3 157.6 42.9 20.4 12.5 2.9 1,082.6

Formulation 172.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 172.9

Development/ 

Implementation

Operations/close-out

183.8

0.0

150.8

0.0

170.3

0.0

168.3

0.0

157.6

0.0

26.3

16.6

0.0

20.4

0.0

12.5

0.0

2.9

857.1

52.4

Change From FY 2012 

Estimate -- -- -1.9

Percent Change From FY 

2012 Estimate -- -- -1.1%

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

None. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

The MMS mission will use Earth’s magnetosphere as a laboratory to study the microphysics of magnetic 

reconnection, a fundamental plasma-physical process that converts magnetic energy into heat and the 

kinetic energy of charged particles. In addition to seeking to solve the mystery of the small-scale physics 

of the reconnection process, MMS will also investigate how the energy conversion that occurs in 

magnetic reconnection accelerates particles to high energies and what role plasma turbulence plays in 

reconnection events. Magnetic reconnection, particle acceleration, and turbulence occur in all 

astrophysical plasma systems but can be studied in-situ only in the solar system and most efficiently in 

Earth’s magnetosphere, where they control the dynamics of the geospace environment and play an 

important role in the phenomena known as “space weather.” 

For more information about MMS, please see http://science.nasa.gov/missions/mms/. 

HELIO -41 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: SOLAR TERRESTRIAL PROBES

MAGNETOSPHERIC MULTISCALE (MMS)

Formulation Development Operations

An artist concept shows the MMS spacecraft flying 

through the dayside magnetic interaction region where the 

Sun’s and Earth’s magnetic fields come together. The four 

MMS spacecraft will fly in a tetrahedron formation, 

which enables the best possible measurements to identify 

the temporal and spatial energetic processes taking place. 

The scientific instruments carried onboard will rapidly 

measure the involved electric and magnetic fields and the 

tenuous, electrically charged gases or plasma. What is 

learned here will be extended to the Sun’s atmosphere and 

throughout the cosmos as scientists seek to understand 

particle heating and acceleration throughout space. 

PROJECT PARAMETERS

The MMS mission comprises four identically 

instrumented spacecraft that measure particles, 

fields, and plasmas. The MMS instrument 

payload will measure electric and magnetic 

fields and the plasmas found in the regions 

where magnetic reconnection occurs. Fast, 

multi-point measurements will enable 

dramatically revealing direct observations of 

these physical processes. The four spacecraft 

and instrument suites have identical design 

requirements. A near-equatorial orbit will 

explore how Sun-Earth magnetic fields 

reconnect in Earth’s neighborhood. The four 

spacecraft will fly in a tetrahedron formation 

and the separation between the observatories 

will be adjustable over a range of 10 to 400 

kilometers during science operations in the area 

of interest. The mission design life is two years. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The MMS mission successfully completed its 

Ground System Preliminary Design Review in 

June 2011. The Systems Integration Review will 

occur in calendar year 2012. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

The project will deliver four instrument suites to the observatory for integration and testing and conduct 

environmental testing on observatories 1 through 4. NASA will complete integration of payloads to the 

first of four MMS satellites. 

HELIO -42 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: SOLAR TERRESTRIAL PROBES

MAGNETOSPHERIC MULTISCALE (MMS)

Formulation Development Operations

SCHEDULE COMMITMENTS/KEY MILESTONES

The MMS mission will launch on the Atlas V 421 vehicle from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FL, no 

later than March 2015. 

Development Milestones Confirmation Baseline 

Date

FY 2013 PB Request Date

KDP-C Jun-09 Jun-09

CDR Aug-10 Aug-10

SIR Jan-12 Feb-12

Launch Mar-15 Mar-15

Start Phase E/FOC Jul-15 Jul-15

End of Prime Mission Jul-17 Jul-17

Project Schedule 

KDP-C

06/2009

CDR

08/2010

SIR

02/2012

Launch

03/2015

Start Phase E/ 

FOC

07/2015

End of Prime 

Mission

07/2017

HELIO -43 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: SOLAR TERRESTRIAL PROBES

MAGNETOSPHERIC MULTISCALE (MMS)

Formulation Development Operations

Development Cost and Schedule 

Current 

Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Base Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Current 

Year 

Milestone 

Date

Cost 

Change 

(%)

Base Year 

Milestone

Date

Milestone 

Change 

(months)

Base Current 

Year

Key 

Year JCL (%) Milestone

2010 857.3 70 2012 857.3 0 Launch Mar-15 Mar-15 0

Readiness

Note: The confidence level estimates reported reflect an evolving process as NASA improves its probabilistic estimation 

techniques and processes. The estimate above reflects the practices and policies at the time it was developed. Estimates that 

include combined cost and schedule risks are denoted as joint confidence level; all other confidence levels reflect cost 

confidence without necessarily factoring the potential impacts of schedule changes on cost.

Development Cost Details (in $M) 

Spacecraft costs increased due to increased requirements for FTEs, increased parts costs, and requirement 

for a clean room when the usual GSFC facilities were not available. Payload increases can be attributed to 

a foreign partner decreasing their contribution to Spin-plane Double Probe electric field instrument, 

fluctuation in foreign exchange rate for purchase of a major instrument component, and some cost growth 

for Fast Plasma Investigation, Hot Plasma Composition Analyzer, and Central Instrument Data Processor. 

Changes in System integration and testing and other direct project are due to reallocation of some 

integration and testing activity to other development elements. 

Element Base Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Current Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Change from 

Base Year 

Estimate

TOTAL: 857.4 857.3 -0.1

Aircraft/Spacecraft 169 192.5 23.5

Payloads 131.9 172.3 40.4

Systems I&T 55.3 31.3 -24

Launch Vehicle 194.2 192.4 -1.8

Ground Systems 19.1 21.4 2.3

Science/Technology 19.9 17.6 -2.3

Other Direct Project Costs 268 229.8 -38.2

HELIO -44 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: SOLAR TERRESTRIAL PROBES

MAGNETOSPHERIC MULTISCALE (MMS)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

The STP Program Office at GSFC has program management responsibility for the MMS project.

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB FY 2013 PB 

Request Request

Four Instrument 

Suites 

Provider: GSFC, SwRI

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC 

Cost Share partner: Austria, France, 

Japan

Provide measurements of Same Same

electric fields, plasma wave, 

energetic particles, and hot 

plasma composition.

Electric fields 

instrument

Provider: Univ. of New Hampshire

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC 

Cost Share Partner: Austria

Provide measurements of Same Same

electric fields (time resolution 

1 ms) and magnetic fields 

(time resolution 10 ms)

Fast Plasma 

Investigation

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC 

Cost Share Partner: Japan

Provide plasma wave 

measurements (electric vector 

to 100 KHz). 

Same Same

Energetic Particle 

Detectors

Provider: JHU-APL

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC 

Cost Share Partner: None

Provide high-resolution 

measurement of energetic 

particles.

Same Same

Hot Plasma 

Composition 

Analyzers

Provider: SwRI

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC 

Cost Share Partner: None

Three-dimensional 

measurements of hot plasma 

composition (time resolution 

10 seconds). 

Same Same

Launch Vehicle Provider: KSC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share partner: None

Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC 

Cost Share Partner: None

Deliver approximately 4,000 Same Same

kg payload consisting of four 

observatories to a highly 

elliptical Earth orbit.

Ground Systems Provide during operations Same Same

minimum science data 

payback of four Gbits of data 

per observatory each day.

HELIO -45 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: SOLAR TERRESTRIAL PROBES

MAGNETOSPHERIC MULTISCALE (MMS)

Formulation Development Operations

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB 

Request

FY 2013 PB 

Request

Four Spacecraft Provider: GSFC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share partner: None

Deliver high-rate data from 

instruments to ground station 

with a high accuracy for two 

years

Same Same

Science Operations Provider: GSFC, Univ. of Colorado, 

Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space 

Physics

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share partner : None

Provide science data to the 

community and archive

Same Same

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: The GSFC environmental test facility is 

not available to MMS when needed,

Then: Project would see increase to schedule 

and cost. 

Decision made to proceed with MMS baseline plan of testing at the GSFC 

environmental facility, but MMS to protect option of thermal vacuum testing 

offsite. 

If: Launch vehicle manifest for Atlas V 

launches is limited to four per year,

Then: A slip in the MMS launch date would 

be required, leading to increased schedule 

and cost. 

Ensure launch date is met consistent with the current Atlas V manifest.

HELIO -46 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: SOLAR TERRESTRIAL PROBES

MAGNETOSPHERIC MULTISCALE (MMS)

Formulation Development Operations

Acquisition Strategy 

The MMS spacecraft is being designed, developed, and tested in-house at GSFC using a combination of 

GSFC civil servants and local contractors. The acquisition of subcontracted spacecraft sub-assemblies, 

components, and parts is through procurement contracts issued by the MMS procurement office. 

Instrument development activities are under contract with SwRI. Instrument development subcontracts 

include Lockheed Martin, JAXA/MEISEI, University of New Hampshire, JHU-APL, Aerospace 

Corporation, and a team at GSFC. The Mission Operations Center and the Flight Dynamics Operations 

Area will be developed and operated at GSFC using a combination of GSFC civil servants and local 

support service contractors. The Science Operations Center for the instruments will be developed and 

operated at the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics at the University of Colorado and is under 

contract to Southwest Research Institute. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Launch Vehicle United Launch Alliance (ULA) KSC, FL

Instrument Suite SwRI San Antonio, TX

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

All SRB Aug-10 CDR/Successful Review N/A

Performance SRB N/A SIR Aug-12

Performance SRB N/A Key decision point-D Oct-12

Performance SRB N/A ORR Mar-14

HELIO -47 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: SOLAR TERRESTRIAL PROBES

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

FY 2011

17.4

FY 2012

18.5

FY 2013

21.1

FY 2014

22.2

FY 2015 FY 2016

21.6 26.3

FY 2017

40.9

Program Mgmt and Future Missions 1.2 1.4 4.4 4.1 3.5 8.0 22.6

STEREO 8.2 9.0 8.5 9.6 9.6 9.7 9.7

Hinode (Solar-B)

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

8.0

--

8.2

--

8.2

2.6

8.4 8.4 8.5 8.6

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 0.1

Coronal mass ejections were once thought to be initiated 

by solar flares. Although most are accompanied by flares, 

it is now understood that flares and mass ejections are 

related phenomena, but one does not cause the other. This 

has important implications for understanding and 

predicting the effects of solar activity on Earth and in 

space. If a coronal mass ejection collides with Earth, it can 

excite a geomagnetic storm. Large geomagnetic storms 

have, among other things, caused electrical power outages 

and damaged communications satellites. Therefore, to 

understand and predict space weather and the effect of 

solar activity on Earth, a detailed understanding of the 

processes underlying flares, mass ejections, and 

geomagnetic storms is required.

The Sun, solar system, and universe consist 

primarily of plasma, a gas composed of ions, 

electrons, and neutral particles that conducts 

electricity and behaves distinctly different from 

a normal gas, liquid, or solid. Plasma strongly 

interacts with magnetic fields, resulting in many 

spectacular phenomena in space, including the 

auroras over Earth’s polar regions. 

STP missions provide the scientific basis for 

space weather prediction by increasing 

understanding of the fundamental plasma 

processes inherent in all the relevant 

astrophysical systems. STP missions address 

processes such as the magnetic reconnection, 

particle acceleration, ion-neutral interactions, 

and the creation and variability of magnetic 

dynamos. 

STP missions are strategically defined and 

prioritized by NRC decadal surveys for 

heliophysics. Science investigations (i.e., 

instruments) on STP missions are competitively 

selected. 

The STP Other Missions and Data Analysis 

budget includes operating STP missions, 

program management, and limited funding for 

future missions to be launched in the next 

decade. 

HELIO-48 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: SOLAR TERRESTRIAL PROBES

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

For more information please see the STP program at http://stp.gsfc.nasa.gov/. 

Non-Operating Missions 

PROGRAM MANAGEMENT AND FUTURE MISSIONS

Program Management and Future Missions provides the resources required to manage the planning, 

formulation, and implementation of all STP missions. The program office provides oversight, support, 

and guidance to the mission teams. The program office ensures successful achievement of STP program 

cost and schedule goals, while managing cross-project dependencies, risks, issues, and requirements as 

projects progress through formal key decision points. Additionally, Future Missions supports the STP 

strategic planning activities needed to address the recommendations of the heliophysics decadal survey, 

including the pre-formulation activities for missions not yet approved as projects. 

Operating Missions 

SOLAR TERRESTRIAL RELATIONS OBSERVATORY (STEREO) 

The goal of STEREO is to understand the origin of the Sun’s coronal mass ejections and their 

consequences for Earth. The mission consists of two spacecraft, one leading and the other lagging Earth 

in its orbit. STEREO’s instrumentation targets the fundamental process of energetic particle acceleration 

in the low solar corona and in interplanetary space. The spacecraft is able to image the structure and 

evolution of solar storms as they leave the Sun and move out through space toward Earth. 

HINODE

Hinode is a Japanese Institute of Space and Astronautical Science mission operating as a follow-on to the 

highly successful Japan/U.S./U.K. Yohkoh (Solar-A) collaboration. The mission consists of a coordinated 

set of optical, Extreme UltraViolet and x-ray instruments that are studying the basic heating mechanisms 

and dynamics of the active solar corona. By investigating the fundamental processes that connect the 

Sun’s magnetic field and the solar corona, Hinode is discovering how the Sun generates magnetic 

disturbances and the high-energy particle storms that propagate from the Sun to Earth. 

HELIO-49 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS: SOLAR TERRESTRIAL PROBES

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

Recent Achievements 

STEREO MISSION CELEBRATES FIVE INCREDIBLE YEARS OF SCIENCE

In August 2011, for the first time, a spacecraft far from Earth has turned and watched a solar storm engulf 

our planet. The image, captured by the STEREO mission, has galvanized solar physicists, who say it 

could lead to important advances in space weather forecasting. 

Hinode X-Class Flare 

Hinode’s Solar Optical Telescope 

zoomed in on Active Region 11263 on 

August 4, 2011, five days before the 

active region produced the largest flare of 

this cycle, with a peak flux more than 

three times larger than the previous 

largest flare. The actual flare was close to 

the edge of the Sun and not easily visible 

to Hinode when it occurred. Hinode 

discovered that the white light emissions 

from flares are correlated with the hard xray emissions. 

HELIO-50 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS

HELIOPHYSICS EXPLORERS

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 91.7 60.2 46.1 88.4 117.5 84.8 84.8

IRIS 63.5 39.1 12.1 7.3 1.2 0.0 0.0

Other Missions and Data Analysis 28.1 21.1 34.0 81.1 116.3 84.8 84.8

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -14.1

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -23.4%

NASA’s Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere (AIM) satellite 

is a SMEX-class mission that remotely senses night-shining 

clouds in the mesosphere. These noctilucent clouds are 

made of ice crystals that form over the summer poles at an 

altitude too high and a temperature too cold for watervapor clouds. Recent results from the mission have 

provided evidence of change in the behavior of these 

noctilucent clouds, with the data showing dramatically 

lower ice content. This is leading scientists to speculate 

about changes in weather conditions and pole-to-pole 

atmospheric circulation, and whether these changes are 

driven by the solar cycle.

The Heliophysics Explorers program provides 

frequent flight opportunities for world-class 

scientific investigations from space to address 

heliophysics space science goals. These 

investigations target very focused science topics 

that augment, replace, or redirect strategic line 

missions. The mission results fill important 

science gaps in the prescribed program. Highly 

competitive selection ensures that the most 

current and best strategic science will be 

accomplished. 

Full missions can either be medium explorer 

(MIDEX), explorers (EX), or small explorers 

(SMEX). Missions of opportunity space science 

investigations are typically instruments flown as 

part of a non-NASA space mission. SMEX’s 

are the smallest explorer mission. MIDEX are 

larger with greater scope. 

EX class missions are solicited through 

Explorer Announcements of Opportunity. 

NASA selected three EXs and three MOs 

heliophysics missions for initial study from the 

current Announcements of Opportunity. In 

FY 2013, NASA will down select these to one 

or two final missions for implementation. 

The Explorers program selected IRIS in 2009. 

IRIS is a small explorer mission, currently in 

the development phase and scheduled for 

launch in FY 2013. 

HELIO -51 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS

HELIOPHYSICS EXPLORERS

Other Missions and Data Analysis supports numerous operating Heliophysics Explorer missions, as well 

as program management functions and funding for future mission selections. 

For more information on Explorer missions, please see http://explorers.gsfc.nasa.gov/missions.html. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

Beginning in FY 2012, the Explorers program is budgeted as two unique programs, Heliophysics 

Explorers and Astrophysics Explorers. The Heliophysics and Astrophysics Explorers will have different 

cadences for Announcement of Opportunity releases. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The Heliophysics Explorers program received 16 submitted proposals in response to the Explorer 2011 

Announcement of Opportunity. The program also received nine proposals for Science Missions of 

Opportunity; and eight solicitations were received for Explorers U.S. Participating Investigators (Explorer 

USPI). As a result of the September 2011 Explorers program selections, three Explorer mission proposals 

and three mission of opportunity proposals were selected to conduct Phase-A studies. Additionally, three 

solicitations were selected for Explorer USPI missions. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

IRIS is expected to complete Pre-Ship Review in October and Flight Readiness Review in November 

2012. The current launch readiness date is scheduled no later than June 2013. The next Heliophysics 

Explorer mission selection is currently planned for 2013. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $46.1 million. This represents a $14.1 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($60.2 million). 

The IRIS project workforce will decrease as launch in June 2013 nears. The Heliophysics Explorers 

Future Mission budget ramps up for the start of the missions that were selected from the current 

Announcement of Opportunity. 

The budget for FY 2013 to FY 2016 is slightly less than the notional amounts in the runout of the 

FY 2012 budget, reflecting the split of the Heliophysics Explorers management budget between 

Astrophysics and Heliophysics. 

HELIO -52 
HELIOPHYSICS: HELIOPHYSICS EXPLORER

INTERFACE REGION IMAGING SPECTROGRAPH (IRIS)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

Prior

57.0

FY 2011

63.5

--

FY 2012

39.1

--

FY 2013

12.1

-27.0

FY 2014

7.3

FY 2015

1.2

FY 2016

0.0

FY 2017

0.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -69.1%

IRIS will contribute to our fundamental understanding of the 

solar energy transport, will increase our ability to forecast 

space weather, and will deepen our understanding of distant 

astrophysical phenomena. A launch in 2013 during solar 

maximum places IRIS in a unique configuration of supporting 

instruments like SDO, Hinode, SOLIS, SST, and IBIS that 

observe from the solar surface to the global corona. This 

combination, with ground-based observations and numerical 

simulations, will deliver a breakthrough in our understanding 

of the energization and dynamics of the solar atmosphere. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR 

CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

None. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

IRIS explorer will help scientists understand 

how the solar atmosphere is energized. The 

IRIS investigation combines advanced 

numerical modeling with a high resolution 

UV imaging spectrograph. IRIS will obtain 

UV spectra and images with high resolution 

in space and time focused on the 

chromosphere and transition region of the 

Sun, a complex interface region between the 

photosphere and corona. In this region, all 

but a few percent of the non-radiative 

energy leaving the Sun is converted into 

heat and radiation. Here, magnetic field and 

plasma exert comparable forces, resulting in 

a dynamic region whose understanding 

remains a challenge. IRIS fills a crucial gap 

in our ability to advance Sun-Earth 

connection studies by tracing the flow of 

energy and plasma through this foundation 

of the corona and heliosphere. 

This SMEX mission was selected in June 2009 and is expected to launch in June 2013. The unique 

instrument capabilities, coupled with state of the art three-dimensional modeling, will fill a large gap in 

knowledge of this dynamic region of the solar atmosphere. The mission will complement and greatly 

HELIO -53 
HELIOPHYSICS: HELIOPHYSICS EXPLORER

INTERFACE REGION IMAGING SPECTROGRAPH (IRIS)

Formulation Development Operations

extend the scientific return of the Heliophysics System Observatory, as this fleet of spacecraft follows the 

effects of energy release from the Sun to Earth. 

For more information, please see: http://science.nasa.gov/missions/iris/. 

PROJECT PARAMETERS

IRIS is a three-axis stabilized, sun-pointed mission that studies the chromosphere in the far ultraviolet and 

near ultraviolet with 0.33 arcsecond spatial resolution, 0.4 kilometers per second velocity resolution, and 

a field of view of 171 arcsec. This two-year mission fills a critical observational data gap by providing 

simultaneous, co-spatial and comprehensive coverage from photosphere (about 4,500K) up to corona 

(≤ 10 meter kelvin). IRIS consists of a 20 centimeter aperture telescope assembly that feeds an imaging 

spectrograph and a separate imaging camera system with wavelengths in the far ultraviolet and near 

ultraviolet. A spacecraft bus based upon heritage designs supports the science mission and provides 

pointing, power, and data communications for the mission. The launch vehicle is an Orbital Sciences 

Corporation Pegasus XL with launch operations out of Vandenberg Air Force Base in CA. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The IRIS project held a successful Critical Design Review in December 2010. The spectrograph structure 

for IRIS was ready and the magnetometer was delivered in October 2011. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

Upon successful review, IRIS expects to enter Phase D (design and development phase) in May 2012. 

During FY 2013, IRIS is expected to complete Pre-Ship Review in October and Flight Readiness Review 

in November of 2012. The current launch readiness date is scheduled in June 2013. 

HELIO -54 
HELIOPHYSICS: HELIOPHYSICS EXPLORER

INTERFACE REGION IMAGING SPECTROGRAPH (IRIS)

Formulation Development Operations

SCHEDULE COMMITMENTS/KEY MILESTONES

Development Milestones Confirmation Baseline 

Date

FY 2013 PB Request Date

KDP-C Jul-10 Jul-10

CDR Dec-10 Dec-10

Pre-Environmental Review Dec-11 Apr-12

Pre-Ship Review Sep-12 Oct-12

Launch Jun-13 Jun-13

End of Prime Mission Aug-15 Aug-15

Project Schedule 

KDP‐C

07/2010

CDR

12/2010

Pre-Environmental 

Review

04/2012

Pre-Ship Review

10/2012

Launch

06/2013

End of Prime 

Mission

08/2015

HELIO -55 
HELIOPHYSICS: HELIOPHYSICS EXPLORER

INTERFACE REGION IMAGING SPECTROGRAPH (IRIS)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

IRIS is a principal investigator-managed project. Lockheed Martin is leading the formulation and 

implementation of the project. The IRIS science investigation includes scientists and engineers from 

Lockheed Martin, ARC, and GSFC. GSFC program office is responsible for oversight and science 

management including transitioning into the operations phase. 

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB 

Request

FY 2013 PB 

Request

Instrument Provider: Lockheed Martin

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC, ARC

Cost Share partner: None

Major components of 

instrument: science telescope 

and spectrograph

Same Same

Launch Vehicle Provider: KSC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share partner: None

Pegasus XL Same Same

Spacecraft Provider: Lockheed Martin

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC, ARC

Cost Share partner: None

Subsystems include: comm 

system, S-band, X-band 

antennae, solar array 

mechanics, star tracker

Same Same

Mission 

Operations

Provider: ARC

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: ARC

Cost Share partner: None

ARC to provide two years of 

mission operations

Same Same

HELIO -56 
HELIOPHYSICS: HELIOPHYSICS EXPLORER

INTERFACE REGION IMAGING SPECTROGRAPH (IRIS)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: There is an in-flight failure in the single 

string design of the IRIS spacecraft, 

Then: there is no ability to switch over to a 

redundant component.

Consistent with higher risks SMEX mission, single string risks are mitigated 

by use of proven designs, high reliability parts, additional testing of critical 

systems, and testing of development models as early as possible.

Additional program manager and subject matter expert oversight has been 

assigned. Engineering units are being used as a pathfinder for manufacturing 

and test and will be available for early testing.

If: The transponder and reaction wheel 

vendors continue to experience problems 

during development,

Then: the spacecraft integration and testing 

will be impacted.

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Development of spacecraft and the Palo Alto, CA

integration and testing of the complete 

IRIS satellite system through on-orbit 

commissioning

Lockheed Martin 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

All SRB Dec-10 Critical Design Review – Successful N/A

All SRB N/A System Integration Review Apr-12

All SRB N/A Operation Readiness Review Oct-12

HELIO -57 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS EXPLORER

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET 

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 28.1 21.1 34.0 81.1 116.3 84.8 84.8

Program Management and Future Missions 0.0 3.8 14.9 63.5 101.0 65.5 65.6

Explorer Management 10.1 4.7 6.0 6.2 6.2 6.4 6.4

IBEX 1.5 1.6 4.0 2.5 2.5 4.0 4.0

TWINS 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6

CINDI 1.3 1.0 0.8 0.8 0.1 0.0 0.0

AIM 3.5 3.0 3.0 3.1 3.0 3.0 3.0

THEMIS/ARTEMIS 10.9 6.0 4.4 4.6 3.0 5.2 5.2

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 12.9

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 61.2%

This image, from the IBEX mission, shows the structure of 

magnetic field lines as they interact and explosively release 

energy in the plasma sheet of the Earth’s geomagnetic tail. 

Based upon this mission and its revolutionary camera 

technology, future NASA science missions may be able to make 

high definition videos of the development of space weather 

systems around the Earth, eventually enabling space weather 

prediction much like Earth weather prediction. 

Explorer missions offer the ability to meet 

the full range of heliophysics science 

identified as being vital and urgent by the 

NRC decadal surveys. These missions are 

designed to be lower cost and have a short 

development cycle; they provide smaller, 

focused science investigations to 

supplement the larger strategic mission 

lines. 

The Heliophysics Explorers Other Missions 

and Data Analysis budget includes operating 

Explorer missions, program management 

and funding for a mission currently in the 

competitive principal investigator-led 

mission procurement cycle. 

For more information, see the Explorer 

program at http://explorer.gsfc.nasa.gov/. 

HELIO -58 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS EXPLORER

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

Non-Operating Missions 

PROGRAM MANAGEMENT AND FUTURE MISSIONS

Program Management and Future Missions provides the resources required to manage the planning, 

formulation, and implementation of all Explorer missions. The program office provides oversight, 

support, and guidance to the mission teams. The program office ensures successful achievement of 

Explorer program cost and schedule goals, while managing cross-project dependencies, risks, issues, and 

requirements as projects progress through formal key decision points. Additionally, Future Missions 

supports the Explorer procurement activities including the pre-formulation activities for missions not yet 

approved as projects. 

The Explorer program has selected six science proposals for evaluation as potential future science 

missions. Following detailed mission concept studies, one of the full mission concepts and/or one-ormore of the mission of opportunity concepts would be selected in February 2013 to proceed toward flight 

with launches potentially in 2016 and/or 2018. FY 2013 funding supports the six Phase A concept studies. 

On selection, FY 2014 to FY 2018 funding would be moved to unique project lines. 

EXPLORER MANAGEMENT

Explorer Management encompasses the program office resources required to manage the formulation and 

implementation of all Explorer projects. The program office is responsible for providing support and 

guidance to projects in resolving technical and programmatic issues and risks, for monitoring and 

reporting technical and programmatic progress of the projects and for achieving Explorer cost, schedule 

and technical goals and requirements. 

Operating Missions 

INTERSTELLAR BOUNDARY EXPLORER (IBEX) 

IBEX is the first mission designed to detect the edge of the Solar System. As the solar wind from the sun 

flows out beyond Pluto, it collides with the material between the stars, forming a shock front. These 

interactions create energetic neutral atoms, particles with no charge that move very quickly. This region 

emits no light that can be collected by conventional telescopes so, instead, IBEX, measures the particles 

that happen to be traveling inward from the boundary. IBEX contains two detectors designed to collect 

and measure energetic neutral atoms, providing data about the mass, location, direction of origin, and 

energy of these particles. From this data, maps of the boundary are created. IBEX’s sole, focused science 

objective has been to discover the nature of the interactions between the solar wind and the interstellar 

medium at the edge of our solar system. 

HELIO -59 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS EXPLORER

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

TWO WIDE-ANGLE IMAGING NEUTRAL ATOM SPECTROMETERS (TWINS) 

TWINS is a NASA-sponsored mission of opportunity that has been operational since 2008 and approved 

for extended operations until September 2014. TWINS provides stereo imaging of the Earth’s 

magnetosphere, the region surrounding the planet controlled by its magnetic field and containing the Van 

Allen radiation belts and other energetic charged particles. TWINS gives a three-dimensional global 

visualization of this region, which has led to a greatly enhanced understanding of the connections between 

different regions of the magnetosphere and their relation to solar variability. 

THE COUPLED ION-NEUTRAL DYNAMICS INVESTIGATIONS (CINDI) 

CINDI is a mission to understand the dynamics of the Earth’s ionosphere, and consists of two instruments 

on the Communication/Navigation Outage Forecast System satellite, a project of the U.S. Air Force. This 

mission studies the behavior of equatorial ionospheric irregularities which can cause significant service 

interrupts for communications and navigation systems. CINDI is in extended phase until September 2014. 

AERONOMY OF ICE IN THE MESOSPHERE (AIM) 

AIM is a mission to determine why polar mesospheric clouds form and why they vary. Polar mesospheric 

clouds, Earth’s highest-altitude clouds, form in the coldest part of the atmosphere about 50 miles above 

the polar regions every summer. These clouds are of particular interest, as the number of clouds in the 

middle atmosphere (mesosphere) over the Earth’s poles has been increasing over recent years, and they 

are thought to be related to climate change. AIM launched on April 25, 2007, completed its prime mission 

in FY 2009, and is currently in extended phase until September 2014. 

HELIO -60 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS EXPLORER

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

TIME HISTORY OF EVENTS AND MACROSCALE INTERACTIONS DURING 

SUBSTORMS (THEMIS) AND ACCELERATION, RECONNECTION, TURBULENCE 

AND ELECTRODYNAMICS OF THE MOON’S INTERACTION WITH THE SUN 

(ARTEMIS) 

THEMIS is a MIDEX mission that launched on February 17, 2007, and is currently operating in extended 

phase until September 2014. Starting as a five-spacecraft mission, the three inner probes now focus on 

collecting data related to the onset and evolution of magnetospheric substorms, while the two outer probes 

(now referred to as ARTEMIS) have been repositioned into lunar orbits (see below). Magnetospheric 

substorms are the explosive release of stored energy within the near-Earth space environment leading to 

important space weather effects. The two ARTEMIS probes orbit the Moon’s surface at approximately 

one hundred miles altitude and provide new information about the Moon’s internal structure and its 

surface composition. THEMIS and ARTEMIS, among others in the heliophysics portfolio, are examples 

of missions offering important dynamics knowledge useful for future human spaceflight. 

Recent 

Achievements 

IBEX 

IBEX discovered a ribbon of 

energetic neutral atoms, created by 

the collision of solar winds and 

particles and fields from interstellar 

space that were not predicted by 

any model or theory. IBEX began 

measurements in 2008 during a 

quiet period of solar activity. Researchers have recently adjusted the IBEX orbit to be more stable over 

the remainder of its lifetime. IBEX’s first few oval orbits (depicted on left) and predicted orbits over the 

next decade (depicted on right), will allow measurements over the full solar cycle with less background 

noise and therefore better confidence in the signal. 

HELIO -61 
SCIENCE: HELIOPHYSICS EXPLORER

OTHER MISSIONS AND DATA ANALYSIS

Formulation Development Operations

NOCTILUCENT CLOUD SEASON BEGINS

In recent years, AIM has collected data on noctilucent 

clouds appearing at ever lower in latitudes, but just why 

they form is not yet known. The clouds are seasonal, 

appearing most often in late spring and summer. 

NASA studies these clouds in order to better understand 

our lower atmosphere and how it is connected to 

weather and climate. 

THEMIS - ARTEMIS SECOND 

PROBE FINALLY ARRIVES AT ITS 

NEW HOME

On July 17, 2011 the second probe of the 

ARTEMIS mission successfully entered 

orbit around the Moon after a circuitous 

two-year journey from Earth orbit. Shortly 

after the two probes completed their 

original mission studying Earth’s magnetic 

field in 2009 (THEMIS), they were 

propelled using carefully designed gravityassist maneuvers to farther and farther orbits. In order to continue to use the probes for scientific studies, 

the two spacecraft were moved to the Moon’s Trojan points, on either side of the moon. The two 

ARTEMIS probes were the first spacecraft ever to use those complex orbits operationally. Knowledge of 

operations at Lagrangian points and understanding the environments there provides information valuable 

for future human space travel. 

After using the Lagrange orbits as observational outposts for nine months, the two spacecraft were 

subsequently staged to enter into stable lunar orbits. The P1 probe entered lunar orbit on June 27, 2011. 

The two probes are orbiting the Moon in opposite directions enabling, the pair’s sensitive instruments to 

yield the first three-dimensional measurements of the moon’s magnetic field, and ultimately allowing 

scientists to determine its regional influence on solar wind particles. 

HELIO -62 
AERONAUTICS

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

FY 2011

533.5

FY 2012

569.4

FY 2013

551.5

FY 2014

551.5

FY 2015 FY 2016

551.5 551.5

FY 2017

551.5

Aviation Safety 67.3 80.1 81.1 81.0 81.4 81.9 82.5

Airspace Systems 87.2 92.7 93.3 92.6 91.9 91.2 90.5

Fundamental Aeronautics 206.3 186.3 168.7 171.3 173.3 175.3 177.1

Aeronautics Test 76.4 79.4 78.1 78.0 78.0 78.1 78.2

Integrated Systems Research 75.9 104.2 104.0 102.3 101.2 100.1 98.8

Aero Strategy and Management 20.4 26.7 26.4 26.2 25.7 25.0 24.4

AERONAUTICS OVERVIEW .................................... AERO- 2 

AVIATION SAFETY .................................................... AERO- 6 

AIRSPACE SYSTEMS ................................................. AERO- 12 

FUNDAMENTAL AERONAUTICS ..................................... AERO- 18 

AERONAUTICS TEST ................................................. AERO- 25 

INTEGRATED SYSTEMS RESEARCH ................................ AERO- 31 

AERO STRATEGY AND MANAGEMENT ............................. AERO- 37

AERO-1 
AERONAUTICS

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Aviation Safety 

FY 2011

533.5

67.3

FY 2012

569.4

80.1

FY 2013

551.5

81.1

FY 2014

551.5

81.0

FY 2015 FY 2016

551.5

81.4

551.5

81.9

FY 2017

551.5

82.5

Airspace Systems 87.2 92.7 93.3 92.6 91.9 91.2 90.5

Fundamental Aeronautics 206.3 186.3 168.7 171.3 173.3 175.3 177.1

Aeronautics Test 76.4 79.4 78.1 78.0 78.0 78.1 78.2

Integrated Systems Research 75.9 104.2 104.0 102.3 101.2 100.1 98.8

Aeronautics Strategy and Management

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

20.4

--

26.7

--

26.4

-17.9

26.2 25.7 25.0 24.4

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -3.1%

NASA is creating safer, greener, and more efficient air 

travel through research to enable fuel-efficient flight 

planning while reducing aircraft fuel consumption, 

emissions, and noise. 

As an industry, aviation contributes $1.3 

trillion dollars to the Nation’s economy and is 

responsible for 10 million jobs in aviation 

related fields. Airlines in the United States 

transport over one million people daily, but 

during peak travel times the air traffic and 

airport systems in the United States are 

stretched to capacity. Environmental concerns, 

such as aircraft noise and emissions, limit 

increased operations and the expansion of 

airports and runways. NASA’s Aeronautics 

Research Mission Directorate (ARMD) works 

to solve these critical challenges that affect our 

nation's air transportation system and growth of 

the economy, while improving safety of the 

system that is already the safest mode of 

transportation. 

ARMD houses four research programs, 

including the Aviation Safety program, 

Airspace Systems program, Fundamental 

Aeronautics program, and Integrated Systems Research program. These programs conduct cutting-edge 

research at the fundamental levels and integrated systems levels to address these national challenges. That 

research supports current and emerging applications, as well as revolutionary concepts and technologies 

that could one day change the face of air transportation. Also, ARMD’s Aeronautics Test program 

enables research through its critical support to NASA’s infrastructure needs. The Aeronautics Strategy 

and Management program identifies new innovative aviation concepts through ARMD seedling funds. 

These seedling funds provide the opportunity to explore early stage innovative ideas by conducting 

research, analysis, and proof-of-concept demonstrations in areas of strategic importance to the solution of 

aeronautics challenges. 

AERO-2 
AERONAUTICS

Aeronautics programs also support the development of the Next Generation Air Transportation System 

(NextGen). NextGen is the name given to a new National Airspace System that proposes to transform 

America’s air traffic control system from an aging ground-based system to a satellite-based system. 

NextGen technology will provide advanced levels of automated support to air navigation service 

providers and aircraft operators enabling shortened routes for time and fuel savings, reduced traffic 

delays, increased capacity, and permitting controllers to monitor and manage aircraft with greater safety 

margins. This transformation has the aim of reducing gridlock, both in the sky and at airports. 

ARMD expands the boundaries of aeronautical knowledge for the benefit of the Nation through 

partnerships with academia, industry, and other government agencies, helping to foster a collaborative 

research environment in which ideas and knowledge are exchanged across multiple communities. These 

collaborations help ensure the future competitiveness of the Nation's aviation industry. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, the Fundamental Aeronautics (FA) program will be restructured to facilitate research on 

targeted advanced vehicle and technology capabilities. Research into crosscutting capabilities that benefit 

a variety of air vehicles will be consolidated, and hypersonic systems research will be merged with 

supersonic research into a single project that will focus on fundamental research for high-speed flight. 

Ongoing fundamental research on entry, decent, and landing technologies will be transferred to the Space 

Technology account. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The NASA Aeronautics programs made significant progress towards their research goals in FY 2011 

including: 

• NASA developed a highly capable data mining algorithm that searches data from thousands of 

flights to discover unusual events that could be precursors to safety issues; 

NASA also made significant achievements using the En Route Descent Advisor tool. Providing 

air traffic controllers with speed and path changes to allow efficient arrival profiles to reduce 

flight time, fuel consumption, noise, and emissions, it results in more environmentally friendly en 

route and terminal operations; 

Through wind tunnel tests, NASA verified advanced supersonic aircraft models that produce 

significantly less sonic boom. These aircraft concepts were designed using NASA-developed 

computer-based tools for predicting aircraft shape and performance. These tools allowed 

supersonic aircraft shapes to be accurately and quickly assessed for sonic boom and other key 

attributes of successful supersonic aircraft flight such as aircraft efficiency and control; and 

NASA completed several conceptual design studies which identified advanced vehicle concepts 

and associated technology suites capable of simultaneously reducing community noise, emissions 

and fuel burn. The studies defined preferred system concepts for advanced vehicles that can 

operate safely within the NextGen. 

• 

• 

• 

AERO-3 
AERONAUTICS

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

The NASA Aeronautics programs will continue their planned research activities with the goal of further 

advancing the field of aviation. The following highlights include a few of the key activities: 

• NASA will complete the high ice water content flight campaign. Data from the campaign will 

provide a detailed understanding of atmospheric conditions that are conducive to high ice water 

engine icing. NASA aims to use this research to significantly reduce the impact of engine ice 

crystal icing and support new engine icing certification requirements proposed by the FAA. 

NASA will develop and test the dynamic weather routes capability in order to provide a tool to 

identify aircraft routes that will save time, fuel and distance under severe weather conditions. 

NASA will explore the viability of widely variable speed transmissions for rotorcraft using a new 

variable-speed transmission test facility at GRC. This capability enables high-speed, efficient 

rotorcraft operations, and initial testing indicates 25 percent savings are possible. 

• 

• 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $551.5 million. This represents a $17.9 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimated level ($569.4 million). This change includes labor and programmatic adjustments. 

Programs 

AVIATION SAFETY PROGRAM (AVSP) 

AvSP provides knowledge, concepts, and methods to the aviation community to manage increasing 

complexity in the design and operation of vehicles and the air transportation system. This includes 

advanced approaches to enable improved and cost effective verification and validation of flight critical 

systems. AvSP provides knowledge, concepts, and methods to avoid, detect, mitigate, and recover from 

hazardous flight conditions and to maintain vehicle airworthiness and health. The program will 

investigate sources of risk and provide technology needed to help ensure safe flight in and around 

atmospheric hazards. 

AIRSPACE SYSTEMS PROGRAM (ASP) 

ASP develops and explores fundamental concepts, algorithms, and technologies to increase throughput of 

the National Airspace System (NAS) and achieve high resource efficiency. The program transitions key 

technologies from the laboratory to the field by integrating surface, terminal, transitional airspace, and en 

route capabilities to enable operational enhancements envisioned by NextGen. 

AERO-4 
AERONAUTICS

FUNDAMENTAL AERONAUTICS (FA) 

The FA program conducts fundamental research to improve aircraft performance and minimize 

environmental impacts, explores advanced capabilities and configurations for low boom supersonic 

aircraft, and radically improves the civil effectiveness of rotary wing vehicles by increasing speed, range, 

and payload while decreasing noise and emissions. 

AERONAUTICS TEST PROGRAM (ATP) 

ATP ensures the strategic availability, accessibility, and capability of a critical suite of aeronautics ground 

test facilities and flight operations assets to meet Agency and national aeronautics testing needs. 

INTEGRATED SYSTEMS RESEARCH PROGRAM (ISRP) 

ISRP conducts research on promising concepts and technologies at an integrated system level. The 

program explores, assesses, and demonstrates the benefits of these potential technologies in a relevant 

environment. 

AERONAUTICS STRATEGY AND MANAGEMENT

The Aeronautics Strategy and Management program explores novel concepts and new processes in 

aeronautics, funds institutional expenses for the Mission Directorate, funds the NASA portion of the Joint 

Planning and Development Office (JPDO) costs, and provides education and outreach opportunities for a 

wide variety of interested participants of all ages. 

AERO-5 
AERONAUTICS

AVIATION SAFETY PROGRAM (AVSP)

FY 2013 BUDGET 

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

67.3

--

FY 2012

80.1

--

FY 2013

81.1

1.0

1.2%

FY 2014

81.0

FY 2015 FY 2016

81.4 81.9

FY 2017

82.5

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- --

• 

• 

• 

High-altitude ice crystal measurement probe for atmospheric 

environment characterization being checked out in NASA’s 

Icing Research Tunnel. 

The current U.S. air transportation system is 

widely recognized to be among the safest in 

the world. Over the past 10 years, the 

commercial accident rate has continued to 

drop, a credit to industry and government 

working together to solve problems and 

proactively identify new risks. However, the 

demand for air traffic is expected to continue 

to increase substantially in the next 10 to 20 

years, and while NextGen will meet this 

demand by enabling efficient passage through 

the increasingly crowded skies, it will come 

with increased reliance on automation and 

operating complexity. Therefore, the vigilance 

of the aviation community must continue for 

the United States to meet the public 

expectations for safety in this complex, 

dynamic domain. To meet the challenge, 

AvSP develops cutting-edge technologies to 

improve the intrinsic safety of current and future aircraft that will operate in NextGen. AvSP's 

contributions range from providing fundamental research and technologies on known or emerging safety 

concerns, to working with partners in addressing new safety challenges for NextGen. The program has 

three primary objectives: 

Continue to improve aviation system-wide safety; 

Advance the state-of-the-art of aircraft systems and flight crew operations; and 

Address the inherent presence of atmospheric risks to aviation. 

AvSP has developed research plans with milestones and metrics in technology areas corresponding to 

these objectives. All areas emphasize innovative methods and use a systems analysis approach for 

identifying key issues and maintaining a research portfolio that addresses national aviation safety needs. 

For more information, see http://www.aeronautics.nasa.gov/programs_avsafe.htm. 

AERO-6 
AERONAUTICS

AVIATION SAFETY PROGRAM (AVSP)

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

None. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA developed a highly capable data mining algorithm that searches data from thousands 

of flights to discover unusual events that could be precursors to safety issues. The algorithm successfully 

detected three operationally significant anomalies, data points that are significantly different from the 

majority of the data, across 177,000 flights. When anomalies are detected, airlines investigate the events 

and take corrective action if needed. 

In FY 2011, NASA successfully demonstrated self-healing concepts to mitigate damage in metals and 

composites that are widely used in commercial aircraft construction. If left untreated, damage propagation 

can result in failure of aircraft structural components. Self-healing materials may eventually reduce the 

negative effects of minor structural damage that can be hard to detect by human observers. 

In FY 2011, NASA completed several design reviews and prepared sophisticated instruments for a twoyear flight campaign that will characterize the natural ice crystal environment associated with high ice 

water content clouds. These clouds are common in large, high-moisture thunderstorms found in the 

tropics. Flight through them has been determined to occasionally cause engine power interruptions and 

damage. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA and its partners will complete the high ice water content flight campaign. Data from 

the campaign will provide a detailed understanding of atmospheric conditions that are conducive to high 

ice water engine icing. Atmospheric measurements will support NASA’s tests on actual aircraft engines 

in the Propulsion Systems Lab, as well as development of computational tools designed to uncover why 

and where icing accretes inside engines. Through these activities, NASA aims to significantly reduce the 

impact of engine ice crystal icing and support new engine icing certification requirements proposed by the 

FAA. 

In FY 2013, NASA will work with partners to develop and demonstrate an advanced aircraft health 

management capability known as a Vehicle-Level Reasoning System (VLRS). This system will actively 

monitor the operating status of key aircraft systems and subsystems and investigate root causes of adverse 

events. When a possible fault is detected in an onboard system, VLRS will probe that system and use data 

mining and machine learning capabilities to compare its internal readings with large operational databases 

of similar systems. It will then develop hypotheses about the cause of a problem and consider the 

likelihood of those causes. With this knowledge, VLRS will be able to estimate the remaining useful life 

of the affected system. This understanding can be presented to the flight crew to aid decision making. 

AERO-7 
AERONAUTICS

AVIATION SAFETY PROGRAM (AVSP)

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $81.1 million. This represents a $1.0 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($80.1 million). This increase reflects an adjustment in labor pricing, not program content. The budget 

includes: 

• $29.7 million for System-Wide Safety and Assurance Technologies; 

$36.4 million for Vehicle Systems Safety Technologies; and 

$14.9 million for Atmospheric Environment Safety Technologies. 

• 

• 

Projects 

SYSTEM-WIDE SAFETY AND ASSURANCE TECHNOLOGIES

The goal of system-wide safety and assurance technologies research is to provide knowledge, concepts, 

and methods to proactively manage increasing complexity in the design and operation of vehicles in the 

air transportation system. To meet this goal, the following challenges are being addressed: 

• Safely incorporate technological advances in avionics, software, automation, and concepts of 

operation by developing verification and validation tools for manufacturers and certifiers to use to 

assure flight critical systems are safe in a rigorous and cost- and time-effective manner; 

Understand and predict system-wide safety concerns of the airspace system and vehicles by 

developing technologies that can use vehicle and system data to accurately identify precursors to 

potential incidents or accidents; 

Improve operator effectiveness within aviation systems by incorporating design elements that 

enhance human contributions to aviation safety; and 

Predict the life of complex systems by developing technologies that can reason under uncertainty 

about root causes, predict faults and remaining useful life across multiple systems, and aid 

decision making across multiple systems. 

• 

• 

• 

VEHICLE SYSTEMS SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES

The goal of vehicle systems safety technologies research is to identify risks and provide knowledge 

needed to avoid, detect, mitigate, and recover from hazardous flight conditions, and to maintain vehicle 

airworthiness and health. To meet this goal, the following challenges are being addressed: 

• Demonstrate new capabilities that enable pilots to better understand and respond safely to 

complex situations; 

Develop and demonstrate new integrated health management and failure prevention technologies 

to ensure the integrity of vehicle systems between major inspection intervals and maintain 

vehicle state awareness during flight; and 

• 

AERO-8 
AERONAUTICS

AVIATION SAFETY PROGRAM (AVSP)

• Develop and evaluate integrated guidance, control, and system technologies that enable safe and 

effective crew/system aircraft control under hazardous conditions. 

ATMOSPHERIC ENVIRONMENT SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES

The goal of atmospheric environment safety technologies research is to investigate sources of risk and 

provide technology needed to help ensure safe flight in and around atmospheric hazards. To meet this 

goal, the following challenges are being addressed: 

• Address the atmospheric hazard of in-flight icing, of both engine and airframe, in cooperation 

with the icing community to characterize the various icing environments, develop remote sensors 

to detect conditions, understand and model the effects of ice accretion, and support the 

development of methods to mitigate the conditions; and 

Sense and mitigate other risks associated with other atmospheric hazards that pose serious threats 

to aviation. 

• 

Program Schedule 

Demonstrate First 

Generation Off-Nominal 

Engine Operation Sensing

FY 2012

High Ice Water Content 

(HIWC) Trial Flight 

Campaign Completed

FY 2013

Apply data mining 

technologies toward 

demonstration of a reasoning 

system that addresses the 

instantaneous health state of 

an aircraft

FY 2013

Validate safety assurance 

performance metrics for 

prognostic algorithms

FY 2013

Demonstrate simulation of 

loss-of-control conditions

FY 2014

Natural ice Crystal Cloud 

Environmental Defined

FY 2015

Program Management & Commitments 

The ARMD Associate Administrator has oversight responsibility for the program. The program director 

oversees program portfolio formulation, implementation, evaluation, and integration of results with other 

ARMD and NASA programs. 

AERO-9 
AERONAUTICS

AVIATION SAFETY PROGRAM (AVSP)

Project/Element Provider

System Wide 

Safety and 

Assurance 

Technologies

Provider: ARC, DFRC, GRC, LARC

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: ARC, DFRC, GRC, LARC

Cost Share: Boeing, Commercial Aviation Safety Team 

(CAST), DoD, easyJet, FAA, Honeywell, , JPDO, 

ONERA, Southwest Airlines

Vehicle Systems 

Safety 

Technologies

Provider: ARC, DFRC, GRC, LARC

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: ARC, DFRC, GRC, LARC

Cost Share: A&P Technology, Alcoa Technical Center, 

American Airlines, ANSYS, Boeing, CAST, Cessna Aircraft 

Co., DOD, DLR, FAA, General Electric Aircraft Engines, 

Goodrich, Honeywell, JPDO, Makel Engineering, Moog, 

National Aerospace Laboratory of the Netherlands, 

ONERA, Pratt and Whitney, United Technologies Corp., 

University of South Carolina, Wichita State University

Atmospheric 

Environmental 

Safety 

Technologies

Provider: DFRC, GRC, LARC

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: DFRC, GRC, LARC

Cost Share: Boeing, CAST, DOD, Environment Canada, 

FAA, Honeywell, INTA (Instituto Nacional de Técnica 

Aerospacial), JPDO, National Research Council Canada 

(NRCC), ONERA

Acquisition Strategy 

AvSP spans research and technology from foundational research to integrated system capabilities. This 

broad spectrum necessitates the use of a wide array of acquisition tools relevant to the appropriate work 

awarded externally through full and open competition. Teaming among large companies, small 

businesses, and universities is highly encouraged for all procurement actions. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

NASA’s aeronautics programs award multiple smaller contracts which are generally less than $5 million. 

They are widely distributed across academia and industry. 

AERO-10 
AERONAUTICS

AVIATION SAFETY PROGRAM (AVSP)

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance Expert Review Nov-11 The 12-month review is a formal 

independent peer review. Experts from 

other government agencies report on 

their assessment of technical and 

programmatic risk and program 

strengths and weaknesses.

12-Nov

AERO-11 
AERONAUTICS

AIRSPACE SYSTEMS PROGRAM (ASP)

FY 2013 BUDGET 

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 87.2 92.7 93.3 92.6 91.9 91.2 90.5

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 0.6

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 0.6%

An artist’s rendering of future integrated air and 

ground-based technologies developed by ASP. ASP 

technologies aim to reduce fuel, noise, and 

environmental impact of aviation operations while 

increasing the efficiency of the national airspace under 

all weather conditions by leveraging emerging flightdeck and ground-control system capabilities. 

Increasing the capacity and efficiency of the air 

transportation system in a manner that continues to 

improve aviation safety and the impact on the 

environment is critically important to the Nation's 

economic well being. More than half of the 

Nation's busiest airports are already at capacity or 

are expected to reach capacity limits in the next 10 

to 20 years. The associated environmental 

economic impacts are predicted to cost the Nation 

tens of billions of dollars annually. The risk of 

accidents caused by aircraft coming too close to 

one another, during airborne or ground operations, 

could increase as the volume of air traffic continues 

to climb towards exceeding the capacity of the 

airspace and airports. 

ASP directly addresses the air traffic management 

research needs of the NextGen. While ASP’s 

research is uniquely focused on the development of 

concepts and tools that could be implemented in the 

far-term, it does have relevance in the near-term as 

well. NASA collaborates with other Government 

agencies, industry, and academic partners to bring 

the best talent and ideas to address the technical 

challenges and improve technology transfer to the 

users of its research products. 

These new NextGen technologies will allow 

significant increases in capacity, efficiency, and flexibility of the National Airspace System (NAS). These 

advanced concepts and technologies will determine future roles and responsibilities for air traffic 

management functions performed by humans and automation in the aircraft and on the ground. The 

concepts will reduce delays caused by adverse weather by utilizing aircraft preferences that take into 

account weather information and forecast uncertainties across the spectrum of time horizons. The research 

will reduce noise, emissions, fuel consumption, and delays through automation, which will provide the 

most optimum aircraft flight paths and non-stop taxiing. In addition, system safety will be enhanced on 

the ground through automated aircraft-based runway and taxiway collision avoidance and in the air 

AERO-12 
AERONAUTICS

AIRSPACE SYSTEMS PROGRAM (ASP)

through automated signaling and recommendations for avoidance of conditions in which aircraft come too 

close to one another and compromise safety. This research will enable the seamless operation and 

utilization of the full potential capabilities of new aircraft types such as advanced rotorcraft, unmanned 

aerial systems (UAS), high-speed aircraft, and hybrid wing body. 

For more information, please see http://www.aeronautics.nasa.gov/programs_asp.htm. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

None. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

NASA developed a promising technology called Terminal-Tactical Separation Assured Flight 

Environment (T-TSAFE). T-TSAFE uses a trajectory algorithm based on available flight intent 

information that includes flight plans, area navigation departure routes, speed restrictions, and altitude 

clearances. Terminal airspace surrounds airports to a radius of about 40 miles. Air traffic controllers 

managing this airspace guide aircraft as they approach or depart and must maintain separation standards. 

Separation standards can change depending upon factors such as aircraft weight class, type of approach, 

visual versus instrument flight rules, and whether the aircraft is transitioning to or from en route airspace. 

T-TSAFE is able to predict the future positions of aircraft and check them for possible conflicts with 

significantly fewer false alerts. NASA continues to address additional T-TSAFE challenges to include 

traffic density, turning angle, and flight plan data availability. 

NASA also made significant achievements using the En Route Descent Advisor tool. This tool that 

provides air traffic controllers with speed and path changes that will allow efficient arrival profiles. En 

Route Descent Advisor’s innovation is its transformation of operations from existing procedures to ones 

that reduce flight time, fuel consumption, noise, and emissions, thus resulting in more environmentally 

friendly en route and terminal operations. This research supports NASA’s goal to increase efficiency and 

throughput of aircraft operations during the arrival phase of flight and is scheduled for completion in FY 

2012. The tool has been transitioned to the FAA. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In 2013, NASA will address research in separation assurance, safe and efficient surface operations at 

airports, traffic management, and airspace configurations en-route and in the terminal airspace 

environment. 

In the area of weather-integrated air traffic management research, NASA will develop and test the 

dynamic weather routes capability. The objective of the dynamic weather routes technology is to provide 

a tool to identify aircraft and routes that will save time, fuel and distance under severe weather conditions. 

This research will extend voice-based automation to incorporate data link communication between the 

aircraft and the ground-based controller for equipped aircraft and automation at the sector controller 

AERO-13 
AERONAUTICS

AIRSPACE SYSTEMS PROGRAM (ASP)

stations. With data communication capability, more precise routes can be created and exchanged between 

air and ground, thereby increasing efficiency. The goal is to streamline the coordination between airlines 

and controllers required to implement dynamic weather routes and thereby achieve greater savings for 

airspace users and reduced workload for air traffic controllers. Additional goals are to determine how best 

to identify, evaluate, and implement dynamic weather routes for multiple flights simultaneously. 

Airport surface operations work in 2013 will include conducting human-in-the-loop simulations for 

scheduling the movement of aircraft from gates, taxiways, and runways and assuring conformance to 

those scheduled movements. Initial surface movement concepts and algorithms have gone through a 

series of simulations of increasing complexity. In 2013 NASA will consider additional capabilities such 

as a longer surface movement planning horizon (up to one hour), and technologies that target reduced 

surface congestion and increased operational efficiencies. 

Also in 2013, NASA will perform a series of integrated human-in-the-loop simulations, and will complete 

a number of development activities in support of the first Air Traffic Management Technology 

Demonstration (ATD) to be completed in 2015. The demonstration will incorporate Automatic Dependent 

Surveillance-Broadcast flight deck technology and investigate the full benefit of this technology in the 

NextGen operational environment. Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast is a flight deck based 

surveillance technology for tracking aircraft position. Ultimately, this technology will operationally 

demonstrate an integrated set of NASA technologies for planning and executing efficient arrival 

operations in the terminal environment of a high-density airport utilizing NextGen capabilities. The 

NASA technologies to be demonstrated are: advanced arrival scheduling (for planning), flight-deck 

interval management (for airborne spacing), and controller-managed spacing (for ground-based spacing). 

The human-in-the-loop simulations in 2013 will develop and validate the requirements and procedures to 

ensure the safe and efficient operation of the integrated air- and ground-based technologies for the 

demonstration. In addition, NASA algorithms and technologies will be integrated into prototype 

controller and pilot tools, including a version of the FAA’s Traffic Management Advisor, and flight-deck 

avionics systems. NASA is developing significant FAA and industry partnerships for this effort. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $93.3 million. This represents a $0.5 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($92.7 million). This increase reflects an adjustment in labor pricing, not program content. The budget 

request includes: 

• $55.6 million for NextGen - Concepts and Technology Development; and 

• $37.6 million for NextGen - Systems Analysis, Integration, and Evaluation. 

AERO-14 
AERONAUTICS

AIRSPACE SYSTEMS PROGRAM (ASP)

Projects 

NEXTGEN CONCEPTS AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

One goal of ASP is to identify the optimal allocation of automation technologies for use in the NextGen. 

These technologies can improve the efficiency of all stages of air travel, from gate to gate. Researchers 

are developing advances in the science and applications of flight trajectories while taking into account 

weather and forecast uncertainties across the entire flight path. The program also conducts research into 

efficient ways to dynamically modify flight paths in real-time to allow for the constantly changing 

environment within NAS. Throughout the development of these new technologies, the human interface 

must be addressed, with the goal of making the operations as effective and safe as possible. To be 

successful, the program must develop technologies that achieve the maximum possible productivity out of 

the entire airspace system, including the use of gates, taxiways, runways, terminal and en route airspace, 

and other airport services. 

NEXTGEN SYSTEMS ANALYSIS, INTEGRATION, AND EVALUATION

Another key to the success of ASP is to ensure the relevance of its research. It does this through systems 

analysis. This analysis allows researchers to formulate models of the systems and use them to understand 

the impact and assess the benefits to NAS on areas of research being done within the program. Systems 

analysis also assists in the identification of other potential areas of NAS improvement and needed 

research. One of the challenges to achieving NextGen is the difficulty of introducing new concepts into a 

complex NAS. ASP research verifies the relevance of its research and implications when included in a 

complex system by investigating not only the benefits achievable by single concepts, but takes this 

research one step further to study the implications and improvements achievable when multiple new 

concepts are integrated into the NAS. These investigations mature in concept and fidelity from fast time 

modeling and simulation through human-in-the-loop simulations and, for the most promising areas of 

research, to demonstrations using field trials. These most promising areas are those that enable increases 

in capacity and efficiency while maintaining safety and environmental conditions. Relevance and nearterm benefits are achieved throughout the maturing process as interim results, tools and concepts are 

provided to the program’s stakeholders for near term cost savings in industry and NAS improvements 

implemented by other Government agencies. 

AERO-15 
AERONAUTICS

AIRSPACE SYSTEMS PROGRAM (ASP)

Program Schedule 

Conduct simulation of 

strategic and tactical flow 

planning under weather 

conditions 

FY 2013

Complete development of 

ATD-1 prototype 

operational 

hardware/software for fuel 

efficient arrivals in dense 

terminal environments

FY 2013

Conduct high-fidelity, 

integrated simulations of 

automated ATD-1 

technologies for fuel 

efficient arrivals in dense 

terminal environments

FY 2014

Develop integrated 

arrival/departure/surface 

operations technologies

FY 2014

Complete report on roles 

for human, aircraft and 

ground automation for 

separation assurance

FY 2014

Conduct field 

demonstrations at a 

representative airport of 

operational ATD-1 

technologies for fuel 

efficient arrivals in dense 

terminal environments

FY 2015

Program Management & Commitments 

The ARMD Associate Administrator has oversight responsibility for the program. The program director 

oversees program portfolio formulation, implementation, evaluation, and integration of results with other 

ARMD or NASA programs. 

Project Element Provider

NextGen Concepts 

and Technology 

Development

Provider: ARC, LARC

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: ARC, LARC

Cost Share: FAA, JPDO, Boeing, General Electric, 

American Airlines, United Airlines, Rockwell Collins

NextGen Systems 

Analysis, 

Integration, and 

Evaluation

Provider: ARC, LARC

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: ARC, LARC

Cost Share: FAA, JPDO, Air Force Research Lab, 

Honeywell, General Electric

AERO-16 
AERONAUTICS

AIRSPACE SYSTEMS PROGRAM (ASP)

Acquisition Strategy 

ASP spans research and technology from foundational research to integrated system capabilities. This 

broad spectrum necessitates the use of a wide array of acquisition tools relevant to the appropriate work 

awarded externally through full and open competition. Teaming among large companies, small 

businesses, and universities is highly encouraged for all procurement actions. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

NASA’s aeronautics programs award multiple smaller contracts which are generally less than $5 million. 

They are widely distributed across academia and industry. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance Expert Review Nov-11 The 12-month review is a formal 

independent peer review. Experts from 

other Government agencies report on 

their assessment of technical and 

programmatic risk and/or program 

weaknesses. In the FY 2011 review, the 

independent review panel rated ASP as 

"Excellent/Very Good" overall.

Nov-12

AERO-17 
AERONAUTICS

FUNDAMENTAL AERONAUTICS (FA)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 206.3 186.3 168.7 171.3 173.3 175.3 177.1

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -17.6

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -9.4%

• 

• 

• 

Artist’s rendering of advanced future air vehicles enabled by 

Fundamental Aeronautics research and technologies.

To meet aviation’s future needs, the FA 

program develops the knowledge, 

technologies, tools, and concepts for new 

aircraft that will fly faster, cleaner, and quieter, 

and use fuel far more efficiently as the Nation 

transitions to a more modernized air 

transportation system. NASA’s research 

impacts a wide spectrum of flight speeds from 

subsonic flight to very high speed flight. This 

program conducts research and development 

that has the ability to change the aviation 

system for the benefit of the public, including: 

Dramatically reduced aircraft noise 

and emissions; 

Dramatically improved fuel efficiency 

of a wide variety of future air 

vehicles; and 

Increased mobility and air travel 

flexibility even as NAS grows more 

crowded. 

The FA Program conducts research on vehicle technologies that will enable new generations of advanced 

rotorcraft, advanced transport aircraft, and very high speed vehicles that can travel significantly faster 

than the speed of sound. In addition to providing to these benefits, research in the FA Program is 

coordinated with DoD on projects that are mutually beneficial to NASA and National security. 

Ultimately, FA Program research enables a future in which a variety of advanced air vehicles improve the 

flexibility, efficiency, and environmental impacts of the air transportation system. 

For more information, see http://www.aeronautics.nasa.gov/fap. 

AERO-18 
AERONAUTICS

FUNDAMENTAL AERONAUTICS (FA)

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA will restructure the content of the FA program to facilitate research on targeted 

advanced vehicle and technology capabilities that would enable eventual introduction of completely new 

vehicle types and capabilities as described above. This restructuring process will also include the support 

of research efforts for important, cross-cutting capabilities that benefit a wide variety of air vehicles. 

NASA is combining hypersonic and supersonic research into a single project to focus on fundamental 

research for high-speed flight. Responsibility for fundamental research on entry, decent, and landing 

technologies will be transferred to Space Technology to increase synergy with the Agency's exploration 

and science missions. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA confirmed the accuracy of its second-generation aircraft system analysis tool. This 

tool enables design of aircraft that break the mold from current configurations and ways of thinking. This 

tool allows designers to conceive advanced, unconventional aircraft configurations and evaluate 

performance with a higher degree of confidence than ever before. Accuracy was confirmed by 

developing analytical aircraft performance predictions for both conventional and unconventional 

configurations (ones that are not a tube-and-wing shape) and then confirming the accuracy of these 

predictions against publically available data and/or other independent data sources. These advanced 

concepts and technologies will allow NASA aircraft to realize significant improvements in performance. 

NASA also demonstrated advances in computational modeling for understanding and designing 

crashworthy rotorcraft and for predicting rotor hover performance for tiltrotors. Additionally, NASA 

acquired noise data for helicopters in complex flight patterns, discovered new ways to reduce 

transmission gear weight, and made significant investment in the capability to test large, advanced highspeed rotor concepts. Air travel needs a combination of advances like these to enable the safer, quieter 

and more efficient rotorcraft vehicles that can carry a larger percentage of passengers and cargo in the 

future. 

Using wind tunnel tests NASA verified advanced supersonic aircraft models that produce significantly 

less sonic boom. These aircraft concepts were designed using NASA-developed computer-based tools for 

predicting aircraft shape and performance. These tools allow designers to accurately and quickly assess 

supersonic aircraft shapes and other key attributes of successful supersonic aircraft flight such as aircraft 

efficiency and control. 

NASA also completed significant testing of the changing shape of a hypersonic engine inlet model as 

airspeed increased to Mach 4. The test results and the associated data analysis, as well as propulsion 

prediction and design tool developments, establish key knowledge for future application of turbine-based 

combined cycle engines for hypersonic vehicles. This culminates several years of wind tunnel combined 

cycle engine inlet model design and build, small-scale inlet testing, inlet performance tool development, 

and experimental data analysis. 

AERO-19 
AERONAUTICS

FUNDAMENTAL AERONAUTICS (FA)

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, the FA program will continue to push the boundaries for advanced air vehicle design and 

performance. These advanced high-efficiency, environmentally-friendly vehicles will be enabled by 

concepts, technologies, tools, and knowledge. 

In the fixed wing research area, NASA will conduct a flight test in which gas and soot emissions from the 

use of hydro-treated renewable jet fuel will be measured. This data, taken with the aircraft in flight, will 

help establish this fuel as a potentially carbon dioxide neutral aviation fuel. NASA will also build a 

coupled engine inlet and fan that is capable of high performance and operability while being part of an 

embedded engine system (engines buried within the aircraft fuselage) that is not found in today’s 

commercial aircraft, which could lead to new designs with significant improvements in performance. 

In the rotary wing research area, NASA will explore the viability of widely variable speed transmissions 

using a new variable-speed transmission test facility at GRC. This widely-variable speed transmission 

capability enables high-speed, efficient rotorcraft operations. NASA will also test active flow control to 

reduce the drag of the rotorcraft fuselage drag so that advanced rotorcraft will use significantly less fuel. 

Prior testing indicated savings of up to 25 percent, and testing in 2013 will continue to explore the 

benefits of this technology. 

In the high-speed research area, NASA will take it supersonic aircraft models to the next level by adding 

to the low boom aircraft simulation capability, an enhanced modeling and prediction of the effects of 

engine inlet and exhaust flows. This capability is needed to realize practical overland supersonic flight. 

Research will also be conducted to further explore concepts for hypersonic airbreathing flight. 

Aeronautical sciences research includes the initiation of an effort aimed at developing new tools for 

predicting the important details of the airflow around aircraft shapes. Such tools are critical for accurately 

predicting the performance of new air vehicles, including those that may bear little or no resemblance to 

current vehicles and design experience. In addition, research will advance the capabilities and use of 

ceramic matrix composites to push the envelope on the material’s ability to withstand high temperatures, 

while being strong and light-weight, which allows for the design of propulsion systems that are more 

efficient and effective. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $168.7 million. This represents a $17.6 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($186.3 million). This change includes labor and programmatic adjustments. 

The budget request includes: 

• $77.9 million for Fixed Wing; 

$24.1 million for Rotary Wing; 

$34.4 million for High-Speed; and 

$32.3 million for Aeronautical Sciences. 

• 

• 

• 

AERO-20 
AERONAUTICS

FUNDAMENTAL AERONAUTICS (FA)

NASA will combine hypersonic and supersonic research into a single project to focus on fundamental 

research for high-speed flight. Research for entry, descent, and landing (EDL), required for NASA’s 

future exploration and planetary science missions, will be transferred to NASA’s Space Technology 

program to increase synergy with Agency’s exploration and science missions. These reductions and 

realignment will enable NASA to focus on higher-priority research to improve the safety and minimize 

the environmental impacts of current and future aircraft and air traffic management systems. 

Projects 

FIXED WING

Fixed wing research includes exploring and developing tools, technologies, and concepts for vastly 

improved energy efficiency and environmental compatibility necessary for the sustained growth of 

commercial aviation vital to the U.S. economy and quality of life. The objective is to develop concepts 

and technologies for dramatic improvements in the noise, emissions, and performance of transport 

aircraft. The resulting scientific knowledge, in the form of experiments, data, calculations, and analyses, 

is critical for conceiving and designing future generations of transport aircraft. Fixed wing research 

enables future generations of transport aircraft, with an eye towards "N+3," targeting vehicles three 

generations beyond current state-of-the-art aircraft by 2030. It is the fundamental research in the near 

term that will prime the technology pipeline enabling continued U.S. leadership, competitiveness, and 

jobs in the long term. Additionally, much of the scientific knowledge, technologies and concepts 

necessary to enable these longer-term vehicles may have benefit to aviation much sooner. 

ROTARY WING

Rotary wing research includes exploring and developing tools, technologies and knowledge to enable 

radical improvements in rotary wing vehicles that can greatly enhance the air transportation system. The 

research efforts advance technologies that increase rotorcraft speed, range and payload, and decrease 

noise, vibration and emissions. This research will enable improved computer-based prediction methods 

and technologies for designing future high-speed, efficient rotorcraft of various sizes and configurations 

that will be viable as commercial vehicles operating in NAS. 

HIGH-SPEED

High-speed vehicle research includes developing advanced computer-based prediction methods for 

supersonic aircraft shape and performance and developing technologies that will aim to eliminate today’s 

technical barriers preventing practical, commercial supersonic flight. These barriers include sonic boom, 

supersonic aircraft fuel efficiency, prediction of vehicle control, operation and performance, and the 

ability to design future vehicles in an integrated, multidisciplinary manner. The high-speed research also 

AERO-21 
AERONAUTICS

FUNDAMENTAL AERONAUTICS (FA)

includes expansion of foundational knowledge necessary for pushing the capabilities for controlled, airbreathing hypersonic flight. 

AERONAUTICAL SCIENCES

In FY 2013, Aeronautical Sciences will start to develop computer-based tools and models as well as 

scientific knowledge that will lead to significant advances in our ability to understand and predict flight 

performance for a wide variety of air vehicles. Examples of this research include the development of new 

computational tools that are used to predict the flow around vehicles. Another area of research that is 

pervasive across a number of vehicle types is improving the understanding and development of new types 

of strong and lightweight materials that are important for aviation. 

Program Schedule 

Alternative Fuel Emission 

and Contrail Flight 

Experiment

FY 2013

Develop and validate a 

multi-fidelity toolset to 

assess the noise 

characteristics of future 

aircraft

FY 2013

Complete fabrication of 

new variable speed 

transmission facility and 

test two concepts

FY 2013

Tiltrotor test rig checkout 

testing

FY 2013

Develop life prediction 

models for CMC materials 

enabling design of 

lightweight materials

FY 2014

Characterize gaseous 

and particulate

emissions

of alternative 

renewable jet fuel

FY 2014

Validate sonic boom 

model for general 

structures

FY 2014

AERO-22 
AERONAUTICS

FUNDAMENTAL AERONAUTICS (FA)

Program Management & Commitments 

The ARMD Associate Administrator has oversight responsibility for the program. The program director 

oversees program portfolio formulation, implementation, evaluation, and integration of results with other 

ARMD and NASA programs. 

Project/Element Provider

Fixed Wing Project Provider: ARC, DFRC, GRC, LaRC

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: ARC, DFRC, GRC, LaRC

Cost Share: U.S. Air Force, Boeing, Pratt & Whitney, 

Northrop Grumman, General Electric Aviation, United 

Technologies Corporation, Rolls Royce/LibertyWorks, 

FAA, ONERA, DLR, Lockheed Martin, Cessna, and U.S. 

Navy.

Rotary Wing Provider: ARC, GRC, LaRC

Project Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: ARC, GRC, LaRC

Cost Share: Boeing, United Technologies Corporation, U.S. 

Army, Center for Rotorcraft Innovation (CRI), Bell 

Helicopter, Sikorsky, Rolls Royce/LibertyWorks, FAA, 

ONERA, JAXA, DLR, and U.S. Navy.

High Speed Project Provider: ARC, DFRC, GRC, LaRC

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: ARC, DFRC, GRC, LaRC

Cost Share: Boeing, Pratt & Whitney, General Electric 

Aviation, Rolls Royce/LibertyWorks, Gulfstream 

Aerospace, United Technologies Corporation, U.S. Air 

Force, FAA, JAXA, Lockheed Martin, Aerion Corporation, 

and U.S. Navy.

Aeronautical Provider: ARC, DFRC, GRC, LaRC

Sciences Project Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: ARC, DFRC, GRC, LaRC

Cost Share: TBD

AERO-23 
AERONAUTICS

FUNDAMENTAL AERONAUTICS (FA)

Acquisition Strategy 

The FA program spans research and technology from fundamental research to integrated system-level 

capabilities. This broad spectrum necessitates the use of a wide array of acquisition tools relevant to the 

appropriate work awarded externally through full and open competition. Teaming among large 

companies, small businesses, and universities is highly encouraged for all procurement actions. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

NASA’s aeronautics programs award multiple smaller contracts which are generally less than $5 million. 

They are widely distributed across academia and industry. 

Independent Reviews 

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance Expert Review Nov-11 The 12-month review is a formal Nov-12

independent peer review of the program. 

Experts from other government agencies 

will report on their assessment of 

technical and programmatic risk and/or 

program weaknesses. NASA receives 

recommendations in a timely fashion 

and develops a response no later than 

six months after the review.

AERO-24 
AERONAUTICS

AERONAUTICS TEST PROGRAM (ATP)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 76.4 79.4 78.1 78.0 78.0 78.1 78.2

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -1.3

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -1.6%

This high speed open rotor test in the GRC 8x6 

wind tunnel, is a collaboration between the 

FAA’s CLEEN program, General Electric, and 

NASA’s ISRP. 

U.S. leadership in aerospace depends on ready access to 

technologically advanced, efficient, and affordable 

aeronautics test capabilities. These capabilities include 

major wind tunnels, propulsion test facilities, and flight 

test assets. The Federal Government owns the majority 

of these critical test capabilities in the United States, 

primarily through NASA and DoD. However, changes 

in the aerospace landscape, primarily the decrease in 

demand for testing over the last two decades, required 

an overarching strategy for the management of these 

National assets. In response, NASA established ATP as 

a two-pronged strategic initiative to: retain and invest in 

NASA aeronautics test capabilities considered 

strategically important to the Agency and the Nation, 

and establish a strong, high-level partnership to expand 

cooperation between NASA and DoD, facilitating the 

establishment of an integrated national strategy for the 

management of their respective facilities. The national 

view or coordinated approach is becoming more 

important, specifically in addressing the challenges 

NASA and the Nation are facing, in terms of managing and evolving this large critical set of capabilities 

in a changing and increasingly demanding environment. 

ATP facilities that comprise this set of critical capabilities are geographically dispersed across the United 

States. They are located at the ARC, DFRC, GRC, and LaRC. These ATP facilities cover the flight 

envelope from subsonic through hypersonic and include unique capabilities ranging from simulating icing 

environments to modeling extreme dynamic situations. ATP offers Government agencies, the U.S. 

aerospace industry, and academic institutions unmatched research and experimental opportunities that 

reflect four generations of accumulated aerospace skill and experience. These capabilities encompass 

every aspect of aerospace ground and flight testing and all associated engineering. 

ATP includes management and operation of low speed, transonic, high-speed wind tunnels and 

propulsion test facilities, along with an integrated set of flight test capabilities to support aircraft 

operations and maintenance required for flight research and other NASA missions. Included in the ATP 

flight test portfolio are the Western Aeronautical Test Range, support and test bed aircraft, flight 

simulation, and flight loads laboratories. 

AERO-25 
AERONAUTICS

AERONAUTICS TEST PROGRAM (ATP)

Three primary efforts support the long-term viability of ATP capabilities to ensure their efficiency and 

effectiveness for safe, reliable, and productive operations: 

• Operations support, which provides a portion of the fixed costs for test capabilities to ensure 

facility and staff availability and user price stability; 

Maintenance and upgrades, which sustain the operation and correct known deficiencies in safety, 

reliability, and productivity to enable the capabilities to meet near-term and future testing 

requirements; and 

Test technology research and development to investigate, design and implement new technologies 

that increase test capability, improve productivity and efficiency, and improve data quality. 

• 

• 

For more information, see http://www.aeronautics.nasa.gov/atp. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

None. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA successfully executed more than 9,000 hours of ground testing and approximately 

1,000 hours of flight testing for NASA and the Nation, achieving high overall customer satisfaction 

ratings and good facility availability and performance. NASA performed critical testing in the ARC 

Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel to validate design processes and predictions for a new low-boom, low-drag 

design for the ARMD FA program, Supersonics project. Flight testing was performed for the Supersonics 

project at DFRC to execute its Caustic Analysis and Measurement program to validate computer 

prediction tools to be used in design of future quiet supersonic aircraft. Several critical tests were 

performed for DoD in ATP facilities in FY 2011, including testing at the GRC Icing Research Tunnel for 

the Office of Naval Research, and at the LaRC 14x22 Subsonic Tunnel for the U.S. Army. 

In FY 2011, NASA continued to address critical shortfalls identified in the 2011 National Aeronautics 

Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation Infrastructure Plan through efforts directed to engine icing 

research at the Propulsion Simulation Laboratory at GRC and acoustic measurement at the 14 by 22 foot 

tunnel at LaRC. Investments in test technology included advanced facility electronic systems required to 

meet modern research testing requirements and targeted investments in wind tunnel force measurement 

systems. In FY 2011, NASA undertook a project to modify an existing G-III subsonic research aircraft 

testbed at DFRC, which will result in new experimental flight test capability to assess emerging flight 

technologies. One of the first intended uses of the aircraft is to enable NASA to explore and mature 

alternative unconventional aircraft designs with the potential to simultaneously meet research goals for 

community noise, fuel burn, and nitrogen oxides emissions. 

AERO-26 
AERONAUTICS

AERONAUTICS TEST PROGRAM (ATP)

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

NASA will address opportunities and challenges with respect to operating and sustaining the program's 

aging facilities, long-range forecasting of aeronautics test demand, and determining the best approach to 

investing in new capabilities across the portfolio. A major FY 2013 focus is reevaluating the project 

management structure upon which ATP was established in 2006. This includes an expanded national 

view, reaching across agency boundaries (primarily DoD and NASA). In this assessment ATP will 

evaluate novel and cost effective operations scenarios for capabilities within its portfolio; assess further 

opportunities to divest and consolidate testing across the national portfolio; evaluate a revised approach to 

pricing of the test capabilities; and identify needed upgrades and technology development to address 

emerging NASA and national aeronautics test requirements. 

NASA will also continue to implement its strategic plan, focusing efforts in the following four areas: 

• Providing management guidance and recommendations to the NASA ARMD Associate 

Administrator and Center Directors with respect to use of NASA aeronautics ground and flight 

test capabilities; 

Representing the strategic interest of NASA and the Nation with respect to stewardship of NASA 

ground and flight test capabilities; 

Providing direction to NASA test capability managers; and 

Ensuring that the right facility, aircraft, and workforce capabilities are available at the right time 

to meet the needs of NASA and the Nation. 

• 

• 

• 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $78.1 million. This represents a $1.3 million decrease from the FY 2012 estimate 

($79.4 million). This decrease reflects an adjustment in labor pricing, not program content. The budget 

request includes: 

• $51.7 million for Aero Ground Test Facilities; and 

• $26.4 million for Flight Operations and Test Infrastructure. 

AERO-27 
AERONAUTICS

AERONAUTICS TEST PROGRAM (ATP)

Projects 

FLIGHT OPERATIONS AND TEST INFRASTRUCTURE

The flight operations and test infrastructure consists of an integrated set of elements, including the 

Western Aeronautical Test Range, that support aircraft maintenance and operations; and the test bed 

aircraft that provide the resources required for research flight and mission support projects. ATP provides 

up to 100 percent of the facility fixed costs for these flight facilities to ensure facility and staff 

availability. 

The activity also includes the simulation and flight loads laboratories, a suite of ground-based laboratories 

that support research flight and mission operations. ATP provides up to 50 percent of the fixed costs for 

laboratories, ensuring facility and staff availability. The remainder is covered by usage fees. 

AERO GROUND TEST FACILITIES

The aeronautics ground test facilities are different classes of facilities including low speed, transonic, 

supersonic, and hypersonic wind tunnels. Three primary efforts support the long-term viability of the 

facilities and continually improve on the efficiency and effectiveness of safe, reliable, and productive 

operations. 

• Facility operations support, which provides a portion of the fixed costs for ground test facilities to 

ensure facility and staff availability and user price stability; 

Facility maintenance and upgrades, which provides for maintenance and the upgrades that correct 

known deficiencies in facility safety, reliability, and productivity and enables the facilities to 

meet near-term and future testing requirements. These activities result in improved facility 

productivity and reduced operational cost; and 

Facility test technology, which develops and implements new technologies that increase test 

capability, improve productivity and efficiency, and improve data quality. 

• 

• 

AERO-28 
AERONAUTICS

AERONAUTICS TEST PROGRAM (ATP)

Program Schedule 

Finalize Technical Review 

of testbed aircraft 

sustainment model to 

support ARMD Flight 

research programs

FY 2014

Execute Data & Control 

System Upgrades for the 

Glenn 8x6/9x15 and LaRC 

14x22 research facilities

FY 2014

Perform a comprehensive 

technical assessment of 

test section flow quality 

across the wind tunnel 

portfolio

FY 2015

Replace the Ames UPWT 

Steady State and Dynamic 

Data Systems

FY 2016

Program Management & Commitments 

The ARMD Associate Administrator has oversight responsibility for the program. The program director 

oversees program portfolio formulation, implementation, evaluation, and integration of results with other 

ARMD or NASA programs. 

Project Element Provider

Flight Operations 

and Test 

Infrastructure

Provider: DFRC, LaRC

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: DFRC, LaRC

Cost Share: DoD

Aero Ground Test 

Facilities

Provider: ARC, GRC, LaRC

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: ARC, GRC, LaRC

Cost Share: DoD

AERO-29 
AERONAUTICS

AERONAUTICS TEST PROGRAM (ATP)

Acquisition Strategy 

Acquisitions supporting ATP activity are performed at each of the test sites consistent with the Federal 

Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and the NASA FAR Supplement. Each Center is responsible for 

coordinating major acquisitions supporting ATP activities through the ATP Office as required by the ATP 

Director. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

NASA’s aeronautics programs award multiple smaller contracts which are generally less than $5 million. 

They are widely distributed across academia and industry. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Relevance Expert Panel Apr-10 Periodic reviews are carried out by the 

NAC and the U.S. users of ATP 

facilities. The last major community 

outreach meeting was held in April 2010 

with NASA, DoD, and U.S. aerospace 

industry users at the Arnold Engineering 

Development Center. The next meeting 

is planned for September 2012.

Sep-12

Annual Program 

Review 

Independent 

Review Panel

Nov-11 The primary purpose of the Annual 

Program Review is to provide an 

independent assessment by subject 

matter experts of the program's 

relevance, technical quality, and 

performance.

Nov-12

AERO-30 
AERONAUTICS

INTEGRATED SYSTEMS RESEARCH PROGRAM (ISRP)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

75.9

--

FY 2012

104.2

--

FY 2013

104.0

-0.2

FY 2014

102.3

FY 2015 FY 2016

101.2 100.1

FY 2017

98.8

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -0.2%

This graphic shows conceptual aircraft designs 

developed through studies in the Advanced Vehicle 

Concepts project. The studies analyzed potential 

configurations and technologies designed to 

simultaneously reduce noise, emissions and fuel burn.  

ISRP conducts integrated system-level research 

on promising concepts and technologies to 

explore, assess, and demonstrate their benefits in 

an operationally relevant environment. ISRP 

focuses specifically on maturing and integrating 

technologies into major vehicle and operations 

systems and subsystems for accelerated transition 

to practical application. The research in this 

program is coordinated with ongoing, long-term 

fundamental research within the other three 

research programs, as well as efforts of other 

government agencies. This helps to ensure the 

most promising research is transitioned between 

the programs and to avoid duplicative efforts. 

ISRP’s focus on system-level research 

differentiates it from other NASA aeronautics 

fundamental research programs, as its goals are to 

demonstrate integrated concepts and technologies 

to a level sufficient to reduce risk of 

implementation for stakeholders in the aviation 

community. 

For more information, see http://www.aeronautics.nasa.gov/programs_isrp.htm. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

None. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA completed several conceptual design studies that identified advanced vehicle concepts 

and associated technology suites capable of simultaneously reducing community noise, emissions, and 

AERO-31 
AERONAUTICS

INTEGRATED SYSTEMS RESEARCH PROGRAM (ISRP)

fuel burn. The studies defined preferred system concepts for advanced vehicles that can operate safely 

within NextGen. 

NASA also demonstrated: 

• Fuel injector designs concepts which achieved a significant reduction in nitrogen oxide 

emissions; 

Lower noise, high propulsive efficiency counter-rotating open rotor systems to enable significant 

fuel burn reduction; 

Low-weight, damage-tolerant stitched composite structural concept on a curved panel 

(representing a conventional-type aircraft fuselage structure) capable of being fabricated and 

supporting the required combined pressure and tension loading condition; and 

Low-weight, damage-tolerant joints in stitched composite structures with fewer fasteners capable 

of being fabricated and supporting the required pressure loading. 

• 

• 

• 

In FY 2011, NASA also worked with JPDO and associated government agencies tasked by OMB to 

deliver a research, development, and demonstration roadmap for UAS access to NAS. NASA also 

provided rationale for international support for a radio frequency spectrum allocation to be addressed at 

the 2012 World Radiocommunication Conference. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

FY 2013 will be the initial year of Phase 2 for the Environmentally Responsible Aviation project. Phase 1 

will culminate in FY 2012 with a detailed assessment of candidate technologies that were assessed from 

FY 2010 through FY 2012. Those technologies will be assessed relative to their potential benefit to meet 

project goals, as well as associated costs and risks. In addition to systems level assessments of the most 

promising technologies, certain technologies with potentially high benefits will continue to be matured 

during FY 2013. For example, in 2013, NASA will complete community noise assessments for advanced 

tube and wing, and hybrid wing body aircraft configurations and engines. NASA will seek to demonstrate 

synergistic acoustic integration between advanced engines and airframe concepts that will enable the goal 

of 42 decibel cumulative noise reduction below Stage 4 in the 2020 timeframe. In addition, NASA will 

complete a large scale advanced composite structure test and assessment. 

NASA will also continue to make progress on UAS integration through initial evaluations and risk 

reduction activities of the project’s operationally relevant environment. The relevant environment 

provides the infrastructure to enable the human-in- the-loop simulations and flight tests required to 

demonstrate integrated Separation Assurance, Human Systems Integration, and Communication efforts. 

In addition, NASA will conduct simulations that assess the performance of aircraft separation assurance 

methods as well as develop communication models for all classes of UAS. These validated 

communication models are required to provide confidence in simulation results. Finally, NASA will work 

to provide recommendations for risk-related data collection to support development of UAS regulations. 

AERO-32 
AERONAUTICS

INTEGRATED SYSTEMS RESEARCH PROGRAM (ISRP)

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $104.0 million. This represents a $0.2 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($104.2 million). This decrease reflects an adjustment in labor pricing, not program content. The 

budget request includes: 

• $73.5 million for Environmentally Responsible Aviation; and 

• $30.5 million for UAS Integration in the NAS. 

Projects 

ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE AVIATION

NASA is addressing vehicle related environmental concerns through system-level research and 

experiments of promising vehicle concepts and technologies that simultaneously reduce fuel burn, noise, 

and emissions. Research and development efforts are focused on understanding how advanced 

environmental technologies can best work in an integrated vehicle/aviation operations system. Through 

system-level analysis, promising advanced vehicle and propulsion concepts and technologies can be 

down-selected based on their potential benefit towards the stated national goals. Among the technologies 

to be explored are the following: 

• Advanced aircraft architectures that enable simultaneous reduction of noise, fuel burn, and 

environmentally harmful emissions; 

Advanced propulsion systems for low noise and reduced fuel burn; 

Lightweight, low drag wing and fuselage concepts for reduced fuel burn and noise; 

Fuel flexible, low nitrogen oxide combustor designs; and 

Optimized propulsion/airframe integration concepts for reduced fuel burn and noise. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

UAS INTEGRATION IN THE NAS

NASA also focuses on technologies to enable routine civil operations for UAS of all sizes and capabilities 

in NAS. Current Federal Aviation Regulations are built upon the condition of a pilot being in the aircraft; 

therefore few of those regulations specifically address UAS. To date, the primary user of UAS has been 

the military. Because of this, the technologies and procedures to enable seamless operation and 

integration of UAS in NAS need to be developed, validated, and employed by FAA through rule-making 

and policy development. 

Specifically, NASA is addressing technology development in several areas to reduce the technical barriers 

related to the safety and operational challenges. The technical barriers include: 

• Robust separation assurance algorithms; 

• Command and control, and air traffic control communication systems; 

AERO-33 
AERONAUTICS

INTEGRATED SYSTEMS RESEARCH PROGRAM (ISRP)

• Consistent standards to assess UAS ground control stations; and 

• Airworthiness requirements for the full range of UAS size and performance. 

NASA will validate data and technology through a series of high-fidelity human-in-the-loop simulations 

(i.e., where a human is part of the simulation and influences the outcome) and flight tests conducted in a 

relevant environment. Integrated test and evaluation will be conducted focusing on four technical 

challenges: separation assurance, communications, human systems integration, and certification. The 

project deliverables will help key decision makers in government and industry make informed decisions, 

leading towards routine UAS access. 

Program Schedule 

ERA Phase 2 KDP

FY 2012

UAS in the NAS Phase 2 

KDP

FY 2013

Complete design of scaled 

integrated UHB fan 

concept for ground and 

flight demonstration

FY 2013

Conduct an HITL 

test demonstrating 

seperation assurance, 

human systems integration 

and communications

FY 2013

Complete engine and 

aircraft integration systems 

analysis for UHB engine 

concept

FY 2014

Conduct flight evaulations 

of new UAS concepts 

utilizing multiple aircraft

FY 2014

Assessment of vehicle 

concepts with appropriate 

technology suites to 

simultaneously achieve 

ERA goals

FY 2015

Flight and simulation 

evaluation of integrated 

technologies and concepts 

addressing critical research 

questions associated with 

routine UAS access into 

the NAS

FY 2016

AERO-34 
AERONAUTICS

INTEGRATED SYSTEMS RESEARCH PROGRAM (ISRP)

Program Management & Commitments 

The ARMD Associate Administrator has oversight responsibility for the program. The program director 

oversees program portfolio formulation, implementation, evaluation, and integration of results with other 

ARMD or NASA programs. 

Project Element Provider

Environmentally 

Responsible 

Aviation

Provider: ARC, DFRC, GRC, LaRC

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: ARC, DFRC, GRC, LaRC

Cost Share: Boeing, General Electric, Pratt & Whitney, Air 

Force Research Laboratory, FAA, Gulfstream, Goodrich, 

Rolls Royce Liberty Works

UAS Integration in 

the NAS

Provider: ARC, DFRC, GRC, LaRC

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: ARC, DFRC, GRC, LaRC

Cost Share: Rockwell Collins, FAA

Acquisition Strategy 

ISRP develops and further matures promising technologies to the integrated system level. This 

necessitates the use of a wide array of acquisition tools relevant to the appropriate work awarded 

externally through full and open competition. Teaming among large companies, small businesses, and 

universities is highly encouraged for all procurement actions. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

NASA’s aeronautics programs award multiple smaller contracts which are generally less than $5 million.

They are widely distributed across academia and industry. 

AERO-35 
AERONAUTICS

INTEGRATED SYSTEMS RESEARCH PROGRAM (ISRP)

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance Review Panel Nov-11 The 12-month review is a formal 

independent peer review. Experts from 

other government agencies report on 

their assessment of technical and 

programmatic risk and/or program 

weaknesses. 

Nov-12

AERO-36 
AERONAUTICS

AERONAUTICS STRATEGY AND MANAGEMENT

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 20.4 26.7 26.4 26.2 25.7 25.0 24.4

Change From FY 2012 Est. ($M) -- -- -0.3

Percent Change From FY 2012Est. -- -- -1.1%

Note: In FY 2011, ASM activities were conducted in other programs.

While a NASA Aeronautics Scholarship recipient and 

summer intern at LaRC, Heather Arneson worked to 

develop algorithms to better control the flow of aircraft 

through airspace. She now continues that research as a fulltime NASA employee. 

The Aeronautics Strategy and Management 

program provides research and programmatic 

support that benefits each of the other five 

programs. The program efficiently manages 

directorate functions including: Innovative 

Concepts for Aviation, Education and 

Outreach, and Cross Program Operations. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

None. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA established an Aeronautics 

Seedling Fund to provide NASA civil servants 

an opportunity to conduct research into early 

stage innovative ideas that meet aeronautics 

challenges. The seedling fund announcement 

received over 300 notices of intent from across the Agency. NASA selected the best 20 proposals and 

began research efforts. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, Innovative Concepts for Aviation research plans will be fully implemented to include the 

Seedling Fund along with external prizes and challenges that are set to begin in FY 2012. In addition to 

new research ideas, successful research will be incorporated into existing programs, continued in 

demonstrations, or expanded into new fields of study. 

AERO-37 
AERONAUTICS

AERONAUTICS STRATEGY AND MANAGEMENT

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $26.4 million. This represents a $0.3 million decrease from the FY 2012 estimate 

($26.7 million). This decrease reflects an adjustment in labor pricing, not program content. The budget 

request includes: 

• $10.0 million for Innovative Concepts for Aviation; 

$5.4 million for Education and Outreach; and 

$11.0 million for Cross Program Operations. 

• 

• 

Projects 

INNOVATIVE CONCEPTS FOR AVIATION

Innovative Concepts for Aviation explores novel concepts and processes with the potential to create new 

capabilities in aeronautics research. The program’s goal is to mature the new concepts and incorporate 

them into the existing research programs or launch new avenues of aeronautics research. To meet this 

goal, NASA will target both internal and external aeronautics communities through solicitations, 

challenges, and prizes. 

EDUCATION AND OUTREACH

Education and Outreach objectives include developing the future NASA Aeronautics workforce, 

contributing to Aeronautics research goals and objectives, and supporting Agency education and 

communication goals. Aeronautics education activities provide scholarships, internships, design 

competitions, exhibits and hands-on activities for formal and informal educators that engage students and 

teachers at all levels of learning. Outreach through exhibits, presentations, social media events and online 

interactives inform large numbers of the general public and other audiences of how they benefit from 

Aeronautics' work to improve the Nation's air transportation system. 

AERO-38 
AERONAUTICS

AERONAUTICS STRATEGY AND MANAGEMENT

Program Schedule 

Because this is a support program, NASA has not planned any significant technical milestones. 

Release solutions for 

seedling awards

FY 2013

Make seedling fund 

awards

FY 2013

Conduct internal 

reviews

FY 2013 

Release solutions for 

seedling awards

FY 2014

Make seedling fund 

awards

FY 2014

Conduct internal 

reviews

FY 2014

Program Management & Commitments 

The ARMD Associate Administrator has oversight responsibility for the program. 

Acquisition Strategy 

The research conducted through Innovative Concepts for Aviation activities will use a wide array of 

acquisition tools relevant to the research objectives including external solicitations through full and open 

competitions. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

NASA’s aeronautics programs award multiple smaller contracts which are generally less than $5 million. 

They are widely distributed across academia and industry. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Because this is a support program, NASA has not scheduled any independent reviews at this time. 

However, an annual internal review for Innovative Concepts for Aviation has been established. 

AERO-39 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 456.3 573.7 699.0 699.0 699.0 699.0 699.0

SBIR and STTR 164.7 166.7 173.7 181.9 187.2 195.3 206.0

Partnerships Dev & Strategic Integration 26.6 29.5 29.5 29.5 29.5 29.5 29.5

Crosscutting Space Tech Development 120.4 187.7 293.8 272.1 266.6 259.7 247.0

Exploration Technology Development 144.6 189.9 202.0 215.5 215.7 214.5 216.5

SPACE TECHNOLOGY OVERVIEW .............................. TECH- 2 

SBIR AND STTR ................................................... TECH- 8 

PARTNERSHIPS AND STRATEGIC INTEGRATION ................. TECH- 16 

CROSSCUTTING SPACE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT ....... TECH- 22 

EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT .................... TECH- 32 

TECH-1 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

SBIR and STTR

456.3

164.7

573.7

166.7

699.0

173.7

699.0

181.9

699.0

187.2

699.0

195.3

699.0

206.0

Partnerships Dev & Strategic Integration 26.6 29.5 29.5 29.5 29.5 29.5 29.5

Crosscutting Space Tech Development 120.4 187.7 293.8 272.1 266.6 259.7 247.0

Exploration Technology Development 144.6 189.9 202.0 215.5 215.7 214.5 216.5

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 125.3

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 21.8%

Note: The FY 2011 and FY 2012 figures are adjusted to reflect comparable Exploration Technology content from the Exploration Account,

comparable Space Technology Program content from the Space Operation account, and the movement of the Innovative Partnerships Program 

from the Cross Agency Support account, within the Space Technology account. 

Robonaut 2 waving to Space Shuttle Discovery, while 

its twin is en route to the ISS. In 2011, Robonaut 

became the first humanoid robot in space. 

A critical component to advancing our future in 

space is the rapid development and infusion of new 

space technologies that can enable new missions for 

NASA, benefit the overall aerospace industry and 

other government agencies. The recently released, 

National Research Council Report, NASA Space 

Technology Roadmaps and Priorities noted “Future 

U.S. leadership in space requires a foundation of 

sustained technology advances that can enable the 

development of more capable, reliable, and lowercost spacecraft and launch vehicles to achieve space 

program goals. A strong advanced technology 

development foundation is needed also to enhance 

technology readiness of new missions, mitigate their 

technological risks, improve the quality of cost 

estimates, and thereby contribute to better overall 

mission cost management...” 

Space Technology investments enable future human 

and scientific exploration of near-Earth asteroids, the 

Moon, and Mars, just as current and past mission successes were supported by previous technology 

investments. This budget request funds the development of pioneering technologies that will increase our 

nation's capability to operate in space and enable deep space exploration. Significant progress in 

technology areas such as space power systems, entry, descent, and landing systems, propulsion, radiation 

protection, and cryogenic fluid handling are essential for human exploration beyond low Earth orbit. By 

investing in high-payoff transformative technology, Space Technology will mature the capabilities 

required for NASA’s future, provide new capabilities, and lower the cost for other government agencies 

and private industry. Developing these solutions will stimulate the growth of the Nation’s innovation 

economy, creating high-tech jobs. 

TECH-2 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

The Office of the Chief Technologist (OCT) coordinates the Agency’s overall technology portfolio to 

identify development needs and reduce duplication. In managing Space Technology investments, NASA 

employs a portfolio approach that spans a range of discipline areas and technology readiness levels (TRL) 

from concept study to flight demonstration. By funding a mixture of early stage conceptual studies (TRL 

1-3), ground-based and laboratory testing aimed at demonstrating technical feasibility (TRL 3-5), and 

relevant environment flight demonstrations (TRL 5-7), Space Technology helps NASA attain a balance 

between mission-driven technology investments and the long-range, transformational technology and 

capability investments that are required to meet our Nation’s far-reaching goals. By coordinating 

technology programs within NASA, OCT facilitates integration of available and new technology into 

operational systems that support specific human-exploration missions, science missions, and aeronautics. 

OCT also engages the larger aerospace community including other Government agencies, and, where 

there are mutual interests, develops partnerships to efficiently develop breakthrough capabilities. OCT 

leads NASA’s efforts in transferring and commercializing technology to a wide range of users to ensure 

that the full value of these development efforts is realized. 

Space Technology development takes place within NASA Centers, in academia and industry, and through 

partnerships with other Government agencies and international partners. NASA also participates in 

national technology development initiatives such as the National Robotics Initiative to increase 

opportunities for collaborative technology development. Investments include both competitively awarded 

and strategically-guided activities to address long-term Agency technology priorities and technology gaps 

identified within the Agency’s space technology roadmaps. This roadmapping effort, initiated in late 2010 

and externally reviewed by the National Research Council (NRC), aids NASA in formulating a balanced, 

cross-agency, technology investment perspective by identifying technology needs and overlaps, which 

will better ensure infusion of technologies into future missions conducted by NASA, industry or other 

Government users. The NRC’s final report, released in February 2012, provides guidance for future 

competitive and guided technology investments. NASA is investing, at some level, in all 16 high priority 

research technologies referenced in the report. 

Investments in space technology stimulate the economy and contribute to the Nation's global 

competitiveness through the creation of new products and services, new business and industries, and highquality, sustainable jobs. Those same advanced technologies developed for space exploration and the 

aerospace industry also advance products and services available everyday to the public. Knowledge 

provided by weather and navigational spacecraft, efficiency improvements in ground and air 

transportation, supercomputers, solar- and wind-generated energy, battery and fuel cell energy storage, 

the cameras found in many of today’s cell phones, improved biomedical applications including advanced 

medical imaging and even more nutritious infant formula, as well as the protective gear that keeps our 

military, firefighters and police safe, have all benefitted from our nation’s investments in aerospace 

technology. According to the 2011 Aerospace Industries Association Year End Review, the U.S. 

aerospace industry experienced its eighth consecutive year of growth and maintained the largest trade 

surplus of any manufacturing industry. A technology-driven NASA will maintain the Nation's aerospace 

community as a global technological leader for many years to come. NASA innovation also serves as an 

inspiration for young people to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) 

education and career paths. 

Reaching our future exploration objectives will require these advanced technology and innovation 

commitments by NASA and the Nation. American technological leadership is vital to our national 

security, our economic prosperity and our global standing. The U.S. is as strong as it is today because of 

the technological investments made in earlier decades, because of the engineers, scientists and elected 

TECH-3 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

officials who had the wisdom and foresight to make the investments required for our country to emerge as 

a global technological leader. That commitment accelerated our economy with the creation of new 

industries, products and services that yielded lasting benefits. 

For more on Space Technology go to http://www.nasa.gov/offices/oct/home/index.html 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

There are no major changes to this organization from the FY 2012 estimate. The Space Technology 

account budget sees an increase from FY 2012 to support current phasing profiles of on-going highpriority Space Technology development efforts, and to support the congressionally mandated increases in 

the Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) 

programs. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In early 2011, the Space Shuttle Discovery delivered Robonaut to the ISS. Robonaut is the first humanoid 

robot in space. Its primary job is teaching engineers how dexterous robots behave in space, with the goal 

of venturing outside the station to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our spacewalkers.

NASA entered into an innovative partnership with the Colorado Association of Manufacturing and 

Technology which led to the creation of a joint NASA-Colorado Technology Acceleration program to 

drive space technology commercialization and contribute to regional economic growth. Colorado has 

leveraged this partnership and is in the process of creating a regional innovation cluster in aerospace and 

clean energy to take full advantage of the similar technology requirements of space exploration and 

renewable energy.

Guided by the draft technical area roadmaps, NASA made significant progress maturing a focused set of 

technologies across the range of the portfolio, from advanced concept studies to flight demonstration 

missions. Through the competitive award process, Space Technology selected 80 Space Technology 

Graduate Fellows, 30 NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts, over five hundred SBIR and STTR projects, 

seven new Game Changing Development projects, and three new Technology Demonstration missions. In 

addition, NASA made 25 new awards for the Flight Opportunities payloads and entered agreements with 

seven sub-orbital, reusable flight service providers. The NASA Center Innovation Fund initiated 181 

innovative research activities at the NASA Centers. The office has more than 1,000 project elements and 

activities underway that span key technical areas and all levels of technical maturity. 

In its first year, Space Technology engaged thousands of technologists and innovators to develop and test 

cutting-edge technologies distributed across the country. While the NRC conducted its review of the 

technology roadmaps, OCT worked with mission architecture teams to identify key technology areas 

requiring immediate investment. Using these internal, cross-Agency working groups and open 

competition, NASA identified nine technologies to receive priority funding based on their criticality in 

extending human presence beyond low Earth orbit and their ability to dramatically further scientific 

exploration of the solar system. These projects are: Laser Communications Relay Demonstration, 

Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer, Low Density Supersonic Decelerators, Composite Cryogenic 

TECH-4 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

Propellant Tanks, Robotic Satellite Servicing, Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerators, Deep 

Space Atomic Clock, Large-Scale Solar Sail, and Human Exploration Telerobotics/Human-Robotic 

Systems. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

Space Technology will move forward with the nine high-priority investments initiated in FY 2011. Each 

of these projects has major testing, demonstration, and/or launch milestones in FY 2013. Designed to 

deliver data rates that will enable new class of deep-space exploration missions, the Laser 

Communications Relay Demonstration project will begin ground validation activities of advanced laser 

communication systems. Enabling precise landing of higher-mass payloads to the surface of planets, the 

Low Density Supersonic Decelerators effort will complete three critical full-scale tests to demonstrate 

parachute and inflatable decelerator performance required prior to supersonic-speed flight demonstration. 

The Composite Cryogenic Propellant Tank project will design and build a five meter diameter composite 

cryogenic propellant tank that will yield lower mass and lower cost rocket propellant tanks. The 

Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer demonstration mission will conduct ground tests of the critical 

technologies required to enable long-term storage and handling of cryogenic fluids in space in preparation 

for a flight demonstration. While these projects will make visible individual steps, they are part of a 

broader portfolio of activities Space Technology will pursue in order to generate new technologies for use 

by NASA, other government agencies, and U.S. industry.

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $699 million. This represents a $124 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($575 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $173.7 million for SBIR and STTR programs, which encourage small business owners to provide 

technical innovations;

$29.5 million for Partnership Development and Strategic Integration to support technology 

transfer and commercialization, extending NASA’s development efforts toward meeting other 

national needs, and setting and overseeing short- and long-term technology strategies and 

approaches for the Agency;

$293.8 million for Crosscutting Space Technology Development (CSTD), which funds a 

diversified technology development portfolio that spans the TRL spectrum from concept study to 

flight demonstration, enabling revolutionary space capabilities; and

$202.0 million for Exploration Technology Development (ETD), which funds development of 

high priority technologies required for human exploration beyond low Earth orbit, prior to their 

integration into specific mission systems.

• 

• 

• 

TECH-5 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

Programs 

SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATIVE RESEARCH (SBIR) AND SMALL BUSINESS 

TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER (STTR) 

SBIR and STTR continue to support early-stage research and development performed by small businesses 

through competitively awarded contracts. These programs produce innovations for both Government and 

commercial applications. SBIR and STTR provide the high-technology small business sector with an 

opportunity to develop technology for NASA, and commercialize that technology in order to provide 

goods and services that address other national needs based on the products of NASA innovation. 

PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND STRATEGIC INTEGRATION

Partnership Development and Strategic Integration comprise key Agency responsibilities managed by 

OCT: technology partnerships, technology transfer and commercialization, and the coordination of 

NASA’s technology investments across the Agency through technology portfolio tracking and technology 

roadmapping. By providing coordination between Mission Directorates and Centers, and identifying 

collaboration opportunities with other government agencies and performing technology transfer, NASA 

can deliver forward-reaching technology solutions for future science and exploration missions, and help 

address significant national needs. 

CROSSCUTTING SPACE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT (CSTD) 

CSTD activities enable NASA to develop transformational, broadly applicable technologies and 

capabilities that are necessary for NASA’s future science and exploration missions and supportive of the 

space needs of other government agencies and the commercial space enterprise. NASA’s CSTD activities 

span from early-stage conceptual studies to flight demonstration and use a mix of competitive and 

strategically guided projects to attract a broad array of participants. CSTD employs different innovation 

and technology maturation strategies, including grants, broad area announcements, announcement of 

opportunities, and prize opportunities, to achieve its goals. CSTD includes Space Technology Research 

Grants, NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts, Centennial Challenges, Flight Opportunities, and Edison 

and non-exploration specific Game Changing Development and Technology Demonstration missions. 

EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT (ETD) 

ETD advances technologies required for humans to explore beyond low Earth orbit. The program 

leverages the existing technical strength of the NASA Centers and addresses known needs in support of 

future human exploration activities. Example projects include Composite Cryogenic Propellant Tanks, 

Solar Electric Propulsion, Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer, Human-Robotic Systems, and 

Human Exploration Telerobotics. NASA will continue space power generation and storage and in-space 

propulsion technology development efforts required to reduce risk for a future planned Solar Electric 

Propulsion Demonstration mission identified by HEOMD as a high-priority need. ETD technologies are 

higher risk investments that complement architecture and systems development efforts within Exploration 

by maturing breakthrough technology prior to systems integration. A modest level of competitive ETD 

TECH-6 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

projects augment and complement the guided efforts, providing the opportunity to develop the best ideas, 

innovations, approaches and processes for the future human space exploration efforts. 

TECH-7 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATIVE RESEARCH AND SMALL 

BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER (SBIR AND STTR)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 164.7 166.7 173.7 181.9 187.2 195.3 206.0

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 7.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 4.2%

As an example of a successful technology transfer, 

GATR (Ground Antenna Transmit and Receive) 

Technologies, of Huntsville, AL, licensed technology 

developed under a NASA SBIR (intended for an 

inflatable solar concentrator for power generation) 

from SRS Technologies and has provided additional 

product refinements leading to a ground-based 

satellite communications system. The company’s 

efforts were enhanced by a U.S. DoD award to 

mature the ground-based antenna system.

NASA’s SBIR and STTR programs fulfill a 

Congressional requirement to support early-stage 

research and development. They provide the small 

business sector with an opportunity to compete for 

funding to develop technology for NASA, and to 

commercialize that technology to spur economic 

growth. Research and technologies funded by 

competitively-awarded SBIR and STTR contracts 

have made important contributions to numerous 

NASA programs and projects. The Agency is 

actively working to increase the number of NASAfunded SBIR and STTR technologies used in 

NASA’s missions and projects. Some of NASA’s 

high-profile programs benefiting directly from SBIR 

technologies include the Next Generation Air 

Transportation System; smart sensors that assess 

launch vehicle structural health, three dimensional 

flash lidar technologies to assist with collision 

avoidance and navigation for space applications, and 

end-of-arm tooling on Mars surface rovers and 

landers. 

NASA issues annual program solicitations for the 

SBIR and STTR programs that set forth a substantial 

number of topic areas. Both the list and description 

of topics are sufficiently comprehensive to provide a wide range of opportunities for small business 

concerns to participate in NASA’s research and development programs. 

Phase I awards give small businesses the opportunity to establish the scientific, technical and commercial 

merit, and feasibility of the proposed innovation in fulfillment of NASA needs. Phase II awards focus on 

the development, demonstration, and delivery of the proposed innovation. The most promising Phase I 

projects are awarded Phase II contracts through a competitive selection based on scientific and technical 

merit, expected value to NASA, and commercial potential. Phase II Enhancement (II-E) is an incentive 

for cost share to extend the research and development efforts of the current Phase II contract. Phase III is 

the commercialization of innovative technologies, products and services resulting from a Phase II 

TECH-8 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATIVE RESEARCH AND SMALL 

BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER (SBIR AND STTR)

contract. This includes further development of technologies for transition into NASA programs, other 

Government agencies, or the private sector. Phase III contracts are funded from sources other than the 

SBIR and STTR programs and may be awarded without further competition. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

Congress reauthorized the SBIR and STTR programs in December 2011, increasing the required rate of 

investment for each program relative to Agency R&D beginning in FY 2012. Funding requirements have 

been implemented for FY 2012, and will be adjusted annually consistent with the schedule outlined in the 

law. NASA will be incorporating all other programmatic requirements within the next solicitation cycle. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $173.7 million. This represents a $6.9 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($166.8 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $149.6 million for SBIR, to provide technology development and infusion opportunities for small 

businesses; 

$19.4 million for STTR, to support research and development collaborations between small 

businesses and non-profit research institutions, such as universities; and 

$4.7 million for SBIR and STTR program support. 

• 

• 

Projects 

SBIR 

The SBIR program was established by Congress in 1982 and reauthorized in 2011 to increase research 

and development opportunities for small business concerns. The program stimulates U.S. technological 

innovation, employs small businesses to meet Federal research and development needs, increases private 

sector commercialization of innovations derived from Federal research and development, and encourages 

and facilitates participation by socially disadvantaged businesses. 

In FY 2013, the SBIR program is supported at a level of 2.7 percent of NASA’s extramural research and 

development budget. In FY 2013, the maximum value for an SBIR Phase I contract allowed by the recent 

reauthorization has been consistent to $150,000 for a period of performance of six months. For Phase II, 

the maximum total value of an SBIR award allowed by the recent reauthorization is $1,000,000 over a 24 

month period of performance. The number and size of awards are based on the quality of proposals 

received. 

TECH-9 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATIVE RESEARCH AND SMALL 

BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER (SBIR AND STTR)

Achievements in FY 2011 

In FY 2011, the SBIR program awarded 450 Phase I and 215 Phase II contracts to small business firms. 

In addition, Phase IIE options were executed with 24 firms who have validated non-SBIR matching 

funds. One promising technology in the FY 2011 selection is quantifying and treating osteoporosis 

without using ionizing radiation. Another is the world’s largest deformable mirror that, once installed on 

Mt. Palomar’s 200 inch telescope, will be capable of generating images that are twice as sharp as those 

available from the Hubble Space Telescope. Yet another is a quiet jet engine airbrake that will reduce 

noise along the flight path (on the ground) on approach for various airplane architectures. 

Key Achievements Planned for FY 2013 

In FY 2013, SBIR will continue with a solicitation with topics addressing the identified needs of NASA’s 

mission directorates, the Space Technology roadmaps, and the National Aeronautics Research and 

Development Plan. The SBIR budget will support awards associated with the solicitation released in 

summer 2012. 

STTR 

The STTR program, established by Congress in 1992, awards contracts to small business concerns for 

cooperative research and development with a non-profit research institution, like a university. NASA’s 

STTR program facilitates transfer of technology developed by a research institution through the 

entrepreneurship of a small business, resulting in technology to meet NASA’s core competency needs in 

support of its mission programs. Modeled after the SBIR program, STTR is funded separately with 

funding set at 0.35 percent of the NASA extramural research and development budget. In FY 2013, the 

maximum value for an STTR Phase I contract allowed by the recent reauthorization has been increased to 

$150,000 for a period of performance of twelve months. For Phase II, the maximum total value of an 

STTR award allowed by the recent reauthorization has been increased to $1,000,000 over a 24 month 

period of performance. The number and size of awards are based on the quality of proposals received. 

Achievements in FY 2011 

In FY 2011, STTR awarded 45 Phase I contracts and 27 Phase II contracts. Promising technologies in this 

year’s selection include: advances in autonomous robot navigation in unstructured terrain; small probe 

entry descent and landing systems; and use of magnesium as the propellant for a Hall Effect thruster as an 

innovative approach to develop a high specific impulse, high efficiency propulsion system. 

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BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER (SBIR AND STTR)

Key Achievements Planned for FY 2013 

In FY 2013, the STTR program will continue addressing NASA’s core competencies through a 

solicitation that is aligned with Space Technology roadmaps and the National Aeronautics Research and 

Development Plan. The STTR budget will support awards associated with the solicitation released in 

summer 2012. 

Program Schedule 

SBIR and STTR solicitation and award schedule is below. 

Topics Requested from 

NASA Mission 

Directorates and Centers

02/2012

Final Topics and Subtopics 

Reviewed and Concurred

on by Mission 

Directorates and Centers 

03 - 04/2012

Solicitation Opens 

07/2012

Soliciation Closes 

09/2012

NASA Mission 

Directorate Evaluation 

Period 10 -11/2012

Phase 1 Awards Selected 

(dependent upon 

Approprations status ) 

11 - 12/2012

Phase 2 and 2E Awards 

selected

01/2013

Program Management & Commitments 

The program executive for SBIR and STTR is located at NASA Headquarters and is responsible for the 

top-level programmatic oversight and management of SBIR and STTR. SBIR Phase II Enhancement (2-

E) matches cost share funding with SBIR and STTR up to $250,000 of non-SBIR and non-STTR 

investment(s) from a NASA project, NASA contractor, or third party commercial investor to extend an 

existing Phase II project to perform additional research. 

Project/Element Provider

SBIR and STTR 

Program 

Management

Provider: N/A

Project Management: NASA Headquarters

NASA Center: ARC; All NASA Centers play 

management and implementing role.

Cost Share: See explanation above 

a project 

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Acquisition Strategy 

SBIR and STTR program management, in conjunction with NASA Center Chief Technologists and a 

mission directorate steering council, work collaboratively during the SBIR and STTR acquisition process 

(from topic development and proposal review and ranking) in support of final selection. Mission 

directorate and NASA Center personnel interact with SBIR and STTR award winners to maximize 

alignment and infusion of the SBIR and STTR products into NASA’s future missions and systems. 

Topics and subtopics are written to address NASA’s core competencies and are aligned with Space 

Technology roadmaps. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

SBIR Phase II Enhancement (2-E) matches cost share funding with SBIR and STTR funds up to $250,000 

of non-SBIR and non-STTR investment(s) from a NASA project, NASA contractor, or third party 

commercial investor to extend an existing Phase II project to perform additional research. NASA selected 

24 Phase IIE proposals that address critical research and technology needs for Agency programs and 

projects for final contract negotiations. 

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BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER (SBIR AND STTR)

Element Vendor/Provider Location

SBIR Phase IIE Emergent Space Technologies, Inc. Greenbelt, MD

Aries Design Automation, LLC Chicago, IL

Acellent Technologies, Inc. Sunnyvale, CA

Picometrix, LLC Ann Arbor, MI

Aspen Aerogels, Inc. Northborough, MA

Energy Plus Ltd. Laguna Hills, CA

Mechanical Solutions, Inc. Whippany, NJ

Lawrie Technology, Inc. Girard, PA

Composite Technology Development, 

Inc.

Lafayette, CO

WEVOICE, Inc. Bridgewater, NJ

The DNA Medicine Institute Cambridge, MA

Intelligent Automation, Inc. Cincinnati, OH

Creare, Inc. Hanover, NH

Ashwin-Ushas Corp, Inc. Holmdel, NJ

Advanced Optical Systems, Inc. Huntsville, AL

Surface Optics Corporation San Diego, CA

Vista Photonics, Inc Santa Fe ,NM

Advanced Scientific Concepts, Inc. Santa Barbara, CA

Honeybee Robotics Ltd. (2 awards) New York, NY

Luna Innovations Incorporated Blacksburg , VA

Optical Scientific, Inc. Gaithersburg, MD

Plasma Processes, LLC. Huntsville, AL

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance National 

Academies

Jan-12 Assessment of the SBIR program. 

Review is currently in Phase II of a twophase study. Phase II results are 

planned for completion in early FY 

2012. Phase I results were published in 

FY 2009

TBD

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BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER (SBIR AND STTR)

HISTORICAL PERFORMANCE

FY 2011 selections represented by size of company and geographic location. 

Who Participates in NASA SBIR?

0.00%

10.00%

20.00%

30.00%

40.00%

50.00%

60.00%

1 2-9 10-24 25-49 50-99 100-249 250-499

5.80%

50.74%

22.59%

10.37%

4.94% 4.94%

0.62%

1

Number of Employees

 Firms are typically small and new to the program

About 15-20 % are first-time Phase I awardees.

Small hi-tech firms from across the country. 





TECH-14 
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SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATIVE RESEARCH AND SMALL 

BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER (SBIR AND STTR)

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PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND STRATEGIC INTEGRATION

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 26.6 29.5 29.5 29.5 29.5 29.5 29.5

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 0.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 0.0%

A team of engineers at the Space Telescope Science 

Institute developed software to manage timeconsuming tasks for the Hubble Space Telescope, 

launched in 1990. The scheduling technology is now 

used in software that helps hospitals reclaim unused 

capacity. 

The Chief Technologist serves as the NASA 

Administrator’s principal advisor on matters 

concerning Agency-wide technology policy and 

programs. In this role, OCT helps NASA achieve a 

dual mandate: to foster technology transfer, 

including infusion of technologies into NASA 

missions, as well as commercialization of 

technologies emerging from NASA R&D; and to 

implement short- and long-term technology 

strategies for the Agency. Partnership Development 

and Strategic Integration acts on behalf of the NASA 

Chief Technologist to coordinate NASA internal 

(Mission Directorates and NASA Centers) and 

NASA external (industry, academia, other 

Government agencies, international) technology 

transfer and strategic planning for technology 

development. 

Partnership Development leads technology transfer and commercialization activities across the Agency. 

This office also works to demonstrate and communicate opportunities made possible through NASA 

technology investments. To achieve these objectives, NASA technology transfer professionals work 

closely with NASA scientists, engineers, and software developers to foster commercial application of 

NASA’s research and technology, including but not limited to: life sciences, robotics, materials, 

communication, propulsion, sensor technology, and optical imaging. This includes interagency 

coordination and joint activities, intellectual property management, and partnership opportunities with 

other Government agencies, academia, commercial industry, and International partners. Additional 

activities influence Agency innovation-related policies and programs and ensure that the Agency’s 

technology investments stimulate partnerships and the exchange of knowledge and ideas both within 

NASA and throughout the U.S. 

Strategic Integration coordinates and tracks technology investments across the Agency, and works to 

infuse technologies into future NASA missions. Strategic Integration includes Agency technology 

strategic planning activities including management of the NASA Technology Executive Council (NTEC), 

the Center Technology Council and documenting and evaluating the Agency technology portfolio to 

facilitate coordination and understanding of all Agency technology investments. SI works with internal 

and external stakeholders to develop and manage NASA’s Space Technology Roadmaps, and fosters a 

culture of creativity and innovation at NASA Centers, particularly in regard to workforce development.

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EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

None. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $29.5 million. This is the same as the FY 2012 estimate ($29.5 million). 

The activities supported by this account include: 

• Conducting the Agency’s technology transfer and commercialization efforts, and facilitating 

these activities within the Mission Directorates and Centers; and 

Strategic planning and coordination of Agency technology investments within and outside the 

Agency. 

• 

Projects 

PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

Partnership Development provides strategic leadership for the Agency’s partnership and 

commercialization activities and increases the exchange of ideas with innovative external organizations. 

Through Partnership Development, NASA meets, and seeks to exceed, legislative requirements for 

technology transfer. Program offices at each NASA Center seek secondary applications for the 

technologies originally created for NASA mission use and utilize partners to transfer the technologies 

from the laboratory to the marketplace. NASA’s technology developments often benefit the aerospace 

industry by using fundamental discoveries to expand the Nation’s capabilities. In addition, NASA 

technologies have often find application in non-aerospace industries, which fuels economic growth and 

the competitiveness of U.S. industry. 

NASA also facilitates access and identifies ways to leverage technology investments of other Government 

agencies. To ensure full utilization of NASA’s unique assets, partnership development includes 

connecting with industry technologists to facilitate use of NASA facilities. These efforts expand NASA’s 

relationships with state, local, and regional technology-based economic development agencies and are 

responsive to the Presidential Memorandum, “Accelerating Technology Transfer and Commercialization 

of Federal Research in Support of High-Growth Businesses.” 

Achievements in FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA entered into 406 new Space Act Agreements, 647 software usage agreements, and 

executed 34 new patent licenses and 547 software copyright licenses, representing a total of over 1,500 

partnerships with outside entities. In addition NASA filed 129 patent applications, and reported 1,257 

new inventions. These measures are tracked in the NASA Technology Transfer System. All of these 

efforts are directly linked to the strategic goal of partnership development that can benefit NASA and the 

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PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND STRATEGIC INTEGRATION

Nation. NASA initiated technology collaboration with Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency 

(DARPA), Air Force Research Laboratory, NSF, other Government agencies, and received six national 

awards from the Federal Laboratories Consortium recognizing NASA’s outstanding work in the process 

of transferring federally developed technology. The Agency also highlighted a selection of technology 

transfer successes in its annual Spinoff report.

Key Achievements Planned for FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA will continue to increase the public access to NASA technology through its multiple 

traditional technology transfer efforts, as well as through new and innovative collaborative methods. One 

example is a pilot program for co-development of technologies to simultaneously address NASA mission 

needs while also offering broader societal benefits. By doing this development in parallel, the time-tomarket and overall development cost should be reduced. NASA will continue to pursue a variety of 

partnership opportunities with state and regional enterprises like that established in FY 2011 with the 

Colorado Association for Manufacturing and Technology, and with larger non-government organizations 

such as the World Bank. 

STRATEGIC INTEGRATION

Strategic Integration performs an Agency-level technology coordination role to assist NASA in meeting 

mission requirements while filling technology gaps, anticipating future needs, and avoiding duplication. 

At the Agency level, Strategic Integration performs strategic planning, develops policy and requirements 

and provides coordination relative to the Space Technology portfolio. Through the NASA Technology 

Executive Council, the Chief Technologist, NASA mission directorates and the Chief Engineer review 

NASA’s technology projects, budgets and schedule adequacy, of the Agency’s technology development 

activities to meet Agency strategic goals. In addition, the council will identify and assess the Agencylevel technology gaps, overlaps and synergies between the Agency’s technology programs and assess the 

balance and prioritization of the Agency’s technology investment portfolio. 

Strategic Integration also conducts focused technology studies and analyses and tracks technology metrics 

to inform Agency technology investment decisions. Strategic Integration looks to the NASA Strategic 

Plan, the Space Technology Grand Challenges, and a set of 14 Space Technology roadmaps for top-down 

strategic guidance of its technology prioritization activities. Strategic Integration works with the Mission 

Directorates and NASA Centers, other NASA support offices and other Government agencies, Agency 

partners, academia, and industry. These organizations provide input to the Agency’s technology portfolio 

prioritization and investment decision processes, resulting in a set of technology development and 

infusion activities that are closely aligned with NASA missions and support national needs. 

Achievements in FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA developed the initial draft Space Technology roadmaps and engaged NRC to evaluate 

and refine the balance of near-term mission-focused technology and longer-term transformational 

technology. NRC provided an interim report in August 2011 following analysis and public comment. The 

final report was delivered February 1, 2012. NASA also designed the Space Technology Grand 

Challenges, a set of technically challenging, strategic, space-related goals that push the Nation's 

technology boundaries and provide a guide to a stronger future for the Nation in space. The Space 

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PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND STRATEGIC INTEGRATION

Technology Grand Challenges provide a framework for guiding technology awards across all Space 

Technology solicitations. NASA is also developing an Agency-level technology tracking system which 

will be used beginning in FY 2012 to track the Agency portfolio. Working internally, OCT developed and 

published policy and governance documents to initiate the Space Technology Program including the 

Space Technology Portfolio Plan, Portfolio Commitment Agreement, Organizational Conflict of Interest 

document, and ten individual program plans to provide management consistency across the Space 

Technology investment areas.

Key Achievements Planned for FY 2013 

In FY 2013 and beyond, NASA will use the Space Technology roadmaps to guide investment in space 

technology across the Agency and within the Space Technology account. NASA uses the Space 

Technology Grand Challenges to engage the public through its program solicitations. OCT will continue 

to execute its program governance to manage the health of its programs, will implement the technology 

portfolio management system to increase the effectiveness of its investments and utilize its various 

councils, studies and public venues to reach out and engage the space technology stakeholders across a 

wide range of constituencies. 

Program Schedule 

The following diagram shows the Space Technology roadmaps development process. 

NASA gathers input 

from MDs

and Centers, 

establishes technology 

area teams

Q2 FY 2010

Tech Area Teams 

complete draft 

roadmaps

Q3 FY 2010

NASA presents 

draft roadmaps 

to the NRC for review

11/2010

NRC establishes 

steering committee 

and six panels

12/2010

NRC seeks input 

through 

online forums 

and public 

workshops

11/2010

NRC releases 

interim findings 

to assist with FY 2013 

budget formulation

09/2011

Final NRC 

recomendations 

presented to 

NASA 

02/2012

NASA reviews NRC report and 

publishes roadmaps

FY 2013

NASA updates roadmaps based on 

milestones reached and Agency 

priorities

FY 2015

TECH-19 
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PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND STRATEGIC INTEGRATION

Program Management & Commitments 

NASA Headquarters and the NASA Centers manage Partnership Development and Strategic Integration 

activities. Guidance is provided by the NASA mission directorates through the NASA Technology 

Executive Council and from the NASA Centers through the Center Chief Technologist. 

Project/Element Provider

Partnership 

Development

Provider: N/A

Project Management: NASA Headquarters

NASA Center: Each NASA Center has a technology 

transfer lead

Cost Share: N/A

Strategic 

Integration

Provider: N/A

Project Management: NASA Headquarters

NASA Center: None

Cost Share: N/A

Acquisition Strategy 

This organization does not participate in a substantial amount of procurement activity. 

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INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Other NRC Feb-12 The Aeronautics and Space Engineering 

Board of the NRC of the National 

Academies released final report on their 

review of NASA’s draft Space 

Technology roadmaps. The steering 

committee provided specific guidance on 

how technology development funded by 

the Space Technology program can 

enhance the Agency’s space science and 

exploration capabilities. The report 

identified key technologies that 

furthered development of space 

capabilities for the Nation’s aerospace 

industry. 

TBD

Historical Performance 

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(CSTD)

FY 2013 BUDGET 

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

120.4

--

FY 2012

187.7

--

FY 2013

293.8

106.1

FY 2014

272.1

FY 2015 FY 2016

266.6 259.7

FY 2017

247.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 56.5%

The Deep Space Atomic Clock project will develop a 

small, low-mass atomic clock, ten times more accurate 

than today’s ground-based systems, which will enable 

precise, in-space navigation, improve stability for radio 

science, and enhance current satellite industry 

capabilities including the Nation’s global positioning 

system. 

CSTD invests in a diversified technology 

development and demonstration portfolio. CSTD 

activities enable revolutionary advances in broadly 

applicable technological capabilities for NASA’s 

future science and exploration missions, while 

supporting other national needs. 

CSTD selects and invests in technology across the 

TRL spectrum from conceptual studies to flight 

demonstrations. The program also supports 

training the next generation of inventors, 

scientists, and engineers, while creating a steady 

pipeline of technologies enabling NASA’s future 

missions. These broadly applicable technologies 

are designed to enable entirely new capabilities 

and space missions. Through CSTD funded 

efforts, NASA engages a diverse set of 

participants, including the NASA Centers, other 

Government agencies, academia, and industry 

through both openly competed and strategicallyguided processes. 

CSTD focuses development in three technology 

maturation ranges: early stage (TRL 1-3), midlevel (TRL 4-5), and flight ready (TRL 6-7). NASA identified nine high priority space technology project 

elements in Space Technology’s inception, five of which are funded within this program account: Laser 

Communications Relay Demonstration, Low Density Supersonic Decelerators, Solar Sail Demonstration, 

Deep Space Atomic Clock, and Robotic Satellite Servicing. In addition, Space Technology has more than 

1,000 project elements and activities underway that range across many technology areas and levels of 

readiness. The NASA Mission Directorates, other Government agencies and private industry are the 

ultimate customers for CSTD innovations, technology developments and capability demonstrations. 

NASA recognizes that maturing space technologies from idea and concept inception through 

demonstration in a relevant environment is a significant challenge, and comes with inherent technical risk. 

TECH-22 
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(CSTD)

CSTD was developed to mitigate cost and schedule risk for NASA and the aerospace community by 

making available a continuous pipeline of technologies that will benefit NASA's future missions. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

An increase from FY 2012 estimate is required to support current phasing profiles and critical testing 

milestones, as further described within the Game Changing Development and Technology Capability 

Demonstration project elements. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $293.8 million. This represents a $105.1 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($188.7 million). The FY 2013 request supports: 

• Development of a wide range of early stage advanced aerospace system concept and foundational 

technology development (TRL 1-3) efforts; 

Transformational game changing development across the critical mid-TRL (3-5) gap between 

early stage innovation and flight demonstration of a new technology; and 

Technology capability demonstrations that benefit multiple NASA missions, other Government 

agencies, or the space industry. This investment area matures technology to flight readiness status 

(TRL 6-7). 

• 

• 

Projects 

EARLY STAGE INNOVATION

NASA sponsors advanced aerospace system concept studies and foundational technology development 

efforts on a wide range of topics, including the following projects:

Space Technology Research Grants promotes research in technology fields through two competitive 

opportunities. First, provides award funds for competitive grants to University-based researchers 

conducting foundational research in space technology. Second, NASA competitively awards fellowships 

for graduate student research (Masters and Doctorate) that shows significant promise for future 

application toward NASA missions and strategic goals. Selected students perform research on their 

respective campuses and spend time at NASA Centers and/or not-for-profit research and development 

laboratories. In addition to a faculty advisor, each student will be matched with a researcher in the 

relevant field who will serve as the student’s professional advisor. 

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(CSTD)

S T D

NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) engages innovators to conduct aerospace system 

concept studies. NIAC funds the best early stage studies of visionary, long term concepts, aerospace 

architectures, systems, or missions submitted by researchers both within NASA and throughout the 

Nation. 

Center Innovation Fund stimulates aerospace creativity and innovation at the NASA Centers. The 

activities are envisioned to fall within the scope of NASA space technology roadmaps or technology 

addressing a significant National need. The funds are distributed among the NASA Centers to allow them 

to support early stage innovative technology initiatives that leverage Center talent and capability. 

Centennial Challenges uses partnerships to host prize purse competitions aimed at finding solutions to 

technical challenges that support NASA’s missions in aeronautics and space. NASA provides the prize 

purse and partners with private, non-profit entities to manage the competitions at no cost to NASA. The 

program has been successful at engaging non-traditional participants such as independent inventors, nongovernment funded entities, and educational institutions in order to expand the pool of innovators 

available to achieve the Nation’s challenging technology goals.

Achievements in FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA selected 80 students for the inaugural class of Space Technology Research Fellows. 

NASA also announced 30 winners of Phase I NIAC awards. Winning proposals ranged from, “Space 

Debris Elimination” to “Economical Radioisotope Power,” to “Printable Spacecraft” to “Ghost Imaging 

of Space Objects.” NIAC awards were equally spread across applicants from academia, NASA and 

industry/national labs. Using FY 2011 Center Innovation Funds, NASA Centers selected and started 

approximately 180 tasks, comprising of a mix of special studies and exploratory efforts. All of these 

studies and exploratory efforts were aligned to the space technology roadmaps and the Grand Challenges. 

The Green Flight Centennial Challenge to advance technologies in aircraft fuel efficiency and reduced 

emissions was conducted in September 2011. NASA awarded the largest prize in aviation history, created 

to inspire the development of more fuel-efficient aircraft and spark the start of a new electric airplane 

industry. The first place prize of $1.35 million was awarded to team Pipistrel-USA.com of State College, 

PA. The second place prize of $120,000 went to team eGenius, of Ramona, CA. The first and second 

place teams, which were both electric-powered, achieved twice the fuel efficiency requirement of the 

competition, meaning they flew 200 miles using just over a half-gallon of fuel equivalent per passenger. 

Key Achievements Planned for FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA will: 

• Select 75 new space technology graduate fellows and 15 space technology research grants 

through an early career faculty initiative similar to the successful Department of Energy program;

Initiate 15 new Phase I NIAC awards, further develop the most promising NIAC Phase I concepts 

from FY 2011 and FY 2012, and award five Phase II NIAC studies;

• 

TECH-24 
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(CSTD)

• Initiate at least two new Centennial Challenges, with topics to be decided based on the outcome 

of FY 2012 activities; and 

Using the Center Innovation Fund, Chief Technologists based at NASA Centers will select more 

than 50 additional awards for innovative technologies from their centers.

• 

GAME CHANGING DEVELOPMENT

Within Game Changing Development, NASA focuses on maturing transformational technology across 

the critical gap between early stage innovation and flight demonstration of a new technology. These fixed 

duration, principal investigator-led investment areas have been identified as high priorities by NASA 

Mission Directorates: 

Manufacturing Innovation includes innovation in rapid prototyping for low-cost manufacturing and 

algorithm and software development purposed for modeling and simulation to aid in streamlining 

manufacturing processes. This supports NASA’s interface with the President’s advanced manufacturing 

initiatives. 

Robotic Satellite Servicing conducts demonstrations, such as the active Robotic Refueling mission on 

ISS, and formulates the architecture options and technology needs for future robotic servicing missions. 

The project element intends to spur the growth of a new commercial satellite-servicing industry. This is 

an important technology development effort for future Earth orbital and deep space exploration missions 

and is managed by the HEOMD. 

Nanotechnology advances nanotechnology research and applications for space technology including 

nanomanufacturing, nanoelectronics, and nanoenhanced solar energy conversion. The project element 

also includes continued development of the nano-energetics propulsion effort. This effort is the primary 

NASA participant and interface with the National Nanotechnology Initiative. 

Space Synthetic Biology leverages the efficiency of life in using its surrounding resources, turning 

those resources into habitats, materials and forms that perform a wide range of functions efficiently. This 

project element researches a range of genomics and synthetic biology approaches for the design of 

organisms to perform reliable functions for future human and robotic exploration activities. 

FY 2011 Game Changing Broad Agency Announcement Selections is a follow-on to competitive 

selection of three projects that, if successful, will revolutionize existing systems: Woven Thermal 

Protection System project tests various flexible materials for application within woven thermal protection 

systems to identify materials that are easy to produce, customizable and apply to aeroshell surfaces, 

depending on particular atmospheric entry conditions; Electro-dynamic debris eliminator has potential 

applications in orbital debris capture, actively removing dangerous debris objects; and Amprius tests 

advanced battery cells that offer the promise of dramatic improvements in the energy density 

(energy/mass and energy/volume) and specific energy of lithium-ion batteries. 

NASA will measure the success of the Game Changing Development investments as a whole, rather than 

expecting each project to produce homerun results. Over time, it can be expected that dramatic advances 

TECH-25 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

CROSSCUTTING SPACE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT 

(CSTD)

in transformative space technology will enable entirely new NASA missions, and lead to solutions for a 

wide variety of society's grand technological challenges. 

Achievements in FY 2011 

In FY 2011, initial Space Technology solicitations were released and awards for Game Changing 

Development, resulting in the following project selections (also described above): woven thermal 

protection systems, electro-dynamic debris eliminator, Amprius, power beaming studies and materials 

optimization for a prototype battery for low temperature energy requirements. 

Key Achievements Planned for FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA will reach several important milestones in Game Changing Development. 

• Demonstrate high-quality, space-worthy aerospace parts using additive manufacturing systems; 

Continue development and testing of advanced robotic systems and mission concepts for robotic 

satellite servicing; and 

Design and model a synthetic biology based flexible manufacturing system; 

Continue the FY 2011 Game Changing broad agency announcement selections as noted below: 

• 

• 

• 

o Woven thermal protection systems develops and completes testing to identify suitable 

materials, and validates performance of carbon-based woven materials; 

Electro-dynamic debris eliminator provides NASA with an advanced, subscale tether, and 

completes the manufacture and functional testing of this prototype for a tether-based in-space 

propulsion system; and 

Amprius completes initial development and system testing of lithium-ion battery cells with 

dramatically improved power density needed for mission critical applications. 

o

o

NASA will also initiate up to eight additional technologies, like those started in FY 2011, while further 

maturing those in development. As projects complete their life cycle, additional game changing 

technologies will be selected through broad agency announcements open to industry, academia, and the 

NASA Centers. 

TECHNOLOGY CAPABILITY DEMONSTRATIONS

Within this investment area NASA demonstrates technologies that benefit multiple NASA missions, other 

Government agencies, and the space industry. This investment area matures new technology to flight 

readiness status via the projects described below: 

Technology Demonstration Missions demonstrates crosscutting technologies in relevant 

environments. Project elements are listed below. 

• Low Density Supersonic Decelerators demonstrates new technologies capable of safely landing 

high-mass payloads on planetary surfaces. This project element designs, develops and tests ring 

sail parachutes and supersonic inflatable braking systems. 

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(CSTD)

S T D

• Laser Communications Relay Demonstration flies and validates a reliable, capable, and costeffective optical communications technology. Optical communications technology provides data 

rates up to 100-times higher than today’s radio communication systems. These higher bandwidth 

capabilities will prove necessary for future human and robotic space missions. The technology is 

directly applicable to the next generation of NASA's space communications network. After the 

demonstration, the developed space and ground assets will be qualified for use by near-Earth and 

deep space missions requiring high bandwidth and a small ground station reception area. 

Deep Space Atomic Clock validates a miniaturized mercury-ion atomic clock that is ten times 

more accurate than today’s ground based navigation systems. This project element will 

demonstrate ultra-precision timing in space and its benefits for one-way radio-based navigation. 

Precision timing and navigation is critical to the performance of a wide range of deep space 

missions and has the potential to improve the Nation’s next generation GPS system. 

Solar Sail Demonstration deploys and operates a solar sail with an area seven times larger than 

ever flown in space. It is potentially applicable to a wide range of future space missions, 

including serving as an advanced space weather warning system to provide more timely and 

accurate notice of solar flare activity. This technology also could allow for propellant-less deep 

space exploration missions. NOAA is collaborating with NASA and L'Garde Inc. on the 

demonstration. 

• 

• 

Edison Small Satellite Demonstration Missions develops and operates a series of small spacecraft 

demonstration missions, with the objective of accelerating the development of small spacecraft supporting 

technologies and capabilities for NASA, commercial, and other space sector users. 

• Edison 1 EtherSat flies a constellation (swarm) of 12 to 20 small satellites (CubeSats) to perform 

an in-space demonstration of communications capabilities while also testing the applicability of 

such satellite constellations for future earth science and Department of Defense missions. The 

project element will explore affordable off-the shelf components (i.e. smart phone avionics) to 

support manufacturing, integration, launch and operations. 

Flight Opportunities matures technologies by providing affordable access to space environments while 

also facilitating the development of the commercial reusable suborbital transportation industry. The 

project also procures commercial parabolic flights to test technologies in environments that simulate 

microgravity and the reduced gravity environments. 

Achievements in FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA selected three proposals as technology demonstration missions that will transform its 

space communications, deep space navigation, and in-space propulsion capabilities. The three Space 

Technology project elements will develop and fly a space solar sail, a deep space atomic clock, and a 

space-based optical communications system. Flight Opportunities selected seven companies to integrate 

and fly technology payloads on commercial suborbital reusable platforms that carry payloads near the 

boundary of space. 

TECH-27 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

CROSSCUTTING SPACE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT 

(CSTD)

Key Achievements Planned for FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA will competitively select additional technology demonstration missions and increase 

funding for developing flight projects as they reach maturity and prepare for demonstration. Several 

important efforts include: 

• Edison Small Satellite Demonstrations competitively selects at least one new small spacecraft 

mission, launching the Edison 1 EtherSat constellation and begin operational testing of 

communications and science demonstrations. Technology Demonstration Missions and Edison 

will likely utilize secondary or hosted payload excess capacity on government or commercial 

satellites, an effort which will facilitate lower cost access to space and ensure affordable 

demonstrations; 

Laser Communications Relay Demonstration begins ground validation activities for the optical 

space terminal and optical ground station designs; 

Low Density Supersonic Decelerators project will complete three critical full-scale test 

milestones (systems designs, initiate hardware fabrication and ground validation activities) 

required prior to final high-speed flight demonstrations; 

The Solar Sail and Deep Space Atomic Clock demonstration missions will hold key milestone 

reviews as they respectively prepare the largest solar sail ever flown that will lead to propellantless deep space propulsion, and an atomic clock that will enable a level of spacecraft navigation 

precision and autonomous operations in deep space never before achieved; 

Low Density Supersonic Decelerators will begin three critical flight test campaigns involving 

verification testing of the largest NASA spacecraft entry parachute ever developed; system-level 

testing of NASA’s first inflatable supersonic deceleration system; and high-speed high-altitude 

integrated testing of an entry system using the ring sail parachute and an inflatable decelerator; 

and 

Flight Opportunities plans to utilize all seven flight providers to host payloads supported by the 

Space Technology program on multiple flights. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Program Schedule 

Specific timelines for deliverables and achievement major milestones vary from project to project, and are 

widely dependent on successful demonstration of experimental capabilities. See more in Historical 

Performance section below. 

TECH-28 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

CROSSCUTTING SPACE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT 

(CSTD)

Program Management & Commitments 

Management responsibility for project elements from CSTD and ETD are performed in an integrated 

manner. 

Project/Element Provider

Center Innovation 

Fund

Provider: NASA Centers

Project Management: NASA Headquarters Program 

Executive

NASA Center: Each Center competitively selects projects

Cost Share: N/A

Centennial 

Challenges

Provider: Various

Project Management: NASA Headquarters Program 

Executive

NASA Center: MSFC 

Cost Share: External partners fund competition events; 

NASA supplies prize money.

NASA Innovative 

Advanced 

Concepts (NIAC)

Provider: Various

Project Management: NASA HQ Program Executive

NASA Center: N/A

Cost Share: N/A

Space Technology 

Graduate Research 

Fellowships

Provider: Graduate students

Project Management: Headquarters Program Executive

NASA Center: GRC

Cost Share: N/A

Game Changing 

Development

Provider: Various

Project Management: HQ Program Executive

NASA Center: LaRC

Cost Share: N/A

Technology 

Demonstration 

Missions

Provider: Various

Project Management: 

NASA Center: MSFC

Cost Share: NASA HEOMD, NOAA

TECH-29 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

CROSSCUTTING SPACE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT 

(CSTD)

Project Element Provider

Franklin Small 

Satellite Subsystem 

Technologies

Provider: TBD

Project Management: HQ Program Executive

NASA Center: ARC

Cost Share: N/A

Edison Small 

Satellite 

Demonstrations

Provider: Various

Project Management: HQ Program Executive

NASA Center: ARC 

Cost Share: N/A

Provider: Various

Project Management: HQ Program Executive

NASA Center: DFRC

Cost Share: N/A

Flight 

Opportunities

Acquisition Strategy 

CSTD is implemented through a blended acquisition approach, using both open competitive and 

strategically guided processes. All solicitations are open to the broad aerospace community to ensure 

engagement with the best sources of new and innovative technology. As such, CSTD efforts are 

performed by the Nation’s highly skilled workforce in industry, academia, across all NASA Centers, and 

in collaboration with other government agencies through participation in technology panels and working 

groups, identifying development opportunities. Awards are made based on technical merit, cost, and 

impact to the Nation’s future space activities. NASA uses acquisition mechanisms such as broad agency 

announcements, NASA research announcements, and prize competitions, with awards guided by priorities 

cited in the space technology roadmaps and NASA mission directorates. 

TECH-30 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

CROSSCUTTING SPACE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT 

(CSTD)

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Laser Communications Relay 

Demonstration

David Israel, Principal Investigator

GSFC

Greenbelt, MD

Deep Space Atomic Clock Todd Ely, Principal Investigator

California Institute of Technology, 

JPL

Pasadena, CA

Solar Sail Nathan Barnes, Principal Investigator

L’Garde, Inc.

Tustin, CA

Low Density Supersonic Decelerator Mark Adler, Project Manager, 

California Institute of Technology, 

JPL

Pasadena, CA

Historical Performance 

The following graphic is a technology investment overview identifying a subset of active Space 

Technology development efforts, most initiated in FY 2012, illustrating their core technology areas 

(aligned with the Space Technology roadmaps) and anticipated technology maturation through the life 

cycle of the project as awarded. Specific timelines for deliverables and achievement major milestones 

vary from project to project, and widely dependent on successful demonstration of experimental 

capabilities. 

TECH-31 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT (ETD)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

144.6

--

FY 2012

189.9

--

FY 2013

202.0

12.1

FY 2014

215.5

FY 2015 FY 2016

215.7 214.5

FY 2017

216.5

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 6.4%

The MEDLI Mars Atmospheric Data System pressure sensors. 

These seven sensors are mounted on the interior of the heat 

shield and will collect data on pressure as the Mars Science 

Laboratory enters the Martian atmosphere. 

ETD activities provide the long-range, 

critical technologies required to conduct 

future human exploration missions beyond 

low Earth orbit while reducing risk and life 

cycle cost. ETD develops and demonstrates 

the critical technologies that allow for future 

human exploration missions to destinations 

that include the Moon, Lagrange points, 

near Earth asteroids, and Mars. Through 

ETD, key exploration-specific capabilities 

are developed through ground-based and 

laboratory testing, and demonstrated in 

relevant environments including space flight 

demonstrations and testbeds such as ISS. 

After successful maturation of these critical 

technologies to an infusion point, human 

exploration program managers can baseline 

these proven capabilities for future human 

spaceflight systems and missions. 

ETD focuses on the highest priority human spaceflight needs as identified in NASA’s Space Technology 

roadmaps, and is guided by the technology prioritization studies performed by Exploration’s human 

spaceflight architecture studies. ETD technology development is coordinated with the system capability 

demonstrations pursued within NASA Exploration, particularly with the Advanced Exploration Systems 

(AES) Program. In recent years, NASA initiated nine high priority space technology project elements, 

four of which are funded within this program account: Composite Cryogenic Propellant Tanks, 

Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerators, Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer, and 

Human-Robotics Systems/Human Exploration Telerobotics. Technology developed through ETD, once 

proven, is integrated into systems being developed in support of the architecture required by programs in 

the Space Operations and Exploration accounts. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

Starting in FY 2012, NASA moved the majority of the Exploration Technology Development and 

Demonstration activities from Exploration to Space Technology. This transfer improved the alignment 

and integration of NASA’s space technology development portfolio by placing the management of these 

TECH-32 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT (ETD)

space technology activities within an organization focused upon technology development, demonstration 

and infusion. In FY 2013, NASA is transferring the entry, descent, and landing development currently 

managed within Aeronautics to this account. These changes in FY 2012 and FY 2013 allow for leveraged 

synergy by conducting these projects alongside comparable space technology development efforts. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $202 million. This represents a $12 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($190 million). 

The FY 2013 request supports exploration specific, game changing development, and technology 

demonstrations in support of NASA’s human spaceflight endeavors. 

Projects 

EXPLORATION-SPECIFIC GAME CHANGING DEVELOPMENT

Within ETD, FY 2011 program activities and FY 2013 plans have been organized into several 

Exploration-specific Game Changing Development project elements. 

In-Space Propulsion focuses on new chemical and electric propulsion component technologies necessary 

for efficient and affordable deep space exploration. 

Space Power Generation and Storage invests in high efficiency solar cells and high-voltage power 

management and distribution systems as precursor to a solar electric propulsion demonstration; also 

develops advanced batteries and regenerative fuel cells. 

Nuclear Systems tests power conversion and thermal management technologies for in-space nuclear 

power systems. 

Lightweight Materials and Structures develops advanced materials and space structures technologies 

such as lightweight deployable solar arrays, to enable affordable high performance systems required for 

beyond LEO human exploration missions. 

Human-Robotic Systems develops advanced robotics technology to amplify human productivity and 

reduce mission risks by improving human-robot interaction, robotic assistance, and providing in-space 

and surface servicing, manipulation and mobility systems. This effort also supports the Agency’s role in 

the National Robotics initiative. 

Autonomous Systems develops and demonstrates integrated autonomous systems capable of simplifying 

and managing complex ground and in-space operations to reduce workload and the dependence upon 

ground support staff and flight operations centers. 

TECH-33 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT (ETD)

Next-Generation Life Support develops next-generation life support systems technologies including 

water recovery, thermal control, and next-generation spacesuit component technologies. 

Deployable Aeroshell Concepts and Flexible Thermal Protection System designs, analyzes, and tests 

component systems for flexible ablative thermal protection materials needed for high heat-flux planetary 

missions to enable greater atmospheric entry capability at Venus, Earth, Mars, Titan and the giant planets. 

This activity also develops concepts for very large mechanical, deployable aeroshells. 

In-Situ Resource Utilization enables sustainable human exploration through use of exo-Earth (local 

planetary) resources. Concepts explore the production of fuel, oxygen, and water from the soil and 

atmosphere of celestial bodies. 

Composite Cryogenic Propellant Tanks uses advanced composite materials to develop very large, 

lightweight propellant tanks applicable to future NASA human exploration architecture elements 

including the Space Launch System and its cryogenic propulsive stage. 

Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator develops and demonstrates inflatable, aerodynamic 

braking systems for use at hypersonic velocities. This investment enables precise landing of large 

payloads on planetary surfaces including the ability to return payloads from ISS to Earth. 

Advanced Radiation Protection assesses and matures transformative technologies to improve the 

radiation protection capabilities of future deep space exploration vehicles and habitats. This element 

focuses on radiation modeling and analysis as well as forecast modeling to complement AES work on 

radiation protection. 

Achievements in FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA selected six companies to study system concepts, define requirements, and estimate 

costs for a 30 kilowatt solar electric propulsion flight demonstration mission. These studies identified 

precursor technologies required to reach readiness for solar electric propulsion flight demonstration. In 

addition, tests were conducted for Hall electric propulsion thrusters at three different power levels. New 

long endurance fuel cells were tested and working fuel cells were supplied for the Desert RATS field 

demonstration. These technologies are being advanced through the Space Power Generation and Storage 

project element. 

Key Achievements Planned for FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA continues to mature exploration-specific technologies through development and field 

testing, including the following: 

• Fabrication and testing of fuel cells for integration into the Advanced Exploration Systems Scarab 

Rover (Space Power Generation and Storage); 

Human-Robotic Systems completing next generation jet pack prototype for functional testing and 

complete grapple and dexterous arms for functional tests for the multi-mission space exploration 

vehicle; 

Lightweight Materials and Structures complete prototype design and testing of a complete multilayer insulation material system critical for cryogenic fluid storage; 

• 

• 

TECH-34 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT (ETD)

• Deployable Aeroshell Concepts & Flexible Thermal Protection Systems completes an adaptable 

mechanically deployable aeroshell prototype design and down-select of advanced, high-heat flux 

thermal protection material; 

Complete water processor tests in preparation for delivery to the HEOMD-managed Advanced 

Exploration Systems; 

A five-meter, composite cryogenic propellant tank is built and delivered to MSFC in late 

FY 2013, to enter the testing phase planned for early FY 2014; 

Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator will perform risk reduction activities for a future 

demonstration from ISS; and NASA will release a broad agency announcement or a NASA 

Research Announcement open to industry, academia, and the NASA Centers for additional 

exploration-specific Game Changing Development activities. 

• 

• 

• 

EXPLORATION-SPECIFIC TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATIONS

NASA will continue development of exploration-specific Technology Demonstrations under the 

following project elements: 

 

Human Exploration Telerobotics demonstrates continued and progressively challenging operations for 

Robonaut 2, as well as remote robotic operations using ISS, planetary rovers, and human robotic systems. 

Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer demonstrates the capability of in-space long term storage 

and the microgravity transfer of cryogenic propellants (liquid oxygen and hydrogen), essential for 

transportation on deep-space exploration missions. Cryogenic propellant storage and transfer is the most 

critical Space Technology demonstration for human exploration. Beyond the initial development of Space 

Launch System and the Orion Multi Purpose Crew Vehicle (Orion MPCV) currently underway within the 

Exploration account, the next essential architecture element to extend human presence beyond low Earth 

orbit is the development of a long duration cryogenic propulsion stage. The cryogenic propulsion stage 

must be capable of perform long term storage (greater than six months) and transferring cryogenic 

propellants such as liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen. Creating this capability relies on the successful 

demonstration of the Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer project element. 

Materials International Space Station Experiment-X (MISSE-X) is an external platform on ISS 

allowing space environmental studies designed to advance the technology readiness of materials and 

devices critical for future space exploration. MISSE-X is a follow-on to the previous MISSE missions 

with improved sensing and monitoring of the ISS external environment, as well as active power 

accommodations and the expansion of the MISSE-X user community through incorporation of new, 

customer-desired capabilities. 

NASA includes funds in this request for projects selected within the FY 2012 Technology Demonstration 

Missions broad agency announcement in addition to one to two new demonstrations selected in an 

FY 2013 technology demonstration mission broad agency announcement. 

Achievements in FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA launched Robonaut 2 to ISS and conducted successful power up and initial functional 

tests. 

TECH-35 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT (ETD)

In the Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer project element, NASA selected four companies to 

study system concepts, define requirements, and estimate costs for a cryogenic propellant storage and 

transfer flight demonstration mission. NASA also completed ground-based testing of liquid acquisition 

devices to drain liquid hydrogen from propellant tanks in microgravity. 

In November 2011, Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) was launched to Mars with the MSL Entry, Decent 

and Landing Instrumentation (MEDLI) on board. MEDLI includes pressure, temperature, and thermal 

protection system recession sensors integrated into the MSL heat shield; functional tests were 

successfully completed for all components. The Autonomous Landing Hazard Avoidance Technology, or 

ALHAT, demonstrated operation of an integrated sensor suite in helicopter flight tests for constructing a 

three dimensional image of hazards in the landing zone. 

Key Achievements Planned for FY 2013 

Within Technology Demonstration Missions, NASA will: 

• Conduct challenging human exploration telerobotics demonstrations by commanding and 

controlling Robonaut 2 while on ISS (both locally and from the ground).The humanoid robot will 

be tested in microgravity and subjected to the station's radiation and electromagnetic interference 

environments. The interior operations will provide performance data about how a robot may work 

side-by-side with astronauts. As development activities progress on the ground, ISS crews may be 

provided hardware and software to update Robonaut 2 to enable it to do new tasks; 

Complete the design and begin the fabrication and integration of the MISSE-X system; and 

Transition Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer from formulation to implementation with 

development of the critical technologies and mission demonstration concepts required to enable 

long-term storage and handling of cryogenic fluids in deep-space. A demonstration mission 

targeted for early FY 2016. 

• 

• 

NASA includes funds in this request for projects selected within the FY 2012 Technology Demonstration 

Missions broad agency announcement in addition to one to two new demonstrations selected in an 

FY 2013 Technology Demonstration Missions broad agency announcement. 

Program Schedule 

Specific timelines for deliverables and achievement major milestones vary from project to project, and are 

widely dependent on successful demonstration of experimental capabilities. See more in the Historical 

Performance section below. 

TECH-36 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

Program Management & Commitments 

NASA is implementing an integrated management approach to ETD and CSTD projects to capitalize on 

technical and management synergies. The two main projects under the ETD program, Explorationspecific Game Changing Development and Exploration-specific Technology Demonstration Missions, 

each have a Level 1 Headquarters program executive and Center managed Level 2 project office (shared 

with CSTD). A lead Center will manage each of the guided ETD project elements as a finite duration 

effort that will include both NASA in-house work and competitive procurements. 

Project/Element Provider

Explorationspecific 

Game Changing

Development

Provider:

Project Management: NASA HQ program executive 

NASA Center: LaRC 

Cost Share: N/A

Provider:

Project Management: NASA HQ program executive 

NASA Center: LaRC

Cost Share: N/A

Explorationspecific 

Technology 

Demonstration 

Missions

Acquisition Strategy 

Additional competitively selected project elements will augment those created as guided activities in 

FY 2012. The focused technology areas for additional competitive project elements are determined by the 

priorities established by the Exploration program architecture studies as well as the NASA technology 

roadmapping. Drawing proposals from industry, academia, and the NASA Centers, exploration-specific 

Technology Demonstration Mission broad agency announcement offerors will perform high-value 

complementary or gap areas exploration technology demonstrations. Exploration-specific Technology 

Demonstration Missions proposers are strongly encouraged to partner and cost share with non-NASA 

entities. 

TECH-37 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Human Robotic Systems Rob Ambrose, Principal 

Investigator, JSC

Houston, TX

Composite Cryogenic Propellant 

Tank (MSFC)

Boeing Huntington Beach, CA

Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic 

Decelerator

Neil Cheatwood, Principal 

Investigator, LaRC

Hampton, VA

Composite Propellant Storage and 

Transfer

Sue Motil, Project Manager, GRC Cleveland, OH

Human Exploration Telerobotics Terry Fong, Project Manager, ARC Moffett Field, CA

TECH-38 
SPACE TECHNOLOGY

EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

Historical Performance 

The following technology investment overview identifies a subset of active Space Technology 

development efforts, illustrating their core technology areas (aligned with the Space Technology 

roadmaps) and anticipated technology maturation through the life cycle of the project as awarded. These 

efforts were primarily initiated in previous fiscal years by other NASA organizations and transferred to 

Space Technology. 

TECH-39 
EXPLORATION

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

FY 2011

3,821.2

FY 2012

3,712.8

FY 2013

3,932.8

FY 2014

4,076.5

FY 2015 FY 2016

4,076.5 4,076.5

FY 2017

4,076.5

Exploration Systems Development 2,982.1 3,007.1 2,769.4 2,913.1 2,913.1 2,913.1 2,913.1

Commercial Spaceflight 606.8 406.0 829.7 829.7 829.7 829.7 829.7

Exploration Research and Development 232.3 299.7 333.7 333.7 333.7 333.7 333.7

EXPLORATION OVERVIEW ................................... EXP- 2 

EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle EXP- 7 

Crew Vehicle Development EXP- 11 

Space Launch System EXP- 20

Launch Vehicle Development EXP- 23 

Exploration Ground Systems EXP- 32

COMMERCIAL SPACEFLIGHT

Commercial Crew EXP- 41

EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

Human Research Program EXP- 49

Advanced Exploration Systems EXP- 58

EXP-1 
EXPLORATION

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 3,821.2 3,712.8 3,932.8 4,076.5 4,076.5 4,076.5 4,076.5

Exploration Systems Development 2,982.1 3,007.1 2,769.4 2,913.1 2,913.1 2,913.1 2,913.1

Commercial Spaceflight 606.8 406.0 829.7 829.7 829.7 829.7 829.7

Exploration Research and Development 232.3 299.7 333.7 333.7 333.7 333.7 333.7

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 220.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 5.9%

Note: As directed by Congress, NASA is requesting all programmatic construction of facilities (CoF) for FY 2013 in the CECR 

account. For Exploration, NASA requests $140.4 million in programmatic CoF (see CECR account). In this table, the FY 2014 

column is identical to what the FY 2013 column would be with Exploration-related programmatic CoF included.

An artist’s conception depicts a new era for human 

exploration. 

The Exploration account is focused on 

developing the systems and capabilities 

required for human exploration of space 

beyond low Earth orbit, and for U.S. crew 

vehicle access to ISS. These systems and 

capabilities include launch and crew vehicles 

for missions beyond low Earth orbit, 

affordable commercial crew access to ISS, 

technologies and countermeasures to keep 

astronauts healthy and functional during deep 

space missions, and technologies to reduce 

launch mass and cost of deep space missions. 

NASA's exploration goals are consistent with 

the NASA Authorization Act of 2010, which 

calls for expanding permanent human 

presence beyond low Earth orbit to 

destinations such as near Earth asteroids, the 

Moon, and Mars, while maintaining 

uninterrupted U.S. human space flight 

capability in low Earth orbit and beyond. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

In September 2011, NASA released draft request for proposals for commercial crew transportation, 

inviting industry comments before final release by the end of CY 2011. However, based on the current 

budget environment, NASA has changed its planned acquisition strategy. Rather than moving forward 

with a firm-fixed price contract for integrated design, NASA will support the design and development of 

commercial crew transportation systems through the use of funded Space Act Agreements for the next 

EXP-2 
EXPLORATION

phase of the program. (See the Commercial Crew program section for an extended discussion of this 

issue.) 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In May 2011, NASA approved the Orion-based reference vehicle design, as outlined in NASA’s January 

2011 report to Congress, as the Agency’s Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV). Orion maps well to the 

scope of the MPCV requirements outlined in the NASA Authorization Act of 2010, and it was already 

being built to meet the requirements of a deep-space vehicle under a contractual partnership with 

Lockheed Martin Corporation. 

On September 14, 2011, the Administrator selected the design of the new launch vehicle. The Space 

Launch System (SLS) design closely follows the requirements laid out in the NASA Authorization Act of 

2010 and will take NASA’s astronauts farther into space than ever before, create high-quality jobs here at 

home, and provide the cornerstone for America’s future human deep space exploration efforts. The 

vehicle’s early flights will be capable of lifting 70 metric tons before evolving to a lift capacity of 

130 metric tons. 

During FY 2011, NASA’s Commercial Crew Development partners, Blue Origin, Boeing, Sierra Nevada 

Corporation, SpaceX, United Launch Alliance, and Alliant Techsystems Inc., successfully completed 

their milestones and are maturing their space vehicle designs and systems as part of the Commercial Crew 

Development second phase Space Act Agreements (CCDev 2). 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, the Orion MPCV will complete the Launch Abort System-Crew Module mating in 

preparation for Exploration Flight Test-1, planned for early FY 2014. The major elements of SLS will 

have Preliminary Design Reviews to evaluate the completeness of the program’s preliminary design and 

to determine the program’s readiness to proceed with the detailed design phase of the program. See 

program schedule in the SLS program section. In FY 2012, the Commercial Crew program plans to award 

additional Space Act Agreements, which will lead to significant progress toward the design of multiple 

crew transportation systems. NASA will use FY 2013 funds to reach more advanced milestones under the 

Space Act Agreements. 

To keep astronauts healthy and functional during deep space missions, the Human Research program will 

deliver a number of technologies and countermeasures including the ISS treadmill kinematics study final 

report to improve exercise countermeasures for bone health and ISS VO2max study final report to assess 

and address safety concerns in the event of an emergency during space flight. 

EXP-3 
EXPLORATION

Themes 

EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT (ESD)* 

ESD is developing three capabilities that will enable humans to explore beyond low Earth orbit. SLS, the 

Orion MPCV, and the Exploration Ground Systems (EGS) program (which will prepare and launch the 

SLS and Orion MPCV). NASA will managed SLS, Orion MPCV, and EGS as separate programs, 

working jointly to integrate and prepare for the first exploration mission test flight and beyond. 

Integration among programs at NASA Headquarters will streamline decision-making processes and better 

enable an affordable long-term human exploration program. The Exploration Systems under development 

are part of NASA’s capability-driven approach to human exploration, as opposed to one focused on a 

specific destination and schedule. The capabilities SLS and Orion MPCV provide can be combined with 

later developed capabilities to go to asteroids, lunar, and other destinations. All of these destinations are 

scientifically compelling, rich in data that will provide continuous expansion of human knowledge of the 

universe, and inspire humankind. As designated by the President, NASA’s initial destination for a human 

mission is to an asteroid by 2025, followed eventually by a human mission to Mars. This journey begins 

with SLS, Orion MPCV, and EGS as the first important core elements of the evolutionary exploration 

approach. 

* Previously called Human Exploration Capabilities 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request for ESD is $2,913.1 million, including $143.7 million of exploration-related CoF 

funding included in the CECR. This total request represents a $94.0 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($3,007.1 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $1,028.2 million for the Orion MPCV, which will develop a spacecraft that will carry humans 

beyond low Earth orbit. This includes: 

o $968.5 million for Crew Vehicle Development; 

$56.4 million for Orion MPCV Program Integration and Support; and 

$3.3 million for programmatic CoF, included in the CECR request as directed by Congress. 

o

o

• $1,884.9 million for SLS, which will develop a heavy-lift vehicle along with the ground 

infrastructure necessary to support NASA Exploration activities. This includes: 

o $1,304.1 million for Launch Vehicle Development; 

$35.9 million for SLS Program Integration and Support; 

$404.5 million for EGS, identified as a separate program in this request as directed by 

Congress; and 

$140.4 million for programmatic CoF for SLS ($88.9 million) and EGS ($51.5 million), 

included in the CECR request as directed by Congress. 

o

o

o

EXP-4 
EXPLORATION

EXP-5 

KEY ACHIEVEMENT IN FY 2011 

In addition to the account achievements, above, 

• Orion MPCV accomplishments include: initiating a series of tests to investigate various water 

landing scenarios, completing construction of ground test article vehicle, beginning vibroacoustic 

and modal testing to better understand the forces that will be transmitted to the inside of the 

spacecraft during a launch abort, and conducting a flawless flight test of the launch abort system; 

SLS accomplishments include: completing the first full-scale J-2X upper stage engine test, 

successfully firing the third five segment development motor; and 

EGS accomplishments include: completing a new mobile launcher structure that will be used to 

support, service, transport, and launch the heavy lift rocket being developed by the SLS program. 

• 

• 

In addition, the programs engaged an outside consultant to perform an independent assessment of cost 

estimates, schedules, and risks. The independent cost assessment team concluded the estimate are 

reasonable and acceptable to serve as the basis for near-term, three to five-year, analysis of alternatives 

and program decisions, but are not sustainable beyond that timeframe. NASA is now in the process of 

implementing the findings of the independent cost assessment and is working on a plan to implement 

those recommendations that will provide benefit to the Agency. Among the findings, Independent Cost 

Assessment team observed that further analysis is needed by NASA in terms of full life cycle costs, 

programmatic cost risks, and planned reserve levels. This assessment was critical to Agency decisions to 

proceed to the next phases in the programs. 

COMMERCIAL SPACEFLIGHT

In the area of commercial spaceflight, NASA has implemented a two-phased approach for developing and 

procuring transportation services to and from ISS. Responsibility for the development of commercial 

transportation systems to ISS is in the Exploration account, while the procurement of services is within 

the Space Operations account. While funding stops in FY 2012, the Commercial Orbital Transportation 

Services (COTS) program continues to develop and demonstrate commercial cargo transportation systems 

through agreements funded in FY 2011 and prior years. Following the retirement of the Space Shuttle, the 

Commercial Crew program is working with industry partners to develop crew transportation systems to 

enable American companies to transport our crews to the ISS by mid-decade. With COTS and 

Commercial Crew program, NASA is continuing to expand an opportunity for commercial access to 

space, thereby creating multiple means for NASA to access low Earth orbit. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $829.7 million. This represents a $423.7 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($406.0 million), and $20.3 million less than the FY 2012 request ($850 million). 
EXPLORATION

EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT (ERD) 

The ERD effort will expand knowledge that is fundamental to human space exploration, and develop 

advanced exploration systems that will enable humans to explore space in a sustainable and affordable 

way. ERD is comprised of the Human Research Program (HRP) and the Advanced Exploration Systems 

(AES) program, which will provide the knowledge and advanced spaceflight capabilities required to 

implement the U.S. Space Exploration Policy. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $333.7 million. This represents a $22.9 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($310.8 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $164.7 million for the HRP, which will keep astronauts healthy and functional during deep space 

missions by researching and assessing technologies and countermeasures; and 

$169.0 million for the AES, which will address the highest-priority capabilities identified in 

human spaceflight architecture studies for exploration missions to near Earth asteroids, cis-lunar 

space, the Moon, and Mars and its moons. 

• 

KEY ACHIEVEMENT IN FY 2011 

In 2011, NASA’s HRP flew 11 major medical experiments and added new ISS biomedical capabilities 

including the second-generation ultrasound for medical imaging, the urine monitoring system, and the 

jointly developed ESA/NASA muscle atrophy research and exercise system. 

While the AES program began in FY 2012, several projects continued efforts funded by the Exploration 

Technology Development and Demonstration (ETDD) program in FY 2011, such as a portable life 

support system for an advanced space suit and a radiation assessment detector for the Mars Science 

Laboratory mission. 

EXP-6 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT

ORION MULTI-PURPOSE CREW VEHICLE (ORION MPCV)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

FY 2011

1,196.0

FY 2012

1,200.0

FY 2013

1,024.9

FY 2014

1,028.2

FY 2015

1

FY 2016

,028.2 1,028.2

FY 2017

1,028.2

Crew Vehicle Development 1,086.0 1,142.9 968.5 975.8 980.2 984.2 983.7

MPCV Program Integration and Support 110.0

Change From FY 2012 Estimate --

57.1 56.4 52.4 48.0 44.0 44.4

-- -175.1

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -14.6%

The Orion MPCV design divides critical functions among 

multiple modules to maximize the performance of the integrated 

spacecraft design. 

The Orion MPCV design will meet the 

evolving needs of the Nation’s beyond low 

Earth orbit space exploration program for 

decades to come and will transport 

astronauts on a variety of expeditions. The 

program features dozens of technology 

advancements and innovations that have 

been incorporated into the spacecraft's 

subsystems and component design. Orion 

MPCV includes both crew and service 

modules, a spacecraft adaptor, and a 

revolutionary launch abort system that will 

significantly increase crew safety. The 

program’s unique life support, propulsion, 

thermal protection and avionics systems in 

combination with other deep space 

elements will enable extended duration 

deep space missions. These systems have 

been developed to facilitate integration of 

new technical innovations as they become 

available in the future. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

For FY 2013, there are no programmatic changes for Orion MPCV. The program is on a path of 

development consistent with the NASA Authorization Act of 2010, which directs NASA to develop an 

Orion MPCV that continues the advanced development of human safety features, designs, and systems in 

the Orion project. 

In FY 2012, extra-vehicular activity (EVA) support to the Orion MPCV has been suspended pending 

further program review of baseline requirements; however, the EVA suit and portable life support system 

research continues under the Advanced Exploration Systems program. 

EXP-7 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT

ORION MULTI-PURPOSE CREW VEHICLE (ORION MPCV)

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

On May 24, 2011, NASA announced its decision to accept the Orion-based reference vehicle design, as 

outlined in the Agency’s January 2011 report to Congress, as the MPCV. From the outset, Orion was 

developed to meet the requirements of a deep space vehicle and the Orion design is consistent with the 

NASA Authorization Act of 2010. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

As part of its program objectives, NASA plans to conduct the exploration flight test 1 (EFT-1) in early 

2014; final preparation and manufacturing milestones for the flight test will be completed in FY 2013. 

EFT-1 is an early flight test of critical Orion MPCV systems that address 10 of the 16 highest risks to 

crew survivability and exploration mission failure. This orbital flight will provide data critical to 

influencing design decisions and validating Orion MPCV systems in flight environments that cannot be 

duplicated on the ground. The planned flight conditions required for EFT-1 will demonstrate integrated 

vehicle performance for ascent, on-orbit flight, and a high energy re-entry profile of approximately 84 

percent of the lunar entry velocity from beyond low Earth orbit. Conducting this test before the Orion 

MPCV critical design review will mitigate program cost and schedule risks by allowing actual flight data 

to influence the final design of critical spacecraft systems, thereby avoiding increased ground testing and 

costly redesign efforts prior to the planned unmanned launch in December 2017 aboard the SLS. 

Performing the EFT-1 flight test will also enable the program to refurbish and reuse the crew module test 

vehicle in AA-2 in 2016 prior to the first joint Orion-Orion MPCV/SLS mission in 2017. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $1,028.2 million (including $3.3 million of programmatic CoF included in the 

CECR account), a $171.8 million decrease from the FY 2012 estimate ($1,200.0 million). The FY 2013 

request includes: 

• $968.5 million for Crew Vehicle Development;

$17.7 million for Mission Operations;

$11.7 million for Exploration Systems Division MPCV Integration Support; 

$27.0 million for HEO MPCV Executive Administration; and 

$3.3 million for programmatic CoF, included in the CECR account.

• 

• 

• 

• 

EXP-8 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT

ORION MULTI-PURPOSE CREW VEHICLE (ORION MPCV)

Projects 

ORION MPCV PROGRAM INTEGRATION AND SUPPORT

Orion MPCV program integration and support includes mission operations, ESD MPCV integration 

support, and headquarters program support. 

Mission operations integrates flight operations for all exploration vehicles. In FY 2011, the project 

successfully completed initial design of the mission operations facilities and integrated communications 

network for the initial flight test. 

ESD MPCV integration support is responsible for verifying that the program office satisfies all technical, 

cost, and schedule requirements. It is also responsible for ensuring that Orion MPCV is fully integrated 

with the Space Launch Systems program at MSFC, and Ground Systems development and operations at 

the KSC. 

The NASA Headquarters HEO MPCV Executive Administration function is responsible for allowing the 

Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD) to perform critical activities such as 

cross-program integration, which includes managing the interfaces between the various programs within 

the directorate. This ensures that necessary coordination and integration occurs on a timely basis, to avoid 

design and cost issues. This function also includes programmatic assessment of all HEOMD programs 

(including technical, cost, schedule, acquisition, legislative assessments) to ensure an integrated approach. 

Other activity includes strategic and feasibility studies, along with small scale research tasks to plan for 

future human exploration activities. 

Program Schedule 

See the Crew Vehicle Development project section. 

Program Management and Commitments 

JSC will manage the Orion MPCV program, with support from the four research centers, ARC, DFRC, 

GRC, and LaRC, MSFC, and KSC. 

EXP-9 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT

ORION MULTI-PURPOSE CREW VEHICLE (ORION MPCV)

Project Element Provider

Crew Vehicle 

Development

Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: JSC

Cost Share: JSC

Mission Operations Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: JSC

Cost Share: JSC

ESD MPCV 

Integration Support

Provider: HQ

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: JSC, MSFC, ARC, KSC, HQ

Cost Share: HQ

Provider: HQ

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: HQ

Cost Share: HQ

HQ Program 

Support

Acquisition Strategy 

See the Crew Vehicle Development project section. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

See the Crew Vehicle Development project section. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Independent reviews will be performed as required by NPR 7120.5. NASA has established a standing 

review board (SRB) to review the Orion MPCV program and crew vehicle project. 

EXP-10 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT: ORION MULTIPURPOSE CREW VEHICLE

CREW VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

Prior

0.0

FY 2011

1,086.0

--

FY 2012

1,142.9

--

FY 2013

968.5

-174.4

FY 2014

975.8

FY 2015 FY 2016

980.2 984.2

FY 2017

983.7

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -15.3%

P After six months of testing different water landing scenarios, an 

18,000 pound Orion mockup took its final splash into the LaRC 

Hydro Impact Basin on January 6, 2012. This test represented 

a worst case landing for an abort scenario in rough seas. This 

scenario is not likely to occur during actual vehicle operation, 

but is essential for the validation of analytical models. As was 

the case with Apollo, the Orion MPCV flight design will feature 

an onboard up-righting system. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

The Orion MPCV will transport astronauts 

on a variety of expeditions, meeting the 

evolving needs of the Nation’s space 

exploration program beyond low Earth 

orbit for decades to come. 

EXPLANATION OF PROJECT 

CHANGES

None. 

PROJECT PRELIMINARY 

ARAMETERS

Orion MPCV is made up of three separate 

components that will carry the crew to 

space, provide emergency abort capability, 

sustain the crew during the space travel, 

and provide safe re-entry from deep space 

return velocities. 

The launch abort system is positioned on a tower atop the crew module, and activates within milliseconds 

to propel the crew module to safety in the event of an emergency during launch or climb to orbit. The 

system also protects the crew module from dangerous atmospheric loads and heating, then jettisons after 

the Orion MPCV is completes the initial mission phase of ascent to orbit. 

EXP-11 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT: ORION MULTIPURPOSE CREW VEHICLE

CREW VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

The crew module is the transportation capsule that provides a safe habitat for the crew as well as storage 

for consumables and research instruments, and serves as the docking port for crew transfers. This module 

is the only part of the Orion MPCV that returns to Earth after each mission. 

The service module supports the crew module from launch through separation prior to reentry. It provides 

in-space propulsion capability for orbital transfer, attitude control, and high altitude ascent aborts. When 

mated with the crew module, it provides the water, oxygen and nitrogen needed for a habitable 

environment; generates and stores electrical power while on-orbit; and maintains the temperature of the 

vehicle's systems and components. This module can also transport unpressurized cargo and scientific 

payloads. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

With the decision to use the Orion-based reference vehicle design for MPCV, the program began a series 

of landing tests at the LaRC hydro-impact basin in order to splash test the boilerplate test article vehicle to 

investigate various water landing scenarios. Orion MPCV also completed construction of its ground test 

article vehicle, which is the next higher-fidelity vehicle beyond the boilerplate test article. The ground test 

article was brought to the Orion Denver facility to begin the first campaign of vibroacoustic and modal 

testing to better understand the forces that will be transmitted to the inside of the spacecraft during a 

launch abort. NASA also flew a test of rendezvous and docking technology on Space Shuttle STS-134 in 

support of Orion MPCV test objectives, and a flawless flight test of the launch abort system was 

successfully conducted. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, work will be focused on preparation of the Orion structural test article production and system 

integration in support of the EFT-1. Set to launch in 2014 atop an expendable launch vehicle from Cape 

Canaveral Air Force Station, the mission will be a multi-hour, two-orbit test of the Orion command 

module featuring a high apogee on the second orbit and a high-energy reentry at around 20,000 miles per 

hour, which will test mission control interfaces and data recovery. The spacecraft will remain attached to 

the expendable launch vehicle’s upper stage until reentry begins, and will rely on internal batteries for 

power rather than photovoltaic arrays, which will not be installed. The spacecraft will splash down in the 

Pacific Ocean, where KSC landing recovery forces will be exercised. The test will address 10 of 16 of 

Orion’s top risks, high speed reentry, and reusability of the vehicle structure. Additionally, the flight will 

test various Orion systems, including avionics, heat shielding and parachutes prior to its debut launch 

aboard the Space Launch System, currently scheduled for late 2017. 

In preparation for EFT-1, the crew module, service module, and launch abort system will be integrated 

and tested at the KSC during FY 2013. Orion MPCV will also begin testing the hardware components of 

the flight test article that will be flown in 2014. 

EXP-12 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT: ORION MULTIPURPOSE CREW VEHICLE

CREW VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

ESTIMATED PROJECT SCHEDULE

Formulation Milestones Formulation Agreement 

Estimate

FY 2013 PB Request Date

Formulation Authorization Nov-11 Nov-11

Systems Requirements/ 

Systems Definition Review 

(SRR/SDR)

Q2 FY 2012 Q2 FY 2012

Key Decision Point (KDP) Q4 FY 2012 Q4 FY 2012

B

Preliminary Design Review 

(PDR)

Q4 FY 2013 Q4 FY 2013

KDP-C Q1 FY 2014 Q1 FY 2014

Critical Design Review 

(CDR)

Q2 FY 2015 Q2 FY 2015

KDP-D Q1 FY 2016 Q1 FY 2016

Launch Dec-17 Dec-17

Project Schedule 

Formulation 

Authorization 

Nov 2011

SRR/SDR

Q2 FY 2012

KDP-B

Q4 FY 2012

PDR

Q4 FY 2013

KDP-C

Q1 FY 2014 

CDR

Q2 FY 2015

KDP-D

Q1 FY 2016

Launch

Dec 2017

EXP-13 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT: ORION MULTIPURPOSE CREW VEHICLE

CREW VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

The Orion MPCV Crew Vehicle Development will be managed at JSC, with support from the four 

research centers, ARC, DFRC, GRC, and LaRC, as well as MSFC and KSC. 

Project/Element

Crew Module

Provider

Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: ARC, GRC, JSC, LaRC

Cost Share: N/A

Description

The crew module is the 

transportation capsule that 

provides a safe habitat for the 

crew as well as storage for 

consumables and research 

instruments, and serves as the 

docking port for crew 

transfers.

FY 2012 PB 

Same

FY 2013 PB 

R t R t Same

Service Module Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: ARC, GRC, JSC, LaRC

Cost Share: N/A

The service module supports 

the crew module from launch 

through separation prior to 

reentry.

Same Same

Launch Abort 

System

Provider: JSC

Project Management: LaRC

NASA Center: JSC, LaRC, MSFC

Cost Share: N/A

The launch abort system is 

used to propel the crew 

module to safety in the event 

of an emergency during launch 

or climb to orbit.

Same Same

EXP-14 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT: ORION MULTIPURPOSE CREW VEHICLE

CREW VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: The resources requested for Orion 

MPCV are not available at the levels and on 

the schedule requested,

Then: The Orion MPCV will likely 

experience programmatic delays and 

increased costs.

The Orion MPCV program is taking a number of steps to ensure that the 

spacecraft can be developed within a flat budget with a first flight by 

December 2017. Cost and schedule are overriding considerations for the Orion 

MPCV program. The Orion MPCV architecture itself is evolvable, with near 

term development focused on those capabilities specifically required to 

execute the initial test flights. The evolved capability elements can be matured 

and introduced as resources permit The program is also focusing on 

affordability from development through operations. Cost, schedule, and 

technical targets are achievable within the budget request. 

Reductions or delays to providing the resources requested in this budget will 

likely result in delays that will impact the first launch in 2017 and/or the 

deferral of development work needed to field the evolved capability, as well 

as increased overall development cost. 

EXP-15 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT: ORION MULTIPURPOSE CREW VEHICLE

CREW VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

As part of the Orion MPCV decision, the NASA Administrator determined that the Agency’s current 

Orion contractual partnership with Lockheed Martin Corporation maps well to the scope of the Orion 

MPCV requirements for human exploration. Therefore, NASA will use the current contract for the 

development phase of the Orion MPCV. Principal merits of this option include building from a mature 

design currently in the design phase that meets requirements through the implementation of affordability 

measures to reduce development costs, while maximizing existing contracts and support infrastructure. 

The Orion MPCV government and industry team has assessed and initiated additional affordability 

initiatives that have reduced development costs and enabled schedule acceleration. These initiatives 

include but are not limited to: 

• Furthering the incremental approach to building and testing vehicle capabilities; 

Streamlining government oversight and insight ; 

Reducing formal deliverables and simplifying processes while retaining adequate rigor; 

Using high fidelity engineering development units in lieu of flight equivalent hardware in test 

facilities and labs; 

Consolidating test labs and re-use of test articles; and 

Enhancing approach for spacecraft processing by re-using applicable Space Shuttle processes and 

certified Space Shuttle personnel. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Element Vendor Location

MPCV Design and Development Lockheed Martin Littleton, CO

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Independent reviews will be performed as required by NPR 7120.5. NASA established an SRB to review 

the Orion MPCV program and crew vehicle project. 

EXP-16 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT: ORION MULTIPURPOSE CREW VEHICLE

CREW VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

SRR SRB Mar-07 To evaluate whether program functional 

and performance requirements are 

properly formulated and correlated with 

Agency and Mission Directorate 

strategic objectives; to assess the 

credibility of the program’s estimated 

budget and schedule

N/A

SDR SRB Aug-07 To evaluate proposed program 

requirements and architecture and 

allocation of requirements to initial 

projects; to assess the adequacy of 

project pre-formulation efforts; to 

determine whether the maturity of the 

program’s definition and associated 

plans are sufficient to begin 

implementation. 

N/A

PDR SRB Aug-07 To evaluate completeness and 

consistency of the program’s 

preliminary design, including its 

projects, in meeting all requirements 

with appropriate margins, acceptable 

risk and within cost and schedule 

constraints; and to determine the 

program’s readiness to proceed with the 

detailed design phase of the program. 

N/A

EXP-17 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT: ORION MULTIPURPOSE CREW VEHICLE

CREW VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Independent Cost 

Assessment

Booz Allen 

Hamilton

Aug-11 Provide an independent assessment of 

the Orion MPCV cost estimates, 

schedules, and risks. The assessment 

concluded that NASA’s estimates for 

three to five year budget horizon were 

serviceable. The independent cost 

assessment conducted by Booz Allen 

Hamilton, was completed and delivered 

to NASA on August 14th of 2011. Cost 

estimates to design, develop, and 

operate this architecture, with 

associated preliminary schedules, were 

developed and deemed credible, 

consistent with this early planning 

phase of pre-formulation and within the 

constraints of the current fiscal 

environment. In the longer term, the 

assessment found that that the program 

estimates ssumed large, unsubstantiated 

futre cost efficiences, leading to the 

impression that they are optimistic.

N/A

Resynchronization 

Review

SRB N/A To resynchronize the program’s 

preliminary design to the requirements 

of Exploration system development. 

NASA procedures allow that a 

program’s management agreement may 

be changed in response to internal and 

external events. A significant divergence 

from must be accompanied by an 

amendment to the decision 

memorandum signed at the KDP 

subsequent to the preliminary design 

review.

Q2 FY 2012

EXP-18 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT: ORION MULTIPURPOSE CREW VEHICLE

CREW VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Critical Design 

Review

SRB N/A To evaluate the integrity of the program 

integrated design, including its projects 

and ground systems, to meet mission 

requirements with appropriate margins 

and acceptable risk, within cost and 

schedule constraints; to determine if the 

integrated design is appropriately 

mature to continue with the final design 

and fabrication phase. 

Q3 FY 2015

EXP-19 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT

SPACE LAUNCH SYSTEM

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 13 Request in FY 12 Budget Structure 1,801.2 1,859.6 1,884.9 1,884.9 1,884.9 1,884.9 1,884.9 

- Prog. CoF in CECR Account 15.1 52.5 140.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 

- Exploration Ground Systems 250.0 304.5 404.5 455.6 455.6 455.6 455.6 

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 1,536.1 1,502.6 1,340.0 1,429.3 1,429.3 1,429.3 1,429.3

Launch Vehicle Developments 1,313.8 1,456.1 1,304.1 1,399.1 1,397.9 1,393.4 1,364.4

SLS Program Integration and Support 222.3 46.4 35.9 30.2 31.4 35.9 64.9

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 25.3

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 1.4%

Note: As directed by Congress, Exploration Ground Systems is included as a separate program in the FY 13 request. Total funding for SLS 

($1304.1 million), EGS ($404.5 million), and programmatic CoF ($140.4 million) is $1,884.9 million, $25.3 million higher than the FY 12 

estimate (Calculation based in FY 12 Budget Structure). 

NASA is moving forward with development of the SLS, an advanced heavy-lift launch vehicle that will 

provide a new national capability for human exploration beyond Earth's orbit for the first time since the 

Saturn V took American astronauts to the moon over 40 years ago. With its superior lift capability, SLS 

will expand U.S. reach into the solar system and human enable exploration of cis-lunar space, near-Earth 

asteroids, Mars and its moons, and beyond. The new launch vehicle will be designed to carry the Orion 

MPCV, as well as important cargo, equipment and science experiments beyond Earth orbit to multiple 

destinations. SLS will provide a safe, affordable and sustainable means of opening up new discoveries 

from the unique vantage point of space. 

SLS development cost and schedule benefit from the significant investments made in critical elements of 

the architecture: large-scale aluminum manufacturing at the Michoud Assembly Facility, an inventory of 

15 Space Shuttle main engines, and large segmented solid rocket motors. The SLS architecture is 

incorporates a liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen propulsion system, which will utilize the RS-25d from 

the Space Shuttle program for the core stage, the J-2X engine for the upper stage, and solid rocket 

boosters for initial development flights. Follow-on advanced boosters will be competed based on 

performance requirements and affordability considerations. The SLS will have an initial lift capacity of 

70 metric tons, nearly three times the capability of any launch system currently in operation, then mature 

to 130 metric tons. The first SLS flight test is targeted for the end of 2017. 

This evolvable approach allows NASA to address high-cost development activities early on in the 

program. The selected architecture also enables NASA to leverage existing capabilities and lower 

development costs by using liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen for both the core and upper stages. While 

the baseline SLS concept is to continue operations at 130 metric tons lift capability, trade studies are 

underway to determine the feasibility using different core stage, upper stage, and first-stage booster 

combinations to achieve the most efficient launch vehicle for any given mission. 

EXP-20 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT

SPACE LAUNCH SYSTEM

An artist’s conception shows the SLS ready to 

launch. The SLS will eventually have a lift 

capacity between 70 and 130 metric tons, but not 

every mission will require that much lift. The 

SLS modular architecture allows use of different 

core stage, upper stage, and first-stage booster 

combinations to match the mission requirements. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

See achievements in Launch Vehicle Development. 

NASA’s plans for implementing the SLS program 

include transition of relevant Space Shuttle assets and 

design and developmental activities of the Constellation 

program. A major element of this transition involves 

shifting design and developmental efforts from a closely 

coupled system (Ares I and Orion) to a more generic 

launch vehicle (SLS) and multi-purpose crew vehicle 

(Orion MPCV). In FY 2012, NASA will continue to 

define an affordable, sustainable and realistic SLS 

development plan. The system development review in 

the second quarter of FY 2012 will determine whether 

the maturity level of the program’s definition and 

associated plans is sufficient to begin implementation. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR 

FY 2013 

The FY 2012 Budget request for SLS included funding 

for supporting ground operations development. For FY 

2013, in response to direction in the Conference Report 

(House Report 112-284) accompanying the FY 2012 

Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act 

(P.L. 112-55), ground operations funding is included in 

the Ground Systems Development and Operations 

program. Budget requests for programmatic CoF 

associated with this program are included in the CECR 

account section. 

EXP-21 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS AND DEVELOPMENT

SPACE LAUNCH SYSTEM

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

See achievements in Launch Vehicle Development. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

As directed by Congress, EGS is included as a separate program in the FY 2013 request. Total funding 

for SLS, EGS, and programmatic CoF is $1,884.9 million, $25.3 million higher than the FY 2012 

estimate ($1,859.6 million). The SLS FY 2013 request includes: 

• $1,304.1 million for Launch Vehicle Development; 

$16.5 million for ESD SLS Integration Support; 

$19.4 million for HEOMD SLS Executive Administration; 

$404.5 million for EGS program (see EGS section); and 

$140.4 million for programmatic CoF, included in the CECR request as directed by Congress. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Projects 

SLS PROGRAM INTEGRATION AND SUPPORT

SLS Program Integration and Support is comprised of ESD SLS Integration and HEOMD SLS Executive 

Administration. The ESD SLS integration function assures cross program integration, which includes 

managing interfaces between the programs and ensuring that necessary cross-program integration 

activities occur. This effort is critical to making sure that the integrated technical performance of the 

system meets technical and safety specifications, and supports the programmatic assessment (technical, 

cost, schedule, acquisition, legislative) that results in an integrated technical, cost and schedule approach. 

The HEOMD SLS Executive Administration function is responsible for allowing the HEOMD to perform 

critical activities such as cross-program integration, which includes managing the interfaces between the 

various programs within the Directorate. This ensures that necessary coordination and integration occurs 

on a timely basis, to avoid design and cost issues. This function also includes programmatic assessment of 

all HEOMD programs (technical, cost, schedule, acquisition, legislative) to ensure an integrated 

approach. Other activity includes strategic and feasibility studies, along with small scale research tasks to 

plan for future human exploration activities. 

EXP-22 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT: SPACE LAUNCH 

SYSTEM

LAUNCH VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) Prior FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 0.0 1,313.8 1,456.1 1,304.1 1,399.1 1,397.9 1,393.4 1,364.4

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate

-- -- -152.0

-- -- -10.4%

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

In October 2011, all fifteen Space Shuttle Main Engines are 

together for the first time inside NASA’s Engine Shop at KSC. 

They will be prepped for shipment to SSC where they’ll become 

part of the propulsion used on the SLS. Each engine is capable 

of generating a force of nearly 400,000 pounds of thrust at 

liftoff, and consumes 350 gallons of fuel per second. They are 

engineered to burn liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, creating 

exhaust composed primarily of water vapor. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

Launch Vehicle Development is 

responsible for providing a safe, affordable 

and sustainable launch capability for 

human exploration beyond low Earth orbit, 

designed to be flexible for crew or cargo 

missions. 

EXPLANATION OF PROJECT 

CHANGES

None. 

PROJECT PRELIMINARY 

PARAMETERS

The SLS architecture will satisfy a number 

of cost, schedule, and technical 

requirements, including: 

Providing an initial, crew-rated lift capability of approximately 70 metric tons; 

Conducting a first uncrewed demonstration flight in 2017; 

Completing design, development, test, and evaluation within a flat budget ; 

Ensuring that the design is evolvable to a lift capability of at least 130 metric tons; and 

Ensuring that production and operations costs are affordable and sustainable over the life of the 

program. 

EXP-23 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT: SPACE LAUNCH 

SYSTEM

LAUNCH VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

In order to satisfy these requirements, the integrated SLS architecture is composed of hardware elements 

that are designed to take advantage of previous investments in the Space Shuttle and Constellation 

programs. These elements include stages (both core and upper), engines (RS-25 for core, J-2X for upper), 

and boosters. For the initial 70 metric ton capability, SLS will utilize a core stage, RS-25d engines, and 

existing five segment solid rocket boosters. For the evolved capability, SLS will provide a lift capacity of 

up to 130 metric tons to low Earth orbit by integrating an upper stage and advanced boosters. 

Both the initial and evolved capabilities utilize the same core stage, and both the core and upper stages 

share the same 27.5 ft. diameter tanks as the Space Shuttle external tank. The stages will be based on 

liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen technologies, in which the U.S. remains a world leader. In addition to 

a common tank diameter, the stages will share other attributes, including materials, subsystem 

components, and tooling. Maximizing commonality between the core and upper stages decreases the costs 

and risks associated with development, and provides opportunities to improve production efficiency. 

The core stage is flanked by twin large boosters to provide additional thrust during ascent. The vehicle 

uses a “stage and a half” configuration that ignites the core stage engines seconds before liftoff, and then 

ignites the solid motors at launch. The boosters burn out approximately two minutes into flight, while the 

core stage engines continue to burn until the desired cutoff point is achieved. For the initial capability 

flights, the SLS boosters are five segment reusable solid rocket motor boosters derived from the four 

segment Space Shuttle reusable solid rocket motors and the five segment solid rocket booster from the 

Ares I crew launch vehicle in the Constellation program. Beyond the initial capability flights, the evolved 

booster capability will utilize advanced boosters, which will be acquired competitively, and may be liquid 

or solid. 

For engines, the initial capability will utilize the existing inventory of RS-25d Space Shuttle main engines 

for the core stage. Later, as the existing inventory of RS-25d engines are used for test flights, NASA will 

introduce an evolved and expendable Space Shuttle main engine designated the RS-25e, with upgrades to 

reduce costs and improve production sustainability. The evolved capability will also use an upper stage, 

with the same diameter as the common core stage. The upper stage engine will be the J-2X, which is 

derived from the upper stage engine developed for the Saturn IV-B and Saturn V launch vehicles, and was 

being updated with modern design and manufacturing techniques for the Ares family of vehicles. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

NASA announced the SLS architecture on September 14, 2011. Procurement synopses for utilizing 

existing contracts for stages, engines, and boosters were also announced in September. In December 

2011, the SLS program issued a NASA Research Announcement to support advanced booster engineering 

risk reduction. By October, the SLS program moved the Launch Vehicle Development project into 

formulation—a critical phase during which the program project will set detailed preliminary cost, 

schedule, and performance plans for flying the first SLS mission in 2017. 

EXP-24 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT: SPACE LAUNCH 

SYSTEM

LAUNCH VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

The SLS engine element completed the first full-scale J-2X upper stage engine test on July 7, 2011; ten 

planned full-scale engine tests were conducted in calendar year 2011. Also, on September 8, 2011, the 

third five segment development motor was successfully fired in Alliant Techsystems’s (ATK) test site in 

Promontory, UT. With nearly 1,000 detailed measurements, this hot motor test provided a better 

understanding of the motor's ballistic and component performance at the upper temperature range on a 

launch day. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

The Launch Vehicle Development project will continue detailed preliminary design and development and 

undergo PDR to evaluate the completeness/consistency of the program’s preliminary design in meeting 

all requirements with appropriate margins, with acceptable risk, and within cost and schedule constraints. 

This comprehensive review will include all of the major elements, and will determine the program’s 

readiness to proceed with the detailed critical design phase of the project. 

ESTIMATED PROJECT SCHEDULE

Formulation Milestones Formulation Agreement 

Estimate

FY 2013 PB Request Date

Formulation Authorization Nov-11 Nov-11

SRR/SDR Q2 FY 2012 Q2 FY 2012

KDP-B Q4 FY 2012 Q4 FY 2012

PDR Q4 FY 2013 Q4 FY 2013

KDP-C Q1 FY 2014 Q1 FY 2014

CDR Q2 FY 2015 Q2 FY 2015

KDP-D Q1 FY 2016 Q1 FY 2016

Launch Dec-17 Dec-17

EXP-25 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT: SPACE LAUNCH 

SYSTEM

LAUNCH VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

Project Schedule 

Formulation 

Authorization 

Nov 2011

SRR/SDR

Q2 FY 2012

KDP-B

Q4 FY 2012

PDR

Q4 FY 2013

KDP- C

Q1 FY 2014 

CDR

Q2 FY 2015

KDP-D

Q1 FY 2016

Launch

Dec 2017

Project Management & Commitments 

SLS launch vehicle development efforts are led by MSFC. The SLS program office has responsibility for 

meeting architectural requirements within the cost and schedules established by NASA Headquarters. 

EXP-26 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT: SPACE LAUNCH 

SYSTEM

LAUNCH VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

Project/Element

Engines

Provider

Provider: MSFC

Project Management: MSFC

NASA Center: MSFC, SSC

Cost Share: N/A

Description

Responsible for development 

and/or testing, production, 

and support for both core 

stage (RS-25d) and upper 

stage (J-2X) liquid engines.

FY 2012 PB 

R t Same

FY 2013 PB 

R t Same

Stages Provider: MSFC

Project Management: MSFC

NASA Center: MSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Responsible for development, 

testing, production, and 

support of both the core and 

upper stages, including liquid 

engine and avionics 

integration.

Same Same

Booster Provider: MSFC

Project Management: MSFC

NASA Center: MSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Responsible for development, 

testing, production, and 

support for the five-segment 

reusable solid rocket motor to 

be used on initial capability 

flights.

Same Same

EXP-27 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT: SPACE LAUNCH 

SYSTEM

LAUNCH VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: The resources requested for SLS 

development are not available at the levels 

and on the schedule requested in this budget, 

Then: The SLS development will likely 

experience programmatic delays and 

increased costs.

The SLS program is taking a number of steps to ensure that SLS can be 

developed within a flat budget with a first flight by December 2017. Cost and 

schedule are overriding considerations for the SLS program. The SLS 

architecture itself is evolvable, with near term development focused on those 

capabilities specifically required to execute the initial test flights. The evolved 

capability elements can be matured and introduced as resources permit. The 

program is also focusing on affordability from development through 

operations. Cost, schedule, and technical targets are achievable within the 

budget request. 

Reductions or delays to providing the resources requested in this budget will 

likely result in delays that will impact the first launch in 2017 and/or the 

deferral of development work needed to field the evolved capability, as well 

as increased overall development cost.

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

SLS vehicle procurements are structured to meet the Agency’s requirement for an affordable and 

evolvable vehicle within a schedule that supports various mission requirements. Procurements will 

include use of existing assets to expedite development, as well as further development of technologies and 

future competitions for advanced systems and key technology areas specific to SLS evolved vehicle 

needs. 

EXP-28 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT: SPACE LAUNCH 

SYSTEM

LAUNCH VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

Element Vendor Location

Core and Upper Stages Boeing Aerospace Huntsville, AL

Core Stage Engine (RS-25d) Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne, Inc Canoga Park, CA

Upper Stage Engine (J-2X) Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne, Inc. Canoga Park, CA

Booster(Qualification Motors and first 

two test flights)

ATK Launch Systems Magna, UT

Advanced Booster Risk Reduction & 

Demo and Advanced Booster Design 

Development Test and Evaulation

Spacecraft & Payload Adaptor plus 

Fairing

To be competed

To be competed

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Independent reviews will be performed as required by NPR 7120.5. NASA established an SRB to review 

the SLS program and launch vehicle project. 

EXP-29 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT: SPACE LAUNCH 

SYSTEM

LAUNCH VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Independent Cost 

Assessment

Booz Allen 

Hamilton

Q4 FY 2011 NASA engaged Booz Allen Hamilton to 

perform independent assessments of 

cost and schedule estimates, 

independent cost assessments, 

developed by the SLS, Orion MPCV, 

and Ground Systems Development and 

Operations programs, and to assess the 

sufficiency of reserves contained in the 

estimates. The program estimates were 

found to be serviceable in the near term 

on a three to five year budget horizon. 

Beyond this horizon, the assumption of 

large, unsubstantiated, future cost 

efficiencies lead to the impression that 

the program estimates were optimistic. 

Further, a scenario-based risk 

assessment revealed that the program 

reserves are insufficient. NASA has 

committed to working to implement the 

recommendations of the report address 

these issues.

N/A

SDR SRB N/A To evaluate whether the program 

functional and performance 

requirements are properly formulated 

and correlated with the Agency and 

HEOMD strategic objectives; to assess 

the credibility of the program’s 

estimated budget and schedule. 

Q2 FY 2012

EXP-30 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT: SPACE LAUNCH 

SYSTEM

LAUNCH VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

Formulation Development Operations

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

SDR SRB N/A To evaluate whether the program 

functional and performance 

requirements are properly formulated 

and correlated with the Agency and 

HEOMD strategic objectives; to assess 

the credibility of the program’s 

estimated budget and schedule. 

Q2 FY 2012

PDR SRB N/A To evaluate the completeness/ 

consistency of the program’s 

preliminary design, including its 

projects, in meeting all requirements 

with appropriate margins, acceptable 

risk and within cost and schedule 

constraints; and to determine the 

program’s readiness to proceed with the 

detailed design phase of the program. 

Q4 FY 2013

CDR SRB N/A To evaluate the integrity of the program 

integrated design, including its projects 

and ground systems, to meet mission 

requirements with appropriate margins 

and acceptable risk, within cost and 

schedule constraints; to determine if the 

integrated design is appropriately 

mature to continue with the final design 

and fabrication phase. 

Q2 FY 2015

EXP-31 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

EXPLORATION GROUND SYSTEMS (EGS)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

250.0

--

FY 2012

304.5

--

FY 2013

404.5

100.0

FY 2014

455.6

FY 2015 FY 2016

455.6 455.6

FY 2017

455.6

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 32.8%

The mobile launch tower that will support NASA's next 

exploration rocket is on the crawler-transporter to 

launch pad 39B at KSC. The 6.8-million pound 

launcher, towering some 400 feet off the ground is 

making the 4.2-mile trip to give engineers data on how 

much the tower sways and wiggles during the journey. 

Then two weeks of tests at the pad will provide a 

comprehensive "fit check" to test clearances and 

connections. 

The EGS program will modernize and transform 

the Florida launch and range complex at KSC in 

support of the Orion MPCV and the SLS. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

The EGS program will explicitly support vertical 

and horizontal integration and launch of SLS and 

Orion MPCV by modifying the mobile launcher, 

Launch Complex 39B, the crawler transporter , 

and the Vehicle Assembly Building. Additionally, 

offline processing infrastructure such as the multipayload processing facility will be upgraded to 

adequately service Orion MPCV for launch, as 

well as other landing and recovery activity. 

Facility modifications to accommodate the SLS 

and Orion MPCV, along with ground support 

equipment modifications to service the vehicle are 

in work. All communication and range systems at 

KSC and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station will 

also be modernized to capably support SLS and 

Orion MPCV. 

The Ground Systems Development and Operations (GSDO) Program Office at KSC manages both EGS 

and the 21st Century Space Launch Complex (21CSLC). It will also modernize and transform the Florida 

launch and range complex at KSC by developing and implementing infrastructure and process 

improvements to provide more flexible, affordable, and responsive capabilities. The beneficiaries are 

current and future NASA programs: Orion MPCV, SLS, and additional customers including other 

government agencies and commercial industry. 

EXP-32 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

EXPLORATION GROUND SYSTEMS (EGS)

Formulation Development Operations

EXPLANATION OF PROJECT CHANGES

EGS is a new program within the Exploration appropriation. In previous requests, the activity in the EGS 

program was included under the Space Launch System program. Additionally, Exploration-related 

content was moved from 21CSLC in the Space Operations account into EGS, as directed by Congress. 

FY 2012 Budget Structure

Exploration

Human Exploration Capabilities

M ulti-Purpose Crew Vehicle

 Crew Vehicle Development

 MPCV Program Integration and Support

Space Launch System

 Launch Vehicle Development

 Ground Ops

 SLS Program Integration and Support

Space Operations

Space and Flight Support (SFS)

21st Century Space Launch Complex

Space Communication and Navigation

 Space Communication Netw orks

 Space Communications Support

 TDRS Replenishment

Human Space Flight Operations

Launch Services

Rocket Propulsion Testing 

FY 2013 Budget Structure

Exploration

Exploration Systems Development (ESD)

M ulti-Purpose Crew Vehicle

 Crew Vehicle Development

 MPCV Program Integration and Support

Space Launch System

 Launch Vehicle Development

 SLS Program Integration and Support

Exploration Ground Systems

Space Operations

Space and Flight Support (SFS)

21st Century Space Launch Complex ( M ulti-user )

Space Communication and Navigation

 Space Communication Netw orks

 Space Communications Support

 TDRS Replenishment

Human Space Flight Operations

Launch Services

Rocket Propulsion Testing 

PROJECT PRELIMINARY PARAMETERS

EGS primary components are vehicle integration and launch, offline processing, and command, control 

and communication. Vehicle integration and launch will complete work associated with launch vehicle 

stacking, launch vehicle integration, spacecraft, rollout, pre-launch and launch operations at the pad, to 

include the associated facility modifications and upgrades to GSE for the SLS heavy lift rocket launch 

vehicle. Offline processing will complete work associated with payload processing, manufacturing, 

testing, servicing and hazardous operations, and recovery in support of the SLS and Orion MPCV. 

Command, control and communications will complete work to enhance future capability for command 

and control, weather, telemetry and tracking, communications, and customer interface systems.

EXP-33 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

EXPLORATION GROUND SYSTEMS (EGS)

Formulation Development Operations

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The EGS work content (managed by the GSDO program office) is an extension of the accomplishments 

started under Constellation program ground operations, and is extensible to the development and 

operations needed to support the processing, integration, and launch of future NASA human spaceflight 

missions. This work included completion of a new mobile launcher structure that will be used to support, 

service, transport, and launch the heavy lift rocket being developed by the SLS program. Renovation of 

launch complex 39-B began with the removal of the fixed service structure and rotating service structure 

used by the Space Shuttle Program. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, EGS will refine launch infrastructure and operations requirements concepts and designs in 

support of the SLS and Orion MPCV programs. Modifications to existing facility systems including 

Launch Complex 39, the Vehicle Assembly building (VAB), the Mobile Launcher, and command and 

control systems will be ongoing in this fiscal year. Specifically, at Launch Complex-39, Pad B tank 

refurbishment, elevator construction, and the flame trench demolition will begin. In the fourth quarter of 

FY 2013, the Mobile Launcher structural and facility support systems modification contract will 

commence, strengthening the structure in support of SLS and Orion MPCV use. Within the VAB, 

electrical and communication cabling will be removed from high bays 1 and 3, and the high bay 3 

platform will be demolished. Continued enhancements of command and control, weather, telemetry and 

tracking, communications, and customer interface systems will also highlight FY 2013. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $404.5 million. This represents a $88.0 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($316.5 million). Budget requests for FY 2013 programmatic CoF associated with this program 

are included in the CECR section. Funds associated with outyear estimates for programmatic construction 

remain in programmatic accounts. 

EXP-34 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

EXPLORATION GROUND SYSTEMS (EGS)

Formulation Development Operations

ESTIMATED PROJECT SCHEDULE

Formulation Milestones Formulation Agreement 

Estimate

FY 2013 PB Request Date

Formulation Authorization Nov-11 Nov-11

SRR/SDR Aug-12 Aug-12

KDP-B Oct-12 Oct-12

PDR Jan-14 Jan-14

KDP-C Mar-14 Mar-14

CDR Mar-16 Mar-16

KDP-D Jun-17 Jun-17

Launch Sep-17 Sep-17

Project Schedule 

Formulation 

Authorization 

11/2011

SRR/SDR

08/2012

KDP-B

10/2012

PDR

01/2014

KDP-C

03/2014

CDR

03/2016

KDP-D

06/2017

Launch 

09/2017

EXP-35 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

EXPLORATION GROUND SYSTEMS (EGS)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

As noted in the 21CSLC section under the Space Operations account, KSC established the GSDO 

Program Office in order to develop the necessary infrastructure to support assembly, test, launch and 

recovery of associated SLS and Orion MPCV elements, and to modernize the launch and range 

infrastructure at KSC to support multiple customers including NASA, other government agencies, and 

commercial industry. 

The following diagram shows the break out of the 21CSLC content and the EGS content, as managed 

under the GSDO Program. 

GSDO Office Project 

Management 

Mission 

Focused 

Vertical 

Integration & 

Launch 

Range 

Interface & 

Control

Control, 

ommand, 

Comm, & 

Range 

C

SO/21CSLC 

Appropriation 

ES/EGS 

Appropriation 

Environmental 

Remediation & 

Technologies 

Office 

Manufacturing, 

Processing & 

Recovery 

Florida 

Launch 

Modernization 

Infrastructure 

Office 

Processing & 

Infrastructure

Note: SO = Space Operations account. ES = Exploration account. 

This single-program approach to managing both the 21CSLC content under the Space Operations 

appropriation, and the EGS content under the Exploration appropriation, provides cost-effective synergy 

between the various user requirements, while maintaining distinct identification of each element with its 

appropriation. The GSDO Program Manager is responsible and accountable for the Exploration Ground 

Systems content in conformance with the governing programmatic and institutional authority 

requirements documented in NPD 1000.0A. 

EXP-36 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

EXPLORATION GROUND SYSTEMS (EGS)

Formulation Development Operations

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB FY 2013 PB 

R t R t Offline Processing Provider: Exploration Ground Systems 

Project Management: GSDO Program

NASA Center: KSC, JSC, MSFC

Cost Share: N/A

Development and operation 

of capabilities to be used for 

flight component 

manufacturing and assembly, 

offline spacecraft and launch 

vehicle processing, and the 

nominal and contingency 

landing and recovery of 

elements of the SLS, Orion 

MPCV, and potentially other 

government and commercial 

launch systems and 

spacecraft.

N/A Realignment 

of 

SLS/MPCV 

content from 

21CLC to 

EGS

Command, Control, 

and 

Communication

Provider: Exploration Ground Systems 

Project Management: GSDO Program

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share: N/A

Command, control, 

communication and range 

capability at KSC and at 

CCAFS in support of the 

GSDO program. This 

includes NASA launch control 

and ground processing 

capabilities for both ground 

suppot equipment and 

spacecraft/launch vehicle 

systems. This element 

provides for network 

backbone infrastructure on 

KSC and on CCAFS for 

voice, imagery, transmission, 

and radio frequency subsystems as well as interfaces 

to any remote launch 

processing locations. It also 

provides for IT security 

support throughout the 

program.

N/A Realignment 

of 

SLS/MPCV 

content from 

21CSLC to 

EGS

EXP-37 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

EXPLORATION GROUND SYSTEMS (EGS)

Formulation Development Operations

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB 

R t

FY 2013 PB 

R t Vehicle Integration 

and Launch

Provider: Exploration Ground Systems 

Project Management: GSDO Program

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share: N/A

Development, operation, and N/A Realignment 

sustainment of capabilities 

associated with vertical and 

horizontal processing and 

launch of integrated launch 

systems and the associated 

payloads in support of SLS 

and Orion MPCV elements. 

The activities in this element 

could potentially support 

other government and 

commercial users of the 

Florida launch and range 

complex

of 

SLS/MPCV 

content from 

21CSLC to 

EGS; EGS 

CoF funding 

transfer into 

CECR

Project Risks 

Specific programmatic risks are in work and will be identified as the program works through the 

SRR/SDR process and ensures interdependencies with SLS and Orion MPCV are understood and 

documented. 

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

The EGS program will encompass projects with varying content and sizes. Many of the projects are 

consistent with the type of architecture and engineering, construction, and programmatic support available 

within the scope of existing center and program support contracts. Should project size or scope fall 

outside the scope of existing center capabilities, then competitively bid firm fixed price contracts will be 

used. 

No major contracts or awards are in place at this time. 

EXP-38 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

EXPLORATION GROUND SYSTEMS (EGS)

Formulation Development Operations

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Cost Booz Allen 

Hamilton

Q4 FY 2011 Task: Provide an independent 

assessment of the 21CSLC ground 

support cost estimates, schedules, and 

risks.

Outcome: The independent cost 

assessment team concludes that the 

estimate is reasonable and acceptable to 

serve as the basis for near-term, three to 

five year, analysis of alternatives and 

program decisions, but is not sustainable 

beyond that timeframe.

N/A

EXP-39 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

EXPLORATION GROUND SYSTEMS (EGS)

Formulation Development Operations

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

EXP-40 
EXPLORATION: COMMERCIAL SPACEFLIGHT

COMMERCIAL CREW

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 300.0 406.0 829.7 829.7 829.7 829.7 829.7

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 423.7

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 104.4%

The image is an artist's conception of the future state of 

commercial space transportation where spaceflight becomes 

much more routine, similar to airline operations, with multiple 

providers. ISS is also shown to depict the near-term NASA 

market of ISS crew transportation. 

Commercial space transportation is vital 

to the future of human space exploration. 

As NASA charts a new course to send 

humans deeper into space than ever 

before, the Agency is stimulating efforts 

within the private sector to develop and 

operate safe, reliable and affordable 

commercial space transportation systems. 

Once the capabilities are matured and 

available to the government and other 

customers, NASA plans to purchase 

services to transport crew and cargo to 

ISS and low Earth orbit; the ISS budget 

funds purchase of these services. This 

approach will provide U.S. access to ISS, 

reduce our dependence on foreign space 

transportation systems, strengthen 

America's space industrial base, and 

provide a catalyst for future business 

ventures to capitalize on affordable space 

access. 

The Commercial Crew Program is a 

partnership between NASA and the 

private sector to build and operate safe, reliable, and cost effective commercial human space 

transportation systems. In the near term, NASA is a reliable partner with U.S. industry, providing 

technical and financial assistance during the development phase. In the longer term, NASA plans to be a 

customer for these services, purchasing transportation for the U.S. and U.S.-designated astronauts to ISS. 

These activities should stimulate the development of a new industry that will be available to all potential 

customers, including the United States Government. Success of the Commercial Crew Program would 

also end the outsourcing of human space transportation to foreign providers. Together with the 

capabilities to explore deep space provided by SLS and the Orion MPCV, NASA is moving forward on a 

robust, comprehensive U.S. human spaceflight program. 

EXP-41 
EXPLORATION: COMMERCIAL SPACEFLIGHT

COMMERCIAL CREW

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

Over the last year, NASA has been working to develop a commercial crew acquisition strategy that 

ensures appropriate safety, accountability, transparency, affordability, and maximum efficiency in the 

procurement of commercial crew capabilities and services. In FY 2011, NASA’s strategy for the program 

has evolved into an overall hybrid structure for the life cycle of the Commercial Crew Program, 

originating with a continuation of funded Space Act Agreements for system and element design as 

outlined in the NASA Authorization Act of 2010, followed by a series of competitively awarded contracts 

for an integrated crew transportation system. NASA planned to issue a request for proposal in 

December 2011 for a competitively awarded integrated design contract for the integrated system design 

phase of the program. 

The FY 2012 Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act provided NASA with $406 

million for the program for FY 2012 ($444 million below the FY 2012 requested level). The Conference 

Report to the Act directed NASA to “work expeditiously to alter its management and acquisition strategy 

for the program as necessary to make the best use of available resources and to define the most cost 

effective path to the achievement of a commercial crew capability”. Furthermore, the Government 

Accountability Office’s final report resulting from a review of the acquisition approach for commercial 

crew, dated December 2011, included the following recommendation, “To continue to ensure that 

NASA’s acquisition approach for commercial crew transportation services is reasonable in light of new 

appropriations, the Administrator of NASA should direct the Commercial Crew Program to reassess its 

approach for acquiring services before initiating its procurement process for the integrated design contract 

and subsequent phases.” 

NASA evaluated a range of alternative approaches for the near term strategy based on the current budget 

environment, and determined that it needed to adopt an approach that retains competition while 

permitting the Agency to focus limited resources to support continued progress toward a commercial 

capability. Rather than moving forward with a firm-fixed price contract for integrated design, NASA will 

support the design and development of commercial crew transportation systems through the continued use 

of funded Space Act Agreements for the next phase of the program. This will enhance partner flexibility 

in technical development throughout the next phase. 

NASA supports the increased progress industry can make during the next phase using funded Space Act 

Agreements, and the Agency plans to eventually transition to a Federal Acquisitions Regulations- (FAR) 

based contract to evaluate the results of the development effort and undergo certification efforts to ensure 

that all the necessary safety and performance requirements are met. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

Since 2009, NASA has conducted two CCDev rounds of awards, soliciting proposals from U.S. industry 

participants to further advance commercial crew space transportation system concepts and mature the 

design and development of system elements. For CCDev 1, NASA awarded five funded SAAs to Blue 

Origin ($3.7 million); the Boeing Company ($18 million); Paragon Space Development Corporation 

($1.4 million); Sierra Nevada Corporation ($20 million); and United Launch Alliance ($6.7 million). 

These commercial partners successfully accomplished all funded milestones in the spring of 2011. 

 

EXP-42 
EXPLORATION: COMMERCIAL SPACEFLIGHT

COMMERCIAL CREW

As part of (CCDev 2, NASA awarded four funded Space Act Agreements that are currently being 

executed to Blue Origin ($22 million), the Boeing Company ($112.9 million), Sierra Nevada Corporation 

($105.6 million) and SpaceX ($75 million). During FY 2011, NASA’s CCDev 2 partners have continued 

to successfully complete their milestones. 

Blue Origin is maturing its space vehicle design and pusher escape system, as well as accelerating engine 

development for a reusable booster system. Blue Origin completed five milestones, including a spacecraft 

review identifying proposed mission objectives with the design concepts to meet them, and an engine 

thrust chamber assembly interface and test plan review in preparation for their booster system engine 

component testing scheduled for next year. 

Boeing is maturing their crew transportation system and performing development tests. The company has 

completed five milestones, including a delta systems definition review where Boeing engineers presented 

updates and improvements to their spacecraft design since the initial review under CCDev 1 and a landing 

air bag drop demonstration to measure the performance of prototype landing airbags. 

Sierra Nevada Corporation is maturing its Dream Chaser spacecraft design and conducting hardware 

testing. The company has completed four milestones, including a transportation system requirements 

review and development of a cockpit based flight simulator for engineering development tests. 

SpaceX is maturing the Falcon 9/Dragon transportation system focusing on developing a side-mounted 

launch abort system. The company completed four milestones, including a review showing the feasibility 

of their design concept, and a preliminary design review for their launch abort system, which 

demonstrated that SpaceX is ready to proceed with detailed design, fabrication, assembly, integration, and 

testing of the component test articles. 

In addition to these four funded agreements mentioned above, NASA also signed Space Act Agreements 

without funding with Alliant Techsystems, Inc. (ATK) and United Launch Alliance (ULA). The ATK 

agreement is to advance the company’s Liberty launch vehicle concept, while the ULA agreement is to 

accelerate the potential use of the Atlas V as part of a commercial crew transportation system. ATK has 

successfully completed one of five milestones, and ULA completed two of five milestones. In October 

2011, NASA signed another Space Act Agreement without funding to Excalibur Almaz, Incorporated to 

further develop the company’s concept for low Earth orbit crew transportation. All agreements, both 

funded and unfunded, are currently scheduled for completion by the summer of 2012. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2012, the Agency plans to make awards for the next round of Space Act Agreements FY 2013 

funds will continue to support milestones under these Space Act Agreements. By the end of FY 2013, 

NASA plans to have made significant progress towards maturing the design of multiple, end-to-end, 

integrated crew transportation systems. 

EXP-43 
EXPLORATION: COMMERCIAL SPACEFLIGHT

COMMERCIAL CREW

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $829.7 million. This represents a $423.7 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($406.0 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $767.6 million for the next round of Space Act Agreements with the goal of having multiple 

providers significantly mature their crew transportation system designs; and 

$62.1 million for program integration and support required to support overall program 

implementation. 

• 

Program Schedule 

Complete CCDev2 

FY 2012

Issue Additional 

SAAs 

FY 2012

CTS CDRs 

FY 2014

Certification of 

one or more CRS 

Potentially FY 2017

Program Management & Commitments 

While strategic management and oversight of Commercial Spaceflight is performed at Headquarters, 

program management for the Commercial Crew Program is led by the KSC. These programs have 

partnered with industry utilizing Space Act Agreements to stimulate efforts to develop and demonstrate 

cargo and crew transportation capabilities. 

Project/Element Provider Description

Support development of a commercial 

crew space transportation capabilities.

Commercial Crew 

Program

Provider: Blue Origin, Boeing, Sierra Nevada, SpaceX

Project Management: KSC

NASA Centers: All

Industry Partners: Yes

EXP-44 
EXPLORATION: COMMERCIAL SPACEFLIGHT

COMMERCIAL CREW

Program Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: The funding for commercial crew remains 

lower than expected and needed,

Then: NASA will be forced to reduce the 

technical scope of the Space Act 

Agreements, thereby delaying service 

availability and extending NASA’s reliance 

on foreign providers for human space 

transportation.

In order to address this risk, NASA altered its acquisition strategy. Rather 

than moving forward with a firm fixed-price contract(s) for integrated design, 

NASA will support the design and development of commercial crew 

transportation systems through the use of funded Space Act Agreements for 

the next program phase. Space Act Agreements offer more flexibility and 

efficiency in adjusting to future appropriations. Also, Space Act Agreements 

enhance partner flexibility in technical development throughout the next 

phase.

If: commercial crew providers cannot obtain 

investment capital above the amounts 

provided by NASA,

Then: NASA will either need to more fully 

fund the system development or experience 

delays.

NASA will be an ongoing, long-term customer for commercial crew services, 

providing a strong base market for commercial providers, given the decision to 

extend the life of ISS. In addition, this budget request provides significant 

financial and technical assistance to providers to reduce their risk

Acquisition Strategy 

The Commercial Crew Program aims to facilitate the development of a U.S. commercial crew space 

transportation capability with the goal of achieving safe, reliable, and cost effective access to and from 

low Earth orbit and ISS. In the early lifecycle stages, the original CCDev activity focused on stimulating 

industry efforts that successfully matured subsystems and elements of commercial crew spaceflight 

concepts enabling technologies and capabilities. Subsequently, NASA continued this effort with CCDev 2 

to address new concepts to mature the design and development of non-integrated systems and elements, 

such as launch vehicles or spacecraft. 

The next stage of the acquisition life cycle will be a series of competitively awarded Space Act 

Agreements with the intent of having multiple partners progress in their integrated design and 

development efforts. The specific content, scope, and duration of the next round was communicated in an 

announcement for proposals, released on February 7, 2012. After this next Space Act Agreement phase 

will be a “certification phase,” during which NASA will evaluate the technical progress of the 

commercial partners, and accommodate redesign as necessary to ensure compliance with Agency 

requirements. This phase may include initial missions to ISS. 

NASA plans to competitively award one or more services contracts to obtain longer term crew 

transportation and emergency rescue services for the ISS. NASA’s acquisition strategy balances 

commercial partner design and schedule flexibility with government insight and oversight responsibilities 

throughout all program phases. Furthermore, it accommodates maturation of the commercial partner 

designs and vehicle programs at varying rates. Based on the availability of funding and industry 

performance, this strategy allows for adjustments in program scope, and enables a domestic capability to 

EXP-45 
EXPLORATION: COMMERCIAL SPACEFLIGHT

COMMERCIAL CREW

transport crewmembers to ISS, likely by 2017, based on a commercial partner’s capability readiness to 

achieve crew transportation systems certification. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

COTS Space Act Agreements Orbital Dulles, VA

COTS Space Act Agreements SpaceX Hawthorne, CA

COTS Space Act Agreements Rocketplane Kistler Oklahoma City, OK

CCDEV 1 Space Act Agreements Boeing Houston, TX

CCDEV 1 Space Act Agreements Paragon Space Development Company Tucson, AR

CCDEV 1 Space Act Agreements United Launch Alliance Denver, CO

CCDEV 1 Space Act Agreements Blue Origin Kent, WA

CCDEV 1 Space Act Agreements Sierra Nevada Sparks, NV

CCDEV 2 Space Act Agreements Blue Origin Kent, WA

CCDEV 2 Space Act Agreements Boeing Houston, TX

CCDEV 2 Space Act Agreements Sierra Nevada Sparks, NV

CCDEV 2 Space Act Agreements SpaceX Hawthorne, CA

CCDEV 2 Space Act Agreements (unfunded) ATK Minneapolis, MN

CCDEV 2 Space Act Agreements (unfunded)

CCDEV 2 Space Act Agreements (unfunded)

EAI Houston, TX

ULA Denver, CO

EXP-46 
EXPLORATION: COMMERCIAL SPACEFLIGHT

COMMERCIAL CREW

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Other NAC Aug-11 Provides independent guidance for the TBD

NASA Administrator. While no 

recommendations were issued related to 

commercial spaceflight during the last 

review, a finding was issued citing 

concern that goals may not be achieved 

due to inadequate funding authorization 

by Congress. It should be noted that the 

funding requested in this budget submit 

is higher than the authorization funding.

Other Aerospace Safety Oct-11 Provides independent assessments of TBD

Advisory Panel safety to the NASA Administrator. 

(ASAP) ASAP cited a concern that there could 

be insufficient funding to facilitate this 

program as envisioned by NASA. 

However, they issued no 

recommendations related to the 

Commercial Crew Program.

Other Government Dec-11 Assessed NASA's strategy for acquiring N/A

Accountability commercial crew services. GAO found 

Office (GAO) that NASA's planned approach for 

acquiring U.S. commercial crew 

transportation faces significant 

challenges, primarily funding levels, 

which could impact its success. GAO 

recommended that NASA reassess its 

approach for commercial crew services 

due to reduced funding levels. This 

budget reflects a new strategy change as 

a result.

Other NASA Inspector Jun-11 Examined the Agency's efforts to N/A

General modify its existing safety and humanrating requirements to make them 

applicable to commercially developed 

vehicles. Also evaluated the overarching 

challenges associated with possible 

approaches NASA may use to certify 

and acquire commercial crew 

transportation services. No specific 

recommendations for corrective action 

were made.

EXP-47 
EXPLORATION: COMMERCIAL SPACEFLIGHT

COMMERCIAL CREW

Historical Performance 

Through October 31, 2011 

Commercial Orbital Transportation 

System (COTS) Partner*

No. of 

Milestones

Total 

Potential 

Value 

(in $M)

No. 

Milestones 

Completed

Payments 

Through 

FY 2011 

(in $M)

% No. 

Completed

% 

Payments 

Provided Status

SpaceX 40 396.0 36 376.0 90% 90% Active

Orbital 29 288.0 23 261.5 79% 91% Active

Rocketplane-Kistler (RpK) 15 206.8 3 32.1 20% 16% Terminated

CCDev2 Partner

No. of 

Milestones

Total 

Potential 

Value 

(in $M)

No. 

Milestones 

Completed

Payments 

Through 

FY 2011 

(in $M)

% No. 

Completed

% 

Payments 

Provided Status

Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) 13 105.6 5 42.5 38% 28% Active

Boeing 15 122.9 5 52.5 33% 47% Active

SpaceX 10 75.0 4 40.0 40% 53% Active

Blue Origin 10 22.0 5 11.2 50% 51% Active

United Launch Alliance (ULA) 5 N/A 2 N/A 40% N/A Active

Alliant Techsystems Inc (ATK) 5 N/A 1 N/A 20% N/A Active

Excalibur Almaz Inc (EAI) 5 N/A 1 N/A 20% N/A Active

Total 

Potential 

Value 

(in $M)

Payments 

Through 

FY 2011 

(in $M)

No. % 

Payments 

Provided

No. of Milestones % No. 

CCDev1 Partner Milestones Completed Completed Status

Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) 4 20.0 4 20.0 100% 100% Completed

Boeing 36 18.0 36 18.0 100% 100% Completed

Blue Origin 7 3.7 7 3.7 100% 100% Completed

Paragon Space Development 

Corporation 5 1.4 5 1.4 100% 100% Completed

United Launch Alliance (ULA) 4 6.7 4 6.7 100% 100% Completed

*COTS was a previous program funded by the Commercial Spaceflight theme. It has no funding in the FY 2013 President’s Budget.

EXP-48 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

HUMAN RESEARCH PROGRAM (HRP)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 154.7 157.7 164.7 164.7 164.7 164.7 164.7

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 7.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 4.4%

A next-generation ultrasound device for astronaut care and 

improved ISS research capabilities was delivered to ISS by STS135, replacing a decade-old machine. The Ultrasound 2 is a 

commercial off-the-shelf system that was updated to meet space 

flight standards, and will be a key tool in research for longduration human exploration. The ultrasound images sent back to 

Earth allow biomedical researchers to better understand and 

monitor changes in the human body during space flight. 

Astronaut Mike Fossum is using Ultrasound 2 to scan JAXA 

crewmember Satoshi Furukawa. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

None. 

HRP is focused on investigating and 

mitigating the highest risks to human 

health and performance in order to enable 

safe, reliable, and productive human space 

exploration. HRP conducts research, 

develops countermeasures, and undertakes 

technology development to address human 

health risks in space and ensure 

compliance with NASA's health, medical, 

human performance, and environmental 

standards. The risks examined by HRP 

include health concerns from space 

radiation exposure, behavioral health, and 

team cohesion challenges associated with 

confinement and isolation, ensuring 

vehicle functions are properly designed for 

efficient human interface in space, and 

providing for emergency medical care in 

space. HRP also studies the effects of 

microgravity on the human body including 

rapid muscle atrophy, bone loss, 

neurovestibular system changes that 

produce motion sickness, significant fluid 

shifts that affect intracranial pressure, 

visual changes, cardiovascular function, 

blood volume, and orthostatic intolerance. 

EXP-49 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

HUMAN RESEARCH PROGRAM (HRP)

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, HRP made extensive use of ISS to address human health and performance risks associated 

with long-duration spaceflight, including the flight of 11 major medical experiments. HRP also completed 

and delivered new ISS biomedical capabilities as well as a model that predicts the lifetime cancer health 

risk from exposure to deep space radiation. For more detail on these achievements see the project 

descriptions that follow. 

In education and outreach, HRP organized and hosted the 18th International Astronautics Academy’s 

Humans in Space Symposium in Houston and led a successful international outreach program called 

“Mission X: Train Like an Astronaut” that brought together 14 space agencies with students from around 

the world to work together to address health and fitness education in young people. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, HRP will use ISS and related agency resources to complete at least two physiological flight 

experiments that define requirements to address human health and performance risks associated with 

long-duration spaceflight. For more detail on these achievements see the project descriptions, that follow. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $164.7 million. This represents a $7.0 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($157.7 million). 

Projects 

EXPLORATION MEDICAL CAPABILITY

This project is responsible for identifying and testing next generation medical care and crew health 

maintenance technologies during exploration missions, as well as the evolution of exploration health care 

options based on past experience, anticipated needs, and input from flight surgeons and crew offices. 

Major deliverables from this project include identifying requirements for medical equipment and clinical 

care capabilities, developing remote medical technologies, and assessing medical requirements for longduration space missions (e.g., Mars, Moon, or near-Earth asteroid). 

In FY 2011, HRP completed work that will enable future development of an exploration medical suite 

including: final report on ISS testing of mixed water generation and IV drug mixing capability, ultrasound 

image catalog for use in autonomous medical care in space, and delivering a training program to medical 

operations for ultrasound diagnosis of fractures. In addition, HRP completed assessment of technologies 

that will enable in-flight blood analysis technology for health monitoring and sensor system for 

noninvasive metabolic rate measurements. Finally, NASA delivered the integrated medical model 

software tool that defines the optimal medical capability requirements for long-duration space missions 

EXP-50 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

HUMAN RESEARCH PROGRAM (HRP)

like those to Mars, Moon, or an asteroid via a medical database that forecasts potential risks to crew 

health. 

In FY 2013, HRP’s exploration medical capability project will deliver an engineering prototype of a smart 

therapeutic ultrasound device, receive a prototype combined scanning confocal ultrasound diagnostic and 

treatment system for bone quality assessment and fracture healing, and sensor algorithms for noninvasive 

continuous metabolic rate measurements. 

HUMAN HEALTH COUNTERMEASURES (HHC) 

The HHC project provides the biomedical expertise for development and assessment of medical 

standards, vehicle and spacesuit standards dictated by human physiological needs, and develops 

biomedical countermeasures that ensure the maintenance of crew health. Major deliverables for the HHC 

project are research results to define health and medical standards, validated human health prescriptions, 

validated exercise system requirements, extravehicular activity injury and decompression sickness 

prevention standards, integrated physiological countermeasures, and criteria for the Agency fitness for 

duty and crew selection and retention standards. The project also supports biomedical core laboratories 

that provide the expertise to enable the development of medical standards, the assessment of the risks to 

crew health and performance, and the validation of countermeasures. 

In FY 2011, HHC held a research summit on the recently identified visual impairment, and increased 

intracranial pressure risk to astronauts during long duration spaceflight; it brought together the Nation’s 

experts to support NASA in identifying approaches to dealing with this significant issue. Based on this 

summit, HHC formulated a research plan and released a research announcement requesting proposals in 

this critical area. HHC also completed the instrumented harness final report on distribution of loads 

during crew exercise. The weight-bearing exercise afforded by treadmill running on the ISS is crucial for 

effective gravitational loading of the musculoskeletal system and thus for bone health in space. The 

current ISS treadmill harness caused discomfort in crewmembers, and the new harness design eliminated 

many of these issues and is now used by crewmembers. Finally, NASA initiated the ISS Sprint study that 

brings together more than a decade of NASA funded exercise research to test a newly designed exercise 

prescription. The exercise prescription consists of high-intensity aerobic sprint intervals and a resistive 

training program intended to better protect cardiovascular, skeletal muscle, and bone health. 

In 2013, HHC will perform research studies to reduce crew health risks during missions and long-term 

health risks after missions, including cardiac structure and function and bone demineralization monitoring 

and mitigation techniques. HHC will complete the ISS treadmill kinematics study final report to inform 

mission operations and improve exercise countermeasures for bone health, complete the ISS VO2Max 

study final report to inform mission operations and recommend update to NASA health standards, and 

provide a preliminary recommendation for updating the immune standard based on outcome from 

integrated immune flight study. 

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND PERFORMANCE (BHP) 

The BHP project identifies and characterizes the behavior and performance risks associated with training, 

living, and working in space, and returning to Earth. The major deliverables for the BHP project include: 

EXP-51 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

HUMAN RESEARCH PROGRAM (HRP)

• Recommendations for NASA medical standards; 

Development of operational tools and technology to prevent performance degradation; 

Human errors or failures during critical operations resulting from sleep loss; 

Circadian de-synchronization, fatigue or work overload; 

Deterioration of morale and motivation; 

Interpersonal conflicts or lack of team cohesion, coordination, and communication; 

Team and individual decision-making; performance readiness factors (fatigue, cognition, and 

emotional readiness); 

Behavioral health disorders; and 

Individual selection and crew assignments. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

In FY 2011, NASA proposed recommendations for ISS lighting assemblies that provide a safe, reversible, 

and non-pharmacological countermeasure to facilitate crew circadian rhythms, increase alertness, and 

enhance performance. NASA also delivered the stress management and resilience training for optimal 

performance on long-duration missions (SMART-OP) software that provides a stress management 

countermeasure. Executing a long-duration mission poses many stress-inducing challenges such as time 

away from family, communication delays, and isolation. The SMART-OP program includes education 

about stress and interactive training exercises that teach users to regulate physiology, think flexibly and 

realistically, and take effective action to deal with stressors. 

In 2013, BHP will use ground-based analog and ISS flight-based studies to evaluate contributing factors 

to health or performance degradation, errors, or failures during critical mission operations. These studies 

will evaluate sleep loss and circadian rhythms, medication side effects, fatigue, team cohesion, and 

training protocols. 

SPACE HUMAN FACTORS AND HABITABILITY

This project consists of three main areas: 

• Space human factors engineering validates models for predicting the effects of interface designs 

on human performance, methods for measuring human and human-system performance, and 

design concepts for, and evaluations of, advanced crew interfaces and habitability systems; 

Advanced environmental health research assesses the acute and long-term health impacts of 

targeted pollutants in the environment including lunar dust, microorganisms, and atmospheric 

contaminants; and 

Advanced food technology provides a safe, nutritious, and acceptable food system to maintain 

crew health and performance. Technology development addresses nutritional, psychological, 

safety, and acceptability requirements while minimizing mass, volume, waste, power, and trace 

gas emissions. 

• 

• 

In FY 2011, NASA developed and tested multi-spectrum lighting and worked with the ISS program to 

develop programmable lighting to aid in astronaut adaptation to the work, rest, and sleep cycle. This new 

lighting approach will be used for all future exploration spacecraft. NASA also held the Net Habitable 

Volume Workshop that brought together a multidisciplinary group of experts in medical sciences and 

human habitability and design. The workshop established a foundation for developing requirements for 

EXP-52 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

HUMAN RESEARCH PROGRAM (HRP)

minimal habitable volume for long-duration space missions and the factors that lead to these 

requirements. NASA delivered a draft standard for allowable exposure to respirable lunar dust to NASA’s 

Chief Health and Medical Officer. The new standard is based on four years of experimental research and 

would be a key design requirement for lunar habitats, if established. 

In 2013, NASA’s Space Human Factor and Habitability project will research food nutrition requirements 

and storage for long duration missions, develop and recommend human/machine interface requirements, 

recommend permissible exposure limit standards, and test habitat designs to support the crew's ability to 

optimally function during space missions. NASA will provide a final report and recommendations to 

applicable NASA standards on the mitigation of transmission delays in teleoperations for long-duration 

exploration missions. 

SPACE RADIATION HEALTH

This project performs investigations to assure that crews can safely live and work in a space radiation 

environment without exceeding the acceptable exposure limits during and after missions. Major 

deliverables for the space radiation project include inputs to standards for radiation health, habitability, 

and environments, requirements for radiation protection; early technology development for monitoring 

equipment, caution and warning models; and tools to assess and predict risks due to space radiation 

exposure; and strategies to mitigate exposure effects. 

In FY 2011, NASA delivered an updated space radiation cancer risk model that predicts the lifetime 

cancer health risk from exposure to deep space radiation and it is a vital tool in planning safe exploration 

missions. NASA also initiated a new collaboration on lung cancer research with the National Institutes of 

Health National Cancer Institute by jointly sponsoring a workshop “From Mice and Men to Earth and 

Space: Joint NASA-NCI Workshop on Lung Cancer Risk Resulting from Space and Terrestrial 

Radiation”. Lung cancer is a major issue for NASA, as available data suggest that it is the largest 

potential cancer risk from exposure to space radiation during space travel for both men and women. 

Finally, NASA, working with the DoE, upgraded the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory. The new 

electron beam ion source was commissioned and is supporting space radiation researchers with muchreduced operating costs and greater operational flexibility. 

In FY 2013, NASA’s Space Radiation Health project will evaluate the increased risk of cancer as a 

function of age, age at exposure, radiation quality, latency, and gender. These efforts will enable more 

accurate predictions of cancer and facilitate longer stays in space. NASA will baseline lunar neutron 

environmental model available on OLTARIS, which is a space radiation analysis tool available on the 

Internet. It can be used by researchers and mission planners to study the effects of space radiation for 

various spacecraft and mission scenarios involving humans and electronics. 

ISS MEDICAL PROJECT (ISSMP) 

ISSMP planning, integration, and implementation services for HRP research tasks and evaluates activities 

requiring access to space or related flight resources on ISS, Soyuz, Progress, or other spaceflight vehicles 

and platforms. ISSMP services include operations and sustaining engineering for HRP flight hardware, 

experiment integration and operation including individual research tasks and on-orbit validation of next 

EXP-53 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

HUMAN RESEARCH PROGRAM (HRP)

generation on-orbit equipment, medical operations, procedures and crew training concepts. Services also 

include operation and sustaining engineering for the telescience support center, which provides real-time 

operations and data services to all HRP flight experiments. ISSMP integrates HRP-approved flight 

activities and interfaces with external implementing organizations, such as the ISS payloads office and 

international partners to accomplish the HRP's objectives. 

In FY 2011, NASA coordinated and optimized the biomedical research supporting three Shuttle missions 

and ISS increments 26 to 29. NASA flew 11 major medical experiments to optimize exercise, nutrition 

and sleep to evaluate the immune system and other human health areas to make exploration missions 

healthier, safer, and more productive. NASA completed two of these ISS research studies and initiated 

three new studies. NASA also added new ISS biomedical capabilities including the second-generation 

ultrasound for medical imaging, the urine monitoring system, and the jointly developed ESA and NASA 

muscle atrophy research and exercise system. 

In 2013, ISSMP will use ISS to understand the significant effects of long duration space flight on the 

human body by supporting 10 to 15 biomedical flight experiments per each ISS six-month mission. 

PROGRAM MANAGEMENT

The program management office plans, coordinates, and oversees all HRP research and development 

projects. Based on NASA’s current needs, program management personnel assess the research areas of 

greatest importance and prioritize resources and research teams accordingly, ensuring integration across 

projects and facilities. In addition to coordinating research activities within the program, the office also 

works to cultivate strategic research partnerships with other domestic and international agencies. 

In FY 2011, NASA was highly involved internationally by organizing and hosting the 18th International 

Astronautics Academy’s Humans in Space Symposium in Houston, TX. NASA also led the development 

and execution of a highly successful international outreach program called “Mission X,” which brought 

together 14 space agencies and various partner institutions to work together to address health/fitness 

education in young people. NASA released two research announcements related to space human health 

risks and conducted peer reviews of all solicited research proposals. 

In FY 2013, the program management office will continue to consult with NASA Headquarters on NASA 

Research Announcement (NRA) releases and selections, as well as conduct workshops and events in 

support of human research. 

EXP-54 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

HUMAN RESEARCH PROGRAM

Program Schedule 

Team Training Report: 

Long Duration 

Missions

10/2012

Deliver Engineering 

Prototype of Therapeutic 

Ultrasound 

10/2012

Deliver Prototype 

Ultrasound 

Diagnostic/

Treatment System 

01/2013

2013 

Investigator's 

Workshop 

02/2013

Release 2013 Space 

Radiation NRA

02/2013

2012 NASA/

NSBRI Research 

Announcement 

Selections, 

04/2013

Monitoring Crew 

Neurobehavioral 

Function Final 

Report

05/2013

Complete 

2013 Mission X: 

Train like an 

Astronaut

05/2013 

ISS Treadmill 

Kinematics 

Study 

Final Report 

05/2013

ISS VO2max 

Study Final 

Report 

05/2013

Preliminary 

Recommendation to 

Immune Standard 

08/2013 

2013 

NASA/

NSBRI 

NRA Release

08/2013

Announce 

Selections 

2013 Space 

Radiation NRA 

09/2013

Tele-operations 

Transmission

Delays

Report

09/2013

Program Management & Commitments 

HRP is managed by the Human Research Program Office, located at JSC, with support from ARC, GRC, 

LaRC and KSC. The HEOMD Associate Administrator has delegated the authority, responsibility, and 

accountability of the Human Research Program manager to the Space, Life and Physical Sciences 

Research and Applications Division at NASA Headquarters. This division, working closely with the 

Office of the Chief Scientist, establishes the overall direction and scope, budget, and resource allocation 

for the program which is then implemented by the NASA Centers. 

Project/Element Provider

Exploration 

Medical Capability

Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: GRC, ARC, and LaRC

Cost Share: N/A

Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: ARC and GRC

Cost Share: N/A

Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: ARC and GRC

Cost Share: N/A

Human Health 

Countermeasures

Behavioral Health 

and Performance

EXP-55 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

HUMAN RESEARCH PROGRAM

Project/Element Provider

Space Human 

Factors and 

Habitability

Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: ARC

Cost Share: N/A

Space Radiation 

Health

Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: ARC and LaRC

Cost Share: Department of Energy 

Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: ARC and KSC

Cost Share: N/A

ISS Medical 

Project

Program Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: If sufficient ISS upmass and sample 

return are not available,

Then: Then HRP cannot complete the 

investigations identified in its integrated 

research plan and crew health risks 

associated with exploration missions will 

not be adequately addressed.

HRP continues to evaluate the following mitigations: 

1. Experiment resupply strategy and contingency approach to reduce 

upmass requirements; 

2. New sample packaging to gain efficiencies for on board sample storage and 

return; and 

3. Development of new capabilities that allow on-orbit analysis to reduce 

required up and down mass. 

Acquisition Strategy 

In FY 2013, two NRAs will be used to further efforts in human research. The Space Radiation NRA will 

focus on better understanding and reducing risks that crews could face from space radiation on 

exploration missions. The joint NASA and National Space Biomedical Research Institute (NSBRI) NRA 

to support crew health and performance in space exploration missions will focus on: bone loss; 

cardiovascular alterations; human performance factors, sleep, and chronobiology; muscle alterations and 

atrophy; neurobehavioral and psychosocial factors; nutrition, physical fitness, and rehabilitation; 

sensorimotor adaptation; smart medical systems; biomedical technology development; and analog bed 

rest investigations. 

EXP-56 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

HUMAN RESEARCH PROGRAM

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor Location

Consortium of Institutes NSBRI HQ

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Quality Peer Panel Reviews Feb-10 Peer review of NRA/selection of 

grantees

Feb-12

Quality External 

Independent 

Review

Dec-10 Review of research projects gaps and 

tasks/contributes to potential project 

reprioritizations

Feb-12

Quality Independent 

Review

Feb-09 Program Implementation Reviews/ 

contribute to potential project 

reprioritizations

Aug-12

Quality National 

Academies

Jun-08 Review the "NASA Research on Human 

Health Risks" study and contribute to 

potential project reprioritizations

Jun-13

EXP-57 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

ADVANCED EXPLORATION SYSTEMS (AES)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

77.6

--

FY 2012

142.0

--

FY 2013

169.0

27.0

FY 2014

169.0

FY 2015 FY 2016

169.0 169.0

FY 2017

169.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 19.0%

 

To enable human exploration beyond Earth orbit in a sustainable 

and affordable way, advanced technologies and systems such as deep 

space habitats, EVA and life support systems, and robotic support 

capabilities will be key. The artist’s conception shows astronauts 

exploring the surface of a near-Earth asteroid. 

The AES program is pioneering new 

approaches for rapid prototype systems 

development, demonstrating key 

capabilities, and validating operational 

concepts for future human missions 

beyond Earth orbit. AES projects are 

selected to address the highest-priority 

capability needs identified in human 

spaceflight architecture studies for 

exploration missions to cis-lunar space, 

the Moon, near-Earth asteroids, and 

Mars and its moons. Currently, the 

program consists of 20 small projects, 

grouped into five major domains of 

related activities: crew mobility 

systems, habitat systems, vehicle 

systems, operations, and robotic 

precursor activities. 

Early integration and testing of 

prototype systems is critical to reducing risk and improving affordability of exploration mission elements. 

Systems developed in the AES program will be demonstrated in ground-based test beds, field tests, 

underwater tests, and flight experiments on ISS, which is a key stepping stone for enabling deep space 

exploration. Over time, many AES projects will evolve into larger integrated systems and mission 

elements that will be tested on ISS before NASA ventures beyond Earth’s orbit. 

The AES program is also working closely with the Science Mission Directorate (SMD) to pursue a joint 

program of robotic precursor activities to develop instruments, support research and analysis efforts, and 

plan robotic precursor missions to acquire critical data on potential destinations for human missions. 

In addition to developing building blocks for future missions, the AES program is exploring innovative 

and affordable ways to drive a rapid pace of progress, streamline project management, and utilize limited 

resources effectively. Using small, focused projects to develop and test prototype systems in-house will 

greatly reduce life cycle costs, and minimize the risk of incorporating new technologies into system 

designs. This model will more effectively develop and apply Agency workforce, providing more handson work, rather than contractual oversight experience, to NASA’s engineers and technologists. 

EXP-58 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

ADVANCED EXPLORATION SYSTEMS (AES)

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2012, the Exploration Technology Development (ETD) portfolio was transferred from the HEOMD 

account to the Space Technology program in the Office of Chief Technologist. The ETD portfolio 

consists of foundational domains that address long-range technology development needs, maintain critical 

competencies, and help to infuse mature technologies into near-term technology demonstrations that 

support exploration missions. This transfer positioned ETD in a technology-focused organization where 

synergistic interactions with game-changing and crosscutting technologies will help to support multiple 

customers and mission applications in other NASA programs. 

Several existing ETD activities were essential for crew safety, such as extravehicular activity, life 

support, and habitation systems. These areas are the focus of the AES program to ensure critical 

exploration-specific needs are met. NASA expanded the scope of AES from this initial set of activities to 

include other high-priority areas identified in exploration mission architecture studies, but not covered by 

other NASA programs, with a focus on systems development and integration: crew mobility systems, 

vehicle systems, mission and ground operations, and robotic precursor activities. Projects were 

competitively selected from proposals submitted by the NASA Centers on topics in the highest priority 

areas. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

Although the current AES program began in FY 2012, it built upon the accomplishments of the ETD 

portfolio, as noted below. 

In FY 2011, the program tested the breadboard portable life support system for an advanced spacesuit in 

the laboratory. This system incorporated new technology components for spacesuit thermal control, 

pressure regulation, and removal of carbon dioxide. Advanced spacesuits with greater mobility, 

operational flexibility, and duration are needed for exploring planetary surfaces, and to replace the aging 

spacesuits used on ISS. 

In a desert field test, the program tested a mock-up habitat that included an airlock, a hygiene module, 

crew workstations, modules for growing plants, and an inflatable loft to provide greater living space. The 

test allowed designers to evaluate different habitat subsystems and configurations for a future deep space 

habitat in which the crew would live and work on missions lasting over a year. 

The program delivered a radiation assessment detector for launch on the Mars Science Laboratory 

mission. This detector will measure the interplanetary radiation environment during the trip to Mars, and 

also on the planet’s surface. Characterizing the Mars radiation environment will increase our 

understanding of the risks that future human explorers will face, and will help to develop more effective 

countermeasures and radiation shielding. 

To simulate asteroid mission operations, the program conducted the NASA extreme environment mission 

operations underwater test. Divers in spacesuits demonstrated various methods of anchoring to and 

translating across the surface of an asteroid in low gravity. A submersible simulated a crew excursion 

vehicle that flies around the asteroid. Such early testing of prototype systems and validation of operational 

concepts in analog tests helps to reduce mission risk and cost. 

EXP-59 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

ADVANCED EXPLORATION SYSTEMS (AES)

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, the AES program will test a packaged portable life support system for an advanced spacesuit 

in a vacuum chamber. This is the next step in spacesuit development, following completion of the 

portable life support system breadboard in FY 2011. 

To validate operational concepts for asteroid missions, a prototype crew excursion vehicle moving on an 

air bearing floor will be used to test techniques for docking and anchoring to a simulated asteroid surface. 

On ISS, crew can spend a significant amount of time repairing and maintaining life support systems; for 

deep space missions, life support systems must be more robust. In FY 2013, the AES program will 

demonstrate reliable life support systems in a ground test bed. 

As humans venture deeper into space, the communications time delay becomes too long to conduct realtime mission control from the ground. Consequently, the crew must perform mission control functions 

such as planning, scheduling, and procedure execution on their own. In FY 2013, the AES program will 

demonstrate software tools for automating mission operations to reduce crew workload. 

Strategic knowledge gaps are the essential information on potential destinations that must be acquired by 

robotic precursor missions and astronomical observations to inform the design of human spaceflight 

systems. In FY 2013, the AES program will establish a set of strategic knowledge gaps for human 

exploration beyond low Earth orbit that are vetted by the external NASA research community. 

Before human missions can be sent to near Earth asteroids, the size, shape, spin rate, and surface 

properties of these objects must be better understood. Ground-based radar is a low-cost way to image 

many asteroids that pass close to Earth, eliminating the need to send expensive robotic spacecraft to the 

asteroids in advance of human missions to gather critical data. In FY 2013, the AES program will use the 

Goldstone radar to image several asteroids that are candidates for human missions. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $169.0 million. This represents a $27.0 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($142.0 million). The FY 2013 request supports: 

• Advancing development of exploration systems to reduce risk, lower lifecycle cost, and validate 

operational concepts for future human missions beyond Earth orbit; 

Demonstrating prototype systems in ground test beds, field tests, underwater tests, and ISS flight 

experiments; 

Using innovative approaches for rapid systems development and provide hands-on experience for 

the NASA workforce; 

Infusing new technologies developed by the Space Technology program into exploration 

missions; and 

Instrument development, research and analysis efforts, and planning for robotic precursor 

missions to acquire critical data on potential destinations for future human missions to the Moon, 

near-Earth asteroids, and Mars. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

EXP-60 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

ADVANCED EXPLORATION SYSTEMS (AES)

Domains 

CREW MOBILITY SYSTEMS

The capabilities being developed in this domain will enable crew mobility and EVA systems for 

exploration of asteroids, the Moon, and Mars. Projects include development of a prototype multi-mission 

space exploration vehicle to enable exploration of near-Earth asteroids and planetary surfaces, a next 

generation spacesuit and portable life support system, and a suitport interface to enable rapid EVA from 

crew vehicles. 

As noted previously, NASA developed new technology components in FY 2011 for an advanced 

spacesuit portable life support system, which were integrated into a breadboard of the portable life 

support system and tested in the laboratory. In FY 2013, NASA will package the portable life support 

system into a backpack configuration and test it in a vacuum chamber, test a fusible heat sink for thermal 

control of the multi-mission space exploration vehicle cabin, and test a suitport integrated with the vehicle 

cabin. 

HABITAT SYSTEMS

The capabilities being developed in this domain will enable the crew to live and work safely in deep space 

on missions lasting over one year. Projects include development of concepts and subsystems for a deep 

space habitat, testing of highly reliable life support system components for air revitalization and water 

recycling in ground test beds, developing common life support system components that can be used in 

multiple exploration vehicles to reduce costs, developing radiation protection and dosimetry sensors, and 

conducting experiments to understand how fire propagates in microgravity to improve spacecraft fire 

safety. 

In FY 2013, NASA will conduct an integrated test of habitat subsystems, test life support system 

components in a ground test bed, and complete the preliminary design review for a large-scale, in-space 

fire experiment. 

VEHICLE SYSTEMS

The capabilities being developed in this domain will enable advanced in-space propulsion stages, and 

small robotic landers. Projects include the development of reactor fuel elements and engine concepts for 

nuclear thermal propulsion systems, modular power systems that can be used for multiple exploration 

vehicles and systems, and a small lander test bed to demonstrate autonomous precision landing. 

In FY 2013, NASA will test components for the hydrogen test facility for nuclear thermal propulsion fuel 

elements, and test a modular fuel cell for powering multiple exploration vehicles. 

EXP-61 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

ADVANCED EXPLORATION SYSTEMS (AES)

OPERATIONS

The capabilities being developed in this domain will enable more efficient mission and ground operations 

to support human exploration. Projects include analog missions to test prototype systems and operational 

concepts in representative environments, logistics reduction and repurposing, autonomous mission 

operations to reduce crew dependence of ground-based mission control, and integrated ground systems 

for cryogenic propellant storage and handling. 

In FY 2013, NASA will demonstrate autonomous propellant handling operations, software tools for 

autonomous mission operations, and a heat melt compactor to process trash. 

ROBOTIC PRECURSOR ACTIVITIES

The capabilities being developed will enable robotic precursor missions and instruments to characterize 

destinations for human exploration. Projects include imaging near-Earth asteroids using ground-based 

radar, a radiation assessment detector for characterizing the Mars surface radiation environment, a 

prototype lunar ice prospecting payload, software tools for searching, visualizing, and analyzing data 

acquired by robotic precursor missions, and NASA Exploration and Science Institute grants for research 

on the Moon and small bodies. 

In FY 2013, NASA will image near-Earth asteroids using ground-based radar, complete the critical design 

review for a lunar ice prospecting payload, and select research grants for a NASA Exploration and 

Science Institute. 

Program Schedule 

Measure Mars 

radiation 

environment 

FY 2012

Flight test of 

autonomous precision 

landing system 

FY 2012

Life support 

systems test 

bed 

FY 2013

Radar imaging of 

near-Earth 

asteroids 

FY 2013

Modular fuel cell 

for exploration 

vehicles 

FY 2013

Spacesuit

portable life

support system 

FY 2014

Deep space habitat 

ground test bed

FY 2015

Autonomous 

mission operations

on ISS

FY 2015 

Advanced spacesuit 

demo on ISS 

FY 2017

EXP-62 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

ADVANCED EXPLORATION SYSTEMS (AES)

Program Management & Commitments 

The HEOMD Associate Administrator has delegated the authority, responsibility, and accountability for 

managing the AES program to the AES Division at NASA Headquarters. 

The AES Division establishes the overall direction and scope, budget, and resource allocation for projects 

that are implemented by the NASA centers. 

Project managers at the NASA Centers are responsible for project execution. A lead NASA Center is 

assigned for each project, based on where the required competencies reside, and other NASA centers 

provide support. The project managers develop project plans, and work with the supporting NASA 

centers to allocate budget, workforce, and schedule to various tasks. The project managers report directly 

to the AES Division at NASA Headquarters. 

 

The AES program coordinates with the Planetary Science Division in SMD on the planning and execution 

of Joint Robotic Precursor Activities (JRPA). These projects within the AES program and SMD are 

jointly funded and executed. JRPA develops instruments for SMD and international missions to acquire 

strategic knowledge on potential destinations for future human exploration, and to support related 

research and data analysis activities. The AES program has overall management responsibility for JRPA. 

Project/Element Provider

Crew Mobility 

Systems

Projects in this domain are managed by NASA Centers 

including JSC.

Habitat Systems Projects in this domain are managed by NASA Centers 

including JSC, MSFC, and GRC. ESA partners on the 

planning and implementation of a large-scale fire safety 

experiment.

Vehicle Systems Projects in this domain are managed by NASA centers 

including JSC, MSFC, and GRC. The Air Force Research 

Laboratory partners on the development of components for 

a next generation upper stage engine. The Department of 

Energy partners on the development of nuclear thermal 

propulsion.

Operations Projects in this domain are managed by NASA Centers 

including KSC, ARC, JSC.

Joint Robotic 

Precursor 

Activities

Projects in this domain are managed by NASA Centers 

including JPL, KSC, and MSFC. Joint Robotic Precursor 

Activities are planned and implemented in collaboration 

with SMD. CSA is a partner on the development of a lunar 

ice prospecting payload. 

EXP-63 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

ADVANCED EXPLORATION SYSTEMS (AES)

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: The AES program does not develop 

needed capabilities in time to support the 

design of flight systems,

Then: human exploration missions will be 

delayed, and the costs and risks associated 

with flight systems development will be 

substantially higher.

Mission architecture studies are used to define capability needs and priorities. 

The AES projects are periodically assessed against these priorities, and 

program content is realigned if necessary as priorities change. The progress 

of AES projects in achieving planned milestones is evaluated in an annual 

Continuation Review that involves the flight system developers. Projects 

that do not make adequate progress will be terminated, and alternate 

approaches for achieving needed capabilities will be initiated.

Investments in capabilities needed in the near term such as EVA and 

habitation systems will take precedence over longer-range activities such as 

operations and vehicle systems. In the event that projects developing nearterm capabilities encounter technical difficulties, resources will be reallocated 

from longer-range activities to address 

If: There are unexpected technical difficulties

or catastrophic test failures,

Then: development of some prototype 

systems will be delayed.

Acquisition Strategy 

The initial set of AES projects was selected via a competitive process in which NASA Centers were 

invited to submit proposals in targeted areas. Each year, all projects will be assessed in a continuation 

review. Projects that do not demonstrate adequate progress will be subject to termination, and new 

projects will be added to the portfolio in specific areas through an annual call for proposals from the 

NASA centers. 

Procurement funding is primarily used to support in-house project activities, such as the purchase of 

materials, equipment, test facilities, and a limited amount of contractor workforce in areas where NASA 

can cost effectively leverage skills and knowledge that it currently lacks. Over time, the AES program 

will also strive to develop these skills within the civil service workforce. 

Particular projects may issue competitive solicitations externally or leverage existing contracts for 

hardware development. 

EXP-64 
EXPLORATION: EXPLORATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

ADVANCED EXPLORATION SYSTEMS (AES)

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Crew Mobility Systems: contract to 

support spacesuit development

ILC Dover, Cost: $350,000 Frederica, DE

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type

Independent 

Assessment

Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

NASA 

Independent 

Program 

Assessment Office

N/A To ensure that AES program activities 

are managed in accordance with NASA 

processes and that program content is 

aligned with capability needs for human 

exploration.

2014

EXP-65 
SPACE OPERATIONS

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 5,146.3 4,187.0 4,013.2 4,035.1 4,035.1 4,035.1 4,035.1

Space Shuttle 1,592.9 556.2 70.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

International Space Station (ISS) 2,713.6 2,829.9 3,007.6 3,177.6 3,170.9 3,212.8 3,234.3

Space and Flight Support (SFS) 839.8 800.9 935.0 857.5 864.2 822.3 800.8

SPACE OPERATIONS OVERVIEW ............................... SO- 2 

SPACE SHUTTLE ............................................. SO- 5 

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION (ISS) ................. SO- 11 

ISS Systems Operations and Maintenance SO- 15

ISS Research SO- 20

ISS Crew and Cargo Transportation SO- 29 

SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT (SFS) THEME ................ SO- 35 

21ST CENTURY SPACE LAUNCH COMPLEX .............. SO- 36 

SPACE COMMUNICATION AND NAVIGATION ............. SO- 46 

Space Communications Networks SO- 49

Space Network Ground Segment Sustainment SO- 56 

[Formulation] 

TDRS Replenishment [Development] SO- 61

Space Communication Support SO- 70

HUMAN SPACE FLIGHT OPERATIONS .................... SO-74 

LAUNCH SERVICES .......................................... SO-79 

ROCKET PROPULSION TEST ............................... SO-84 

SO-1 
SPACE OPERATIONS

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 5,146.3 4,187.0 4,013.2 4,035.1 4,035.1 4,035.1 4,035.1

Space Shuttle 1,592.9 556.2 70.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

International Space Station 2,713.6 2,829.9 3,007.6 3,177.6 3,170.9 3,212.8 3,234.3

Space and Flight Support (SFS) 839.8 800.9 935.0 857.5 864.2 822.3 800.8

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -173.8

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -4.2%

In May 2011, Endeavour delivered the Alpha 

Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS) and spare parts 

including two S-band communications antennas, a 

high-pressure gas tank and additional spare parts for 

Dextre to ISS. The AMS is a state-of-the-art particle 

physics detector designed to operate from ISS to 

search for unusual types of matter to advance 

knowledge of the universe. 

Activity funded from the Space Operations account 

includes International Space Station (ISS), currently 

orbiting Earth with a crew of six, and activities 

related to closing out the Agency’s 30-year Space 

Shuttle Program. 

The Space Operations account also provides space 

services to NASA customers and other partners in 

the U.S. and throughout the world. It provides safe 

and reliable access to space, develops and 

implements future space launch complex upgrades, 

manages rocket testing capabilities, maintains secure 

and dependable communications to ground stations 

and between platforms across the solar system, and 

provides the necessary training and supports the 

health and safety of the Nation's astronauts. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

The safe completion of the final Space Shuttle mission marked the end of the program’s operational phase 

and the beginning of significant transition and retirement activities. In addition, the FY 2013 budget 

includes funding for an additional Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS)-M to continue space 

network tracking, data, voice, and video services to NASA, as well as other United States Government 

missions. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

After a distinguished 30-year career, the Space Shuttle rolled to “wheels stop” in July 2011, marking the 

end of Space Shuttle operations. With completion of the three missions in 2011, the Space Shuttle 

SO-2 
SPACE OPERATIONS

program is focusing on transition, retirement, and disposition of program assets and workforce. NASA 

looks forward to moving the retired orbiters to museums and science centers across the country to inspire 

the next generation of explorers. 

Completing the assembly and outfitting of the U.S. on-orbit segment of ISS was the crowning 

achievement of the Space Shuttle’s lifetime. ISS now serves as a fully functional, permanently crewed 

research laboratory and technology test bed, providing a critical stepping stone for exploration and future 

international cooperation, as well as an invaluable National Laboratory for non-NASA and nongovernmental users. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

With assembly of ISS complete, the program will expand efforts to utilize ISS as a National Laboratory 

for scientific, technological, diplomatic, and educational purposes; advance engineering, technology, and 

research capabilities on ISS by maximizing ISS research time and accomplishing a minimum of 90 

percent of the on-orbit research and technology development objectives; and, in concert with the 

international partners, maintain a continuous capability to support six crew on ISS. NASA will 

demonstrate commercial cargo transport systems by completing at least three flights to deliver research 

and logistics hardware to ISS via U.S. developed cargo delivery systems. The TDRS-K will launch in 

early FY 2013, while TDRS-L prepares for launch in early FY 2014. In addition, the LSP has four NASA 

launches planned. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $4,013.2 million, a $173.8 million decrease from the FY 2012 estimate 

($4,187.0 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $70.6 million for the Space Shuttle Program, which will complete the transition and retirement of 

the three orbiters and other personal property associated with the program; 

$3,007.6 million for ISS, to continue operations and maintenance, support scientific research, and 

acquire crew and cargo transportation; and 

And $935.0 million for Space and Flight Support (SFS), which will maintain and enhance 

multiple Agency-level capabilities supporting national operations in space. 

• 

• 

SO-3 
SPACE OPERATIONS

Themes 

SPACE SHUTTLE

With the retirement of the Space Shuttle fleet in FY 2011, the program has shifted focus to transitioning 

key workforce, technology, facilities, and operational experience to a new generation of human space 

flight exploration activities. As part of this effort, NASA is assessing the applicability of Space Shuttle 

property (including main propulsion system elements) to the Space Launch System, which will enable 

human space exploration beyond low Earth orbit. 

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

ISS is an unprecedented technological and political achievement in global human endeavors to conceive, 

plan, build, operate, and utilize a research platform in space. It is the latest step in humankind’s quest to 

explore and live in space. With on-orbit assembly of ISS completed, including all international partner 

laboratories and elements, it has developed into a unique research facility capable of unraveling the 

mysteries of life on Earth. ISS provides a human-tended laboratory in low Earth orbit to conduct 

multidiscipline research in biology and biotechnology, materials and physical science, technology 

advancement and development, and research on the effects of long duration space flight on the human 

body. The results of the research completed on ISS can be applied to various areas of science, enabling us 

to improve life on this planet and giving us the experience and increased understanding to journey to 

other worlds. 

SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

SFS is comprised of multiple programs providing Agency-level capabilities that play a critical role in the 

success of NASA missions and goals. The Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) program 

operates NASA’s extensive network of terrestrial and orbiting communications nodes and the associated 

hardware and software needed to pull down the terabytes of data generated by NASA’s fleet of crewed 

vehicles and robotic spacecraft. LSP facilitates access to space by providing leadership, expertise and 

cost-effective expendable launch vehicle services for NASA missions. The Rocket Propulsion Testing 

(RPT) program maintains NASA’s wide variety of test facilities for use by NASA, other agencies, and 

commercial partners. The Space Flight and Crew Operations (SFCO) and Crew Health and Safety (CHS) 

programs ensure that NASA’s astronauts are fully prepared to safely carry out current and future 

missions. 

SO-4 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE SHUTTLE 

SPACE SHUTTLE

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

1,592.9

--

FY 2012

556.2

--

FY 2013

70.6

-485.6

FY 2014

0.0

FY 2015 FY 2016

0.0 0.0

FY 2017

0.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -87.3%

Atlantis' engines and solid rocket boosters ignite as it 

begins to lift off on the STS-135 mission to the 

International Space Station, the final flight of the Space 

Shuttle Program. Nearly a million spectators gathered 

along the beaches, rivers and causeways to watch 

history in the making. 

Forty years ago, NASA was charged with 

developing the world first reusable space 

transportation system, a powerful vehicle with the 

versatility to revolutionize how people access and 

operate in near-Earth space. Since 1981, the Space 

Shuttle has carried more people (over 350) and 

more cargo (almost four and a half million pounds) 

on more missions, and more different types of 

missions, than any other launch system in history. 

Between 1998 and 2011, NASA applied the Space 

Shuttle’s full capabilities to the mission for which 

the system was originally conceived and uniquely 

designed: assembly of a large, advanced research 

station in low Earth orbit, one that serves as an 

international research technology test bed to help 

NASA and its partners learn how humans can live 

in space and to prepare for further missions 

beyond low Earth orbit. 

In FY 2011, the Space Shuttle flew its final 

mission, marking the end of the program’s 

operations phase. In FY 2012 and FY 2013, the 

Space Shuttle Program will enter its final phase, 

known as transition and retirement. During this 

phase, NASA will transition key workforce, 

technology, facilities, and operational experience 

to a new generation of human spaceflight 

exploration activities. NASA will disposition property and other capabilities not needed for future 

missions, though many important assets, such as the Space Shuttle orbiters will be prominently featured 

in museums across the country, where they can continue to inspire future generations of explorers. 

Transition and Retirement activities will be completed in FY 2013, with only minor, residual closeout 

activities expected to extend into FY 2014. Transition and Retirement contributes to the success of the 

Agency by ensuring that key assets are prepared and ready for transfer to future program users without 

delay. All excess Space Shuttle property will be dispositioned so that it does not remain behind as a cost 

burden to NASA’s institutions. 

SO-5 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE SHUTTLE 

SPACE SHUTTLE

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

The FY 2012 budget included a one-time payment of $470 million for pension requirements related to 

close out of the Space Shuttle Program that is not included in FY 2013. The FY 2013 plan also reflects 

the remaining work to be completed for the transition and retirement phase that the program has been in 

since flight operations ceased in August 2011. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In February 2011, Discovery launched on mission STS-133, carrying supplies as well as the permanent 

multi-purpose module, a logistics module that will remain on orbit, expanding ISS’s storage volume. In 

May 2011, Endeavour launched on mission STS-134, carrying the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer and 

attached it to the ISS truss structure. During the mission, the NASA delivered critical supplies to ISS and 

recovered and returned to Earth an ammonia coolant pump module that failed on ISS last year. In 

July 2011, Atlantis launched on mission STS-135 carrying more than 9,400 pounds of spare parts, spare 

equipment and other supplies. With successful completion of the STS-135 mission, NASA celebrated the 

successes and achievements of the Space Shuttle Program and looked forward to transitioning key 

workforce, technology facilities, and operational experience to a new generation of human spaceflight 

activities. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

Following completion of its final missions, the Space Shuttle Program is focusing on transition, 

retirement, and disposition of program assets. Substantial assets were associated with the Space Shuttle 

Program, utilizing nearly 1.2 million line items of personal property during the program’s operational 

peak in FY 2010. Approximately 400,000 of these items will be transferred to future exploration 

programs, with most of the assets (including equipment associated with Space Shuttle propulsion system 

elements such as the reusable solid rocket motor, solid rocket booster, external tank, and Space Shuttle 

main engines) to be utilized by the Space Launch System. These transfers are expected to be completed in 

FY 2012. Space Shuttle property no longer required to support Agency priorities will be excessed in 

partnership with the General Services Administration under existing authorities. Most property excessing 

(including processing and delivery of the Space Shuttle orbiters for museum display) will also be 

completed in FY 2012. In FY 2013, only about two percent of the 1.2 million line items of property will 

remain to be dispositioned. All other transition and retirement activities (including facility turnovers, 

archiving records and IT systems, and contract closeouts) are expected to be substantially completed in 

FY 2013, with the potential for only minor closeout activities continuing into FY 2014. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $70.6 million. This represents a $485.6 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($556.2 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

SO-6 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE SHUTTLE 

SPACE SHUTTLE

• $31.9 million for program integration, which ensures the overall safety and efficiency of Space 

Shuttle transition and retirement activities, including software support, systems engineering, and 

business management; 

$24.9 million for flight and ground operations to identify, process, safe, and transfer flight and 

ground processing assets once they are no longer needed for safe Space Shuttle Program mission 

execution; and 

$13.8 million for flight hardware, to identify, process, safe, and transfer flight hardware assets. 

• 

• 

Projects 

PROGRAM INTEGRATION

In FY 2012, the Agency will spend $19 million on program integration and requests $31.9 million in 

FY 2013. The FY 2013 program integration budget supports Space Shuttle retirement and the efficient 

and cost-effective transition of assets to other uses. Activities in this area ensure the overall safety and 

efficiency of Space Shuttle transition and retirement activities, including software support, systems 

engineering, and business management. Funding also covers severance and retention costs associated with 

managing the drawdown of the Space Shuttle workforce. 

In FY 2011, NASA finalized requirements for all transition and retirement activities, including property 

disposition, orbiter display preparation and ferry processing, facilities turnover, records management, and 

archiving of IT systems. Efforts also included coordination with other exploration programs, most notably 

the Space Launch System, to finalize the lists of assets that have been requested by those programs for 

future use. 

In 2013, the Agency will oversee the final phase of Space Shuttle transition and retirement, including the 

closeout of all primary Space Shuttle contracts related the following ongoing activities from previous 

years. 

FLIGHT AND GROUND OPERATIONS

In FY 2012, the Agency will spend $40 million on flight and ground operations and requests 

$24.9 million in FY 2013. The flight and ground operations budget ensures the availability of resources 

needed to identify, process, safe, and transfer flight and ground processing assets; this effort should wrap 

up transition and retirement activities in FY 2013. This budget includes funds needed to prepare assets 

(e.g., Mission Control Center, the launch pads, the Vehicle Assembly Building, and the Launch Control 

Center) for modification, transfer to other users, or disposal. The mobile launch platforms, the orbiter 

processing facilities, and landing site hardware no longer needed by NASA will be made safe of 

hazardous materials and prepared for transfer to other Federal Government users or other disposition. 

In FY 2011, NASA continued preparing Space Shuttle Program facilities for transition to future 

programmatic or institutional use. Following the launch of STS-135, responsibility for launch complex 

39A was transitioned to KSC and the Ground Systems Development and Operations (GSDO) for use by 

NASA and other launch customers. In addition, the Space Shuttle Program transferred Orbiter Processing 

SO-7 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE SHUTTLE 

SPACE SHUTTLE

Facility 3, the payload control room, and the Space Shuttle main engine shop to KSC management as part 

of an arrangement with Space Florida to lease those facilities to Boeing for use in processing Boeing’s 

CST-1000 commercial crew vehicle. NASA also nearly completed closeout of the trans-Atlantic abort 

landing sites in France and Spain. 

In 2013, the Agency will complete transfer of all Space Shuttle facilities to ongoing Agency programs, 

including those facilities (such as the orbiter processing facilities, launch control complex, the vehicle 

assembly building transfer aisle, the mate de-mate device, and the shuttle landing facility) that were 

required for orbiter display preparation processing and ferrying since flight operations were completed in 

2011. 

FLIGHT HARDWARE

In FY 2012, the Agency will spend $26.8 million on flight hardware and requests $13.8 million in 

FY 2013. The FY 2013 flight hardware Transition and Retirement budget provides resources needed to 

identify, process, safe, and transfer flight hardware assets. For orbiters, these costs include safing the 

vehicles of hazardous materials. For the main engines, these costs also include safing and transportation 

preparation of current and older engine components that are being made available for alternate use or 

public display. This budget also covers the disposition costs of the orbiter, Space Shuttle main engine, 

external tank, and reusable solid rocket motor production tooling capabilities that the Agency will no 

longer need. 

In FY 2011, NASA began the process of preparing major flight assets such as the orbiters and main 

engines for future use. The Discovery orbiter completed post-mission processing activities and began endstate display preparation for museum display. Post-mission processing continued Endeavour and Atlantis 

in preparation for the beginning of display preparation processing in FY 2012. Activities also continued 

for transferring the remaining 15 Space Shuttle main engines and associated ground support equipment to 

the Space Launch System for use in the first flights of NASA’s new exploration launch vehicle. 

In 2013, the Agency will complete transition and retirement of all flight hardware asset and production 

capabilities. All orbiters are on track to be transferred to their final display locations by the first quarter of 

FY 2013. Display locations are: Discovery, to the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy 

Center, Chantilly, VA; Endeavour, to the California Science Center, Los Angeles, CA; Atlantis, to the 

KSC Visitor Center, in Florida. Enterprise, currently on display at the National Air and Space Museum 

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, will be transferred to the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum, in New 

York, NY.

SO-8 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE SHUTTLE 

SPACE SHUTTLE

Program Schedule 

Delivery of Atlantis 

Q1 FY 2013

External Tank 

Contract End

02/2013

Transition of OPF-2 and 

VAB 

Q2 FY 2013

Space Shuttle

Operations 

Contract End

09/2013

Reusable Solid 

Rocket Motor 

Contract end

09/2013 

Planned completion of 

personal property 

disposition 

Q4 FY 2013

Program Management & Commitments 

The Space Shuttle Program Manager reports to the Associate Administrator for Human Exploration and 

Operations at NASA Headquarters. 

Project/Element Provider

Program 

Integration

Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: JSC

Cost Share: None

Flight and 

Ground 

Operations

Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: JSC, KSC

Cost Share: None

Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: JSC, KSC, MSFC, SSC

Cost Share: None

Flight Hardware

SO-9 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE SHUTTLE 

SPACE SHUTTLE

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

The Space Shuttle transition and retirement effort in FY 2013 will utilize existing contracts. 

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Program Integration; Orbiter Processing; 

Ground Processing 

United Space Alliance Houston, TX

External Tank Lockheed Martin Littleton, CO

Space Shuttle Main Engines Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne Canoga Park, CA

Reusable Solid Rocket Motor Alliant Techsystems Inc. (ATK) Magna, UT

Program Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: The funding budgeted to cover the 

pension shortfall in FY 2012 is insufficient, 

Then: NASA will be forced to reduce the 

Shuttle transition and retirement content 

performed in FY 2012, carrying higher than 

expected content into FY 2013.

The Space Shuttle transition program is performing a review of remaining 

content based on projected increases in the pension shortfall for FY 2012 to 

determine the required cost and schedule for completion of all remaining tasks. 

The program is also prioritizing remaining tasks to ensure that the highest 

priority items (orbiter processing, lease terminations, vendor closeouts) 

would be completed within the current funding projections. If the risk is 

realized and funding projections remain unchanged, responsibility for some 

lower priority content, such as disposition of some personal property, may 

transfer to the Centers after closeout of the Space Shuttle transition program.

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

End-of-year 

financial audit of 

unencumbered 

environmental 

liability

PricewaterhouseCoopersOct-11 Assessment of Space Shuttle Program’s 

unecumberd enviromental liability found 

no issues that would impact the 

auditor’s unqualified opinion of the 

Agency’s financial statements.

Oct-12

SO-10 
SPACE OPERATIONS: INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 2,713.6 2,829.9 3,007.6 3,177.6 3,170.9 3,212.8 3,234.3

ISS Operations and Management 1,681.1 1,418.7 1,493.5 1,354.4 1,200.1 1,170.0 1,077.8

ISS Research 175.7 225.5 229.3 227.4 231.3 238.3 241.7

Crew and Cargo Transporation 856.8 1,185.7 1,284.8 1,595.8 1,739.6 1,804.5 1,914.8

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 177.7

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 6.3%

The ISS program’s greatest 

accomplishment is as much a human 

achievement as it is a technological one. ISS 

is a collaborative product of five space 

agencies representing 15 nations. Humans 

have inhabited ISS continuously since 

November 2000. Now, at any given time 

aboard ISS, a large array of experiments 

are underway to advance of scientific 

knowledge, develop and test new 

technologies, and derive Earth applications 

from new understanding. 

ISS is the culmination of efforts of the U.S. and its Canadian, 

European, Japanese, and Russian partners to work together to 

construct a highly complex facility that provides an 

unparalleled capability for human space-based research. ISS 

includes components built by nations around the globe, 

launched from four different space centers, and assembled 

on-orbit by astronauts in over 160 spacewalks. The STS-134 

mission marked the completion of major assembly and 

outfitting activities on ISS, and the subsequent STS-135 

mission, flown by Atlantis in July 2011, marked the 

conclusion of the Space Shuttle program after 30 years of 

flight. 

 

Including its solar arrays, ISS spans the area of a U.S. 

football field (with end zones) and weighs over 860,000 

pounds, not including visiting vehicles. The station orbits the 

Earth 16 times per day at a speed of 17,500 miles per hour, 

and an altitude that ranges from 230 to 286 miles. The 

complex has more livable room than a conventional fivebedroom house, and has two bathrooms, a fitness center, a 

360-degree bay window, and hosts state of the art scientific 

research facilities, which can accommodate a wide array of 

research disciplines. Since November 2, 2001, when the crew 

of Expedition 1 docked, ISS has been visited by more than 

200 people, and has been continuously crewed for over 

11 years. 

Beyond being a feat of unparalleled international 

collaboration, engineering and construction, ISS provides a 

test bed for learning how to live and work in space over 

extended periods of time. In addition to external test beds, 

the three major science laboratories aboard ISS (U.S. Destiny, European Columbus, and Japanese Kibo) 

enable astronauts to conduct a wide variety of experiments in the unique, microgravity and ultra-vacuum 

SO-11 
SPACE OPERATIONS: INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

environment of low Earth orbit. ISS supports activities across an array of disciplines, including biology 

and biotechnology, Earth science, space science, human research, physical and materials science, and 

technology development. 

ISS provides direct research benefits to the public through the National Laboratory, which enables access 

to the unique microgravity environment and advanced research facilities by U.S. non-NASA agencies, 

academia, and industry. Additionally, ISS supports NASA’s effort to promote the development of a low 

Earth orbit space economy; the demand for access to ISS provides an initial customer base for providers 

of commercial crew and cargo systems. Both of these aspects of ISS will help establish and demonstrate 

the market for research in low Earth orbit beyond NASA requirements. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

Activities that directly support commercial crew and cargo transportation have been moved from the ISS 

Systems Operations and Maintenance project to the ISS Crew and Cargo Transportation project. 

In the FY 2012 budget, crew transportation to ISS beyond spring 2016 was held in the Mission 

Operations Sustainment program. The FY 2013 budget transfers funding for this activity from Mission 

Operations Sustainment to ISS and the Missions Operations Sustainment program was eliminated. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011 the ISS program completed final outfitting of the vehicle and conducted 423 scientific 

investigations. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013 the ISS program will transition management for all National Laboratory payloads to ISS 

National Laboratory non-profit management organization, the Center for the Advancement of Science in 

Space (CASIS), and continue upgrades to the research equipment aboard ISS. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $3,007.6 million. This represents a $177.7 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($2,829.9 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $1,493.5 million for ISS Systems Operations and Maintenance, which conducts full-time 

operations of ISS; 

$229.3 million for ISS Research, which will support direct research benefits to the public arising 

from unique microgravity environment and advanced research facilities of ISS; and 

$1,284.8 million for ISS Crew and Cargo Transportation, which supports the transportation of 

crew to ISS as well as the transportation of cargo to ISS including spares, supplies and research. 

• 

• 

SO-12 
SPACE OPERATIONS: INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

Program Schedule 

Orbital 1, Soyuz 33,

SpaceX 2, Progress 50

Q1 FY 2013

Progress 51, Automated 

Transfer Vehicle 4

Q2 FY 2013

Soyuz 34, Orbital 2, 

Progress 52, Soyuz 35, HII Transfer Vehicle 4, 

Multipurpose Laboratory 

Module

Q3 FY 2013

Space X 3, Progress 53, 

Soyuz 36

Q4 FY 2013

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Crew transportation Roscosmos Moscow, Russia 

Cargo transportation Orbital Dulles, VA 

Cargo transportation SpaceX Hawthorne, CA

ISS National Laboratory 

Management Entity

CASIS Tallahassee, FL

SO-13 
SPACE OPERATIONS: INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Other ISS Advisory 

Committee

Sep-11 Assesses ISS operational readiness to 

support new crew, assesses Russian 

flight team preparedness to 

accommodate the Expedition missions, 

and assesses health and flight readiness 

of Expedition crew members.

Ongoing

Other NASA Advisory 

Council (NAC)

Oct-11 Provides independent guidance for the 

NASA Administrator. The HEO 

Committee of the NAC was briefed by 

the HEO Deputy Associate 

Administrator on all aspects of 

Directorate activities, including ISS and 

commercial resupply services. No 

formal recommendations were made.

Mar-12

Other Aeronautics and 

Space Advisory 

Board (ASAB)

Sep-11 Provides independent assessments of 

safety to the NASA Administrator. No 

recommendations issued relating to ISS.

Jan-12

Other Program 

Implementation 

Review

Aug-08 Provides an independent review of 

ongoing ISS and Space Shuttle Program 

operations. The report cited concerns on 

budget resources and in cargo 

transportation availability post Shuttle 

retirement. The review planned for May 

2012 will focus on ISS sustainment.

May-12

SO-14 
SPACE OPERATIONS: INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

ISS SYSTEMS OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 1,681.1 1,418.7 1,493.5 1,354.4 1,200.1 1,170.0 1,077.8

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 74.8

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 5.3%

Expedition 28 flight engineers, Mike Fossum (seen 

lower right) and Ron Garan spent six hours and 

31 minutes working outside the station on 

July 12, 2011. ISS's 58-foot-long Canadarm2 robotic 

arm maneuvered the spacewalkers around the exterior 

of the ISS. This 249th spacewalk by U.S. astronauts 

was the 160th spacewalk in support of station assembly 

and maintenance. 

ISS is a complex facility in low Earth orbit, and 

maintaining it is a demanding task. Much like a 

home, ISS requires routine maintenance and can be 

affected by unexpected failures, though the systems 

are much more complex and the consequences can 

be much more dramatic. The ISS crew needs food 

and other supplies to live, but many of the human 

necessities taken for granted here on Earth such as 

water and oxygen require thorough planning to 

make sure a sufficient and safe supply is available. 

Besides the difficult job of having to manage 

unseen systems, the task of maintaining and 

planning for ISS is further complicated by the 

international coordination at all levels of the 

program. The global partnership of space agencies 

exemplifies meshing cultural differences and 

political intricacies to plan, coordinate, provide, and 

operate the complex ISS elements. The program 

also brings together international flight crews and 

globally distributed launch, operations, training, 

engineering, communications networks, as well as 

scientific research communities. While NASA 

maintains the lead integrator role for the entire vehicle, each partner has primary authority for managing 

and operating the hardware and elements they provide. 

The ISS Systems Operations and Maintenance project is responsible for safely assembling, operating, and 

maintaining the ISS vehicle, and providing for continuous human presence on orbit through adequate 

mission planning and execution, program integration, and cultivation of effective partnerships. This 

includes continuous mission operations, which involves vehicle monitoring, commanding, and 

communication with the crew. Sparing analysis and logistics planning ensures that ISS systems continue 

to function uninterrupted. Crew training and support activity prepares the crew for their stay aboard ISS. 

The mission integration effort weighs competing priorities and develops a plan to meet program 

objectives. All aspects of the ISS mission are considered, including scheduling of crew time, visiting 

vehicle traffic, internal and external stowage, trash management, communication resources, and 

consumables resupply. The Systems Operations and Maintenance project is also responsible for vehicle 

SO-15 
SPACE OPERATIONS: INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

ISS SYSTEMS OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

Formulation Development Operations

and program anomaly resolution. Engineers and operators diagnose system failures and develop recovery 

plans, while program specialists respond to changing program needs and priorities through replanning 

efforts. All of this is done in concert with safety and mission assurance personnel to ensure that safety is 

never compromised. 

In accordance with the NASA Authorization Act of 2010, NASA is taking actions “necessary to ensure 

the safe and effective operation, maintenance and maximum utilization of the U.S. segment of ISS 

through at least September 30, 2020.” 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

There were no significant ISS changes at the ISS Systems and Operations Maintenance project level. 

However, activities that directly support commercial crew and cargo transportation have been moved 

from the ISS Systems Operations and Maintenance project to the ISS Crew and Cargo Transportation 

project. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The ISS program completed several milestones in FY 2011, including final outfitting of the ISS vehicle, 

sustaining operations on-board, and accomplishing all on-orbit research objectives. 

Discovery (STS-133) delivered the Italian-built permanent multipurpose module, Leonardo. NASA 

previously used the module to ferry supplies, equipment, experiments and other cargo to and from ISS via 

the Space Shuttle’s payload bay, and it now provides more space and accommodations for research. 

During STS-133 and STS-134, ISS also received two more express logistics carriers, unpressurized 

platforms attached to ISS’s exterior that can be used for research. The Atlantis (STS-135) mission 

included delivery of the robotic refueling mission experiment, which will use Canadarm2 on ISS to 

demonstrate that remote controlled robots can perform satellite refueling and other servicing tasks in orbit 

following commands sent by controllers on Earth. This capability is expected to reduce costs and risks, 

and lay the foundation for future robotic servicing missions, which could also include repair and 

repositioning of orbiting satellites. 

Throughout the year, NASA ground teams continued to monitor overall vehicle health and oversee 

general maintenance and performance of all ISS vehicle systems. These include command and data 

handling; communication and tracking; crew health care; environmental control and life support; 

electrical power; extravehicular activity (EVA); extravehicular robotics; flight crew equipment; guidance 

navigation and control; propulsion, structures and mechanisms; and thermal control. In FY 2011, while 

some systems experienced anomalies, all systems had acceptable performance with no impacts to ISS 

operations. Outside of quiescent operations, ISS team supported activities during three shuttle missions, 

and eleven EVAs, seven from the U.S. joint airlock and four from the Russian segment. Additionally, the 

ISS program was able to provide all of the resources needed to complete primary mission objectives, 

including utilization goals. 

SO-16 
SPACE OPERATIONS: INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

ISS SYSTEMS OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

Formulation Development Operations

One major challenge in ISS systems operations and maintenance came at the end of FY 2011 with the 

August failure of the Russian Progress 44P resupply ship. The vehicle, which was loaded with fuel and 

supplies bound for ISS, failed to reach orbit. ISS Systems Operations and Maintenance project personnel 

were involved in the recovery and replanning effort. NASA technical experts reviewed the failure 

investigation and mitigation plan prepared by Russian specialists and developed a complete contingency 

plan. They reviewed and replanned visiting vehicle traffic, revised ISS consumables strategy to account 

for the lost vehicle, and developed a plan and procedures for de-crewing ISS if needed. Though most 

failures do not have this significant an impact, this type of organized anomaly response is standard 

practice for the ISS team, and ensures continuous safe operations for the vehicle and crew. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, ISS Systems Operations and Maintenance will work to sustain the operation and full use of 

ISS and expand efforts to utilize the facility as a National Laboratory for scientific, technological, 

diplomatic, and educational purposes, and to support future objectives in human space exploration. In 

concert with the international partners, NASA will maintain a continuous six crew capability on ISS by 

coordinating and managing resources, logistics, systems, and operational procedures. The project will 

continue to manage requirements and changes in ISS resources, including vehicle traffic, cargo logistics, 

stowage, and crew time. The team will provide planning and real time support for all ISS activities such 

as EVAs and visiting vehicles, and support anomaly resolution and failure investigation activities as 

needed. 

The FY 2013 budget supports ISS functionality activities such as proximity operations sensors and 

monitoring for visiting vehicles, as well as ISS integration of new vehicles. These activities will provide 

an independent NASA-certified system to track visiting vehicle approaching station, reduce visiting 

vehicle integration cost and complexity, and support integration activities to demonstrate that commercial 

crew vehicles can successfully dock with ISS and transport crew. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $1,493.5 million. This represents a $74.8 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($1,418.7 million). The FY 2013 request will provide for continuous operations on ISS, ensure 

adequate maintenance hardware and supplies to ensure ISS as a facility can be properly maintained and 

utilized until at least 2020, and pursue additional operational efficiencies to reduce costs and/or increase 

crew time available for research. 

SO-17 
SPACE OPERATIONS: INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

ISS SYSTEMS OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

Formulation Development Operations

Project Schedule 

The regular rate of cargo delivery (as shown in the ISS program schedule), on a mix of NASA and partner 

vehicles, will ensure that a nominal operations and maintenance plan can be sustained while allowing for 

the program to respond to anomalies should they occur during the year. The spacing of the crew rotation 

flights aboard the Soyuz vehicles will allow the ISS program to maintain a continuous six-crew presence 

on ISS while ensuring smooth transition between crews. 

Project Management & Commitments 

Project management of ISS Systems Operations and Maintenance is led by Johnson Space Center (JSC). 

Project/Element Provider Description

ISS Systems 

Operations and 

Maintenance

Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: All

Cost Share:

CSA, ESA, JAXA, Roscosmos (Russian 

Federal Space Agency) support ISS 

systems operation and maintenance.

Acquisition Strategy 

NASA extended the Boeing U.S. on-orbit segment (USOS) sustaining engineering contract until 

September 30, 2015. It is a cost plus award fee contract that provides the ISS USOS sustaining 

engineering support, end-to-end subsystem management, and post production hardware support. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

USOS Sustaining Engineering 

Contract

The Boeing Company JSC 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

No reviews in recent years and no reviews planned. 

SO-18 
SPACE OPERATIONS: INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

ISS SYSTEMS OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: The Russian Segment cannot provide 

adequate micro-meteoroid/orbital debris 

protection, 

Then: It will expose the on-orbit ISS to 

greater potential for micro-meteoroid/orbital 

debris penetration and depressurization 

contingencies.

The ISS program will implement new shield designs and flight rules to address 

this issue, including installation of service module orbital debris panels in FY 

2012.

If: Astronauts are at higher risk to develop 

potentially permanent vision impairment,

Then: NASA will need to develop mitigation

and treatment strategies.

NASA continues to investigate and research the cause of this condition and 

develop mitigation and treatment strategies. NASA has established a research 

clinical advisory panel to help address this issue. ISS will obtain new 

equipment, both on-orbit and lab based, to help identify and evaluate early 

onset of symptoms. The ISS program is working with the Human Research 

Program and the Crew Health and Safety program to protect our astronauts. 

They are coordinating investigations and needed research to resolve this 

problem for both near- and long-term human space exploration.

The ISS program has identified orbital replacement units whose failure could 

pose a risk to vehicle operations. ISS has developed risk assessments for 

those failures and identified tasks which could be performed ahead of time to 

better position ISS should a failure occur. ISS is also in the process of 

developing new tools and systems to perform repairs and recover from 

failures.

If: Difficult-to-replace orbital replacement 

units fail,

Then: ISS operations could be at risk due to 

the number of extravehicular activities 

required or the difficult technical nature of 

the replacement task.

SO-19 
SPACE OPERATIONS: INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION RESEARCH

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

175.7

--

FY 2012

225.5

--

FY 2013

229.3

3.8

FY 2014

227.4

FY 2015 FY 2016

231.3 238.3

FY 2017

241.7

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 1.7%

NASA astronaut Catherine (Cady) Coleman, 

Expedition 26 flight engineer, performs 

Pulmonary Function System software calibrations 

and instrument checks in April 2011, while using 

the Cycle Ergometer with Vibration Isolation 

System in the Destiny laboratory of ISS. The 

software was a collaborative development effort 

between NASA and ESA for pulmonary 

physiology instrumentation. The system consists of 

four modules that make it possible to take a 

variety of respiratory and cardiovascular 

measurements. 

Having achieved assembly complete in FY 2011, ISS 

mission priorities have shifted from vehicle assembly 

to utilization and research. Over the past 11 years, ISS 

has supported over 1,250 investigations and 1,309 

investigators from 63 different countries. Research 

disciplines include biology and biotechnology, Earth 

and space science, educational and cultural activities, 

human research, physical science and technology. 

Human research is documenting how humans adapt to 

and recover from long-duration in microgravity, 

materials test beds are leading to better understandings 

of materials properties, environmental control and life 

support systems are achieving 70 to 80 percent water 

and air recycling, and over 30 million students have 

participated in human space flight through 

communications downlinks and interactive 

experiments with the ISS astronauts. The ISS Research 

project includes funding for biological and physical 

research, multi-user systems support (MUSS), National 

Laboratory enabling activities, and the ISS non-profit 

management organization. 

Currently, the NASA-sponsored ISS research portfolio 

includes human research and the development of 

countermeasures to reduce the deleterious effects of 

microgravity for long-duration exploration missions. 

ISS crews are conducting human medical research to develop knowledge in the areas of clinical medicine, 

human physiology, cardiovascular research, bone and muscle health, neurovestibular medicine, diagnostic 

instruments and sensors, advanced ultrasound, exercise and pharmacological countermeasures, food and 

nutrition, immunology and infection, exercise systems, and human behavior and performance. While this 

research is aimed at enabling astronauts to push the boundaries of exploration beyond low Earth orbit, 

NASA anticipates that many investigations conducted aboard ISS will have application to medicine on 

Earth, as well. For example, the growing senior population may benefit from experiments in the areas of 

bone and muscle health, immunology, and from the development of advanced diagnostic systems. 

SO-20 
SPACE OPERATIONS: INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION RESEARCH

Formulation Development Operations

In NASA’s physical and biological sciences arena, the ISS program is using microgravity conditions to 

understand the effect of the microgravity environment on fluid physics, combustion science and materials 

processing, as well as environmental control and fire safety technologies. ISS also provides a test bed for 

studying, developing, and testing new technologies for use in future exploration missions. Finally, ISS is 

a platform for observing Earth and supporting educational activities, including observations and 

investigations that allow students and the public to connect with the ISS mission and inspire students to 

excel in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) academic disciplines. 

The MUSS budget provides strategic, tactical, and operational support to all NASA sponsored and nonNASA sponsored payloads, including the five international partners’ research payloads. This includes 

maintenance and operation of the ISS research infrastructure, including research integration, payload 

engineering, integration, and operations; payload systems support such as maintenance and operation of 

on-orbit and ground hardware for the payload racks, freezers and middeck lockers; payload software 

integration; KSC launch site integration; program science integration; and support for national laboratory 

enabling activities. The MUSS budget also supports multilateral payload planning and integration across 

the five ISS international partners. Some of the research and technology demonstrations on ISS are 

funded outside of this ISS Research project budget, but are still supported by the MUSS integration 

functions. 

The MUSS budget supports the operation of on-orbit research facilities, including both internal 

pressurized facilities in the four partner laboratories and external unpressurized accommodations provided 

by four of the five international partners. 

ISS has numerous unique research facilities: 

• Advanced biological research system, biological experiment laboratory, European modular 

cultivation system, European drawer rack, European physiology module, muscle atrophy research 

and exercise system; 

Combustion integrated rack; fluids integrated rack; microgravity sciences glove box; materials 

science research rack-1; fluid science laboratory; 

Two human research facility racks, which include ultrasound, refrigerated centrifuge, portable 

computer, pulmonary function system, and other facilities; 

Eight EXpedite PRocessing of Experiments to the Space Station (EXPRESS) racks (provide 

power and communications for experiments housed inside, two also provide vibration isolation). 

Three minus eighty degree laboratory freezer; 

Sun monitoring on the external payload facility of Columbus; Ryutai experiment rack; Saibo 

experiment rack; 

Window observational research facility; 

European transportation carrier; and 

Twenty-two external payload sites (provide data, power, communications and thermal support). 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Under the auspices of an ISS National Laboratory non-profit management organization, the CASIS, 

NASA will continue to make ISS available as a national resource to promote opportunities for advancing 

basic and applied research in science and technology to other U.S. government agencies, university based 

scientists and engineers, and private firms. CASIS will help ensure that ISS’s unique capabilities are 

available to the broadest possible cross-section of the U.S. scientific, technological, and industrial 

SO-21 
SPACE OPERATIONS: INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION RESEARCH

Formulation Development Operations

communities, and they will manage research conducted through the National Laboratory. This 

organization will act as a single entry point for non-NASA users to work efficiently with ISS. It will assist 

researchers in developing experiments, meeting safety and integration rules, and act as an ombudsman on 

behalf of researchers. The full transition of these duties from NASA to CASIS is expected to be 

completed in FY 2013. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, the Agency will spend $225.5 million on ISS Research and requests $229.3 million in FY 

2013. The majority of the increase will be used to issue additional research grants and increase National 

Laboratory enabling activities, including building an animal habitat. There were no other significant 

changes to the ISS Research project. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

Ultrasound training methods developed for evaluating medical issues on ISS are being used by the 

American College of Surgeons to teach ultrasound techniques to surgeons. Additional applications could 

include diagnosis of injuries and illnesses in remote locations on Earth, including rural areas, disaster 

areas and the battlefield. ISS nutritional studies have shown that Omega-3 fatty acids counteract bone 

loss, indicating that diet changes to include more fish may protect bone loss both in space and on Earth. 

Studies have also identified a loss of Vitamin D as a concern for spaceflight, leading to recommendations 

for increased intake in astronauts and for all Americans. Technologies used in the Shuttle and ISS robotic 

arms have led to the world’s first MRI compatible image-guided, computer-assisted device specifically 

designed for neurosurgery. The device is now being used to augment surgeons’ skills to perform 

neurosurgeries that are traditionally considered difficult or impossible. 

ISS educational activities examined weaving characteristics of spiders, movement behaviors of fruit flies, 

and directional plant growth in response to light sources. The 2010-2011“Kids In Micro-G” hands-on 

design challenge, geared towards students in grades five to eight, was won by two fifth grade girls from 

San Diego who designed a study called “Attracting Water Drops” to look at static attraction in 

microgravity and enhanced their understanding of physics in space. 

The Agency’s own research and technology portfolio includes using ISS to develop technologies that will 

support future objectives in human space exploration, and during FY 2011, astronauts operated an 

average of 150 investigations per six month period within the USOS. NASA demonstrated advanced 

robotics technologies and capabilities in 2011, using the Canadarm2 robotic arm to perform tasks that in 

previous years would have required astronauts to conduct extensive space walks to complete. NASA also 

is using ISS as a platform to demonstrate key robotics technologies needed to meet future human space 

exploration objectives. Robonaut 2, the first humanoid robot in space, launched in February 2011 aboard 

STS-133. Co-developed with General Motors, the primary job of Robonaut 2 while aboard ISS is to 

demonstrate how a dexterous robot can manipulate mechanisms in a microgravity environment, operate in 

the space environment for extended periods of time, assist with ISS tasks, and eventually interact with 

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astronauts. General Motors plans to use the results in future advanced vehicle safety systems and 

manufacturing plant applications. 

Another significant enhancement to the ISS research program in FY 2011 included the delivery of the 

Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer, which was delivered in May on Endeavour (STS-134). It is a state-of-theart particle physics detector developed by an international team of 56 institutions from 16 countries. At 

15,000 pounds, it is the largest scientific payload on ISS. The experiment will use a large permanent 

magnet to search for antimatter, dark matter, and dark energy to advance knowledge of the universe and 

lead to a better understanding of the universe’s origin. 

During FY 2011, NASA took the first steps in transitioning management of the ISS National Lab, which 

will form a portion of the U.S. utilization activities. NASA awarded a cooperative agreement to an 

independent non-profit organization with responsibility to further develop national uses of ISS. NASA 

selected the CASIS, and the ISS program has begun transitioning responsibilities for managing the 

National Laboratory research and education portfolio including planning and coordinating ground and onorbit research activities. 

Significant operations, process and project improvements were made in support of ISS Research and to 

enable the National Laboratory, including: 

• Investing in numerous on-orbit science hardware improvements and upgrades including 

developing a internal and external wireless high rate data capability, upgrading the microgravity 

science glove box to handle biotechnology and life science payloads and high definition/high rate 

video, doubling the conditioned cargo transportation resupply and return hardware volume 

efficiency and bio-sample analysis support equipment; 

Restoring protein crystal growth, animal experiment modules, and cell culturing equipment; 

Launching over 11,300 kilogram of research hardware (including over 9,600 kilogram of 

laboratory facilities and over 1,700 kilogram of research supplies); returning over 1,900 kilogram 

of research materials, and over 2,060 hours of crew time for research, supporting over 

200 investigations across ISS, and 500 investigators from 36 countries; and 

Growing ISS National Laboratory to a total of 33 investigations on ISS, and over 18 agreements 

with organizations outside NASA. 

• 

• 

• 

Specific information on the many ISS experiments conducted during each expedition can be found at 

http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/ main/index.html. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In 2013, NASA will continue to develop its ISS research portfolio in the areas of physical science, human 

research, biology and biotechnology, technology demonstration and development, and earth and space 

science, as well as experiments aimed at education and outreach. With funding planned to begin in 

FY 2013, an upcoming NASA announcement of opportunity for ISS research will offer investigators the 

chance to assume overall responsibility for research and payload development. NASA hopes that this 

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approach will eventually lead to lower cost, faster development, and broader involvement in ISS research 

by our research universities. 

In FY 2012 the Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD) established a new 

division, the Space Life and Physical Sciences Research and Applications Division (SLPSRAD), in which 

ISS Research will be managed. SLPSRAD activities in ISS Research and in the Human Research 

Program activities are closely coordinated with the NASA Chief Scientist to ensure that principles of 

sound research management are upheld. Interaction with the community is a vital component of a healthy 

research program. SLPSRAD plans to establish a sub-committee of the HEO committee of the NASA 

Advisory Council that will help NASA coordinate its plans with the research community, to 

constructively engage the community to optimize the value of the ISS as a research platform, and to plan 

for the longer term evolution of space biology and physical sciences in human exploration. Working with 

the subcommittee, NASA will begin planning for the transition from the ISS to the next generation of 

HEO missions, so that fundamental research requirements and opportunities are identified and developed 

long before the next major course change is undertaken by HEOMD. 

The project will continue to develop and execute process and hardware upgrades started in FY 2011 and 

FY 2012, establishing enhanced research performance monitoring function to better track and document 

the benefits of ISS research. The ISS MUSS payload integration function will support an additional 

300 on-orbit payload investigations and 500 investigators. 

NASA will continue the orderly hand over of management for all National Laboratory payloads to 

CASIS, which will continue to implement its marketing and communications plan, improve its research 

pathways model, refine the valuation framework, demonstrate a functioning marketplace, and issue its 

second research grants solicitation. CASIS plans to complete the first private research project sponsorship 

agreement with private industry investment in research on ISS in FY 2013. 

ISS will continue to support important investigations in such areas as the origin and structure of the 

universe with the Alpha Magnetic Spectometer-02 experiment, mechanics of the human immune and 

cardiovascular systems, inertial-capillary flows for key spacecraft systems, biomechanics of treadmill 

exercise, regenerated amine systems to remove carbon dioxide, laser communications, microbial biofilms, 

space radiation environment, and satellite servicing. 

NASA will complete the flame extinguishment experiment (FLEX)-2 series of droplet combustion 

experiments and enable JAXA to begin its research in the modular droplet combustion apparatus. The 

FLEX experiments advance the science of fire safety with experiments on flammability limits of fuels, 

add to information on combustion kinetics extracted from space measurements of burning droplets, and 

are being used to improve designs of combustors in turbines. 

NASA will begin a series of plant and microbiology experiments using the Biological Research in 

Canisters device, transported to ISS by commercial cargo carrier. The experiments enabled by this piece 

of hardware will continue to build on knowledge of how plants respond to gravity as advances in plant 

science will contribute to engineering food supplies on long-duration missions. 

By completing final reports from the boiling experiment facility and capillary channel flow experiment, 

and communicating those results to fluid and thermal engineering community, NASA will help engineers 

SO-24 
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design lighter, more efficient fuel tanks and heat transfer devices (needed to cool systems or produce 

power) in future space systems. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $229.3 million. This represents a $3.8 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($225.5 million). 

Project Schedule 

The regular rate of cargo delivery (as shown in the overall ISS program schedule) will ensure that a 

nominal operations plan can be sustained, allowing for the program to respond to efficiently plan the 

transportation of research equipment and experiments to and from ISS. 

Project Management & Commitments 

The HEOMD Associate Administrator has delegated the authority, responsibility, and accountability for 

managing ISS biological and physical research to the Space, Life and Physical Sciences Research and 

Applications Division (SLPSRAD) at NASA Headquarters. The division, working closely with the Office 

of the Chief Scientist, establishes the overall direction and scope, budget, and resource allocation for the 

project which is then implemented by the NASA Centers and acts as the liaison with the NPO-run 

National Laboratory. Other ISS Research activities such as MUSS and National Laboratory enabling 

activities are managed by the ISS Program Office. 

Project/Element Provider Description

ISS Biological and 

Physical Research

Provider: HQ

Project Management: HQ

NASA Center: ARC, GRC, JPL, JSC, MSFC, JSC 

Cost Share:

In addition to NASA Headquarters, 

CASIS and ESA provide research 

direction as part of their respective 

agreements with NASA.

MUSS (includes 

National 

Laboratory 

enabling activities)

Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: MSFC

Cost Share:

CSA, ESA, JAXA, Roscosmos also 

support research on ISS as part of the 

ISS relationship.

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Acquisition Strategy 

NASA selected CASIS to manage non-NASA ISS Research activities. The ISS program has begun 

transitioning responsibilities for managing the National Laboratory research and education portfolio 

including planning and coordinating ground and on-orbit research activities. This independent non-profit 

will further develop national uses of ISS. Full transition is expected to be completed in FY 2013. 

With the completion of the assembly phase of ISS, NASA faces a critical window for ISS utilization 

before a potential program end date of 2020. The first priority for available new funding is the 

development of new flight research for ISS. With a funding line planned to start in 2013, SLPSRAD is 

preparing an announcement of opportunity for ISS flight experiments to be released in 2012. This 

announcement of opportunity will provide scientists with the opportunity to propose complete flight 

experiments, including the development of flight instruments. SLPSRAD’s intention is that this 

opportunity will allow universities to participate in a broader and more meaningful way in flight research, 

by involving not only their scientists, but also their engineering schools, in senior capstone and master’s 

degree educational opportunities associated with payload design and development. 

Ground-based basic research is of course the foundation of a flight science program. The key to a 

successful re-initiation of a ground-based research program for space biology and physical sciences is 

obtaining a solid consensus regarding the long-term direction for space biology and physical sciences, 

particularly beyond the operational lifetime of the ISS. This will be a major focus of discussion with the 

SLPSRA advisory subcommittee. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Vehicle Sustaining Engineering 

Contract

The Boeing Company Houston, TX

Systems Development and 

Operations Contract

Teledyne Brown Engineering, Inc. Huntsville, AL

Huntsville Operations COLSA Corporation Huntsville, AL

ISS National Laboratory CASIS Tallahassee, FL

Management Entity

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PROJECT RISKS

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: On orbit anomalies escalate, the amount 

of crew time devoted to research and 

experiments may be reduced,

Then: The quality and amount of research 

and experiments may be adversely impacted.

On-orbit research portfolio 

smaller crew requirements.

may require adjustment to favor research with 

If: A commercial cargo transportation 

doesn’t become operational,

Then: NASA will have to continue to rely 

on international partners vehicles to provide 

cargo transportation to ISS.

Commercial partners are making significant progress and are incentivized to 

work through difficulties in order to receive their milestone payments under 

the CRS contracts as well as remaining Commercial Orbital Transportation 

System (COTS) milestones payments. Both ISS and the COTS program 

support commercial cargo development activities including providing technical 

assistance and other support to promote success.

If: ISS NPO doesn’t find sufficient investors 

in space research,

Then: ISS utilization may be below optimal 

levels.

Maintain portfolio balance between NASA-sponsored and CASIS-developed 

utilization while CASIS establishes its operations.

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Quality Peer Review 

Panel

Nov-11 Peer review of NASA Research 

Announcement proposals submitted 

for ISS research in space biology 

and physical sciences.

Jul-12

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Historical Performance 

NUMBER OF INVESTIGATIONS CONDUCTED ON ISS (SUMMARY)

Past ISS Investigations

ISS Expeditions 25/26 

Sept 2010 - Mar 2011

ISS Expeditions 27/28 

Mar 2011 - Oct 2011

ISS Expeditions 0-28 Dec 

1998 - Oct 2011

Number of Investigations 182 241 1251

 New Investigations 41 87 --

 Completed Investigations 88 92 1055

Number of Investigators with Research 413 449 1309

Countries with ISS Investigations 36 36 63

ISS Expeditions 29/30 

Sept 2011 - Mar 2012

ISS Expeditions 31/32 

Mar 2012 - Sept 2012

ISS Expeditions 29-32 

Current and Future Investigations Sept 2011 - Sept 2012

Total Investigations 191 215 259

 New Investigations 39 60 60

Number of Investigators with Research 449 441 526

Countries with ISS Investigations 28 24 31

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ISS CREW AND CARGO TRANSPORTATION

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 856.8 1,185.7 1,284.8 1,595.8 1,739.6 1,804.5 1,914.8

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 99.1

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 8.4%

A Russian Soyuz spacecraft is shown docked at the ISS 

(September 2011). A Soyuz space capsule took the first crew to 

ISS in November 2000, and at least one Soyuz has always been 

at ISS since then, generally to serve as a lifeboat should the 

crew need to return to Earth unexpectedly. In addition, a 

Russian Progress supply vehicle is usually docked at ISS. 

Maintaining ISS requires an international 

fleet of vehicles and launch locations to 

rotate crewmembers, replenish propellant, 

provide science experiments, necessary 

supplies, and maintenance hardware, and 

dispose of waste. These deliveries sustain a 

constant supply line crucial to ISS 

operations. The ISS Crew and Cargo 

Transportation project supports services to 

and from ISS, including the acquisition of 

transportation services provided by 

international partners and commercial 

providers. NASA has contracted with 

Roscosmos to provide crew transportation 

through crew return in the spring of 2016. 

The ISS program plans to continue 

purchasing crew transportation services 

from Russia as needed until a domestic 

capability is available. As NASA has 

testified, some modification of the Iran, 

North Korea, Syria Non-proliferation Act 

(INKSNA) provisions will likely be required 

for the continued operation of ISS and other space programs after 2016. The Administration plans to 

propose appropriate provisions and looks forward to working with the Congress on their enactment. 

On December 23, 2008, NASA awarded commercial resupply services (CRS) contracts to Orbital 

Sciences Corporation (Orbital) and Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) for cargo delivery to ISS, 

as NASA anticipates that both providers will have operational systems in 2012. NASA has ordered eight 

CRS flights from Orbital and 12 CRS flights from SpaceX. The FY 2013 budget supports these 

contracted flights, as well as future flights to provide for cargo transportation through 2016 and beyond, 

including cargo transportation for National Laboratory research payloads. In addition to the direct 

transportation costs, ISS Crew and Cargo Transportation funds other work that supports transportation 

needs, including a system to support crew communications and provide backup capability for the existing 

cargo providers. 

The Commercial Crew program (funded in the Exploration account, see the Commercial Crew section for 

a detailed justification) is working with industry partners to develop a crew transportation system that will 

SO-29 
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ISS CREW AND CARGO TRANSPORTATION

be available for transporting astronauts to and from ISS, as well as the provision of rescue services, by 

2017. Success of this program would end the outsourcing of work to foreign providers. 

NASA’s efforts to assist in developing U.S. commercial cargo and crew vehicles represents a new way of 

doing business for the Agency. With this approach, NASA plans to procure domestic crew transportation 

services to low Earth orbit rather than own and operate government vehicles or procure services from an 

international partner. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

Activities that directly support commercial crew and cargo transportation have been moved from the ISS 

Systems Operations and Maintenance project to the ISS Crew and Cargo Transportation project. These 

activities include the development of a standard common communications interface for visiting vehicles 

to ISS. Additionally, in the FY 2012 budget, funds for crew transportation to ISS beyond the spring of 

2016 were held in the Mission Operations Sustainment program. The FY 2013 budget transfers funding 

for this activity from Mission Operations Sustainment to ISS and the Missions Operations Sustainment 

program was eliminated. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The ISS Crew and Cargo Transportation project budget supported the following Russian Progress 

launches in FY 2011 providing cargo transportation services to ISS: Progress 41P, Progress 42P, Progress 

43P, Progress 44P (vehicle was lost approximately 6.5 minutes after launch), and Progress 45P. These 

vehicles carried a total of 3,379 pounds of cargo to ISS and provided 4,319 pounds of waste disposal. The 

Crew and Cargo Transportation project also supported the following Russian Soyuz launches in FY 2011 

providing crew transportation services to ISS for six USOS crewmembers: Soyuz 24S, Soyuz 25S, Soyuz 

26S, and Soyuz 27S. 

In FY 2011, CRS contractors continued to make significant progress towards achieving commercial cargo 

transportation services. Orbital completed 11 milestones for performance on four Orbital CRS flights and 

one demonstration flight, SpaceX completed ten milestones for performance on four flights and one 

COTS demonstration flight. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

The ISS Crew and Cargo Transportation project will continue to provide a stable crew flight plan, which 

includes four Soyuz launches carrying a total of six U.S. on-orbit segment crew members to ISS. It will 

also continue to provide a stable cargo flight plan which includes CRS flights delivering research and 

logistics hardware to ISS. Planned Orbital FY 2013 achievements include two flights (Orb-1 and Orb-2) 

and the following milestone performance on an additional five flights: 

• Service module integration and test, and cargo integration review milestones for Orb-3; 

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ISS CREW AND CARGO TRANSPORTATION

• Vehicle baseline review, mission integration review, and service module integration and test 

milestones for Orb-4; 

Vehicle baseline review and mission integration review for Orb-5; 

Authority to proceed and vehicle baseline review milestones for Orb-6; and 

Authority to proceed milestone for Orb-7. 

• 

• 

• 

Planned SpaceX FY 2013 achievements include two flights (Spx-2 and Spx-3) and the following 

milestone performance on an additional five flights: 

• Cargo integration review milestone for SpX-4; 

Vehicle baseline review and mission integration review for SpX-5; 

Vehicle baseline review for SpX-6; 

Authority to proceed and vehicle baseline review for SpX-7; and 

Authority to proceed for SpX-8. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $1,284.8 million. This represents a $99.1 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($1,185.7 million). The FY 2013 request will support and provide the transportation of crew to 

ISS, as well as the transportation of cargo to ISS including spares, supplies, and research. 

Project Schedule 

The regular rate of cargo delivery (see the overall ISS program schedule), on a mix of NASA and partner 

vehicles, will ensure that a nominal operations and maintenance plan can be sustained while allowing for 

the program to respond to anomalies should they occur during the year. The spacing of the crew rotation 

flights aboard the Soyuz vehicles will allow the ISS program to maintain a continuous six-crew presence 

on ISS while ensuring smooth transition between crews. 

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ISS CREW AND CARGO TRANSPORTATION

Project Management & Commitments 

Project management of ISS Crew and Cargo Transportation is led by JSC. 

Project/Element Provider Description

ISS crew and cargo 

transportation

Provider: JSC

Project Management: JSC

NASA Center: GSFC, KSC

Cost Share:

Crew and cargo transportation provided 

by NASA will be accomplished via the 

major contracts described below. Crew 

and Cargo Transportation will be 

provided by ESA, JAXA, and 

Roscosmos as part of ISS partnership.

Acquisition Strategy 

NASA awarded commercial cargo transportation services to SpaceX and Orbital through the CRS 

contracts on December 23, 2008. Activities are underway to demonstrate the ability of the CRS vehicle to 

integrate with ISS. Cargo services are scheduled to begin in 2012, with the current contract running 

through 2016. NASA has also extended its contract with Roscosmos to purchase crew launches through 

2015 and crew rescue and return through early 2016. The ending of this contract coincides with the end of 

INKSNA waiver. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Crew transportation Roscosmos Moscow, Russia 

Cargo transportation Orbital Dulles, VA 

Cargo transportation SpaceX Hawthorne, CA

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Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: CRS does not become operational,

Then: NASA will have to continue to rely 

on international partners vehicles to provide 

cargo transportation to ISS.

Commercial partners are making significant progress and are incentivized to 

work through difficulties in order to receive their milestone payments under 

the CRS contracts as well as remaining COTS milestones payments. Both ISS 

and the COTS program support commercial cargo development activities 

including providing technical assistance and other support to promote 

success. 

If: Commercial crew does not become 

operational,

Then: NASA will have to continue to rely 

on Soyuz vehicles to provide crew 

transportation to ISS.

Commercial partners are incentivized to work through difficulties in order to 

avoid losing future funding and NASA technical assistance. In addition, 

NASA plans to support multiple commercial providers, thereby insulating 

the Agency in the event a single provider cannot complete its efforts.To 

reduce provider technical risk, NASA also plans to be fully supportive of the 

commercial development activities, providing technical assistance, lessons 

learned, and past experience and knowledge in the area of human spaceflight 

development and operations.

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

No ISS Crew and Cargo reviews are planned. All independent reviews are performed at the ISS program 

level, none at the project level. 

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Historical Performance 

FLIGHTS TO ISS FROM INCEPTION THROUGH FY 2011 

Vehicle ISS International Partner Number Success Failures

Shuttle NASA 37 37 0

Soyuz Roscosmos 27 27 0

Progress Roscosmos 46 45 1

Proton Roscosmos 2 2 0

ATV ESA 2 2

HTV JAXA 2 2 0

Total 116 115 1

0

*Data includes all assembly, crew transfer, and logistics flights between November 20, 1998 until September 30, 2011; it includes flights to ISS 

not funded by the ISS budget. 

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SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT (SFS)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 839.8 800.9 935.0 857.5 864.2 822.3 800.8

21st Century Space Launch Complex 142.8 123.5 41.1 47.0 47.0 47.0 47.0

Space Communications and Navigation 456.7 445.5 655.6 570.7 577.3 535.4 513.9

Human Space Flight Operations 112.8 107.3 111.1 111.1 111.1 111.1 111.1

Launch Services 83.3 81.0 81.2 82.8 82.8 82.8 82.8

Rocket Propulsion Test 44.2 43.6 45.9 45.9 45.9 45.9 45.9

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 134.1

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 16.7%

SFS is comprised of multiple programs providing Agency-level capabilities that play a critical role in the 

success of NASA missions and goals. The SCaN program operates NASA’s extensive network of 

terrestrial and orbiting communications nodes and the associated hardware and software needed to pull 

down the terabytes of data generated by NASA’s fleet of crewed vehicles and robotic spacecraft. The LSP 

facilitates access to space by providing leadership, expertise and cost-effective expendable launch vehicle 

services for NASA missions. The RPT program maintains NASA’s wide variety of test facilities for use 

by NASA, other agencies, and commercial partners. The Human Space Flight Operations (HSFO) 

program ensures that NASA’s astronauts are fully prepared to safely carry out current and future 

missions. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $935.0 million. This represents a $134.1 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($800.9 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $41.1 million for the 21st Century Space Launch Complex project, with the primary objective of 

modernizing and transforming KSC the Florida launch and range complex at KSC to support 

multiple users; 

$655.6 million for SCaN, which provides space communication and navigation capabilities to all 

missions; 

$111.1 million for HSFO, which supports the U.S. crew rotation on ISS; 

$81.2 million for the LSP, which provides safe, reliable, cost-effective, and on-time launch 

services for NASA and non-NASA sponsored payloads using expendable launch vehicles; and 

$45.9 million for RPT, which is the principal implementing authority for NASA’s rocket 

propulsion testing. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

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21ST CENTURY SPACE LAUNCH COMPLEX (21CSLC)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate

Budget Authority (in $ millions) Prior FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 0.0 142.8 123.5 41.1 47.0 47.0 47.0 47.0

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -82.4

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -66.7%

At Launch Pad 39B, the three 600-foot-tall lightning 

towers that form the lightning protection system remain 

after the pad's deconstruction. The new design will 

feature a "clean pad" for rockets to come with their own 

launcher, making it more versatile for future vehicles. 

The primary objective of the 21st Century Space 

Launch Complex (21CSLC) is to modernize and 

transform the Florida launch and range complex 

at the KSC to benefit current and future NASA 

programs, along with other emerging users. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

Described as the "launch support and 

infrastructure modernization program" in the 

NASA Authorization Act of 2010, 21CSLC will 

develop and implement shared infrastructure and 

process improvements to provide more flexible, 

affordable, and responsive capabilities to a multiuser community. Efforts will focus on the life 

cycle of a launch complex as an integrated system 

(from development, activation, operations, and 

maintenance of capabilities to manufacturing, 

assembly, test, launch and recovery of flight systems), enabling more efficient and cost effective ground 

processing, launch, and recovery operations for a variety of users. Related construction of facilities 

content is included in the justification language for the Construction and Environmental Compliance and 

Restoration (CECR) account. 

EXPLANATION OF PROJECT CHANGES

In FY 2011, 21CSLC was established to modernize the launch and range infrastructure at KSC to support 

multiple customers including NASA, other government agencies, and commercial industry. This program 

is funded through the Space Operations appropriation. KSC was also develops the necessary ground 

systems infrastructure to support assembly, test, launch and recovery of associated SLS and Orion MPCV 

elements, work funded through the Exploration appropriation. To ensure effective and efficient ground 

systems design that meets the needs of both the SLS/Orion MPCV programs and other users, KSC 

established the Ground Systems Development and Operations program office. This single-program 

approach to managing both the 21CSLC content under the Space Operations appropriation and the 

SO-36 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

21ST CENTURY SPACE LAUNCH COMPLEX (21CSLC)

Formulation Development Operations

SLS/Orion MPCV content (called the Exploration Ground Systems or EGS) under the Exploration 

appropriation provides cost-effective synergy between the various user requirements, while maintaining 

distinct identification of each element with its appropriation category. 

The following diagram shows the break out of the 21CSLC and EGS content as managed under the 

GSDO program. 

GSDO Office Project 

Management 

Mission 

Focused 

Vertical 

Integration & 

Launch 

Range 

Interface & 

Control

Control, 

Command, 

Comm, & 

Range 

SO/21CSLC 

Appropriation 

ES/EGS 

Appropriation 

Environmental 

Remediation & 

Technologies 

Office 

Manufacturing, 

Processing & 

Recovery 

Florida 

Launch 

Modernization 

Infrastructure 

Office 

Processing & 

Infrastructure

Note: SO = Space Operations account, ES = Exploration account. 

As directed by Congress, Exploration-related work that was included in 21CSLC in previous years has 

been transferred to the EGS program in this request. 

The GSDO program office will be responsible for managing and reporting on the content contained 

within the two separate appropriations: Exploration Ground Systems (Exploration account), and the 

multi-user 21st Century Space Launch Complex (Space Operations account). For the purposes of this 

Congressional Justification and budgetary structure, 21CSLC encompasses the content funded under the 

Space Operations appropriation. EGS related content is covered in the Exploration account section of this 

volume. 

The following diagram shows the budget trace for 21CSLC and EGS content, between the FY 2012 and 

FY 2013 budgets. 

SO-37 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

21ST CENTURY SPACE LAUNCH COMPLEX (21CSLC)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2012 Budget Structure

Exploration

Human Exploration Capabilities

M ulti-Purpose Crew Vehicle

 Crew Vehicle Development

 MPCV Program Integration and Support

Space Launch System

 Launch Vehicle Development

 Ground Ops

 SLS Program Integration and Support

Space Operations

Space and Flight Support (SFS)

21st Century Space Launch Complex

Space Communication and Navigation

 Space Communication Netw orks

 Space Communications Support

 TDRS Replenishment

Human Space Flight Operations

Launch Services

Rocket Propulsion Testing 

FY 2013 Budget Structure

Exploration

Exploration Systems Development (ESD)

M ulti-Purpose Crew Vehicle

 Crew Vehicle Development

 MPCV Program Integration and Support

Space Launch System

 Launch Vehicle Development

 SLS Program Integration and Support

Exploration Ground Systems

Space Operations

Space and Flight Support (SFS)

21st Century Space Launch Complex ( M ulti-user )

Space Communication and Navigation

 Space Communication Netw orks

 Space Communications Support

 TDRS Replenishment

Human Space Flight Operations

Launch Services

Rocket Propulsion Testing 

PROJECT PRELIMINARY PARAMETERS

Five specific projects have been identified that meet the stated goals and objectives for 21CSLC. 

Florida Launch Modernization Infrastructure 

Within this product line, NASA will modernize power, utility and facility systems; IT systems; 

propellants, gases, and life support systems; and safety and security systems. 

In FY 2011, NASA made significant progress to ensure that IT communication would be ready to support 

Firing Room-1 launch control system demolition activities. In addition, NASA initiated assessments to 

investigate current conditions and smart modifications for facilities such as the converter compressor 

facility; cryogenic, high pressure facilities; hypergolic facilities; and upgrades to the industrial area chiller 

plant. 

In FY 2013, NASA will perform crawlerway upgrades to repair the degradation of base material and 

surface rocks, modifications at the launch equipment test facility improving the hydraulic systems to 

simulate launch conditions for the SLS vehicle, and developing test fixtures for validating the structural 

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capability of hold down posts for securing the SLS launch vehicle to the launch pad. Security systems 

will be upgraded to bring them up-to-date with current technology such as digital imaging, utilizing 

newly installed connectivity. 

Environmental Remediation and Technologies 

Within this product line, NASA will address energy conservation/reduction; environmental planning; 

enhanced remediation; regulatory requirements; sustainability; natural resource mitigation; and 

environmental research, including materials replacement and technology development. 

In FY 2011, NASA performed facility condition studies to develop a plan for upgrading lighting and 

temperature controls. Additionally, NASA performed studies to determine the most cost effective 

approach to upgrade or replace waste management facility and develop an oily wastewater facility. 

In FY 2013, NASA will execute temperature and lighting upgrades in heritage facilities to reduce utility 

costs, construct waste facilities for oily wastewater and other hazardous materials, and perform studies 

and tests to develop effective environmentally friendly coatings for launch equipment and chemical 

treatments to neutralize hypergolic fuels to an inert state. 

Offline Manufacturing, Processing and Recovery Systems 

Within this product line, NASA will complete work associated with payload processing; manufacturing; 

laboratory/testing; servicing/hazardous operations; and recovery. 

In FY 2011, NASA completed validation of new chillers for the Multi-Payload Processing Facility phase 

1 heating, venting, and air conditioning modifications. 

In FY 2013, NASA will be executing the second phase of construction for the facility. In addition, NASA 

will upgrade the water deluge and containment system, and security systems to allow for hazardous 

processing of Government or commercial spacecraft or payloads, including the Orion MPCV. 

Range Interface and Control Services 

Within this product line, NASA will complete work to enhance future capability for command and 

control; weather; telemetry and tracking; communications; and customer interface systems. 

In FY 2011, NASA initiated the range modernization study at KSC, which was a joint USAF/NASA 

upgrade initiative to improve range monitoring and control capabilities. This included initiation of the 

future state definition study, a concept to develop a future state strategic vision for an integrated NASA 

and USAF range architecture. This architecture identifies point of departures from USAF range assets, 

NASA’s current and future mission assets, concept of range operations, and range architectures mapped 

to USAF current and future state systems. 

In FY 2013, NASA will upgrade the radio frequency testing station within the vehicle assembly building 

at KSC. Additionally, strategic investments in joint NASA/USAF future state roadmap will be initiated 

following completion of the future state definition study. 

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The Crawler-Transporter (CT) at KSC is being 

modified to transport a variety of vehicles 

between the Vehicle Assembly Building and 

Launch Complex 39. The CT will receive steel 

stiffeners and braces to increase its load 

capacity from about 12 million to 18 million 

pounds and extend its service life another 20 

years. The CT weighs about 6 million pounds 

by itself. Other upgrades include the CT’s 

engines, jack, and the system that keeps rockets 

level during the trip to the launch pad and up 

the incline to the pad surface. 

Mission Focused Modernization 

Within this product line, NASA will complete work 

associated with vehicle integration and launch; horizontal 

takeoff, horizontal landing; and vertical takeoff, vertical 

landing. 

In FY 2011, NASA initiated studies and designs at launch 

complex 39B for a multi-use emergency egress systems, 

RP-1 servicing capability and environmental control 

system. Modifications and upgrades were initiated to the 

Pad infrastructure, cryogenic systems and water systems. 

In addition, NASA initiated studies and designs for 

mobile launcher umbilical systems and access arms, and 

also began removing ground support equipment items 

from an existing Shuttle mobile launcher platform for 

reuse on the new mobile launcher. The crawler transporter 

life extension and modifications were started to allow the 

crawler transporter to remain operational for the life of the 

SLS program and to increase the capacity to support 

planned future use. A multi-use platform modernization 

study for the VAB was initiated to explore options for platforms that accommodate multiple vehicle 

configurations. NASA studied options for converting the Shuttle Landing Facility to a multi-use launch 

facility for horizontal takeoff, horizontal landing use. 

In FY 2013, NASA will continue work in the Launch Complex 39 area to enable future customers, 

including upgrading the associated ground systems equipment, mobile launcher platform, and crawler 

transporter. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA completed several 21CSLC studies that informed plans for the future use of facilities 

at KSC by NASA launch programs, as well as potential commercial and other government users. These 

studies include adjustable platform for the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) integration high bays for a 

variety of launch vehicles, crawlerway and crawler transporter capabilities to support the transport of 

different launch vehicles between the VAB and launch pad 39-B. Development work included the 

fabrication of a propellant heat exchanger for use on the mobile launcher. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA will continue to establish and develop 21CSLC partnerships aimed at understanding 

government and commercial ground processing, launch and range infrastructure requirements, while 

implementing the modifications identified during the FY 2011 initiated studies. Specifically, the VAB 

chilled/hot water pipe replacement design and the upgrade to the KSC uninterruptable power systems 

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design will be completed in FY 2013. Designs for the upgrade of the critical systems at the VAB Utility 

Annex will also be completed in the third quarter of the year. In addition, NASA will pursue opportunities 

to partner or leverage investments for modernization activities to support safer and more efficient launch 

operations, enhancing payload processing capabilities, facilitate appropriate private sector activities, 

operations environmental remediation, and supporting the modernization of the launch range capabilities. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $41.1 million. This represents a $82.4 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($123.5 million), resulting from the transfer of content to the EGS program in Exploration. 

Budget requests for FY 2013 programmatic construction of facilities associated with this program are 

included in the CECR section. Funds associated with outyear estimates for programmatic construction 

remain in programmatic accounts. 

ESTIMATED PROJECT SCHEDULE

As a focused set of infrastructure investments, 21CSLC is not required by NASA policy to be managed to 

the same programmatic milestones as spacecraft projects. R&D investment in 21CSLC will be completed 

no later than the end of FY 2017. 

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PROJECT MANAGEMENT & COMMITMENTS

The GSDO Program Office develops the necessary infrastructure to support assembly, test, launch and 

recovery of associated SLS and Orion MPCV elements, and to modernize the launch and range 

infrastructure at KSC to support multiple customers including NASA, other government agencies, and 

commercial industry. This single-program approach to managing both the 21CSLC content under the 

Space Operations appropriation, and the EGS content under the Exploration appropriation, provides costeffective synergy between the various user requirements, while maintaining distinct identification of each 

element with its appropriation. The GSDO Program Manager is responsible and accountable for the 

21CSLC content in conformance with the governing programmatic and institutional authority 

requirements documented in NPD 1000.0A.

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB 

R t

FY 2013 PB 

R t Florida Launch 

Modernization 

Infrastructure

Provider: 21CSLC

Project Management: GSDO Program 

Office

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share: N/A

Manages and executes 

infrastructure revitalization. 

This revitalization includes 

power, utility, and facility 

systems, propellant and gas 

systems, IT systems, fire 

protection security and 

emergency upgrades and 

repairs, and transportation 

systems. 

N/A Realignment 

of 

SLS/MPCV 

content from 

21CSLC to 

EGS and 

CECR 

Environmental 

Remediation and 

Technologies

Provider: 21CSLC

Project Management: GSDO Program 

Office

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share: N/A

Manages and executes 

environmental activities. The 

activities include planning, 

conservation, remediation, 

regulation and reclamation 

implementation, natural 

resource management, and 

research and development of 

sustainable waste management 

and consumables.

N/A Realignment 

of 

SLS/MPCV 

content from 

21CSLC to 

EGS and 

CECR 

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Project/Element

Offline 

Manufacturing, 

Processing & 

Recovery Systems

Provider

Provider: 21CSLC

Project Management: GSDO Program 

Office

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share: N/A

Description

Manages and executes 

spacecraft, launch vehicle, and 

landing and recovery 

activities. This includes 

development, maintenance, 

and operation of servicing and 

de-servicing facilities and 

equipment. It also includes 

the procedure development 

and personnel to perform the 

operations associated with the 

facilities, equipment, and 

mission.

FY 2012 PB 

R t N/A

FY 2013 PB 

Re R t alignment 

of

SLS/MPCV 

content from 

21CSLC to 

EGS 

Range Interface & Provider: 21CSLC

Project Management: GSDO Program 

Office

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share: N/A

Range interface and control N/A Realignment 

Control Services systems capability at KSC 

and at CCAFS. This includes 

work to improve 

sustainability, and operations 

and maintenance of range 

safety systems, optical 

systems, weather systems, 

and related tools and 

processes. It provides for 

development of advanced 

ground systems maintenance 

capabilities to include health 

management systems such as 

fault isolation recovery and 

functional fault models.

of 

SLS/MPCV 

content from 

21CSLC to 

EGS 

Mission Focused Provider: 21CSLC

Project Management: GSDO Program 

Office

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share: N/A

Multi-user facility capabilities

to support the multiple 

vehicles that are processed 

and launched in the horizontal 

or vertical configuration.

N/A Realignment 

of 

SLS/MPCV 

content from 

21CSLC to 

EGS 

Modernization

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PROJECT RISKS

The most visible risk in this initiative is the requirements definition process for the vehicles that will drive 

requirements for developing the launchpad Emergency Egress System, which transports crew from the 

launch pad to a safe location in the event of an emergency. This issue could impact the near-term use of 

the Florida range. 

Risk Statement Mitigation

GSDO is benchmarking other human spaceflight programs for optimal 

solutions so that the Emergency Egress System is viable to a multitude of 

stakeholders.

If: User vehicles are not compatible with the 

Emergency Egress System,

Then: Such vehicles will be unable to use 

the range until adaptations can be made to 

either the vehicle or the Emergency Egress 

System.

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

21CSLC is managed by the GSDO Program Manager and will encompass projects with varying content 

and sizes. Many of these are consistent with the type of architecture and engineering, construction, and 

programmatic support available within the scope of existing center and program support contracts. Should 

the projects size or scope fall outside the scope of existing Center capabilities, then competitively bid firm 

fixed contracts will be used. 

Element Vendor/Provider Location

Jacking, equalization and leveling 

cylinder, roller bearing (crawler 

transporter)

QinetiQ McLean, VA

Pad B Infrastructure Repairs and Water 

Tank Repairs

Rush Construction Inc. Titusville, FL

Pad B Elevator and Cryo Systems 

Refurbishment

Ivey’s Construction Inc. Merritt Island, FL

VAB Cable Removal United Space Alliance Houston, TX

VAB Cable Removal Abacus Technology Chevy Chase, MD

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INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Other NASA Advisory 

Council

Jul-10 Provided independent guidance to the 

NASA Administrator. No formal 

recommendations were included

TBD

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SPACE COMMUNICATIONS AND NAVIGATION (SCAN) 

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 456.7 445.5 655.6 570.7 577.3 535.4 513.9

Space Communications Networks 347.8 364.2 440.3 423.9 432.9 435.1 437.0

 *Space Network Ground Systems Sust.

Tracking and Data Relay Satellite 

Replenishment 

Space Communications Support

22.9

16.9

92.0

53.6

15.2

66.0

104.4

137.1

78.2

91.6

67.2

79.5

99.5

73.0

71.5

99.5

28.6

71.8

99.6

2.6

74.3

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 210.1

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 47.2%

Note: *The amounts shown for the Space Communications Networks project include funding for Space Network Ground Segment Sustainment, 

which is described in more detail in a following section. 

In support of all NASA's space missions, SCaN coordinates multiple 

space communications networks and provides network support 

functions to regulate, maintain, and grow NASA's space 

communications and navigation capabilities. SCaN programs and 

activities are also national assets that serve a wide range of 

customers. 

The Space Communications and 

Navigation (SCaN) program provides 

the crucial communications and 

navigation services that all NASA space 

missions require for success. SCaN uses 

NASA’s communications networks to 

supply vital links for customer missions. 

These links retrieve science and 

spacecraft health data, upload 

commands, and transfer data to 

individual mission control centers. 

Navigation services accurately 

determine where a satellite is and where 

it is going, so course changes can be 

planned and spacecraft located for the 

next communications opportunity. 

Without SCaN’s services, these 

satellites could not transmit their data to 

Earth or be commanded or controlled. Providing these mission-critical services requires systems of highquality hardware and software on both the spacecraft and ground facilities. A communications or 

navigation failure, on the spacecraft or in SCaN systems, could result in complete loss of a mission. 

Without SCaN’s services, space hardware worth tens of billions of dollars would be little more than 

orbital debris. In addition, SCaN leads NASA technology activities to assure future communications and 

navigation capabilities for ground systems and customer spacecraft. 

Today's spacecraft are increasingly powerful, complex, and capable of acquiring and processing ever 

increasing amounts of mission data, but they still need to communicate with Earth and navigate in space. 

SCaN must also support missions launched over 30 years ago that are still returning valuable science data. 

SCaN’s mission customers range from high altitude balloons at the edge of Earth’s atmosphere, through 

science satellites in low Earth orbit, to the most distant manmade object, Voyager 1,which is at the edge 

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of the solar system over 11 billion miles from Earth. SCaN also supports ISS, and will provide support to 

commercial crew providers and NASA’s Orion capsule when they launch. SCaN also provides services to 

foreign, international, and non-NASA U.S. missions on a reimbursable basis. 

SCaN works to ensure that customer missions have the communications and navigation services they 

need at the lowest practical cost to the customer. Customer mission requirements include the mission’s 

orbit, distance from Earth, data rate, and how often communications opportunities occur. SCaN and the 

customer mission must match technical parameters such as radio frequency, data coding, modulation 

scheme, polarization, and error correction. 

SCaN consists of space communications networks, space network ground systems sustainment, TDRS 

Replenishment (TDRS-K, L, and M), and space communications support. 

SCaN operates three space communications networks to service customer missions. The Space Network 

communicates with missions in Earth orbit, and provides constant communication with ISS. The Space 

Network will also support future commercial crew and Orion missions. The near Earth network 

communicates with suborbital missions and missions in low Earth and highly elliptical orbits. The Deep 

Space Network communicates with the most distant missions, such as inter-planetary probes. The three 

networks require maintenance, replenishment, modernization, and capacity expansion to ensure service 

for existing and planned missions. NASA purchases ground communications links from the NASA 

integrated services network to move data between SCaN ground stations, NASA Centers, and mission 

operation and data centers. 

The TDRS replenishment efforts (TDRS-K, L, and M) are major components of maintaining Space 

Network capabilities. NASA is purchasing three third-generation TDRS to replace aging first-generation 

satellites that are 17 to 24 years old (well past their design lifetimes) and increasingly showing early signs 

of impending age-related failures. The three third-generation spacecraft will ensure adequate Space 

Network services to customers into the 2020s. 

The Space Network ground systems will replace aging ground hardware and data systems in the network 

that operate and route customer mission data to and from TDRS. 

Space communications support provides several disparate functions to efficiently integrate and plan 

current and future network capabilities to customer missions while reducing costs. These functions 

include systems engineering, architecture planning, communications data standards, technology 

development and test beds, and radio frequency spectrum management. SCaN’s challenge is to meet the 

requirements of all customer missions, while minimizing the dollars and spacecraft assets devoted to 

communications and navigation. 

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EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

The FY 2013 request includes funding for the TDRS-M project. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

SCaN’s major achievements in FY 2011 are the mission-critical communications and navigation services 

provided to customer missions. SCaN supported ISS, the final three Space Shuttle missions, and over 

70 NASA, NOAA, and other U.S. Government orbital missions. SCaN networks provided over 

260,000 hours of tracking in more than 220,000 passes. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

SCaN will continue to provide mission-critical communications and navigation services to customer 

missions in FY 2013. In FY 2013 TDRS-K will complete on-orbit checkout, TDRS-L will prepare for 

launch, and TDRS-M will complete its Critical Design Review. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $655.6 million. This represents a $210.1 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($445.5 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $440.3 million for space communications networks, which will continue providing critical 

services to customer mission; 

$104.4 million for Space Network Ground Segment Sustainment (SGSS), which is included in 

the Space Networks budget. SGSS will replace outdated equipment and systems at the Space 

Network ground terminals with up-to-date and standardized systems; 

$137.1 million for TDRS replenishment, which will maintain Space Network capabilities into the 

2020s; and 

$78.2 million for space communications support, to integrate and plan current and future 

capabilities. 

• 

• 

• 

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Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 347.8 364.2 440.3 423.9 432.9 435.1 437.0

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 76.1

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 20.9%

Note: The amounts shown include Space Network Ground Segment Sustainment, which is described in more detail in a following section.

 

The 70-meter-wide (230-foot) antenna at Goldstone 

Deep Space Communications Complex in California’s 

Mojave Desert, has received data and sent commands to 

deep space missions for over 40 years. In 2010 it 

underwent a major, delicate “surgery” to extend its 

useful life another 20 years. The rigorous engineering 

procedure, managed by JPL, successfully lifted about 9 

million pounds of finely tuned scientific instruments a 

height of about 5 millimeters (0.2 inches) to replace the 

steel runner, walls and supporting grout of a bearing 

assembly that enables the antenna to rotate horizontally. 

The three Space Communications Networks, the 

Space Network, Near Earth Network, and Deep 

Space Network, are the operational heart of 

NASA’s ability to move data and commands 

between customer spacecraft and Earth. Each 

network meets different customer requirements 

for spacecraft orbits, signal strength, and real-time 

coverage. In addition to day-to-day operations, 

each network requires maintenance, 

modernization, and capacity expansion. Also, 

SCaN procures terrestrial communications 

services through the NASA Integrated Services 

Network (NISN) to move data between customer 

mission ground sites and space network terminals. 

Space Network provides continuous global 

coverage to missions in low Earth orbit as well as 

launch vehicles. The primary U.S. 

communications link to ISS, the Space Network 

also supports ground research in remote 

locations, such as the South Pole. Managed by 

the Space Network Project Office at GSFC, the 

Space Network consists of tracking and data relay 

satellite system (TDRSS) of communications 

satellites in geosynchronous orbit, a set of spaceto-ground link terminals at White Sands, New 

Mexico, and the Guam remote ground terminal. 

Customer spacecraft (or remote locations) 

communicate with the on-orbit TDRS, which 

relays signals to and from the ground terminals. 

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The SGSS effort is replacing outdated equipment and standardizing systems at the space network ground 

terminals. Space Network Ground Segment Sustainment funding is included in the Space 

Communications Networks totals shown above, but additional information is provided in a following 

section. NASA is modernizing the TDRS fleet by purchasing third-generation spacecraft through TDRS 

replenishment projects: K, L, and M. TDRS replenishment is described in a following section, and 

funding is not included in Space Communications Networks. 

Near Earth Network services missions in low Earth, geosynchronous, lunar, and highly elliptical orbits, 

as well as certain suborbital launch locations. Near Earth Network NASA-owned, contractor-operated 

stations are located at White Sands, New Mexico, U.S. McMurdo Antarctic Station, and Wallops Flight 

Facility, Virginia. Near Earth Network also purchases services from commercial providers in Alaska, 

Hawaii, Norway, Sweden, Australia, and Chile. The Near Earth Network Project Office at GSFC 

manages this network. 

To meet the future needs of Near Earth Network mission customers, SCaN is evaluating use of Ka-band 

radio frequencies for future missions. Using Ka-band frequencies would allow higher data rates than 

X-band frequencies, and reduce congestion on the saturated X-band. SCaN’s spectrum management and 

architecture activities, discussed under space communications support, are assisting this evaluation. 

Deep Space Network services missions beyond low Earth orbit, out to the edge of the solar system. Deep 

Space Network’s ground stations are spaced about 120 degrees apart on the globe in Spain, Australia, and 

California to maintain continuous communications to distant spacecraft as Earth rotates. NASA owns the 

Deep Space Network stations, and their operations, maintenance, and upgrade are managed by the Deep 

Space Network Project Office at JPL. 

The Deep Space Network Aperture Enhancement effort is modernizing and upgrading the Deep Space 

Network to enhance capacity, improve flexibility to support customer missions, and reduce operations 

and maintenance costs. Much of the Deep Space Network hardware has been in operation for over 30 

years and has become difficult and costly to maintain. This is true of antenna structures, exotic electronics 

such as high-power transmitters and cryogenically-cooled low noise amplifiers, and support elements 

such as backup generators. Non-construction upgrades, such as electronics and computers, are funded by 

SCaN. Construction efforts use CoF funds appropriated in the CECR account. A list of SCaN CoF 

projects, including Deep Space Network, is found in the CECR section of this document. 

SCaN purchases services from the NISN to move information between the ground stations of the three 

space communications networks and NASA Centers and customer mission operations, and data centers. 

NASA’s Chief Information Officer manages NISN as a commercial service framework providing pointto-point terrestrial signal transport services and routing for all of NASA, with SCaN as one of many 

customers. 

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Formulation Development Operations

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

There are no significant content changes in the FY 2013 request. The budget increase from FY 2012 to 

FY 2013 covers increased costs for Deep Space Network overseas operations and loss of Space Network 

partner reimbursable funding. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The Space Network was and continues to be the primary U.S. communications link to ISS, as well as 

16 NASA, NOAA, and U.S. Government missions. The network also supported three high-altitude 

balloon missions, 18 expendable launch vehicle missions, and the final three Space Shuttle missions. 

Through these efforts, the Space Network provided 162,344 tracking passes totaling over 176,000 hours 

of tracking, and meeting 99.9 percent of customer tracking requests. 

Near Earth Network supported over 30 on-orbit science missions, eight expendable launch vehicle 

missions, and launch and landing of the final three Space Shuttle missions. Near Earth Network N 

provided 45,219 tracking passes totaling over 900,000 minutes of tracking in FY 2011, and meeting 

99.6 Near Earth Network percent of customer tracking requests. 

Near Earth Network also completed antenna, electronics, and network upgrades at the Alaska Satellite 

Facility, McMurdo Ground Station, Wallops Ground Station, and White Sands Ground Station. Upon 

completion of the last Space Shuttle mission, Near Earth Network closed the Merritt Island Launch 

Annex and Ponce de Leon orbit tracking stations (both in Florida) and redistributed equipment to other 

NEN sites and other NASA users. 

Deep Space Network provided telecommunications services for 37 spacecraft missions, including ten 

mission-critical events. These included the EPOXI encounter of the Hartley-2 Comet, the NeXT 

encounter of the Temple-1 Comet, Mercury orbit insertion for the MESSENGER mission, and launches 

of the Juno and GRAIL missions. It also supported six major ground observation programs. In all, the 

network made 15,728 contacts to committed spacecraft for a total of 78,720 hours of tracking, comprising 

over 99 percent of planned tracking. 

Deep Space Network completed service life extension tasks for the three 34-meter high efficiency 

antennas. To improve ground station reliability, Deep Space Network completed various utility upgrades, 

including electrical grid improvement, uninterruptible power supplies, emergency generators, and fire 

detection improvements. In addition, Deep Space Network completed electronics upgrades, including heat 

exchangers for 20 kilowatt transmitters and maser frequency standards and multiple upgrades to ground 

data systems and networks. Deep Space Network also began foundation work for new DSS-35 and 

DSS-36 antennas in Australia. 

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KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

SN will support ISS, launches, and other U.S. Government customers. Activity in the Near Earth Network 

will support customer missions, as well as upgrading and refurbishment of ground stations and data 

systems. The Deep Space Network will support over 30 customer missions, including launch and early 

orbit phase of the Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer, or LADEE spacecraft. At the Deep 

Space Network ground stations, additional electrical power upgrades will be completed. Electronics 

upgrades include replacing all beam waveguide antenna controllers; antenna mechanical systems 

replacements include azimuth tracks on three 34-meter antennas. 

TDRS-K will complete on-orbit checkout and become an operational part of the Space Network. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $440.3 million. This represents an $76.1 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($364.2 million). 

Project Schedule 

TDRS-K On-Orbit 

Acceptance 

03/2013

TDRS-L On-Orbit 

Acceptance

03/2014

DSS-35 Operational 

12/2014

DSS-36 Operational 

12/2016

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SPACE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

Project/Element Provider Description

Space Network Provider: SN Project Office 

Project Management: GSFC 

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: non-NASA customers 

Communication and navigation services 

to customer missions.

Near Earth 

Network

Provider: NEN Project Office 

Project Management: GSFC 

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share: non-NASA customers 

Communication and navigation services 

to customer missions.

Deep Space 

Network

Provider: DSN Project Office 

Project Management: JPL

NASA Center: JPL

Cost Share: non-NASA customers 

Communication and navigation services 

to customer missions.

NASA Integrated 

Services Network

Provider: NISN (non-SCaN) 

Project Management: NASA Chief Information Officer 

NASA Center: NASA Headquarters 

Cost Share: N/A

SCaN purchases ground communication 

services from NISN. 

Acquisition Strategy 

The major acquisitions for the networks are in place. NASA uses reimbursable, international, barter 

agreements, and competitive procurement where appropriate. Deep Space Network is provided by JPL. 

SO-53 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE 

COMMUNICATIONS AND NAVIGATION

SPACE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS

Formulation Development Operations

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor/Provider Location

DSN JPL Pasadena, CA

SN Operations ITT Exelis McLean, VA

NEN Operations ITT Exelis McLean, VA

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

No independent reviews planned. However, SCaN bases modernization decisions on traffic analysis and 

reliability models and studies. For the Space Network, TDRS reliability models are continually updated to 

incorporate on-orbit performance, particularly for the remaining first-generation spacecraft that are past 

their expected lifetimes and are showing clear and advancing signs of impending age-related failures. 

SCaN internal analysis has determined that TDRS-M is required to maintain Space Network services, 

beginning in the 2017 to 2018 timeframe.

SO-54 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE 

COMMUNICATIONS AND NAVIGATION

SPACE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

SCaN is balancing and prioritizing near-term operations and 

maintenance funding against longer-term modernization and 

replacement efforts while also accepting increased risk of system 

outages in order to maintain near-term service delivery to customer 

missions.

If: Systems fail at higher rates than 

predicted,

Then: Failure could cause service 

outages and require increased 

staffing/management attention, 

maintenance, and spare parts 

inventories. While the networks have 

shown impressive reliability and the 

likelihood of outages are low (but 

increasing), the consequences are high. 

Outages during a mission-critical event 

may result in loss of irreplaceable 

customer mission data, or even the 

customer spacecraft. Long-duration 

outages could reduce network capacity 

enough to require limiting data 

downloads from customer spacecraft.

SO-55 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE 

COMMUNICATIONS AND NAVIGATION: SPACE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS

SPACE NETWORK GROUND SEGMENT SUSTAINMENT 

(SGSS)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET 

Actual Estimate

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

Prior

26.5

FY 2011

22.9

--

FY 2012

53.6

--

FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

104.4 91.6 99.5 99.5 99.6

50.9

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 95.1%

Fully operational since 1989, the TDRSS network continuously 

relays data from satellites and spacecraft in low Earth orbit to 

ground stations in White Sands, New Mexico and in Guam. SGSS 

modernization will ensure the space network continues to provide 

global space-to-ground telecommunications and tracking coverage 

for low Earth orbit and near Earth spaceflight missions, including 

the Hubble Space Telescope and ISS. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

SGSS is replacing outdated equipment 

and systems at the Space Network 

ground terminals with up-to-date and 

standardized systems. Existing ground 

systems are based on 1980s technology 

and software; updated systems and 

equipment will allow the space 

network to maintain critical 

communications services to customer 

missions while reducing operations 

and maintenance costs. 

EXPLANATION OF PROJECT 

CHANGES

None. 

PROJECT PRELIMINARY PARAMETERS

After SGSS completion, each Space Network ground station will be capable of supporting any spacecraft 

in the TDRSS fleet, whether a first, second, or third-generation satellite. These capabilities will be 

required to support future space exploration vehicles. The first phase of SGSS is to modernize and 

integrate space network ground terminals into a unified network. NASA is modernizing the TDRS fleet 

by purchasing third-generation spacecraft through the TDRS replenishment effort, described separately. 

SO-56 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE 

COMMUNICATIONS AND NAVIGATION: SPACE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS

SPACE NETWORK GROUND SEGMENT SUSTAINMENT 

(SGSS)

Formulation Development Operations

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

NASA awarded the prime contract for SGSS in FY 2011 and completed the Integrated Baseline Review 

completed in January 2011. SGSS compiled individual initial requirements into analyzed system-level 

requirements and successfully completed SRR in July 2011. SGSS is continuing work on detailed 

requirements, architecture design and interface control documents, and early design leading to a Key 

Decision Point (KDP)-B review early in FY 2012. The KDP-B review will determine if SGSS is ready to 

proceed to Phase B, project formulation. Preliminary Design Review (PDR) is planned for later in 

FY 2012. Without requirements work and reviews in the early phases of the project, later design and 

development efforts may not operate together correctly or meet the project’s needs without costly 

redesign. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

NASA plans to achieve KDP-C in late FY 2013. 

ESTIMATED PROJECT SCHEDULE

SGSS is in formulation and is being replanned based on the Integrated Baseline Review and SRR 

findings. 

Formulation Milestones Formulation Agreement 

Estimate

FY 2013 PB Request Date

Formulation Authorization/ Q2 FY 2012 Q2 FY 2012

KDP-C KDP B Late FY 2013 Late FY 2013

Full Operational Capability Mar-2016 Mar-2016

SO-57 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE 

COMMUNICATIONS AND NAVIGATION: SPACE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS

SPACE NETWORK GROUND SEGMENT SUSTAINMENT 

(SGSS)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Schedule 

Formulation 

Authorization 

KDP-B

Q2 FY 2012

KDP-C

Late FY 2013

Full Operational 

Capability

03/2016

Project Management & Commitments 

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB FY 2013 PB 

SGSS Provider: SGSS Project Office

Project Management: GSFC

NASA Center: GSFC

Cost Share partner: non-NASA Federal 

customers 

Replace outdated ground R t N/A R t 104.4

systems at space network 

ground terminals

SO-58 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE 

COMMUNICATIONS AND NAVIGATION: SPACE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS

SPACE NETWORK GROUND SEGMENT SUSTAINMENT 

(SGSS)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: SGSS products are delayed,

Then: The Space Network will continue to 

use higher-risk, costly-to-operate existing 

systems and software. The Deep Space 

Network and Near Earth Network also 

continue to use costly and aging systems 

and software.

NASA and the SGSS contractor are revising scope, schedule, and cost 

estimates based on Independent Baseline Review findings. Revised scope, 

schedule, and cost will be presented at the KDP-B review in FY 2012. Even 

with revised scope, schedule, and cost matched to expected budgets, SCaN 

must carefully manage Space Network Ground Segment Sustainment to 

deliver products on time so that Space Network, Deep Space Network, and 

Near Earth Network can benefit from reduced operations and maintenance 

costs and improved reliability.

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor Location

SGSS General Dynamics C4 Systems Scottsdale, AZ

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Independent reviews will be performed as required by NPR 7120.5. A NASA established Standing 

Review Board (SRB) to review SGSS project. 

SO-59 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE 

COMMUNICATIONS AND NAVIGATION: SPACE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS

SPACE NETWORK GROUND SEGMENT SUSTAINMENT 

(SGSS)

Formulation Development Operations

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

System 

Requirements 

Review

SRB Jul-11 To evaluate whether the program 

functional and performance 

requirements are properly formulated 

and correlated with the Agency and 

mission directorate strategic objectives; 

to assess the credibility of the 

program’s estimated budget and 

schedule. SRR recommended changes to 

SGSS requirements and scope. SGSS is 

incorporating those recommendations 

into a new project baseline of 

requirements, scope, cost, and schedule 

for review and decision at KDP-B in 

second quarter of FY 2012.

N/A

System Definition 

Review

SRB N/A To evaluate the proposed program 

requirements/ architecture and allocation 

of requirements to initial projects; to 

assess the adequacy of project preformulation efforts; to determine 

whether the maturity of the program’s 

definition and associated plans are 

sufficient to begin implementation. 

Q2 FY 2012

Preliminary Design 

Review

SRB N/A To evaluate the completeness/ 

consistency of the program’s 

preliminary design, including its 

projects, in meeting all requirements 

with appropriate margins, acceptable 

risk and within cost and schedule 

constraints; and to determine the 

program’s readiness to proceed with the 

detailed design phase of the program. 

Q4 FY 2013

SO-60 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE COMMUNICATIONS AND 

NAVIGATION

TRACKING AND DATA RELAY SATELLITE REPLENISHMENT

(TDRS)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Budget Authority Actual Estimate LCC 

(in $ millions) Prior FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 BTC Total 

FY 2013 President’s 

Budget Request 394.4 16.9 15.2 137.1 67.2 73.0 28.6 2.6 0.0 735.0

2012 MPAR Project 

Cost Estimate 396.3 10.4 5.1 13.7 425.5

Formulation 241.9 241.9

Development/Implement

ation

154.4 10.4 5.1 13.7 183.6

Operations/close-out 

Change From FY 2012 

Estimate -- -- 121.9

Percent Change From FY 

2012 Estimate -- -- 802.0%

Note: While the current Major Program Annual Report project cost estimates are solely for TDRS K/L, TDRS M will be added to the project’s 

scope in FY 2012 pursuant to direction in the FY 2012 Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act (P.L. 112-55); accordingly, 

NASA will revise the TDRS baseline cost estimate in the coming months. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

This budget includes funding for all TDRS replenishment activities. In November 2011, NASA executed 

the fixed-cost option to acquire TDRS-M; the change from the FY 2012 request reflects the TDRS-M 

acquisition, rather than an increase to the Major Program Annual Report estimate for TDRS-K and L. 

PROJECT PURPOSE

The TDRS fleet supports tracking, data, voice, and video services to the ISS, space and Earth science 

missions, and other government agency users. The total mission load is predicted to increase, which will 

require additional satellites to be added to the fleet. Reliability analyses predict that the fleet may be 

unable to support NASA and other U.S. Government customer missions by FY 2016. 

The TDRS replenishment effort is a major component of maintaining NASA’s space network capabilities. 

The Agency is purchasing three third-generation TDRS (K, L, and M) to replace aging first-generation 

satellites that are 17 to 24 years old, well beyond their designed lifetimes. By early FY 2012, three 

spacecraft either failed or have been retired, and the remaining three first-generation satellites 

increasingly showing signs of age-related failure. The three second-generation TDRS are nine to 12 years 

old. The three third-generation spacecraft will ensure adequate space network services to customers into 

the 2020s. TDRS replenishment includes modifications to space network ground facilities to support the 

third-generation satellites. 

SO-61 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE COMMUNICATIONS AND 

NAVIGATION

TRACKING AND DATA RELAY SATELLITE REPLENISHMENT

(TDRS)

Formulation Development Operations

The Space Network was established in the early 1980s to 

replace NASA's worldwide network of ground tracking 

stations. Since then the Space Network has launched 10 

TDRS satellites and built three ground stations to 

accommodate an ever-increasing demand for round the clock 

service. The second generation TDRS satellite, shown in the 

artist’s conception, was designed, built, and tested to provide 

service for 11 years in geostationary Earth orbit and 

maintain health for four additional years of on-orbit storage. 

To maintain services to customer missions, 

NASA began acquiring two third-generation 

spacecraft, TDRS-K and -L, in FY 2007. 

TDRS-K is scheduled for launch in December 

2012; TDRS-L is scheduled for launch in 

December 2013. Adding two spacecraft to the 

TDRSS fleet will ensure continuity of service 

for NASA and other U.S. government 

customer missions through at least FY 2016. 

Maintaining capacity beyond FY 2016 

required initiating the TDRS-M acquisition 

early in FY 2012 for launch in FY 2016; 

adding TDRS-M will extend capacity into the 

2020s. 

PROJECT PARAMETERS

TDRSS is a fleet of telecommunications 

satellites in geosynchronous orbit. The 

constellation includes both first and second 

generation satellites, which will eventually be 

replaced with later generation spacecraft. 

TDRS and the associated ground stations 

located at White Sands and Guam comprise the Space Network, which provides communications services 

for near Earth customer satellites. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

NASA completed the TDRS-K/L Systems Integration Review in July 2011. In September 2011, the 

TDRS-L bus module integration was completed, and TDRS-K thermal/vacuum testing began in October. 

The TDRS-M contract option was exercised November 2011. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

TDRS-K will launch in early FY 2013 and complete on-orbit checkout; NASA will prepare TDRS-L for 

launch in early FY 2014. TDRS-M will undergo Critical Design Review in March 2013. 

SO-62 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE COMMUNICATIONS AND 

NAVIGATION

TRACKING AND DATA RELAY SATELLITE REPLENISHMENT

(TDRS)

Formulation Development Operations

SCHEDULE COMMITMENTS/KEY MILESTONES

TDRS-K and L completed their Systems Integration Review and are on track for launch in December 

2012 and December 2013, respectively. 

TDRS-M is planned for launch in January 2016, to join the existing TDRS fleet. The following timeline 

shows the formulation agreement schedule estimates. 

Development Milestones Formulation Estimate FY 2013 PB Request Date

Formulation Authorization Nov-11 Nov-11

Spacecraft Module Design 

Complete

Jul-12 Jul-12

Critical Design Review Mar-13 Mar-13

Launch Readiness Date Jan-16 Jan-16

Development Milestones Confirmation Baseline 

Date

FY 2013 PB Request Date

KDP-C Jul-09 Jul-09

CDR Feb-10 Feb-10

TDRS-K Launch Dec-12 Dec-12

TDRS-K on-orbit acceptance N/A Launch plus 90 days

TDRS-L Launch Dec-13 Dec-13

TDRS-L on-orbit acceptance N/A Launch plus 90 days

SO-63 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE COMMUNICATIONS AND 

NAVIGATION

TRACKING AND DATA RELAY SATELLITE REPLENISHMENT

(TDRS)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Schedule 

TDRS-K and L Only 

TDRS-K Launch

12/2012

TDRS-K On-Orbit 

Acceptance

Launch plus 90 Days

TDRS-L Launch

12/2013

TDRS-L On-Orbit 

Acceptance

Launch plus 90 Days

TDRS-M Only 

Formulation 

Authorization

11/2011

Spacecraft Module 

Design Complete

07/2012

CDR

03/2013

Launch Readiness 

Date 

01/2016

SO-64 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE COMMUNICATIONS AND 

NAVIGATION

TRACKING AND DATA RELAY SATELLITE REPLENISHMENT

(TDRS)

Formulation Development Operations

Development Cost and Schedule 

Current 

Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Base Year 

Development 

Cost 

Estimate 

($M)

Current 

Year 

Milestone 

Date

Cost 

Change 

(%)

Base Year 

Milestone 

Date

Milestone 

Change 

(months)

Base 

Year

Current 

Year

Key 

JCL (%) Milestone

2010 209.4 75 (CL) 2012 183.6 -12.3% TDRS-K Dec-12 Dec-12 None

Launch

TDRS-L Dec-13 Dec-13 None

Launch

Note: The confidence level estimates reported reflect an evolving process as NASA improves its probabilistic estimation techniques and 

processes. The estimate above reflects the practices and policies at the time it was developed. Estimates that include combined cost and schedule 

risks are denoted as joint confidence level; all other confidence levels reflect cost confidence without necessarily factoring the potential impacts 

of schedule changes on cost. The confidence level estimate (not a JCL) done for TDRS K/L addresses the full partnership; the development cost 

reflects the NASA portion of project costs. 

While current baseline costs are solely for TDRS K/L, TDRS M will be added to the project’s scope in FY 2012 pursuant to direction in the 

FY 2012 Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act (P.L. 112-55); accordingly, NASA will revise the TDRS baseline cost estimate 

in the coming months. 

SO-65 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE COMMUNICATIONS AND 

NAVIGATION

TRACKING AND DATA RELAY SATELLITE REPLENISHMENT

(TDRS)

Formulation Development Operations

Development Cost Details (in $M) 

Element

Base Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Current Year 

Development 

Cost Estimate

Change from 

Base Year 

Estimate

TOTAL: 209.4 183.6 -25.8

Aircraft/Spacecraft 56.7 71.7 15

Payloads 

Systems I&T 

Launch Vehicle 

Ground Systems 53.7 53.7 0

Science/Technology 

Other Direct Project Costs 99 58.2 -40.8

NOTE: While current development cost details are solely for TDRS K/L, TDRS M will be added to the project’s scope in FY 2012 pursuant to 

direction in the FY 2012 Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act (P.L. 112-55); accordingly, NASA will revise the TDRS 

baseline cost estimate in the coming months. 

Project Management & Commitments 

The HEOMD Deputy Associate Administrator at NASA Headquarters is project manager. 

Project/Element Provider Description FY 2012 PB FY 2013 PB 

TDRS 

Replenishment

Provider: Boeing Space Systems

Project Management: GSFC 

NASA Center: GSFC 

Cost Share partner: Other U.S. 

Government agencies 

Acquire third-generation 

TDRS-K, L, and M to 

maintain communications 

services to customer 

missions into the 2020s.

R t 13.9 K&L 

only

R137.1 K,L&M t

SO-66 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE COMMUNICATIONS AND 

NAVIGATION

TRACKING AND DATA RELAY SATELLITE REPLENISHMENT

(TDRS)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Risks 

The major risk for TDRS replenishment project is a programmatic risk to the Space Network and not a 

risk within the TDRS replenishment project. The risk is existing operational TDRS may fail earlier than 

predicted, prior to planned launch of TDRS-K, L, and M, and leave the Space Network with insufficient 

capacity to service customer missions, even though TDRS-K, L, and M launch as planned. 

Risk Statement Mitigation

If: Existing TDRS fail prior to launch of 

third-generation TDRS-K, L, and M,

Then: Space Network may not have 

sufficient capacity to support customer 

missions.

Firm-fixed-price-plus-incentive-fee contract awarded December 2007 to 

Boeing Satellite Systems, Inc. for TDRS-K and L. TDRS-K will launch 

in December 2012, and TDRS-L in December 2013. Firm-fixed-priceplus-incentive-fee option for TDRS-M exercised November 2011 for 

launch in 2016.

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

The major contract for TDRS replenishment was competitively awarded to Boeing Space Systems, Inc., 

in El Segundo, CA, in December 2007. It is a fixed-price-plus-incentive-fee contract for TDRS-K and L, 

and includes modifications to Space Network ground systems at White Sands to support these third 

generation spacecraft. In November 2011, NASA exercised a fixed-price-plus-incentive-fee option on the 

Boeing contract for TDRS-M. 

Element Vendor Location

TDRS-K and -L Boeing El Segundo, CA

TDRS-M Boeing El Segundo, CA

SN Ground System Boeing El Segundo, CA

SO-67 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE COMMUNICATIONS AND 

NAVIGATION

TRACKING AND DATA RELAY SATELLITE REPLENISHMENT

(TDRS)

Formulation Development Operations

Independent Reviews

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

System 

Requirements 

Review

SRB Jul-08 Evaluated whether program 

functional and performance 

requirements were properly 

formulated and correlated with 

Agency and mission directorate 

strategic objectives; and assessed 

the credibility of the program’s 

estimated budget and schedule. 

Recommended proceeding to next 

project phase.

N/A

System 

Definition 

Review

SRB Jul-08 Evaluated proposed program 

requirements/ architecture and 

allocation of requirements to initial 

projects; assessed the adequacy of 

project pre-formulation efforts; 

determined that the maturity of the 

program definition and associated 

plans were sufficient to begin 

implementation. 

N/A

Preliminary 

Design Review

SRB Apr-09 Evaluated completeness/ 

consistency of the program 

preliminary design, including its 

projects, in meeting all requirements 

with appropriate margins, acceptable 

risk and within cost and schedule 

constraints. Determined that the 

program was ready to proceed with 

the detailed design phase of the 

program. 

N/A

SO-68 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE COMMUNICATIONS AND 

NAVIGATION

TRACKING AND DATA RELAY SATELLITE REPLENISHMENT

(TDRS)

Formulation Development Operations

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Critical Design SRB Jan-10 Evaluated the integrity of the 

program integrated design, 

including its projects and ground 

systems, to meet mission 

requirements with appropriate 

margins and acceptable risk, within 

cost and schedule constraints. 

Determined that the integrated 

design was appropriately mature to 

continue with the final design and 

fabrication phase. 

N/A

Review

SO-69 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE 

COMMUNICATIONS AND NAVIGATION

SPACE COMMUNICATIONS SUPPORT (SCS)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 92.0 66.0 78.2 79.5 71.5 71.8 74.3

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 12.2

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 18.5%

Current science missions to the Moon and planets are 

constrained by the amount of data they can 

communicate back over the long distances. During 

future exploration missions astronauts will also 

require high-data-rate communications. Optical 

systems could provide very-high-rate, very-longdistance communications systems. The Lunar Laser 

Communications Demonstration will demonstrate 

optical communications from space, transmitting data 

at over 600 megabits per second. The instrument’s 

ground receiver (its cryogenic receiver assembly is 

shown), will be nearly ten times more efficient than 

any optical receiver demonstrated at these data rates. 

While the antennas and satellites of the space 

communications network are the most visible part 

of SCaN, successfully providing services to 

customer missions over the long term requires 

planning, management, and technology activities 

grouped in Space Communication Support (SCS). 

These include architecture and systems planning, 

standards definition and management, spectrum 

management, and technology. 

Architecture and systems planning, communications 

data standards, and systems engineering and 

integration efforts help SCaN meet customer needs 

at minimum practical cost. Through these efforts, 

SCS plans system technical characteristics, 

capacity, and performance, which helps to eliminate 

duplication across the space communications 

networks, reduces costly mission-specific 

requirements in favor of common solutions, and 

lowers development costs of customer missions by 

providing “off-the-shelf” communications standards 

and solutions. 

SCaN is NASA’s agent for spectrum management and represents the Agency in national and international 

forums. Spectrum management ensures that necessary radio frequencies remain available to provide 

communication with all NASA missions and for radio astronomy uses. Spectrum demand for use by 

commercial wireless devices and their associated networks (e.g., cell phones, WiFi and broadband 

networks, direct broadcast television) continues to increase, leading to further encroachment of Federal 

spectrum assignment and increasing the potential for frequency interference. Reallocating additional 

spectrum for new commercial networks, while maintaining spectrum integrity for existing Federal users 

(who may not be able to migrate to other frequencies due to hardware limitations or fundamental physics) 

requires management at the national and international level, and is the only way to ensure appropriate 

spectrum remains available for current and future NASA uses. 

SO-70 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE 

COMMUNICATIONS AND NAVIGATION

SPACE COMMUNICATIONS SUPPORT (SCS)

Formulation Development Operations

SCaN technology efforts have the promise of reducing costs, increasing capacity, and improving 

performance for future space communications systems. These include disruption-tolerant networks, 

optical communications (exemplified by the Lunar Laser Communications Demonstration that will fly on 

the LADEE spacecraft), and the SCaN test bed that will test a software-defined radio on ISS. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

There are no significant changes from the FY 2012 request. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

NASA worked with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the 

Federal Communications Commission (FCC), to manage the spectrum effects of the President’s 

“Unleashing the Wireless Broadband Revolution” initiative to bring wireless broadband to the entire 

United States. Proposals to move Federal users out of the 1755 to 1850 megahertz band directly affects 

NASA uses in that band, but more importantly, affects NASA use in the S-band portion of the radio 

spectrum, as thousands of DoD and other Federal users will be required to migrate to the S-band. NASA, 

with other Federal agencies, is conducting studies to ensure NASA missions are not adversely affected. 

NASA also worked with FCC and NTIA to test and evaluate potential interference from Lightsquared’s 

broadband network on GPS users. Preliminary indications are that Lightsquared’s network will interfere 

with many GPS users, including NASA space-based and terrestrial operations. 

Two disruption-tolerant network nodes on ISS were evaluated in operational use and are already 

demonstrating significant productivity gains in a challenging communications environment. 

Final review of the Lunar Laser Communications Demonstration flight sub-system electronics was 

completed. The optical module completed final qualification testing in preparation for final assembly of 

the payload. 

SCaN completed the test bed thermal vacuum environmental testing and successfully completed the preship review of the software-defined radio. Launch to ISS is expected in the first half of FY 2012. 

SO-71 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE 

COMMUNICATIONS AND NAVIGATION

SPACE COMMUNICATIONS SUPPORT (SCS)

Formulation Development Operations

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

During FY 2013, SCaN will test and evaluate disruption tolerant networks and the SCaN test bed in an 

operational environment on ISS, and also test and evaluate the Lunar Laser Communications 

Demonstration payload on the LADEE mission. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $78.2 million. This represents a $12.2 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($66.0 million). 

Project Schedule 

SCaN Testbed

Installed on ISS

06/2012

Begin LLCD 

Evaluation on LADEE

08/2013

Project Management & Commitments 

SCS functions are managed by the SCaN Program Office at NASA Headquarters. 

SO-72 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT: SPACE 

COMMUNICATIONS AND NAVIGATION

SPACE COMMUNICATIONS SUPPORT (SCS)

Formulation Development Operations

Acquisition Strategy 

SCS functions use multiple, small contracted efforts, most of which are support services functions. There 

are no major contracts or awards. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

No reviews planned. 

SO-73 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

HUMAN SPACE FLIGHT OPERATIONS (HSFO)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 112.8 107.3 111.1 111.1 111.1 111.1 111.1

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 3.8

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 3.5%

Astronaut Mike Fossum and JAXA crewmember 

Satoshi Furukawa prepare to power up 

Robonaut 2 to perform vision tests and check out 

sensors in the robot’s arms. Robonaut 2 was 

delivered to ISS on STS-133 and is the first 

humanoid robot in space. Its primary job for 

now is teaching engineers how dexterous robots 

behave in space, but through upgrades and 

advancements, it could one day help 

spacewalkers make repairs to ISS or perform 

scientific work. 

At the core of human spaceflight is the crew. The 

physical presence of human beings actively involved in 

the endeavors of space exploration broadly expands the 

benefits and experience received by people on Earth. The 

HSFO budget request supports the readiness and health 

of the human system, the crew that is so integral to the 

success of the ISS program and NASA’s broader 

exploration goals and objectives. HSFO is comprised of 

the Space Flight Crew Operations (SFCO) and Crew 

Health and Safety (CHS) projects, both of which support 

the training and care of the astronauts. 

SFCO provides overall planning, direction, and 

management of flight crew operations such as selecting 

and training astronaut candidates, determining flight 

crew training and flight crew simulation requirements, 

recommending specific flight crew assignments, and 

operating the program support aircraft described below. 

SFCO maintains the aircraft at a level commensurate 

with the projected needs of the Agency, the size of 

astronaut corps, and related aircrew training 

requirements. 

SFCO provides trained astronauts for all of NASA 

human space flight endeavors and provides astronaut 

expertise to help resolve operations or development 

issues within the human space flight programs. 

CHS enables healthy and productive crew during all 

phases of space flight missions, implements 

comprehensive health care program for astronauts, works to prevent and mitigate negative long-term 

health consequences of spaceflight, and medically assesses astronaut candidates as part of the selection 

process. 

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HUMAN SPACE FLIGHT OPERATIONS (HSFO)

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

NASA initiated an astronaut training class selection in FY 2012. The astronaut selection process takes 

about 18 months followed by a two-year training program to develop necessary skills, knowledge, and 

expertise. 

SFCO is implementing recommendations from a 2011 National Academies study Preparing for the High 

Frontier: The Role and Training of NASA Astronauts in the Post-Space Shuttle Era, relative to the size of 

NASA's astronaut corps. For example, to plan the future astronaut workforce, NASA intends to reevaluate attrition rates and commercial crew transport scenarios as well as progress on future programs to 

determine the size and make up of future astronaut classes to maintain an adequate number of astronauts, 

with appropriate skills and experience, for assignment to NASA human space flight missions. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In SFCO, the 2009 astronaut candidate class of nine candidates graduated in November 2011 and is 

available for flight assignment. 

ISS crews completed three successful Expedition launches from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan 

aboard the Soyuz: Expedition 28 in June 2011; Expedition 27 in December 2010; and Expedition 26 in 

October 2010. 

Additionally, SFCO supported the final three Space Shuttle flights in 2011. STS-133 flew successfully on 

February 24, 2011 aboard Discovery, supporting ISS assembly flight ULF5, which was the orbiter’s final 

flight. STS-134 flew successfully on May 16, 2011 aboard Endeavour, which supported ISS assembly 

flight ULF6, which was the orbiter’s final flight. Finally, STS-135 launched successfully on July 8, 2011 

aboard Atlantis supporting ISS assembly and the deployment of Multi-Purpose Logistics Module, 

Raffaello. This was the final flight of Atlantis, and the final flight of the Space Shuttle Program. 

In CHS, NASA activated the picture archiving and capture system component of the electronic medical 

record system, with the second phase of implementation at the end of September 2011. Phase I included 

dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans of bone density. Phase II includes the capture of xrays and other radiology. The mean time between entry of the order for an x-ray into the electronic 

medical records systems and the closure of the order is now just 30 minutes. This represents a significant 

improvement in work flow as well as accurate data capture. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In SFCO, astronaut training is planned for two crew rotations annually to ISS. Programmatic milestones 

which the astronaut corps supports are provided in the ISS narrative. NASA plans to select a 

2013 astronaut class, with training to begin in June 2013. Assuming one and a half years of astronaut 

candidate training, they will be eligible for flight assignment in early 2015. 

CHS will complete a significant number of visual impairment/intra-cranial pressure studies to aid in the 

development of mitigation strategies for possible microgravity effects on vision. 

SO-75 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

HUMAN SPACE FLIGHT OPERATIONS (HSFO)

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $111.1 million. This is a $3.8 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($107.3 million). 

Projects 

SPACE FLIGHT CREW OPERATIONS (SFCO) 

SFCO will continue to support aircraft maintenance and operations and also provide trained astronauts for 

all of NASA human space flight endeavors along with expertise to help resolve operations or 

development issues. Specific aircraft supported at Ellington Field include the fleet of 16 T-38s, a B-377 

Super Guppy Large Cargo Transport, WB-57 High Altitude Research Aircraft, C-9 for Reduced Gravity 

Research, and G-III Gulfstream for direct astronaut contingency crew return 

CREW HEALTH AND SAFETY (CHS) 

CHS will continue to collect, maintain, and mine health data related to the long-term effects of space 

flight in order to mitigate those effects. This data will be useful to ongoing operations and will assist 

human space exploration activities in defining requirements for assuring safe human space operations for 

future systems. CHS will also work to implement technologies for monitoring health status before, 

during, and after flight and assure that medical personnel and crew members are trained to best use those 

technologies. One of the primary tools utilized will be the lifetime surveillance of astronaut health 

database, which is an occupational surveillance program for the astronaut corps to screen and monitor 

astronauts for occupational related disease. The Physician’s Compatibility Allowance worksheet in the 

Supporting Data of this volume provides information on the NASA physicians that support these efforts. 

Program Schedule 

Astronauts support for ISS missions are detailed on the ISS milestone schedule provided in the ISS 

section of this volume. Additionally, ISS training infrastructure and mission-specific training for flight 

and ground crews is generally executed using ISS resources under the auspices of the JSC Mission 

Operations Directorate, and is not part of the SFCO or CHS budgets. 

SO-76 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

HUMAN SPACE FLIGHT OPERATIONS (HSFO)

Program Management & Commitments 

The SFCO manager reports to the JSC Director. The CHS manager reports to the director of the Space 

Life Science Directorate at JSC, who reports to the JSC Director. The program is a delegated 

responsibility from the HEO Mission Directorate. 

Project/Element Provider

SFCO will provide trained astronauts 

for all U.S. human space flight 

endeavors and bring experienced 

astronauts expertise to help resolve 

operations or development issues.

Provider: SFCO

Project Management: SFCO

NASA Center: JSC

Cost Share: None

CHS will assess and maintain the 

health of astronauts prior to, during, 

and post flight.

Provider: CHS

Project Management: CHS

NASA Center: JSC

Cost Share: None

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor Location

Aircraft Maintenance and Modification 

Program

CSC Applied Technologies, LLC Fort Worth, TX

Bioastronautics Contract Wyle Integrated Science and Engineering 

Group

Houston, TX

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SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

HUMAN SPACE FLIGHT OPERATIONS (HSFO)

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Independent 

Assessment 

NRC Sep-11 Evaluate plans relative to the role and 

size of SFCO activities following the 

Space Shuttle retirement and completion 

of the assembly of the ISS including the 

astronaut corps’ fleet of training aircraft. 

The NRC conclusions largely reinforced 

NASA decision making and approach to 

crew training. 

N/A

Performance Institute of 

Medicine

Apr-09 This report examines NASA's plans to 

assemble the available evidence on 

human health risks of space flight and to 

move forward in identifying and 

addressing gaps in research. The 

committee provided recommendations 

to strengthen the content, composition, 

and dissemination of the evidence 

books.

TBD

SO-78 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

LAUNCH SERVICES PROGRAM (LSP)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 83.3 81.0 81.2 82.8 82.8 82.8 82.8

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 0.2

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 0.2%

 

All ELVs use the same basic technology to 

get into space: two or more rocket-powered 

stages that are discarded when their engine 

burns are complete. Among the Atlas, 

Taurus, Delta and Pegasus vehicles NASA 

decides which to use for launch, based on the 

payload's weight, orbital destination and 

purpose. Each launch vehicle has a different 

set of specialties. An Atlas V rocket lofts 

NASA's Juno planetary probe into space on 

August 5, 2011. 

LSP executes NASA’s Expendable Launch Vehicle (ELV) 

program; the Launch Services Office (LSO) at Headquarters 

provides strategic guidance and oversight launch of uncrewed robotic payloads. NASA established LSP at KSC 

for acquisition and program management of ELV missions. 

A NASA and contractor team is in place to provide 

leadership, expertise, and cost-effective services in the 

commercial arena to satisfy Agency-wide space 

transportation requirements and maximize the opportunity 

for mission success. LSP provides safe, reliable, costeffective, and on-schedule processing, mission analysis, 

spacecraft integration, and launch services for NASA and 

NASA-sponsored payloads requiring access to space via 

ELVs. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY

2013 

The NASA Launch Services (NLS) II contract awarded in 

September 2010 has a unique on-ramp provision that offers 

an annual opportunity for both current providers and new 

entrants to propose new launch vehicle configurations to the 

indefinite-delivery-indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract. In 

September 2011, LSP modified its NLS II contract with 

United Launch Services (ULS) of Littleton, CO, doing 

business as United Launch Alliance (ULA), to add the 

Delta II rocket launch service in accordance with the 

contract's on-ramp provision. This modification will enable 

ULS to offer as many as five Delta II rockets and compete 

to provide launch services for future NASA missions. Two 

other on-ramp proposals from other commercial providers 

for additional launch vehicles are still under evaluation. 

SO-79 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

LAUNCH SERVICES PROGRAM (LSP)

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, LSP successfully launched three major science payloads: Aquarius, GRAIL, and Juno. 

Aquarius and GRAIL were launched aboard Delta II launch vehicles: Aquarius from the west coast at 

Vandenberg Air Force Base, CA, on June 10, and GRAIL from the east coast at Cape Canaveral Air 

Force Station (CCAFS), FL, on September 10. Juno was launched aboard an Atlas V launch vehicle from 

CCAFS on August 5. LSP also provided launch related systems engineering, launch integration along 

with mission design and analysis support to approximately 35 NASA-sponsored missions in various 

phases of development. LSP and LSO continue to advance objectives to affordably launch CubeSats for 

both government and academia developers. 

In addition, LSO, with the support of LSP, was active on the launch policy front. These efforts resulted in 

the development and signing of two major agreements with government ELV partners, the U.S. Air Force 

and the National Reconnaissance Office, that included a memoranda of understanding on Evolved ELV 

acquisition coordination, and on cooperative investments in launch range infrastructure. 

LSO and LSP were active with their support to the Taurus XL T9 Mishap Investigation Board, for the 

launch failure of the NASA Glory mission. The T9 Mission Investigation Board delivered its final report 

to NASA in December 2011, and gave a NASA internal briefing to the ELV Flight Planning Board in late 

January 2012. The report is now going through the Agency’s review and endorsement process per NASA 

Procedural Requirements (NPR) document 8621.1B. Once this step is completed, the appropriate 

corrective action plan will be developed and implemented. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

LSP has planned four NASA launches in FY 2013 including: IRIS aboard a Pegasus XL; TDRS-K aboard 

an Atlas V; the Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM) aboard an Atlas V. In addition to the 

processing, mission analysis, spacecraft integration and launch services of these missions, LSP will also 

provide advisory support to NASA’s LADEE mission, as well as the CRS program in support of ISS, 

CCDev, and Orion EFT-1 efforts. LSP will continue to provide support for the development and 

certification of emerging launch providers, which is critical to supporting NASA’s future programs. The 

program will also perform launch related systems engineering, launch integration and mission design and 

analysis support to approximately 35 NASA-sponsored missions in various phases of development. 

Additional information on LSP can be found at: 

http://www.nasa.gov/directorates/heo/launch_services/index.html

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/index.html 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $81.2 million. This represents a $0.2 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($81.0 million). The FY 2013 funding request will support the launch of three NASA missions described 

in the Key Achievements Planned for FY 2013. 

SO-80 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

LAUNCH SERVICES PROGRAM (LSP)

Program Schedule 

IRIS Launch

Pegasus-XL

VAFB

12/2012

TDRS-K Launch

Atlas V

CCAFS

12/2012

LDCM Launch

Atlas V

VAFB

01/2013

Program Management & Commitments 

The LSP Program Manager reports to the Director for Launch Services. 

Project/Element Provider

Provider: LSP 

Project Management: LSP

NASA Center: KSC

Cost Share: None

LSP

Acquisition Strategy 

The LSP procures ELV launch services from commercial suppliers consistent with the Commercial Space 

Act. The NLS II contracts are firm-fixed-price IDIQ contracts containing not-to-exceed prices. The 

ordering period for these contracts expires in June 2020, while the NLS I contract, pre-cursor to the NLS 

II contract, will remain active until all previously awarded missions under the NLS I contract have 

launched. The NLS I ordering period expired in June 2010. 

Commercial payload processing facilities and services for payloads launching on ELVs from the CCAFS 

are procured via the east coast payload processing IDIQ contract, which contains not-to-exceed prices. 

When specific mission requirements are developed, firm-fixed-prices are negotiated. The ordering period 

for this contract expires in December 2013. A similar IDIQ contract for west coast payload processing 

services provides payload processing support for missions at VAFB. The basic ordering period for this 

contract also expires in December 2013. 

The ELV Integrated Support (ELVIS) performance-based contract provides administrative, engineering, 

and mission direct support to the LSP. The contract also provides ELV communications and telemetry 

SO-81 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

LAUNCH SERVICES PROGRAM (LSP)

support for operations at KSC CCAFS and VAFB, as well as facility and launch operations support for 

west coast ELV launches. The LSP Office and KSC procurement recently awarded a new ELVIS 2 

contract with a performance period expiring at the end of FY2013. 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

Element Vendor Location

NLS-L United Launch Services, LLC Littleton, CO 

NLS-O Orbital Sciences Corporation Dulles, VA

NLS-S Space Exploration Technologies Hawthorne, CA

NLS-II-A Lockheed Martin Space Systems Denver, CO

NLS-II-U United Launch Services, LLC Littleton, CO

Payload Processing Facility Astrotech Corporation Titusville, FL

Payload Processing Facility Astrotech Corporation VAFB, CA

Integrated Processing Facility Spaceport Systems International VAFB, CA

ELVIS Analex Corporation KSC, FL

Project Risks 

The LSP Risk Management Plan is defined in the LSP Program Plan (LSP-PLN-110.01) and 

implemented in accordance with NASA Policy Directive 8610.7 Launch Services Risk Mitigation Policy 

for NASA-Owned and/or NASA-Sponsored Payload/Missions; NASA Procedural Requirements 8705.4 

“Risk Classification for NASA Payloads” and NPR 7120.5 “NASA Spaceflight Program and Project 

Management Requirements.” The process that conforms to these requirements is outlined in LSP-P353.01 Launch Services Program Risk Management Process. 

The first level of risk management is the classification of the selected launch vehicle for each mission by 

levels of risk in accordance with NASA Policy Directive 8610.7 and NPR 8705.4, followed by analyzing 

the probability of occurrence and potential impacts, controlling the process, planning and implementing 

mitigation strategies, and monitoring the resulting performance. The second level of risk management is 

the LSP continuous risk management process. This process conforms to the requirements and guidelines 

defined in NASA Procedural Requirements 7120.5 and is designed to ensure the early exposure and 

identification of potential problems, enable more efficient use of resources, promote teamwork by 

involving personnel at all levels of the program, provide information for tradeoffs based on priorities and 

quantified assessment, and to increase the chance of program success. The NASA Launch Services 

Manifest is managed and mitigated through quarterly flight planning boards and regular manifest conflict 

meetings with LSP’s customer base. The LSP is also a member of the Current Launch Schedule Review 

Board comprised of the USAF, DoD, and NASA. The board conducts launch schedule reviews and 

forecast planning. 

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SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

LAUNCH SERVICES PROGRAM (LSP)

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

No reviews planned. 

SO-83 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

ROCKET PROPULSION TEST (RPT)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 44.2 43.6 45.9 45.9 45.9 45.9 45.9

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 2.3

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 5.3%

 

On Dec. 14, NASA engineers conducted their final J-2X engine 

test for 2011, the tenth in a series, at the SSC A-2 test stand. The 

upper stage engine is a key component of the Space Launch 

System, a new heavy-lift launch vehicle capable of carrying the 

Orion spacecraft, its crew, cargo, equipment and science 

experiments to destinations in deep space. 

The RPT program represents the single 

point interface for NASAs rocket 

propulsion test facilities located at SSC, 

MSFC, JSCs White Sands Test Facility, and 

GRCs Plum Brook Station. RPT sustains 

and improves Agency-wide rocket 

propulsion test core competencies (both 

infrastructure and critical skills), ensures 

that appropriate levels of capability and 

competency are maintained, and eliminates 

unwarranted duplication. The program 

strategy is to fund and maintain core 

competencies of skilled test and 

engineering crews and test stand facilities, 

consolidate and streamline NASAs rocket 

test infrastructure, establish and maintain 

world class test facilities, modernize test 

facility equipment, provide non-project 

specific equipment and supplies, and 

develop effective facility/infrastructure 

maintenance strategies and performance. 

The RPT budget does not include resources to support the marginal costs of testing (e.g., direct labor, 

propellants, materials, program-unique facility modifications, etc.) since programs directly funded these 

activities when they utilize RPT test stands. When NASA, DoD, and commercial partners use RPTsupported test stands, they are responsible for program-specific facility modifications, in addition to 

active testing of the program-specific test article. 

RPT is the principal implementing authority for NASA's rocket propulsion testing. RPT reviews, 

approves, and provides direction on rocket propulsion test assignments, capital asset improvements, test 

facility modernizations and refurbishments. The program integrates multi-site test activities, identifies and 

protects core capabilities, and develops advanced test technologies. 

RPT employs a collaborative approach to ensure rocket propulsion test activities are conducted in a 

manner that reduces cost, enhances safety, provides credible schedules, achieves technical objectives, and 

leverages lessons learned. The program reduces propulsion test costs through the safe and efficient 

utilization of rocket propulsion test facilities in support of NASA programs, commercial partners, and the 

DoD, while eliminating unwarranted duplication. RPT sustains and improves Agency-wide rocket 

SO-84 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

ROCKET PROPULSION TEST (RPT)

propulsion test core capabilities (both infrastructure and critical skills) and ensures that appropriate levels 

of capability and competency are maintained. 

The RPT program also represents NASA as a member of the National Rocket Propulsion Test Alliance, 

an inter-agency alliance between NASA and DoD. The purpose of the alliance is to expand cooperation 

between agencies and facilitate the efficient and effective utilization of the U.S. government’s rocket 

propulsion test capabilities, as well as coordinate Government rocket propulsion test investments aimed at 

satisfying the Nation’s rocket propulsion developmental and operational testing needs. The RPT Program 

Manager serves as co-chair of the board. 

Additional information on the RPT Program can be found at http://rockettest.nasa.gov/. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

No major changes for FY 2013. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The test capability portfolio at SSC, MSFC, White Sands Test Facility, and Plum Brook Station have 

safely and effectively performed over 120 tests in FY 2011, meeting 100 percent of the test goals for 

NASA, DoD, the Missile Defense Agency, and commercial test customers seeking support from RPT 

assets. RPT provided support for: 

At SSC: 

• The Air Force RS-68; 

Orbital Sciences Corporation AJ-26; 

Blue Origin Thrust Chamber Assembly; and 

NASA J-2X. 

• 

• 

• 

At JSC-White Sands Test Facility: 

• Air Force Minuteman; 

Missile Defense Agency payload integration; and 

Shuttle transition and retirement decontamination testing. 

• 

• 

At MSFC: 

• Pratt Whitney Rocketdyne component testing. 

At Plum Brook Station: 

• Wallops Flight Facility and University of Chicago testing. 

SO-85 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

ROCKET PROPULSION TEST (RPT)

In addition to the active testing schedule, the RPT Program Office enabled consolidation of the SSC test 

operations contract and the hardware assurance and test contracts into one test operations contract. This 

consolidation is projected to provide an approximate 20 percent savings of propulsion test costs for 

programs testing in the SSC facilities. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA will continue to conduct test facility management, maintenance, sustaining 

engineering, operations, and facility modernization projects required to keep the test-related facilities in 

the appropriate state of operational readiness. The program will maximize resources by completing, 

implementing, and keeping the RPT master plan current, as well as merging current and future 

requirements, budget resources, and capabilities to assure that NASA maintains a proper propulsion test 

portfolio. Right-sizing of test infrastructure (both critical skills and facilities) will be implemented within 

existing budget guidelines to meet all technical, schedule, and cost requirements, both current and future, 

to include dispositioning facilities that are no longer required. Specific right-sizing activities will be 

determined in part by a study looking at rocket propulsion test infrastructure and requirements Agencywide, estimated for completion in spring of 2012. The RPT program will continue to assist in rocket 

propulsion testing requirements definition for low Earth orbit and in-space propulsion systems and related 

technologies. RPT will likely generate additional right-sizing activities as test requirements for the SLS 

program evolve. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $45.9 million. This represents a $2.3 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($43.6 million). The FY 2013 request includes funding for implementation of White Sands Test Facility 

right-size activities, which will consolidate test facilities and crew activities for more efficient test 

operations while maintaining critical infrastructure and skills. These costs to RPT may be reduced as 

additional test activities for NASA programs, DoD, or commercial customers are scheduled for this test 

site. 

SO-86 
SPACE OPERATIONS: SPACE AND FLIGHT SUPPORT

ROCKET PROPULSION TEST (RPT)

Program Schedule 

RPT program supports NASA, USAF, and commercial testing. 

J2-X Testing

2012

USAF Peacekeeper 

Safing begins

Q4 FY 2012

Blue Origin 

Testing Ends

Q1 FY 2013

J2-X Testing 

Continues

FY 2013

Program Management & Commitments 

The RPT Program Manager reports to the Director of the Human Spaceflight Capabilities Division in the 

HEO Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters. 

Acquisition Strategy 

No major acquisitions are identified for FY 2013. Infrastructure projects identified by RPT will be 

included in the CECR account request as needed. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

No reviews planned. 

SO-87 
EDUCATION

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

FY 2011

145.4

FY 2012

136.1

FY 2013

100.0

FY 2014

100.0

FY 2015 FY 2016

100.0 100.0

FY 2017

100.0

Aerospace Rsch. and Career Development 70.4 56.1 33.0 33.0 33.0 33.0 33.0

STEM Education and Accountability 75.0 80.0 67.0 67.0 67.0 67.0 67.0

EDUCATION OVERVIEW ....................................... EDUC- 2 

AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT ......... EDUC- 6 

NATIONAL SPACE GRANT COLLEGE AND FELLOWSHIP ......... EDUC- 8 

PROGRAM (SPACE GRANT) 

EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM TO STIMULATE COMPETITIVE ....... EDUC- 13 

RESEARCH (EPSCOR) 

STEM EDUCATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY ....................... EDUC- 18 

MINORITY UNIVERSITY RESEARCH AND EDUCATION ........... EDUC- 24 

PROGRAM (MUREP) 

EDUC-1 
EDUCATION

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 145.4 136.1 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Aerospace Rsch. and Career Development 70.4 56.1 33.0 33.0 33.0 33.0 33.0

STEM Education and Accountability 75.0 80.0 67.0 67.0 67.0 67.0 67.0

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -36.1

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -26.5%

NASA programs motivate students to build basic skills, 

proficiency, and career interest in STEM fields. These 

students show off their hand-made rockets as part of a 

Summer of Innovation program designed to strengthen the 

capacity of community- and school-based organizations to 

inspire and engage middle school students in STEM during 

the summer. 

NASA’s education programs inspire interest 

in science, technology, engineering and 

mathematics (STEM) among America’s youth 

and have a positive impact on the number of 

students who are proficient in STEM and 

choose to pursue careers in STEM fields. 

NASA increases the pool of future STEM 

workers, thus contributing to the workforce of 

the future by attracting and retaining students 

in STEM disciplines. With these efforts in 

STEM education, NASA helps the United 

States remain globally competitive and sustain 

a strong national economy. NASA Education 

accomplishes its mission through mutually 

beneficial relationships with over 500 colleges 

and universities, hundreds of elementary and 

secondary schools and school districts, and 

over 400 museums and science centers. 

NASA works through communities of 

practice to identify content areas and special 

events that supplement programming offered 

by informal education organizations. These relationships provide educational experiences that engage 

Americans in NASA’s mission, while building strategic partnerships that promote STEM literacy. 

NASA provides practical experience and STEM skills development through internships, fellowships, and 

student research opportunities. NASA attracts students to pursue STEM study and careers through its 

remarkable missions, by fostering collaborative relationships between students and the current workforce, 

and offering students opportunities to work in facilities that provide excellent learning experiences. 

Additionally, hands-on challenges with expert mentors generate increased interest in undergraduate 

STEM study, thereby increasing the number of students who seek employment in aerospace or related 

STEM fields. 

Education staff at NASA Centers work with professional organizations, academia, local state departments 

of education and school districts to identify and address content needs and opportunities in STEM 

education. They also work with university partners to ensure that NASA investments will be effective in 

improving STEM teaching methods. 

EDUC-2 
EDUCATION

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, decreases in funding authority due to budget reductions will be managed by reducing the 

number of new grant awards and seeking operational efficiencies (e.g., increased use of education 

technologies, reduced printing/warehousing/shipping costs, reduced travel expenses, and coordinated 

solicitations). 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

• NASA’s K-12 education projects reached more than 1,000,000 students through STEM programs 

and initiatives, including the Summer of Innovation project. 

More than 67,000 elementary and secondary educators participated in NASA education 

programs. NASA successfully reached almost 100,000 educators along the full length of the 

education pipeline, of which almost 28,000 participated in NASA’s national higher education 

programs. 

The NASA Explorer Schools (NES) project served as NASA’s classroom-based gateway for 

middle and high school students and engaged 170,000 students in STEM education activities 

through 1,300 participating educators across all 50 states. 

NASA’s interactive “For Educators” section on http://www.nasa.gov was named one of the top 

ten Web sites with free resources for educators. 

NASA’s Higher Education projects engaged more than 4,000 students in STEM fields through 

internship and fellowship opportunities. 

The One Stop Shopping Initiative and single online portal continued to demonstrate significant 

contributions in attaining qualified interns and connecting NASA to more than 500 universities 

nationwide through the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program and other projects. 

Several universities designed CubeSats and participated in the first NASA education launch of 

nanosatellites as part the Glory satellite launch. Although the satellite failed to reach orbit, the 

students had invaluable hands-on experience as they designed, built, and integrated their 

nanosatellites. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA will refine the focus of its STEM education program by: 

• Focusing competitive opportunities for learners and educators on middle school pre- and inservice educator professional development; 

Providing experiential opportunities, internships, and scholarships for high school and 

undergraduate students; 

Using NASA’s unique missions, discoveries, and assets to inspire student achievement and 

educator teaching ability in STEM fields; and 

Aligning projects and activities with the five-year STEM strategic plan issued by the Office of 

Science and Technology Policy Committee on STEM. 

• 

• 

• 

NASA will also increase its role in national and state STEM policy discussions and place more emphasis 

on project evaluation, and external, independent evaluation and assessment, to ensure that investments are 

providing desirable STEM impacts. 

EDUC-3 
EDUCATION

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $100.0 million. This represents a $36.1 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimated ($136.1 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $24.0 million for the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program (Space Grant), a 

Nationwide network of colleges, universities, and other organizations that provide NASA spacerelated opportunities to students, educators, and the public; 

$9.0 million for the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR), which 

provides competitive research opportunities to institutions in targeted states; 

$30.0 million for the Minority University Research and Education Program (MUREP), which 

provides NASA research and study opportunities to students of underserved and underrepresented 

groups; and 

$37.0 million for STEM Education and Accountability projects, which provide competitive 

opportunities, foster innovative education efforts at NASA Centers and through grantees, and 

formal evaluation activities. 

• 

• 

• 

NASA will align the activities conducted by each of these projects with the priorities identified in the 

five-year STEM strategic plan issued by the Office of Science and Technology Policy Committee on 

STEM. The Agency will coordinate the education activities within NASA’s mission directorates, the 

Office of the Chief Technologist, and Centers to ensure their educational activities are well integrated 

with the programs proposed to be funded in this account. The Office of Education proposes to allocate 63 

percent of its funding in support of three successful existing programs: Space Grant, EPSCoR, and 

MUREP. The remaining funds are proposed for competitive opportunities to support innovative education 

efforts at NASA Centers and through grantees. 

NASA will also continue to focus its funds on existing commitments and grant renewals, the continuation 

of scholarships, internships and fellowships, and activities that directly serve educators, learners, and 

institutions. 

Programs 

AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT

The Aerospace Research and Career Development program strengthens the research capabilities of the 

Nation’s colleges and universities and provides opportunities that attract and prepare increasing numbers 

of students for NASA-related careers. The student programs serve as a major link in the pipeline for 

addressing NASA’s human capital strategies. The programs build, sustain, and effectively deploy the 

skilled, knowledgeable, diverse, and high-performing workforce needed to meet the current and emerging 

needs of NASA and the Nation. The research conducted contributes to the research needs of NASA’s 

Mission Directorates and advances the Nation’s scientific and technology innovation agendas. 

EDUC-4 
EDUCATION

STEM EDUCATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY

The STEM Education and Accountability program provides competitive opportunities for NASA Centers, 

visitor centers, institutions of informal education, schools, universities, and non-profit organizations. 

These groups develop lessons, materials, research opportunities, and hands-on activities that draw on 

NASA’s unique missions. The program includes learners from kindergarten through graduate school, 

educators in the classroom and in informal learning environments, college faculty, and the general public. 

The program emphasizes undergraduate participation in STEM research and education, preparing future 

scientists and engineers to enter the STEM workforce. Consistent with input received from the National 

Science and Technology Council Committee on STEM, NASA will provide middle school pre-service 

and in-service educators with NASA-themed experiences that build critical instructional STEM skills, and 

better enable them to motivate students in STEM. NASA activities and experiences spark interest in 

STEM and expose students to new career paths. Educators, both in schools, and in museums, science 

centers, and in community-based education organizations, will enhance their teaching practices with 

NASA-themed materials, experiences, and teaching strategies. NASA will engage learners of all ages 

through its missions, engineering challenges, and scientific discoveries. The program also includes a more 

robust Evaluation, Performance Monitoring, and Accountability project that enables effective 

management of all education investments. 

EDUC-5 
EDUCATION

AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT 

(ARCD)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

FY 2011

70.4

FY 2012

56.1

FY 2013

33.0

FY 2014

33.0

FY 2015 FY 2016

33.0 33.0

FY 2017

33.0

Space Grant 45.5 38.9 24.0 24.0 24.0 24.0 24.0

EPSCoR

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

24.9

--

17.3

--

9.0

-23.1

9.0 9.0 9.0 9.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -41.2%

 

NASA engineers work with college students at NASA Centers 

to encourage them to pursue careers in STEM fields. Some 

student opportunities include working on practical problems 

that will see real applications in aerospace or on future NASA 

missions. 

ARCD supports national STEM efforts 

through the Space Grant and EPSCoR. 

These national programs enable NASA to 

more strategically advance STEM literacy 

by enhancing science and engineering 

education and research efforts in higher 

education, K-12, and informal education. In 

addition to education, ARCD promotes 

research and technology development 

opportunities for faculty and research teams 

that advance the Agency’s scientific and 

technical priorities. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR 

CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

NASA realigned projects and activities that 

previously resided in the Higher Education 

program to the newly formed ARCD in 

FY 2012. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

ARCD is a new programmatic structure in FY 2012. The projects included in this program were 

contained in the Higher Education program in FY 2011. In 2011, NASA supported 23,000 students in 

Space Grant, over 1,000 partners as members of the consortia, and awarded over $22 million to EPSCoR 

eligible states. 

EDUC-6 
EDUCATION

AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT 

(ARCD)

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

The ARCD program is designed to increase the number of students pursuing STEM degrees and careers 

and to enhance the capacity of institutions to participate in NASA’s mission. The program will align with 

the priorities of the Co-STEM Education Strategic Plan and engage approximately 11,000 students and 

over 800 affiliates in this effort. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $33.0 million. This represents a $23.1 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($56.1 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $24.0 million for Space Grant, a nationwide network of colleges, universities, and other 

organizations that provide NASA opportunities to students, educators, and the public; and 

$9.0 million for EPSCoR, which will provide NASA research opportunities for 29 selected 

jurisdictions (28 states plus the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico). 

• 

EDUC-7 
EDUCATION: AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT

NATIONAL SPACE GRANT COLLEGE AND FELLOWSHIP 

PROGRAM (SPACE GRANT) 

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) Prior FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 45.6 45.5 38.9 24.0 24.0 24.0 24.0 24.0

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -- -14.9

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -- -38.3%

Space Grant provides students with hands-on 

opportunities to develop flight payloads, 

launch, and interpret the results in week-long 

“RockOn” workshops, held at Wallops Flight 

Facility. This student takes a close look at the 

integrated stack of experiments being readied 

for launch aboard a two-stage Terrier-Orion 

suborbital rocket used for scientific research. 

Space Grant enables the active involvement of the entire 

country in NASA activities through its national network 

composed of 52 consortia in 50 states, the District of 

Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Space 

Grant supports and enhances science and engineering 

education and research efforts for educators and learners, 

by leveraging the resource capabilities and technologies of 

over 1,000 affiliates from universities, colleges, industry, 

museums, science centers, and state and local agencies. 

Training grants with each consortium align their work with 

the education priorities and the annual performance goals 

of the Agency. 

Space Grant enables NASA to provide opportunities for 

student flight projects to access space to gain research and 

hands-on engineering experiences on a variety of authentic 

flight platforms, including high-altitude balloons, sounding 

rockets, aircraft, and space satellites. Space Grant 

leverages Agency investments in STEM education through 

collaborations with other national NASA education 

projects, including those conducted by NASA mission 

directorates and Centers. Space Grant also supports student 

participants in internship experiences at NASA Centers. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY

2013 

No changes. 

EDUC-8 
EDUCATION: AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT

NATIONAL SPACE GRANT COLLEGE AND FELLOWSHIP 

PROGRAM (SPACE GRANT) 

Formulation Development Operations

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, over 23,000 Space Grant-supported undergraduate and graduate students participated in 

scholarships, fellowships, internships and authentic hands-on research and engineering challenges. 

Diversity is a key component within the Space Grant project, achieving a 26 percent participation of 

underrepresented students in Space Grant activities. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

Space Grant will continue to provide competitive funding opportunities to consortia in all 50 states, 

Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. NASA will issue competitive announcements for consortia to engage 

in hands-on experiences, professional development for educators, research experiences for learners, and 

opportunities for teams of students and faculty to participate in NASA’s aeronautics and exploration 

missions. NASA anticipates Space Grant consortia involvement in the research and exploration agendas 

of all mission directorates, and approximately 11,000 students awarded internships, fellowships or other 

experiential opportunities. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $24.0 million. This represents a $14.9 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($38.9 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

Space Grant proposes to: 

• Provide competitive grant opportunities for 52 consortia in each state plus the District of 

Columbia and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico; 

Provide hands-on experiences for U.S. graduate and undergraduate students to prepare them for 

future workforce and/or academic careers; and 

Conduct state-based programs and projects along the education pipeline including pre-college, 

higher, and informal education. 

• 

• 

EDUC-9 
EDUCATION: AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT

NATIONAL SPACE GRANT COLLEGE AND FELLOWSHIP 

PROGRAM (SPACE GRANT) 

Formulation Development Operations

Project Schedule 

Solicitation Released 

11/2009

Competitive Awards 

Announced 

04-08/2010

Independent 

Evaluation Intitiated 

07/2012

Annual Performance 

Reports Due 

02-07/2013

Project Management & Commitments 

The Space Grant Program Manager is based at NASA Headquarters and provides management 

responsibility for day-to-day Space Grant operations. Space Grant operates through a network of 52 

consortia in 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Lead institution 

selections are based on peer reviews by external panels that evaluate performance, and internal/external 

panels that assess performance, merit, and alignment to Agency education, research, and technology 

goals. Each consortium program or project must demonstrate alignment with NASA education objectives 

that align with NASA strategic goals. 

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

NASA solicits Space Grants through full and open competition for proposals accepted from the lead 

institution of the Space Grant consortia in each state, Washington D.C., and the Commonwealth of Puerto 

Rico. Each consortium program or project must demonstrate alignment with NASA education objectives 

that align with NASA strategic goals. Lead institution selections are based on peer reviews by external 

panels that evaluate performance, and internal/external panels that assess performance, merit, and 

alignment to Agency education, research, and technology goals. Awards are typically for five years. 

Consortia are required to submit annually performance data, student profile and award information (for 

students who meet the longitudinal tracking threshold), project information, and other performance data. 

The Space Grant Program Office also performs comprehensive program reviews every five years. 

EDUC-10 
EDUCATION: AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT

NATIONAL SPACE GRANT COLLEGE AND FELLOWSHIP 

PROGRAM (SPACE GRANT) 

Formulation Development Operations

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Quality Space Grant 

Executive Review 

Panel

2009 Merit review of performance by each 

consortium

2014

Independent/ 

external

TBD N/A An independent review by an 

external organization to assess the 

accomplishments and strategy of 

the Space Grant program

Jul-12

Historical Performance 

In FY 2011, Space Grant programs reached over 21,000 higher education participants, including 4,617 

individuals receiving significant education and research support. Consistent with the definition of all 

Office of Education higher education student participants, significant awardees receive more than $5,000 

in monetary support or participate in activities of more than 160 hours in duration. Longitudinal tracking 

of significant student awardees indicates that typically over 90 percent of Space Grant award recipients 

either become employed in STEM fields after graduation or matriculate into an advanced STEM degree 

program. The following graph demonstrates student post-graduation employment in STEM career fields. 

EDUC-11 
EDUCATION: AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT

NATIONAL SPACE GRANT COLLEGE AND FELLOWSHIP 

PROGRAM (SPACE GRANT) 

Formulation Development Operations

9%

46%

12%

20%

11%

2%

Non STEM

Advanced STEM Degree

STEM Academia

STEM Industry

Aero Industry

NASA/JPL

Space Grant Longitudinal Tracking 

2006-2010

* "significant" awards = > $5,000 or > 160 hours

EDUC-12 
EDUCATION: AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT:

EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM TO STIMULATE COMPETITIVE 

RESEARCH (EPSCOR)

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) Prior FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 25.0 24.9 17.3 9.0 9.0 9.0 9.0 9.0

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -- -8.3

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -- -48.0%

A Tuskegee University student at the Center for Advanced 

Materials performs thermal and low speed impact testing 

on a supply of composite samples of carbon nanofibers 

combined with strength-enhancing materials. NASA’s 

EPSCoR program enables underserved educational 

institutions to enhance their research and technical 

capabilities. 

EPSCoR establishes partnerships between 

government, higher education, and industry and 

promotes lasting improvements in the R&D 

capacity of that state or region. By improving 

research infrastructure, a region will improve its 

national R&D competitiveness and economy. 

EPSCoR develops academic research projects to 

establish long-term, self-sustaining and 

nationally competitive activities in states with 

modest research infrastructure so that they 

become more competitive in attracting nonEPSCoR funding. 

EPSCoR funds states and regions that have not 

historically participated equally in Federal 

competitive aerospace and aerospace-related 

research activities. EPSCoR supports 

competitively funded awards in eligible states 

(as identified by NSF) and provides research 

technology development opportunities for 

faculty and research teams. NASA actively seeks to integrate the research conducted by EPSCoR 

jurisdictions with the scientific and technical priorities pursued by the Agency. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, the reduced budget will result in fewer awards. 

EDUC-13 
EDUCATION: AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT:

EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM TO STIMULATE COMPETITIVE 

RESEARCH (EPSCOR)

Formulation Development Operations

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

NASA received 51 proposals in response to its annual competitive call for research. 

NASA funded 27 proposals from 20 states with a net value of $20 million over the three year term of the 

grants. The selected proposals represent research or technology development in each NASA mission 

directorate and the Office of the Chief Technologist. These awards expire at the end of FY 2013. 

Scientific and technical achievements by the research teams will be identified in the final reports. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA EPSCoR will issue a competitive call for extramural research awards and will support 

the second of the five-year project’s infrastructure development awards to build NASA connections. The 

research solicitation will focus on priority research and technology development needs of NASA mission 

directorates and the Office of the Chief Technologist. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $9.0 million. This represents a $8.3 million decrease from the FY 2012 estimate 

($17.3 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

EPSCoR proposes to: 

• Enabling opportunities for 29 jurisdictions (28 states plus Puerto Rico) to compete for research 

and technology development awards in areas of importance to NASA; 

Providing funding for Research Infrastructure Development cooperative agreements that connect 

jurisdiction researchers to NASA scientists and engineers, and research and technology 

development areas of importance to NASA; and 

Providing funding for peer-reviewed research cooperative agreements that build R&D capability 

and capacity within jurisdictions. 

• 

• 

EDUC-14 
EDUCATION: AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT:

EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM TO STIMULATE COMPETITIVE 

RESEARCH (EPSCOR)

Formulation Development Operations

Project Schedule 

Research Solicitation 

Released 

11/2012

Infrastructure 

Development 

Renewals 

01/2013

Competitive 

Research Awards 

Announced 

07/2013

Annual Performance 

Reports Due 

Throughout the Year

Project Management & Commitments 

The EPSCoR Project Manager is based at KSC and provides management responsibility for day-to-day 

operations. Representatives from each of NASA’s Mission Directorates work closely with EPSCoR 

program management so that current and future research and engineering needs are reflected in EPSCoR 

solicitations. The mission directorate representatives serve as the proposal selection committee, further 

ensuring that the selected work contributes to NASA priorities. Technical monitors at the NASA Centers 

and Headquarters monitor and assess the progress of each award. They provide scientific guidance and 

technical advice throughout the year, as required, on the overall progress of the proposed effort, and 

review the annual progress report. Additional involvement may occur, depending upon the nature of the 

collaboration already established or desired. This includes integrating the EPSCoR research into ongoing 

activities or research efforts, and increasing the principal investigator and his or her team’s awareness of 

other related or relevant research in NASA.

NASA is a member of the Federal EPSCoR Interagency Coordinating Committee, chaired by NSF. The 

committee works to improve the leverage of Federal EPSCoR investments. 

Acquisition Strategy 

NASA solicits and awards EPSCoR through full and open competition among institutions from 

designated EPSCoR states. Each consortium program or project must demonstrate alignment with the 

goals of NASA’s education programs and the NASA Strategic Plan. Selections are based on peer reviews 

EDUC-15 
EDUCATION: AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT:

EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM TO STIMULATE COMPETITIVE 

RESEARCH (EPSCOR)

Formulation Development Operations

by external panels that evaluate technical merit and internal and external panels that assess content, merit, 

feasibility, and alignment to Agency education, research, and technology goals. Awards of up to three 

years may be made for research and awards of up to five years may be made for infrastructure 

development, depending on the availability of appropriated funds. Grantees are required to submit 

performance data annually. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer

Independent National 

Academies

Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

N/A Cross-agency evaluation of EPSCoR 2012

and other Federal EPSCoR-like 

programs and accomplishments per 

H.R. 5116 America Competes 

Reauthorization of 2010.

Historical Performance 

The graph below shows overall achievements of the active research and infrastructure development 

awards in FY 2010, the most recent year for which data have been aggregated. 

The data are consistent with the EPSCoR Interagency Coordinating Committee expectations to measure 

EPSCoR project performance and the Research Performance Progress Report established by the National 

Science and Technology Council, Committee on Science, Research Business Models Working Group, 

EDUC-16 
EDUCATION: AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT:

EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM TO STIMULATE COMPETITIVE 

RESEARCH (EPSCOR)

Formulation Development Operations

0 50 100 150 200

Cooperative Agreements...

Faculty/Post‐docs

Students

Peer Reviewed Publications

Other Publications

Talks/Presentations

Collaborations (NASA)

Collaborations (Other)

Number of New Grants...

NASA EPSCoR Active Research Reports

2010 Reporting

2009 Projects  

n = 28

2008 Projects

n = 11

2007 Projects  

n = 15

NASA’s full report of accomplishments for EPSCoR can be found at 

http://www.nasa.gov/offices/education/performance/index.html. 

EDUC-17 
EDUCATION

STEM EDUCATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Minority University Research Education 

Program

STEM Education and Accountability 

Projects

75.0

28.5

46.5

80.0

30.0

50.0

67.0

30.0

37.0

67.0

30.0

37.0

67.0

30.0

37.0

67.0

30.0

37.0

67.0

30.0

37.0

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -13.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -16.3%

NASA’s Astro Camp at Stennis Space Center encourages 

young students ages 7-12 to participate in themed 

missions filled with exciting hands-on STEM 

experiments and activities. Astro Camp Saturdays are 

one-day science camps during the school year where 

“campers” take part in computer learning, onsite field 

trips and presentations by engineers and scientists. 

The STEM Education and Accountability 

Program provides funding for NASA-unique 

STEM education opportunities. These 

opportunities include student internships at NASA 

Centers, launch initiatives, hands-on payload 

development, and competitive grants to higher 

education institutions, including minority-serving 

institutions and community colleges, as well as 

museums, planetariums, and NASA visitor 

centers. This program also provides students and 

educators with NASA’s STEM content through a 

variety of innovative education technologies. 

Through MUREP, NASA will continue to support 

the Nation’s Historically Black Colleges and 

Universities, Hispanic Serving Institutions, and 

Tribal Colleges through multi-year research 

grants. Additional MUREP-provided services 

include scholarships, internships, mentoring, and 

tutoring for underserved and underrepresented 

students in K-12, informal, and higher education 

settings. MUREP will broaden NASA’s reach to 

community colleges, as they demonstrably serve a high proportion of minority and underserved students, 

including those with disabilities. These efforts will help build students’ STEM ability and prepare them 

for study at four-year institutions. 

STEM Education and Accountability projects include the Formal and Informal Education (FIE), 

Innovations in Education (IE), and Evaluation, Performance Monitoring, and Accountability (EPMA) 

which complement the MUREP program portfolio. FIE and IE advance NASA’s education strategy by 

serving higher education, K-12, and informal education audiences, often through collaborations with key 

stakeholders and strategic partners. Under Section 616 of the NASA Authorization Act of 2005 (P.L.109-

155), Congress authorized NASA to establish a competitive program for science museums, NASA visitor 

centers, and planetariums to enhance programs related to space exploration, aeronautics, space science, 

EDUC-18 
EDUCATION

STEM EDUCATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY

Earth science, or microgravity. EPMA provides the infrastructure and expertise required to demonstrate 

the results and overall effectiveness of the Agency’s investments in STEM education. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

The STEM Education and Accountability program consolidates projects and activities that were 

previously funded in the FY 2011 programmatic and budgetary structure for “K-12 STEM Education,” 

“Informal STEM Education,” and “Higher Education STEM Education”. The new structure is consistent 

with the program and projects established in FY 2012 and it supports the Agency’s strategic goals. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The STEM Education and Accountability program is a new programmatic structure in FY 2012. In 

FY 2011, NASA’s higher education efforts increasingly targeted community colleges, which generally 

serve a high proportion of minority students. NASA projects at community colleges build student STEM 

ability, preparing students for study at a four-year institution. Thirty-five percent of students participating 

in NASA’s higher education activities and reporting demographic information were from 

underrepresented/underserved communities and 39 percent were women. 

In FY 2011, 69,415 educators participated in NASA education programs. When combined with the 

27,674 faculty members who participated in NASA’s national higher education programs, the Agency has 

successfully reached 97,089 educators along the full length of the education pipeline. Additionally, 

40,352 undergraduate and graduate students and 791,285 elementary and secondary students participated 

in NASA education opportunities during this reporting period. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

STEM Education and Accountability will: 

• Focus resources, including content, facilities, and personnel, to improve the impact of NASA’s 

STEM education efforts on areas of greatest national need, as identified in the 2011 NASA 

Education Design Team report, ensuring that NASA-unique assets are leveraged when 

conducting direct-service student activities; 

Continue to provide opportunities for learners to engage in STEM education through NASA 

content provided to informal education institutions; 

Maintain no fewer than 1,000 online STEM-based teaching tools for K-12 and informal educators 

and higher education faculty; 

Conduct no fewer than 200 interactive K-12 student activities that leverage the unique assets of 

NASA’s missions; 

Increase NASA’s engagement in national STEM education policy discussions to improve 

curricula, inform national standards in STEM subjects, and ensure coordination and sharing of 

best practices across Federal STEM agencies to avoid duplication, overlap, or fragmentation by 

• 

• 

• 

• 

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EDUCATION

STEM EDUCATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY

participating in STEM education advisory boards, STEM-related committees, or other events or 

activities related to national STEM education policy. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $67.0 million. This represents $13.0 million decrease from the FY 2012 estimate 

($80.0 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

$30.0 million for MUREP which will provide: 

• Internships and scholarships for underrepresented and underserved students; and 

STEM curricula development at minority higher education institutions and community colleges, 

thereby increasing the number of underrepresented and underserved students in STEM disciplines 

and careers. 

• 

$37.0 million for STEM Education and Accountability, which includes formal and informal education 

experiences (e.g. the Summer of Innovation, or SoI) for learners and educators. 

NASA will align the activities conducted by each of these projects with the priorities identified in the 

five-year STEM Strategic Plan issued by the Office of Science and Technology Policy Committee on 

STEM. 

Projects 

MINORITY UNIVERSITY RESEARCH AND EDUCATION PROJECT (MUREP) 

See separate project page. 

STEM Education and Accountability Projects 

FORMAL AND INFORMAL EDUCATION (FIE) 

FIE provides tools, experiences, and opportunities for the Nation’s diverse formal and informal education 

communities. FIE provides STEM resources featuring NASA content to elementary and secondary 

schools, colleges, universities, museums, science centers, planetariums, libraries, informal education 

institutions, and NASA visitor centers. Increasingly, many of these resources are provided through NASA 

Education’s substantial Internet presence, which includes the NASA Kids Club and the Digital Learning 

Network. NASA resources and opportunities are widely available to educators and students nationwide, 

and many investments place an emphasis on attracting women and girls, minorities, and persons with 

disabilities to STEM careers. 

EDUC-20 
EDUCATION

STEM EDUCATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY

In FY 2013, a key education strategy is to immerse educators and learners in current NASA science and 

technology through hands-on activities and cyber-learning. These opportunities will be generated by 

utilizing assets such as the Museum Alliance, a free-of-charge NASA STEM content facilitation service 

and on-line education community that currently has over 420 member institutions across the country, and 

Earth Knowledge Acquired by Middle School Students (EarthKAM), a partnership with Sally Ride 

Science, that allows middle school students to take pictures of Earth from a digital camera onboard ISS. 

NASA-infused curricular support materials will be incorporated at NASA Centers and visitor centers and 

through on-line learning activities. 

INNOVATION IN EDUCATION (IE) 

IE uses innovative ways to reach educators and students, improve student retention in STEM disciplines, 

and better engage community colleges and minority-serving institutions. IE enables NASA to seek out 

and support innovative, replicable, and scalable approaches to improve STEM learning and instruction. 

For example, NASA provides opportunities for higher education students and faculty to participate in 

NASA-related research, as well as launch vehicle and payload development activities. This activity will 

enable students and faculty to design ISS hardware, conduct ISS-related experiments, and develop new 

strategies for utilizing ISS data. Additionally, the IE project encourages collaborations between 

government, academia, and industry to leverage NASA’s investments in STEM to reach a greater number 

of students and educators. 

In FY 2011, SoI served over 40 thousand middle school students in grades 4 to 9 (a 76 percent increase 

from 2010) and provided professional development experiences to more than 3,700 teachers (certified and 

informal educators). 

In FY 2013, NASA will provide competitive opportunities for prospective partners to engage students in 

authentic, hands-on learning through design challenges and engineering competitions. The Agency will 

evaluate SOI three-year pilot for its effectiveness in engaging middle school educators and 

underrepresented/underserved youth with NASA’s content and improving STEM ability. NASA will 

identify and validate practices that can improve STEM education impacts, and then replicate those that 

have proven most effective. 

EVALUATION, PERFORMANCE MONITORING, AND ACCOUNTABILITY (EPMA)

EPMA supports the Administration’s commitment to transparency in program operations and ensuring 

desired outcomes. This project provides technical assistance for the monitoring activities conducted by 

NASA grantees, Centers, and external partners. It helps set performance goals and measures progress 

toward meeting those goals to assess and publicly report the impact of NASA’s educational investments. 

In FY 2011, NASA provided numerous examples of published, third-party evaluations in response to 

GAO query on evaluation. NASA cited independent assessments of several NASA educational activities, 

including informal education, and the Science, Engineering, Mathematics and Aerospace Academy 

(SEMAA). 

EDUC-21 
EDUCATION

STEM EDUCATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY

In FY 2013, EPMA will continue implementing the One-Stop Shopping Initiative, an Agency-wide 

workforce development system used to recruit, retain, develop, select, and place highly qualified students 

in NASA internship, fellowship, and scholarship opportunities. By expanding the system’s IT 

requirements to better meet the needs of NASA mission directorates and Centers, NASA expects a 50 

percent increase in student applications/application effectiveness. 

Program Schedule 

Consistent with the status report on the NSTC Five-Year Federal STEM Education Strategic Plan 

released by the National Science and Technology Council, the STEM Education and Accountability 

Program will align its portfolio of activities over the next three years. In Year one, NASA will work with 

the Co-STEM to finalize criteria for success, develop common evidence standards, evaluation and 

research toolkits, and identify efficiency and productivity opportunities. In Years two and three, the 

Agency will establish baselines and increase alignment with the adopted criteria. NASA will align its 

future evaluation strategy with the Status Report on the NSTC Five-Year Federal STEM Education 

Strategic Plan. Successful STEM education practices and strategies identified through STEM education 

research studies and evaluations will also be used to guide NASA investments in STEM education. 

NASA will continually adjust the design of STEM education investments to align with best practices in 

STEM education derived from existing and new evidence from education research and evaluation. 

Program Management & Commitments 

The STEM Education and Accountability program managers are located at NASA Headquarters and 

provide management oversight for overall program operations. NASA Centers manage significant 

investments in project activity elements. 

Acquisition Strategy 

MAJOR CONTRACTS/AWARDS

NASA solicits new and innovative education products, tools, and services from qualified external 

organizations. This occurs in response to changes in STEM education trends, identified gaps or 

opportunities in the education portfolio of investments, a response to demonstrated customer need or 

demand, or when the Administration or Congress identifies new priorities. 

NASA encourages participation of new or less experienced organizations and awards education grants 

and contracts through full and open competition. NASA includes feedback from staff, subject matter 

experts, and the public in developing solicitations, including the requirements, expected outcomes, 

EDUC-22 
EDUCATION

STEM EDUCATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY

schedules, proposal instructions, and evaluation approaches. NASA solicits comments on perceived 

programmatic risk issues associated with performance of the work. Procurement offices at NASA review 

all solicitations. 

NASA awards all major grants and cooperative agreements based on reviews by external panels of peers 

for educational merit; NASA and external scientists and engineers for content, merit, feasibility, and 

alignment to education goals; and mission directorates for alignment with NASA’s research and 

development interests. Indications of clear competitive process are an integral part of reviews. NASA 

makes awards only after qualified assessments of merit. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

All projects in the STEM Education and Accountability program participate in independent reviews and 

evaluations. 

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Quality Abt Associates, 

Cambridge, MA

FY 2011 Contractor has initiated a formative 

evaluation on the SOI following 

completion of implementation 

evaluation in FY 2011. 

2012

Quality Abt Associates, FY 2011 The external evaluator is conducting 

formative evaluation on the NASA 

Explorer Schools following the FY 

2011 pilot analysis and review. 

Continued evaluation is planned 

beyond FY 2012, if project remains 

in the Education portfolio following 

portfolio redesign.

2012

Cambridge, MA

Historical Performance 

NASA supports the country’s educators who play a key role in preparing the minds that will manage and 

lead the Nation’s laboratories and research centers of tomorrow. To prepare the Agencies future 

workforce and leverage the Agency’s unique resources, it partners with other Agencies, and collaborates 

with the Education community. In the NASA Strategic Plan, the Agency articulates three major education 

goals, which will continue to support U.S. innovation and competitiveness now and in the future. 

NASA’s full report of accomplishments for STEM Education and Accountability can be found at 

http://www.nasa.gov/offices/education/performance/index.html. 

EDUC-23 
EDUCATION: STEM EDUCATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY

MINORITY UNIVERSITY RESEARCH EDUCATION PROJECT

Formulation Development Operations

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) Prior FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 0.0 28.5 30.0 30.0 30.0 30.0 30.0 30.0

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 0.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 0.0%

Through hands-on experiences, like the Reduced 

Gravity Student Flight Opportunities Program, MUREP 

targets the engagement of underserved and 

underrepresented students and institutions. 

Opportunities to fly experiments in the microgravity 

conditions created by the KC-135 aircraft provides 

students an unforgettable experience, helping to support 

the development of the Nation’s future scientists and 

engineers. 

NASA’s MUREP: enhances the research, 

academic, and technology capabilities of 

Historically Black Colleges and Universities, 

Hispanic Serving Institutions, Tribal Colleges and 

Universities, and other Minority Serving 

Institutions; provides targeted opportunities for 

underrepresented and underserved learners to 

participate in research and education opportunities 

through internships, scholarships, and 

fellowships; and provides opportunities for 

minority institutions to improve the quality of 

their teacher preparation programs and thereby 

improve the quality and diversity of future STEM 

educators. NASA targets recruitment and 

retention of underrepresented and underserved 

students, including women and girls, Hispanics, 

and students with disabilities. 

Participation in NASA projects and research 

stimulates increasing numbers of learners to 

continue their studies at all higher education 

levels and encourages these students to earn 

advanced degrees in STEM fields critical to 

NASA and the Nation. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

No significant changes. 

EDUC-24 
EDUCATION: STEM EDUCATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY

MINORITY UNIVERSITY RESEARCH EDUCATION PROJECT

Formulation Development Operations

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA collaborated with Navajo Technical College to provide student stipends and 

internships to 15 Native American students, with six students also participating in eight-week summer 

internships. The college has leveraged NASA funding to help it develop into a four-year university. The 

Navajo Technical College Governing Board has recently approved a four-year industrial engineering 

degree and a four-year digital manufacturing curriculum that teach many of the core competencies needed 

by NASA Centers. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

MUREP will increase investments supporting undergraduate underrepresented and underserved STEM 

students, and increasingly target community colleges. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $30.0 million. This represents a zero-sum change from the FY 2012 estimate ($30 

million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

 Funding for internships and scholarships for underrepresented and underserved students; and 

Increased support for the development of STEM curricula at minority institutions and community 

colleges to help prepare underrepresented and underserved students in STEM disciplines and 

careers. 



Project Schedule 

Evaluation Analysis

09/2012

EONS Soliciation 

Released

01/2013

EONS Proposals

Due

04/2013

Competitive 

Awards Announced 

07/2013

Annual MUREP 

Student Forum 

07/2013

FY12 Grant 

Reports Due 

09/2013 

EDUC-25 
EDUCATION: STEM EDUCATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY

MINORITY UNIVERSITY RESEARCH EDUCATION PROJECT

Formulation Development Operations

Project Management & Commitments 

The MUREP Program Manager is located at NASA Headquarters and provides management oversight for 

overall MUREP operations. NASA Centers managed significant investments in MUREP activity 

elements in FY 2011 including the following: 

Program/Element Provider Description

University 

Research Centers 

(URC)

Provider: All NASA Centers

Project Management: NASA HQ

NASA Center: All NASA Centers

Cost Share: N/A

URCs are multi-disciplinary research 

centers at Minority Serving Institutions 

(MSI) that are supported to expand the 

Nation’s base for aerospace research and 

development, and increase the 

production of 

underrepresented/underserved students 

who obtain degrees undergraduate and 

graduate degrees in NASA-related fields. 

Curriculum 

Improvements 

Partnership Award 

for the Integration 

of Research 

(CIPAIR)

Provider:All NASA Centers

Project Management: NASA HQ

NASA Center: All NASA Centers

Cost Share: N/A

CIPAIR was designed to strengthen the 

curricula of MSIs and community 

colleges in order to attract more students 

into STEM-based academic programs, 

retain them, and prepare them for 

success when they take the next steps in 

their education or in their careers.

Motivating 

Undergraduates in 

Science and 

Technology 

(MUST)

Provider: All NASA Centers

Project Management: NASA HQ

NASA Center: All NASA Centers

Cost Share: N/A

MUST increases the number of 

underrepresented/underserved students 

in STEM disciplines. Each MUST 

participant receives three-years of 

support in the form of a scholarship, 

internships at a NASA Center, 

mentoring, and professional 

development.

TCU Provider: All NASA Centers

Project Management: NASA HQ

NASA Center: All NASA Centers

Cost Share: N/A

TCU activity supports the Nation’s 

Tribal Colleges through grants that 

provide funding for academic and 

research infrastructure development and 

support of STEM students at tribal 

colleges and universities.

EDUC-26 
EDUCATION: STEM EDUCATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY

MINORITY UNIVERSITY RESEARCH EDUCATION PROJECT

Formulation Development Operations

Program/Element Provider Description

MUREP Small Provider: All NASA Centers

Project Management: NASA HQ

NASA Center: All NASA Centers

Cost Share: N/A

MSA advances MUREP priorities by 

identifying gaps or areas where new 

projects will enhance NASA higher 

education portfolio and better meet 

Agency objectives. Acheiving 

Competence in Computing, Engineering, 

and Space Service is an example of an 

MSA activity that now fills an 

identified programming gap (i.e., 

internships for students with 

disabilities).

Activities (MSA)

Jenkins PreDoctoral 

Fellowship (JPF)

Provider: All NASA Centers

Project Management: NASA HQ

NASA Center: All NASA Centers

Cost Share: N/A

JPF increases the number of 

underrepresented/underserved STEM 

students at the graduate level. JPF 

provides three-years of support for each 

participant with a stipend, tuition offset, a NASA internship, mentoring, and 

professional development. 

NASA Science and 

Technology 

Institute for 

Minority Serving 

Institutions (NSTIMSI)

Provider: All NASA Centers

Project Management: NASA HQ

NASA Center: All NASA Centers

Cost Share: N/A

NSTI-MSI increases the research 

capacity of MSIs, increases the number 

of undergraduate STEM students, and 

supports Agency research objectives.

NASA Innovations 

in Climate 

Education (NICE) 

(Note: renamed 

from Innovations in 

Global Climate 

Change Education)

Provider: All NASA Centers

Project Management: NASA HQ

NASA Center: All NASA Centers

Cost Share: N/A

NICE provides grants to MSIs to: 

enhance climate change education; 

improve the teaching and learning about 

climate change and Earth system 

science; increase the number of 

underrepresented and underserved K-12 

teachers of math and science; and 

increase the number of students 

prepared for graduate study in climaterelated subjects.

EDUC-27 
EDUCATION: STEM EDUCATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY

MINORITY UNIVERSITY RESEARCH EDUCATION PROJECT

Formulation Development Operations

Acquisition Strategy 

MUREP funding is available through competitive opportunities. In FY 2013, an omnibus solicitation 

(Educational Opportunities in NASA STEM) will be used to select MUREP grantees. 

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

All MUREP activities document performance either through external evaluations or internal reviews 

conducted by NASA staff. For example, a Technical Review Committee, made up of NASA and industry 

engineers and scientists, reviews each University Research Centers grantee annually during the five-year 

performance period. All review reports are used as a part of the renewal package for the individual 

grantee. 

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

External 

Evaluation

MRP Associates FY 2011 Evaluate MUST against goals and 

objectives. Report strongly 

indicates that the MUST activity 

was meeting its goals and 

objectives. Note: final report in 

work.

TBD

Historical Performance 

MUREP strives to achieve the full participation of MSIs in the NASA-sponsored research and education 

community, as well as in enabling academic excellence and outstanding achievements. Through handson, interactive, educational activities, NASA will engage students, educators, families, the general public 

and all Agency stakeholders to increase Americans’ science and technology literacy. 

NASA’s full report of accomplishments in MUREP can be found online at: 

http://www.nasa.gov/offices/education/performance/index.html. 

EDUC-28 
EDUCATION: STEM EDUCATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY

MINORITY UNIVERSITY RESEARCH EDUCATION PROJECT

Formulation Development Operations

African

American

46%

Asian

5%

Hawaiian/

Pacific Islander

1%

Hispanic

20%

Native American

2%

Not Reported

5%

Other

1%

White

20%

Jenkins Predoctoral Fellowship (JPF)

Demographic Data – Race (%)

2001‐2011

STEM Academia

Aerospace 13%

1%

NASA

8%

STEM Industry

9%

Other

1%

Not Reported

26% Pursuing Degree

42%

Since its inception in 2001, Pre-Doctoral JPF has supported 210 students as they obtained Masters and 

Doctoral degrees. The racial and ethnic diversity of JPF students is shown here. 

Jenkins Predoctoral Fellowship (JPF)

Student Employment (%)

as of November 2011

JPF is successful in helping well-trained candidates into to the STEM workforce. The graph above shows 

the type of employment obtained by JPF students upon completion of a terminal degree. 

EDUC-29 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 2,956.4 2,993.9 2,847.5 2,847.5 2,847.5 2,847.5 2,847.5

Center Mangement and Operations 2,189.0 2,204.1 2,093.3 2,093.3 2,093.3 2,093.3 2,093.3

Agency Mangement and Operations 767.4 789.8 754.2 754.2 754.2 754.2 754.2

CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT OVERVIEW .................... CAS- 2 

CENTER MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS 

Center Management and Operations CAS- 5

Technical Authority CASAGENCY MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS ....................... CAS- 11 

Agency Management CAS- 13

Safety and Missions Success CAS- 17

Agency IT Services CAS- 24

Strategic Capabilities Assets Program CAS- 28

HEADQUARTERS BUDGET BY OFFICE ............................ CAS- 33 

HEADQUARTERS TRAVEL BUDGET BY OFFICE .................. CAS- 34 

HEADQUARTERS FTE ASSIGNMENT BY OFFICE ................ CAS- 35 

9 

CAS-1 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT (CAS)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Center Management and Operations

2,956.4

2,189.0 

2,993.9

2,204.1 

2,847.5

2,093.3 

2,847.5

2,093.3

2,847.5

2,093.3

2,847.5

2,093.3

2,847.5

2,093.3

Agency Management and Operations 767.4 789.8 754.2 754.2 754.2 754.2 754.2

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -146.4

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -4.9%

Note: FY 2011 actuals have been adjusted for comparability. FY 2011 actuals are reduced to show the realignment of Innovative Partnerships 

Program to the Space Technology account. 

The Space Power Facility is the world's largest 

vacuum chamber, 100 ft. in diameter by 122 ft. 

high, in which large space-bound hardware can be 

tested by simulating environmental conditions 

encountered in space. In support of NASA’s diverse 

missions, Space Power Facility test programs have 

included high-energy experiments, rocket-fairing 

separation tests, Mars Lander system tests, 

deployable Solar Sail tests and ISS hardware tests. 

CAS provides critical mission support capabilities 

necessary to maintain the operation and administration 

of the Agency that cannot be directly aligned to 

specific program or project requirements. The mission 

support functions align to and sustain institutional 

capabilities for supporting NASA's mission portfolio 

by leveraging resources to meet mission needs, 

establishing Agency-wide capabilities, and providing 

institutional checks and balances. CAS institutional 

capabilities ensure that Agency operations are 

effective and efficient and that activities are 

conducted in accordance with all statutory, regulatory, 

and fiduciary responsibilities. CAS program 

capabilities ensure that vital skills and assets are ready 

and available to meet technical milestones for 

programs and projects, that missions and research are 

technically and scientifically sound, and that Agency 

practices adhere to standards and processes that 

provide safety and reliability through proper 

management of risk. 

NASA's CAS account includes two themes: Center Management and Operations (CMO) and Agency 

Management and Operations (AMO). 

CAS-2 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT (CAS)

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, the CAS account reflects a reduction of $146.4 million compared to the FY 2012 estimated 

level. This decrease in funding represents a reduction in basic Center and Headquarter services, such as 

facilities maintenance and repair and IT services. NASA will partially offset the decrease by savings 

achieved through the implementation of the Administration’s Campaign to Cut Waste and Executive 

Order 13589, “Promoting Efficient Spending” across all Centers and Headquarters. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA initiated a Technical Capabilities Assessment Task to actively take steps towards 

right-sizing the Agency’s infrastructure. Centers have since taken significant steps towards realigning 

their infrastructure to new mission requirements. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, the Mission Support Directorate will continue the reassessment of NASA technical 

capabilities in addition to improving the security of the Agency’s Web applications and IT security assets. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $2,847.5 million. This represents a $146.4 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($2,993.9 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $2,093.3 million for CMO that funds the ongoing management, operations, and maintenance of 

all NASA Centers. 

$754.2 million for AMO that provides functional and administrative oversight for the Agency, 

including NASA Headquarters operations. 

• 

Themes 

CENTER MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS (CMO) 

CMO directly supports Agency programs and projects that reside at and are executed by NASA Centers. 

This theme provides for the care of institutional assets, establishing and maintaining the staff and their 

competencies, and the maintenance and operation of facilities required by current and future programs 

and projects at the Centers. Center Institutional Capabilities provides resources, oversees the assignment 

CAS-3 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT (CAS)

of workforce and facilities, and manages Center operations. Center Program Capabilities sustains the 

technical facilities, workforce expertise and skills, equipment, tools, and other resources required to 

facilitate program and project execution. 

AGENCY MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS (AMO) 

AMO provides for the management and oversight of Agency missions, programs, functions and 

performance of NASA-wide mission support activities. AMO activities at NASA Headquarters ensure 

that core services are ready and available Agency-wide for performing mission roles and responsibilities, 

Agency operations are effective and efficient, and activities are conducted in accordance with all 

statutory, regulatory, and fiduciary requirements. 

CAS-4 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT

CENTER MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS (CMO)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President's Budget Request 2,189.0 2,204.1 2,093.3 2,093.3 2,093.3 2,093.3 2,093.3

Center Institutional Capabilities 1,710.8 1,703.4 1,628.5 1,623.6 1,617.0 1,606.7 1,594.2

Center Programmatic Capabilities 478.1 500.7 464.8 469.7 476.3 486.6 499.1

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -110.8

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -5.0%

 

NASA is comprised of its Headquarters in Washington, DC, 

nine Centers across the country, and JPL, a federally funded 

research and development center operated under a contract 

with the California Institute of Technology. Other NASA 

facilities include: Plum Brook Station, Sandusky, OH, 

managed by GRC; the Software Independent Verification 

and Validation Facility (IV&V), Fairmont, WV, and Wallops 

Flight Facility (WFF), Wallops, VA, both managed by GSFC; 

Michoud Assembly Facility (MAF), New Orleans, LA, 

managed by MSFC; and the White Sands Test Facility 

(WSTF) and Space Network, White Sands, NM, managed by 

JSC. 

NASA's CMO budget request funds the 

ongoing management, operations, and 

maintenance of nine NASA Centers, 

including three major component facilities 

in 10 states. The CMO budget enables 

NASA to execute its mission at the Centers 

by providing the resources required to 

effectively oversee the assignment of 

workforce and facilities. Center operations 

facilitate program and project execution 

while ensuring that statutory, regulatory, and 

fiduciary compliance requirements are met. 

CMO funds a wide variety of essential 

operations, including Center security, 

environmental management and safety 

services, facility maintenance, and 

operations. Operations budgets provide 

utilities, IT services, legal, and occupational 

health, equal employment opportunity, and 

human resource services to support 

Agency’s Center-based civil servants. 

Operations also includes Center management, and support for Agency-wide technical and logistics 

requirements, (e.g. science, engineering and technical authority staff and resources). CMO consists of two 

project level funding, Center Institutional Capability and Center Program Capability. 

CAS-5 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT

CENTER MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS (CMO)

CENTER INSTITUTIONAL CAPABILITY

Center Institutional Capability encompasses a diverse set of activities including financial and human 

capital management, acquisition services, facility maintenance, utilities, information technology, and 

safety and security. This capability manages and sustains the Center staff, facilities, and operations 

required for program and project execution. It also provides for the ongoing operations of NASA Centers, 

including three major component facilities, ensuring a safe, healthy, and environmentally responsible 

workplace. The Agency's coordinated approach to institutional management is an essential element in 

preserving unique national capabilities relied upon by NASA, industry, academia, and other government 

agencies. 

NASA’S participation in the Administration’s Campaign to Cut Waste will result in $200 million in 

savings in administrative costs. Agency-wide in FY 2013 compared to FY 2010 levels. However, 

contractor labor, utility, and operations costs continue to grow at a higher rate than inflation. The FY 2013 

budget request will offset these increases by implementing additional cost savings reductions to travel, 

printing, reproduction, and other administrative costs, bringing the Center Institutional Capability request 

to approximately three percent ($48M) higher than the FY 2008 budget level. 

CENTER PROGRAM CAPABILITY

NASA's Center Program Capability supports the Agency’s scientific and engineering activities by 

providing engineering assessment and safety oversight pertaining to the technical readiness and execution 

of NASA programs and projects. It also sustains NASA's analysis, design, research, test services, and 

fabrication capabilities enabling efficient execution of the programs and projects hosted at the Centers. A 

key component of NASA's overall system of checks and balances is provided within Technical 

Capabilities through formally delegated Technical Authorities. The Technical Authorities at NASA's 

Centers provide independent oversight and review of programs and projects in support of safety and 

mission success. This is to assure that NASA's activities are safely implemented in accordance with 

accepted standards of professional practice and applicable NASA requirements. 

EXPLANATION OF PROGRAM CHANGES 

The CMO budget reflects reductions of basic Center support, including planned facilities maintenance 

and repair, custodial, IT, financial management, and similar support activities. 

The program also reflects consolidation of Agency-wide IT contracts under AMO Agency Information 

Technology Services (AITS). 

CAS-6 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT

CENTER MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS (CMO)

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The Mission Support Directorate initiated the NASA Technical Capabilities Assessment Task to actively 

take steps towards right-sizing the Agency’s infrastructure, as directed by the NASA Authorization Act of 

2010. These efforts are being aligned with the on-going activities to re-scope the Agency’s capabilities as 

part of the transition from the Space Shuttle and the Constellation Systems Programs. In FY 2011, the 

Centers have taken numerous steps towards realigning their infrastructure to new mission requirements. 

Langley Research Center: The Agency approved the decision to shut down the CF4 and the Unitary 

Planned wind tunnels beginning in FY 2012. 

Johnson Space Center: Mission support approved the decision to shut down the JSC Arc Jet Facility in 

FY 2013. The Agency plans to utilize the Arc Jet Facility at ARC, consolidating entry descent and 

landing related testing. JSC will close the facility following the completion of planned testing in FY 2012. 

White Sands Test Facility (WSTF): As a result of the conclusion of the Space Shuttle Program, the 

rocket propulsion testing (RPT) facilities at WSTF are currently being transitioned. In FY 2013, three 

facilities will remain active, five will be closed, and one will be put in inactive standby. 

Marshall Space Flight Center: Pending historical considerations, MSFC plans to demolish 

approximately 33 structures through FY 2017 and transition through FY 2012 approximately 40 buildings 

to a shut down/standby status. This includes facilities no longer needed for the cancelled Constellation 

Systems program. 

Kennedy Space Center: The Center plans to abandon, return to the U.S. Air Force, or find alternate 

entities to utilize the following infrastructures: Hypergol Maintenance Facility, Processing Control 

Center, Orbiter Processing Facility, Parachute Refurbishment Facility, Hangar M Annex, Hangar S, 

Hangar AF, Solid Rocket Booster recovery ships, and Mobile Launch Platforms 1 and 2. 

The majority of the facilities/capabilities listed are being divested as a result of the conclusion of the 

Space Shuttle program. NASA/KSC has entered into an agreement with the State of Florida for the use of 

the Orbiter Processing Facility Number 3 and the Processing Control Center to support ongoing 

commercial space activities that the State is pursuing. As part of this agreement, the State of Florida has 

taken over responsibility for the operations and maintenance of the facilities. The ultimate disposition of 

the remaining NASA facilities at KSC and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station will be determined after 

FY 2013 Shuttle Transition and Retirement efforts. 

 

Stennis Space Center: The Center consolidated its Hardware Assurance Testing Contract with its Test 

Operations Contract, as Space Shuttle main engine testing is no longer required. The consolidation will 

reduce support contractor infrastructure and increase efficiency. 

CAS-7 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT

CENTER MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS (CMO)

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

NASA will implement an Agency-wide reduction in printing and reproduction, travel, supplies and 

materials, IT devices, executive fleet, and extraneous promotional items in support of efficiency 

initiatives. 

Mission Support Directorate plans to continue the re-alignment efforts of Agency’s infrastructure through 

the NASA Technical Capabilities Assessment task. The directorate will remain engaged with programs 

and Centers in re-assessing NASA’s technical capabilities with respect to near and long-term 

programmatic demand and realigning the infrastructure accordingly. 

The Agency plans to continue consolidating the IT data centers across the NASA Centers. By the end of 

FY 2013, the Agency plans to reduce the number of data centers by 53 percent from the FY 2010 

baseline. This data center consolidation will result in energy savings of approximately $600 thousand per 

year from the FY 2010 baseline. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $2,093.3 million. This represents a $110.8 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($2,204.1 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $1,628.5 million for Center Institutional Capabilities; and 

• $464.8 million for Center Program Capabilities. 

CAS-8 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT: CENTER MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS

TECHNICAL AUTHORITY

SMA TECHNICAL AUTHORITY

($ in millions) Notional

Center FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

 Ames Research Center 3.7 3.7 3.7 3.7 3.7

 Dryden Flight Research Center 6.2 6.2 6.2 6.2 6.4

 Glenn Research Center 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2

 Goddard Space Flight Center 11.5 11.5 11.5 11.5 11.5

 Johnson Space Center 6.6 6.6 6.6 6.6 6.6

 Kennedy Space Center 10.3 10.3 10.3 10.3 10.3

 Langley Research Center 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.6 3.7

 Marshall Space Flight Center 6.9 6.9 6.9 7.2 7.4

 Stennis Space Center 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5

NASA Total 52.3 52.3 52.3 52.6 53.4

ENGINEERING TECHNICAL AUTHORITY

($ in millions) Notional

Center FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

 Ames Research Center 7 7.2 7.5 7.9 8.3

 Dryden Flight Research Center 6.7 6.9 7.2 7.6 7.9

 Glenn Research Center 13.1 13.4 14.1 14.8 15.5

 Goddard Space Flight Center 9.6 10 10.5 11 11.6

 Johnson Space Center 20.5 20.5 21.4 22.5 23.5

 Kennedy Space Center 14.1 14.9 15.6 16.2 17.1

 Langley Research Center 17.3 18 18.8 19.7 20.6

 Marshall Space Flight Center 35.4 35.4 35.4 35.4 35.4

 Stennis Space Center 3.1 3.1 3.1 3.1 3.1

NASA Total 126.8 129.4 133.7 138.2 143

CAS-9 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT: CENTER MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS

TECHNICAL AUTHORITY

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CAS-10 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT

AGENCY AND MANAGEMENT OPERATIONS (AMO)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 767.5 789.8 754.2 754.2 754.2 754.2 754.2

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -35.6

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -4.5%

Note: FY 2011 actuals have been adjusted for comparability. FY 2011 actuals are reduced to show the realignment of Innovative Partnerships 

Program to the Space Technology account. 

The Office of the Chief Engineer, and the NASA 

Engineering and Safety Center are key to NASA’s 

program excellence. OCE ensures missions are 

planned and conducted with sound engineering and 

management practices, and the NESC taps technical 

expertise within NASA and from external partners. 

Both enabled the Shell Buckling Knockdown Factor 

test to capture precise measures of deformation on a 

fully-instrumented massive 27.5-foot-diameter, 20-

foot-tall barrel during combined axial compression 

and bending tests. Results suggested NASA’s next 

generation launch vehicles may be modified to 

significantly reduce weight and cost, lessening 

development and performance risks.

AMO provides for the management and oversight of 

Agency missions, programs, functions and 

performance of NASA-wide mission support 

activities. AMO activities at NASA Headquarters 

ensure that core services are ready and available 

Agency-wide for performing mission roles and 

responsibilities, Agency operations are effective and 

efficient, and activities are conducted in accordance 

with all statutory, regulatory, and fiduciary 

requirements. 

NASA Headquarters develops policy and guidance 

for the Centers and provides strategic planning and 

leadership. Headquarters establishes Agency-wide 

requirements and capabilities that improve 

collaboration, efficiency, and effectiveness. Agency 

management leverages resources and capabilities to 

meet mission needs, eliminate excess capacity, and 

scale assets accordingly. Centers establish programs 

and initiatives to maximize individual and 

organizational capabilities. 

AMO provides for policy-setting, executive 

management, and direction for all essential corporate 

functions such as human capital, finance, IT, infrastructure, procurement, legal counsel, protective 

services, occupational health and safety, equal opportunity and diversity, small business programs, 

external relations, and strategic communications. AMO also supports the operational costs of the 

Headquarters installation. The AMO theme is divided into four programs: Agency Management, SMS, 

AITS, and SCAP. 

CAS-11 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT

AGENCY AND MANAGEMENT OPERATIONS (AMO)

EXPLANATION OF PROGRAM CHANGES 

There are no programmatic changes. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The NASA Management Office at JPL, in partnership with the city of Pasadena, completed construction 

and began operation of a new 7000 gallons-per-minute groundwater treatment plant, which provides 

drinking water to city customers. This plant serves to clean up chemicals in the groundwater for which 

NASA is responsible and returns use of the aquifer to the city for water supply purposes. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

Consistent with the NASA Authorization Act of 2010, the SMS program will enhance its orbital debris 

and counterfeit parts tracking and reporting programs. Counterfeit electrical components may cause 

failure resulting in loss of a mission or, in the case of manned missions, loss of life. 

During FY 2013, NASA will continue to expand its capabilities to improve the security and safeguard of 

Web applications and IT security assets, enhance Security Operations Center (SOC) capabilities, and 

expand real-time continuous monitoring and risk management capabilities. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $754.2 million. This represents a $35.6 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($789.8 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $391.8 million for Agency Management to provide management and oversight of Agency 

missions, programs, and functions of NASA-wide mission support activities; 

$182.4 million for SMS (including IV&V) which includes NASA Headquarters programs 

providing technical excellence, mission assurance, and technical authority; 

$152.0 million for AITS to ensure IT excellence to achieve success of NASA missions; and 

$28.0 million for SCAP which includes ensuring test facilities identified as essential by the 

Agency are in a state of readiness. This supports the core capabilities of thermal vacuum 

chambers, simulators, and the Arc Jet Facility. 

• 

• 

• 

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AGENCY MANAGEMENT

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 401.9 403.2 391.8 391.8 391.8 391.8 391.8

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -11.4

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 0.0

Note: FY 2011 actuals have been adjusted for comparability. FY 2011 actuals are reduced to show the realignment of Innovative Partnerships 

Program to the Space Technology account. 

NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C., provides 

overall planning and policy direction for 

Headquarters and the corporate management for the 

all its field centers, which includes at least 41,000 civil 

servant employees and on and near site contractors 

NASA-wide. 

Agency Management provides governance and 

functional and administrative management oversight 

for the Agency and operational support for NASA 

Headquarters. This program function primarily 

supports ongoing operations. Agency Management 

support reflects the activities required for being in 

business in the Federal sector and provides the 

capability to respond to legislation and other 

mandates (for example, the Homeland Security 

Policy Directive -12, the universal identification 

standard that streamlines access to buildings and 

computer networks). Other examples of legislation 

and mandates to which the Agency must comply and 

provide assessments include the Freedom of 

Information Act and Equal Employment Opportunity 

compliance with Section 508 for IT. The Agency 

Management program supports over 35 discrete 

operations and mission support projects with over 

210 separate activity line items. 

Agency Management provides policies, controls, and 

oversight across a range of functional and administrative management service areas. Agency Management 

governance and oversight activities include finance, protective services, general counsel, public affairs, 

external relations, legislative affairs, training, human capital, procurement, real property and 

infrastructure, budget management, systems support, internal controls, diversity, equal opportunity, 

independent program and cost evaluation, and small business programs. 

NASA is taking proactive steps to manage the daily operational activities for maximum efficiency and 

effectiveness within the allocated fund control levels. 

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AGENCY MANAGEMENT

The Agency Management program supports operational activities of Headquarters as an installation. 

These activities include building lease costs, facility operations costs (such as physical security, 

maintenance, logistics, information technology hardware, and software costs), and automated business 

systems implementation, and operations costs like initiatives related to transparency and accountability in 

government. 

Agency Management activities are performed at NASA Headquarters, with critical support provided by 

the NASA Centers. Distributed Agency Management activities are also performed at the NASA 

Management Office at the JPL, JHU-APL, and the NASA Shared Services Center (NSSC) at SSC. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

There are no program changes. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

To facilitate the assessment of Agency’s technical capabilities, the Agency developed a new database 

tool, the NASA Technical Capabilities Database. The purpose of the database is to house the information 

concerning the supply of Center-respective technical capabilities and their associated resources and to 

map them to projected mission demand across the Agency as part of the NASA Technical Capabilities 

task. The task aims to balance the institutional capabilities with the needs of the Agency’s future 

missions. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

Agency Management will deliver policies, controls, and oversight across a range of functional and 

administrative management service areas, and provide independent assessments and strategic planning 

services. Agency Management will also direct activities in procurement, finance, human capital, real 

property and infrastructure, protective services, diversity, equal opportunity, and small business. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $391.8 million. This represents a $11.4 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($403.2 million). 

The FY 2013 request includes $391.8 million for ongoing functional and administrative management 

oversight for the Agency and operational support for NASA Headquarters, as an installation, through the 

more than 35 discrete operations and mission support projects. Some specific requirements include 

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AGENCY MANAGEMENT

overseeing and managing the renovation of the headquarters building as a result of the lease renewal in 

FY 2011 and bringing the building up to the silver level of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental 

Design (LEED) building. 

Projects 

The Agency Management budget encompasses the costs of operating and commissioning NASA 

Headquarters as a Center. This includes the management and sustainment of the Headquarters employees 

and contractors, facilities, and operations required for program and institutional execution. The Agency 

Management budget also supports a diverse set of activities and projects at both the Agency and Center 

levels and includes the following: 

• IT and communications infrastructure hardware and software acquisitions and maintenance, and 

contracted services for IT support; 

Facility operations support, including physical security, custodial, and maintenance services; 

equipment; expendable supplies; mail services; printing and graphics; motor pool operations; 

logistics services; emergency preparedness; 

Human resources staffing; employee payroll and benefits processing; retirement services; 

employee training; employee occupational health/fitness and medical services; and grants awards 

processing; 

Headquarters operations costs, including support provided by GSFC for accounting and 

procurement operations; operations support; configuration maintenance; automated business and 

administrative systems; contract close-out services; and payments to the Office of Naval Research 

for grants management; 

Human resources at both the Headquarters and Agency Equal Employment Offices (EEO), which 

engage the Agency in proactive equal opportunity and diversity-inclusion initiatives in NASAfunded science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and related programs in 

contributing to the Agency's STEM workforce development; and alternate dispute resolution 

services and complaint investigations; 

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO), who upholds strong strategic planning, budget and financial 

management and accountability practices, while providing timely, accurate, and reliable 

information, and enhancing internal controls; 

The Office of Protective Services, which includes policy formulation; oversight, coordination and 

management of NASA protective services operations, including security, fire, emergency 

management, and emergency preparedness; support for Agency counterintelligence and counterterrorism activities; implementation of the identity, credentials and access management systems 

and other security systems, including communications; continuity of operations; and national 

intelligence community services; and 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

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AGENCY MANAGEMENT

• The Office of Strategic Infrastructure, which provides technical expertise and oversight of 

Agency infrastructure and management systems for: aircraft, environmental, real property, 

logistics, and strategic capabilities programs. 

In FY 2011, the Agency received a clean audit opinion of its accounting and financial systems, the first 

clean opinion in nine years. Under the leadership of the Office of Human Capital Management, NASA 

was again recognized as one of the top five agencies for which to work, as determined by the Partnership 

for Public Performance. 

To provide the widest practicable and appropriate dissemination of information concerning NASA 

activities, the Office of Communications maintained the http://www.nasa.gov Web site, which was 

honored with its third consecutive Webby Award, the industry’s highest honor for the most popular Web 

site in Federal Government. 

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SAFETY AND MISSION SUCCESS (SMS)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President's Budget Request

Safety and Mission Assurance

FY 2011

191.2

48.1 

FY 2012

198.2

49.4 

FY 2013

182.4

47.8 

FY 2014

182.4

47.8

FY 2015 FY 2016

182.4

47.8

182.4

47.8

FY 2017

182.4

47.8

Chief Engineer 99.2 105.2 98.6 98.6 98.6 98.6 98.6

Chief Health and Medical Officer 4.0 4.5 4.3 4.3 4.3 4.3 4.3

Independent Verification and Validation 39.9 

Change From FY 2012 Estimate --

39.1 31.7 31.7 31.7 31.7 31.7

-- -15.8

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -8.0%

 

Knowing the remaining life of a pressure vessel is a 

critical safety issue for all commercial, civil, and 

military missions that use composite pressure 

vessels (fire, naval, residential, land transportation, 

public transportation, mining, aviation, space, 

medical), NASA engineers are developing 

nondestructive evaluation health monitoring 

sensing systems for smart composite overwrapped 

pressure vessels to determine its remaining life. The 

bottom photo shows a pressure test to catastrophic 

failure.

SMS includes NASA Headquarters programs 

providing technical excellence, mission assurance, and 

technical authority. SMS also includes the corporate 

work managed by the Office of the Safety and 

Mission Assurance and its NASA Safety Center 

(NSC) and IV&V Facility, the Office of Chief 

Engineer (OCE) (including the NASA Engineering 

and Safety Center, or NESC), and the Office of the 

Chief Health and Medical Officer (OCHMO). The 

elements of SMS reflect the recommendations of 

many studies, boards, and panels. These programs 

directly support NASA's core values and serve to 

improve the likelihood for safety and mission success 

for NASA's programs, projects, and operations while 

protecting the health and safety of NASA's workforce. 

SMS develops policy and procedural requirements. It 

provides recommendations to the Administrator, 

mission directorates, Center Directors, and program 

managers who, due to their line management 

responsibilities, are ultimately accountable for the 

safety and mission success of all NASA activities and 

the safety and health of the workforce. SMS resources 

provide the foundation for NASA's system of checks 

and balances, enabling the effective application of the 

strategic management framework and the technical 

authorities defined in NASA's Strategic Management 

and Governance Handbook. SMS funding trains and 

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SAFETY AND MISSION SUCCESS (SMS)

maintains a competent technical workforce within the disciplines of system engineering (including system 

safety, reliability, and quality) and space medicine. 

Resources provided by SMS are essential for evaluating the implications on safety and mission success, 

including the health and medical aspects of new requirements and departures from existing requirements. 

With this funding, discipline experts analyze the criticality of the associated risk and evaluate the risk 

acceptability through an established process of independent reviews and assessments. The information 

and advice from these experts provides critical data that is used by the technical authorities to develop 

authoritative decisions related to application of requirements on programs and projects. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

There are no program changes. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The NASA Engineering and Safety Center (NESC) conducted numerous critical assessments of NASA’s 

highest risk projects and ensured safety and mission success. NESC assessments helped ensure the safe 

retirement of the Space Shuttle and the assembly completion of ISS. NESC conducted water landing tests 

for the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle and large-scale structural testing to reduce mass in bucklingcritical launch vehicle shell structures and help to mitigate future vehicle development risks. 

NASA reviewed Space Shuttle lessons at a knowledge sharing forum on January 27, 2011, at KSC. In 

addition, the Shuttle Ground Operations Lessons Learned project has identified 119 lessons that will be 

archived in the Lessons Learned Information System. NASA also added to the system lesson entries with 

video interviews related to Shuttle ground processing knowledge sharing. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

See project details below. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $182.4 million. This represents a $15.8 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($198.2 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

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SAFETY AND MISSION SUCCESS (SMS)

• $47.8 million for SMA, which establishes and maintains an acceptable level of technical 

excellence and competence in safety, reliability, maintainability, and quality engineering within 

the Agency; 

$98.6 million for the OCE, which assures the engineering excellence of the Agency, provides 

rapid, cross-Agency response to mission critical engineering issues, and develops program and 

project management and systems engineering skills within the Agency; 

$4.3 million for the OCHMO, which assures the medical technical excellence of the Agency; and 

$31.7 million for the IV&V Facility, which performs independent software analysis activities on 

NASA's most critical software systems. 

• 

• 

• 

SAFETY AND MISSION ASSURANCE (SMA) 

SMA is responsible for establishing and maintaining an acceptable level of technical excellence and 

competence in safety, reliability, maintainability, and quality engineering within the Agency. SMA 

assures that the risk presented by either the lack of safety requirements or from the lack of compliance 

with safety requirements is analyzed, assessed, communicated, and used for proper decision making and 

risk acceptance by the appropriate organizational leader. 

Fundamental to these responsibilities is the definition and execution of a robust and well-understood 

methodology and process for the application of the disciplines of safety, reliability and quality in defining 

the level of risk. SMA conducts a schedule of reviews and assessments that focus on the life cycle 

decision milestones for crucial NASA programs and projects and safety, reliability, and quality processes. 

Embodied in this program is a structured development of methodology and investigation into system 

attributes that improve the probability of mission success. 

NSC is an important component of SMA and is responsible for consolidating SMA efforts Agency-wide 

in four key areas: SMA technical excellence, knowledge management, audits and assessments, and 

mishap investigation support. 

In FY 2011, SMA organizations conducted safety reviews, and when necessary, independent technical 

assessments for all Space Shuttle and Launch Services Program missions. In addition, SMA experts 

independently analyzed the nuclear safety risk associated with the Mars Science Laboratory mission. The 

SMA project developed field programmable gate array radiation test methods now utilized by NASA 

flight projects and provided nondestructive evaluation assessments of critical space components, 

including composite structures, inflatable habitat structures, and cryogenic storage vessels. NASA’s 

Orbital Debris program, which is responsible for monitoring the orbital debris environment, providing 

space vehicle risk assessments, and providing orbital debris assistance to both U.S. and international 

partners, was successfully implemented. SMA project produced an Engineering Risk Assessment Abort 

Assessment Guide, which documented current best practices for assessing the abort capabilities of 

NASA’s potential crew launch systems. The SMA project also provided over 14,000 hours of Safety and 

Mission Assurance Technical Excellence training to 1,800 unique NASA learners. 

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In FY 2013, the SMA program will continue to conduct safety reviews and independent technical 

assessments for NASA missions, including any newly selected missions using nuclear systems. 

Consistent with the NASA Authorization Act of 2010, SMA will enhance its orbital debris and 

counterfeit parts tracking and reporting programs. Counterfeited electrical components can cause failure 

resulting in loss of mission or, in the case of human flight missions, loss of life. The SMA program will 

publish assurance guidelines for the application of gallium nitride and silicon carbide semiconductor 

devices in high reliability, spaceflight applications. These technologies are viewed as potential enablers 

for radiation hardened and extreme temperature environment power and communication systems. 

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF ENGINEER (OCE) 

OCE promulgates policy and requirements for program and project management, for the engineering 

excellence of the Agency, system engineering methodology, and the Agency's system of engineering 

standards. OCE manages NESC, which is responsible for enabling rapid, cross-Agency response to 

mission critical engineering, and safety issues at NASA and for improving the state of practice in critical 

engineering disciplines. Established in FY 2003 in response to the Columbia accident, NESC performs 

value-added independent testing, analysis, and assessments of NASA's high-risk projects to ensure safety 

and mission success. SMS funding provides for the core NESC organization of senior engineering experts 

from across the Agency, including the NASA Technical Fellows, and technical discipline teams 

comprised of experts from NASA, industry, and academia. As an Agency-wide resource with an 

independent reporting path and independent funding from the OCE, NESC helps ensure safety and 

objective technical results for NASA. 

OCE also sponsors the Academy of Program/Project and Engineering Leadership to develop program and 

project management and systems engineering skills. This academy provides a formal training curriculum 

designed to address four career levels from recent college graduate to executive. OCE’s training provides 

direct support to project teams in the field through workshops, coaching, interactions with technical 

experts, and through conferences, forums, and publications. In addition, OCE manages the Space Act 

authorized Inventions and Contributions Board, which is chartered with recognizing and rewarding 

innovation within the Agency. 

In FY 2011, OCE increased awareness and usage of voluntary consensus standards, in support of OMB 

Circular A-119, “Federal Participation in the Development and Use of Voluntary Consensus Standards 

and in Conformity Assessment Activities.” 

In FY 2013, NESC will provide critical independent testing and analysis to ensure flight crew safety and 

mission success as NASA transitions to the new human spaceflight programs. 

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OFFICE OF THE CHIEF HEALTH AND MEDICAL OFFICER (OCHMO)

OCHMO promulgates Agency health and medical policy, standards, and requirements, assuring the 

medical technical excellence of the Agency. OCHMO assures the physical and mental health and wellbeing of the NASA workforce, and assures the safe and ethical conduct of NASA-sponsored human and 

animal research. The office monitors the implementation of health and medical related requirements and 

standards in all developmental human space flight programs through designated discipline experts at 

NASA Centers. OCHMO provides oversight of medical and health related activities in operational human 

space flight through Center-based discipline experts and clinical boards. Ongoing medical and health 

discipline professionalism and licensure are supported through annual certified continuing medical 

education activities and flight surgeon education. Clinical currency is maintained through OCHMO 

sponsored, university-based physician training programs. NASA's biomedical research programs in 

support of human space flight are guided by OCHMO-developed health and medical standards. 

In FY 2011 NASA rolled out the Electronic Health Records System (EHRS) at four NASA Centers. This 

tool will enhance the effectiveness of preventive exams and OSHA-required surveillance exams for 

employees. This system has disaster recover back-up and mirroring capability, and will increase chart 

accuracy, maintain Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act-mandated privacy requirements, 

and reduce potential medical errors through direct import of laboratory data via direct interface capability. 

In FY 2013 NASA will have successfully completed implementation of the EHRS at all Centers, 

component facilities, and JPL, as allowed by their contract. Non-attributable data is being generated and 

collected on the well-being of the NASA population and will help ensure the safety of employees in all 

types of exposure-related groups. The data collected over time will demonstrate trends in the health of our 

NASA family and facilitate key medical decisions based on sound epidemiological data for the greatest 

good of the workforce. 

INDEPENDENT VERIFICATION AND VALIDATION (IV&V)

The NASA IV&V project provides software expertise, services and resources to improve the likelihood 

for safety and mission success for NASA's programs, projects, and operations while protecting the health 

and safety of NASA's workforce. The IV&V project analyzes mission software, independently from the 

developing organization, on NASA's most critical software systems to assure safety and mission success 

of those systems. 

IV&V applies state-of-the-art analytical methods and techniques, complemented with effective software 

engineering tools and best practices, to evaluate the correctness and quality of critical and complex 

software systems throughout the project's system development life cycle. 

IV&V provides resources and software expertise to other SMA elements in support of independent 

evaluations of software related approaches and processes. The IV&V project supports sustaining software 

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technical excellence in the SMA community, sustaining software domain knowledge within the SMA 

organization, and in formulating software development improvement recommendations to the Agency. 

Independently testing critical system software is a state-of-the-practice analytical technique that enhances 

the likelihood of discovering the most difficult kinds of problems in mission software. Critical system 

software problems can surface because of multiple complex interactions, under specific environmental 

and operational conditions, and under unique software configurations. The IV&V program’s independent 

test capability enables: 

• Advanced testing and simulations of NASA’s mission and safety critical software; 

Testing and evaluation of robotics and intelligent systems; 

Capability development within the systems engineering disciplines; 

Central computing platform for commonly used software assurance tools by engineers; and 

Training and education for workforce and students. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

In FY 2011, NASA IV&V provided expertise to 22 projects and seven NASA Centers. IV&V provided 

eight favorable launch/operational readiness votes for GRAIL, Juno, Glory, three Space Shuttle Program 

launches, and two ISS software stage transitions. IV&V provides a favorable readiness vote when all 

IV&V-identified issues and risks have been satisfactorily resolved by the customer. 

In FY 2013, NASA will continue to provide expert software analysis on NASA’s safety and mission 

critical software to help assure safety and mission success. The IV&V project will continue to enhance its 

technical capabilities and focus on continuous improvement and value. 

Program Schedule 

EHRS roll out

2011

Orbital Debris 

Program initiated

2011

EHRS 

implementation

complete

2013

Enhance Orbital Debris 

and Counterfeit Parts 

Tracking and Reporting 

Programs

2013

Independent 

assessment of 

mission safety

2013

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INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Safety Aerospace Safety 

Advisory Panel

Evaluate NASA’s safety performance 

and advises the Agency on ways to 

improve that performance.

January 2012 

(conducted 

quarterly)

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AGENCY INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (AITS)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President's Budget Request

IT Management

145.0

15.0

159.1

14.6

152.0

10.5

152.0

10.5

152.0

10.5

152.0

10.5

152.0

10.5

Applications 75.3 67.8 67.8 67.8 67.8 67.8 67.8

Infrastructure 54.7 76.6 73.7 73.7 73.7 73.7 73.7

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -7.1

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -4.5%

 

The IT Infrastructure Integration Program (I3P) is 

transforming NASA’s IT Infrastructure services from a 

center-based model to an enterprise-based management and 

provisioning model. The “Discover” supercomputer will be 

part of the seamless, end-to-end data network designed to 

reduce cost, implement consistent operation procedures and 

processes, and improve security. With nearly 15,000 

processors and a peak performance of nearly 160 trillion 

operations per second, Discover is at the heart of the NASA 

Center for Climate Simulation. 

AITS program remains a critical enabling 

capability for the Agency. The AITS program 

is dedicated to ensure IT excellence so that 

every mission can achieve success within 

NASA’s complex environment. The AITS 

mission is to improve management and 

security of IT systems while systematically 

improving the efficiency, collaboration 

capabilities, and streamlined service delivery 

and visibility for the entire Agency. 

AITS remains focused on centrally 

coordinating and integrating investments 

built and managed by individual Centers 

within NASA's federated model to improve 

security, achieve cost efficiencies, and 

provide standardized services. AITS also 

continues to develop and maintain NASA’s 

target architecture and optimization objectives. Further, AITS continuous improvement involves 

transforming the infrastructure from a Center-based delivery model to one that is Agency-based through 

the implementation of an IT Service model based on the Information Technology Infrastructure Library® 

3.0. This is the industry’s guide to applying strategic thinking to IT service management. AITS also 

supports federal green IT and data center consolidation efforts. Core capabilities within AITS are the 

NASA Enterprise Application Competency Center (NEACC), NASA Data Center, Security Operations 

Center, and the IT Discovery and Application Management Services. 

The AITS program manages NASA’s Web sites and services which facilitate the Agency’s statutory 

requirement to disseminate information concerning its activities and missions results. NASA Web 

services enhance business and technical agility, eliminate vendor specific dependencies, drive down 

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operational overhead for Web presence, consolidate NASA’s Web infrastructure, drive down the cost of 

custom Web/on-demand services for missions, programs, and projects, increase NASA IT security, 

explore shared services across NASA Centers, and improve online customer service delivery through 

innovative technology. The program also implements services to allow citizens, collaborators, and other 

partners to use existing social media and other accounts to access NASA systems. 

Under the AITS program, the Agency continues to improve its network security with an enterprise 

approach to perimeter control and maintenance, including the use of Personal Identification Verification 

smartcards for remote perimeter access. In addition, AITS is consolidating several NASA Center-specific 

applications into enterprise-level services, leveraging cloud offerings where possible. 

The AITS program also enables NASA’s mobile workforce to work anytime, anywhere using NASA 

devices or personal devices while ensuring adequate security of NASA’s data and information. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

There are no program changes. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

The Agency-implemented the IT Infrastructure Integration Program (I3P). It incorporates Agency 

Consolidated End-user Services, Enterprise Applications Service Technologies, Enterprise Service Desk, 

and NASA Integrated Communications Services contracts, streamlines operations, gains efficiencies, and 

provides expected costs savings. The key to the new IT infrastructure transformation includes the 

transition from a Center-based, locally operated approach to an Agency-centralized, enterprise-based 

approach to consolidate the decision authority back to the Agency Headquarters and, thereby, centralize 

decisions and maximize efficiencies and cost savings. For example, NASA has reduced the total number 

of data centers from 79 to 54, which resulted in the reduction of energy costs through more efficient use 

of the existing conditioned spaces, employing best practices in room design, proper temperature settings, 

optimal rack and floor space densities and life cycle replacement of old and inefficient hardware. NASA 

also achieved significant (approximately $4.0 million) cost savings and efficiencies by retiring NASA’s 

data center mainframe following the last planned Shuttle flight. While the Space Shuttle program was a 

major customer of mainframe computing services, many older administrative systems also relied on those 

services. 

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KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

AITS will invest in a technology upgrade for an electronic forms management system to replace NASA’s 

antiquated and unsupported software package for Agency forms management. The forms system will 

manage over 5,000 forms and the system will be compatible with newer software, enable digital 

certificate signatures, and comply with Section 508 requirements. 

Federal e-Travel Services will migrate to a new service provider. An AITS and OCFO partnership will 

implement and integrate the new end-to-end E-Travel solution. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $152.0 million. This represents a $7.1 million decrease from the FY 2012 

estimate ($159.1 million). The FY 2013 request includes the support for consolidation of 100 Centerbased applications into ten enterprise services, saving IT service costs of $5 million per year in the out 

years. 

Projects 

CONSOLIDATED CORPORATE NETWORK OPERATIONS CENTER

Consolidated Corporate Network Operations Center is building a seamless, integrated network operations 

system and operations processes capable of managing the corporate end-to-end network. 

NICS CONSOLIDATED CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

NICS Consolidated Configuration Management System includes management of servers, database, and 

tools that will facilitate IT infrastructure library processes and procedures. 

Both projects are scheduled to start January 1, 2012 and complete in July 2013. 

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Program Schedule 

Consolidated Corporated 

Network Operations Center 

(C2NOC) 

Project Start

01/2012

NICS Consolidated 

Configuration Management 

System (NC2MS)

Project Start

01/2012

C2NOC Project Completion

07/2013

NC2MS

Project Complete

07/2013

Program Management & Commitments 

NICS Consolidated Configuration Management System includes the formulation, implementation and 

transition to operations of a consolidated NICS CM system. It also includes management of servers, 

database, and tools that will facilitate IT infrastructure library processes and procedures. 

Acquisition Strategy 

AITS will continue to consolidate legacy contracts and data centers and increase the use of cloud 

computing to align with strategies developed by the Administration. 

Under the Web Enterprise Services Technologies contract solicitation acquisition, NASA will provide 

contracts for cloud-based Web infrastructure that provides NASA with standards, open source, secure, 

shared Web infrastructure and environment. The contract will provide solutions that are often cost 

effective through the utilization of shared services, implementation of innovative solutions that are user 

friendly, provide self service, and are readily accessible for the Agency’s missions. The NASA Centers 

and mission directorates will be able to utilize the consolidated infrastructure through existing 

development contracts and still show value of cost effectiveness, improved customer service, and 

compliance with Federal mandates. 

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STRATEGIC CAPABILITIES ASSETS PROGRAM (SCAP)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 29.4 29.3 28.0 28.0 28.0 28.0 28.0

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -1.3

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -4.4%

 

The Arc Jet Facility at ARC is sustained under the SCAP 

funding as it is considered a critical asset to the Agency and 

the Nation. The facility provides extremely high power 

output to test articles for extreme space environmental 

conditions during entry, descent, and landing. A thermal 

protection system specimen is shown. 

Initiated in FY 2008, SCAP establishes an 

alliance between all Centers with like assets, 

makes recommendations on disposition of 

capabilities no longer required, identifies reinvestment/re-capitalization requirements 

within and among classes of assets, and 

implements changes. SCAP reviews the 

Agency’s assets and capabilities each year to 

ensure the requirements continue to be valid. 

SCAP ensures test facilities identified as 

essential by the Agency are in a state of 

readiness. It maintains the skilled workforce 

and performs essential preventative 

maintenance to keep these facilities available 

to meet program requirements. Core 

capabilities supported within SCAP are 

thermal vacuum chambers, simulators, and the 

Arc Jet Facility. 

SCAP will ensure maximum benefit across the Government by broadening its alliances outside of the 

Agency for capabilities (e.g., thermal vacuum chambers). This has been accomplished by initiating a new 

collaborative working group, the Space Environment Test Alliance Group, which includes NASA, DoD, 

and other entities. The members gain awareness of capabilities across agencies, share best practices, 

provide technical support, and refer test programs to facilities that are better suited. SCAP has established 

a positive relationship between DoD and NASA in the arc jet test area. 

CAS-28 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT: AGENCY MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS 

STRATEGIC CAPABILITIES ASSETS PROGRAM (SCAP)

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

There are no program changes. 

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

NASA decided to consolidate its arc jet testing capabilities at ARC. SCAP began consolidation transition 

planning of the JSC Arc Jet testing capability, which will shut down operations in FY 2013. NASA 

anticipates annual operational cost savings of over $5 million per year through this consolidation effort. 

SCAP completed and verified the new vibration test capability at the Space Power Facility at GRC’s 

Plum Brook Station in Sandusky, OH. The new vibration test capability includes the world’s most 

powerful reverberant acoustic test chamber and the world’s most powerful mechanical vibration facility. 

This new capability provides a one-stop-shop for a fully integrated spacecraft development and 

qualification testing. 

The Space Environment Test Alliance Group assisted the Science Mission Directorate by identifying 

potential re-utilization of the K-Site thermal vacuum chamber at GRC Plum Brook Station for a Planetary 

Surface Simulation Facility for Regolith testing. This resulted in a potential savings of up to $60 million 

when compared to new construction within the Agency or in commercial industry. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

SCAP will continue to sustain the strategic technical capabilities needed by NASA for successful 

missions. SCAP will institute consistency in reimbursable pricing policies, perform quarterly program 

performance reviews, continually improve business practices, and provides a forum for cooperation 

between all Centers within asset classes. 

SCAP will continue to develop and implement disposition plans for assets that are no longer needed. 

CAS-29 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT: AGENCY MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS 

STRATEGIC CAPABILITIES ASSETS PROGRAM (SCAP)

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $28.0 million. This represents a $1.3 million decrease from the FY 2012 estimate 

($29.3 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $11.4 million for simulators to support NASA’s aeronautics fundamental research and aviation 

safety; 

$6.6 million for thermal vacuum and acoustic chambers to support launch and space 

environmental testing; and 

$10.0 million for the Arc Jet to support simulation of high velocity atmospheric entry conditions 

for design, development, test, and evaluation of thermal protective materials, vehicle structures, 

and aerothermodynamics. 

• 

• 

Projects 

SIMULATORS

This capability includes an array of research and development crewed flight simulator assets at ARC and 

LaRC that are in the operations phase. Simulators are critical components of the success of NASA's 

aeronautics research in the areas of fundamental aeronautics and aviation safety. Principal assets include: 

the vertical motion simulator at ARC, a large motion system, laboratories, and equipment, the Cockpit 

Motion Facility at LaRC and its supporting suite of simulators (the differential maneuvering simulator 

and the visual motion simulator), and central support facilities for aeronautics and spaceflight vehicle 

research. These capabilities provide scientists and engineers with tools to explore, define, and resolve 

issues in both vehicle design and missions operations. 

THERMAL-VACUUM, VACUUM, AND ACOUSTIC CHAMBERS

This capability includes several assets that simulate conditions during launch and in space environments 

at NASA facilities (GRC, GSFC, JPL, JSC, KSC, MSFC, and GRC Plum Brook Station). These assets 

have minimum outline dimensions of 10 by10 feet and can accommodate a spacecraft. These chambers 

have the capability of producing pressures down to 102

 torr or lower and thermal shrouds capable of 

liquid nitrogen temperatures or lower. Acoustic chambers are capable of generating approximately 150 

decibels at frequencies in the range of 25 to 1000 Hertz. These chambers perform significant risk 

mitigation for most of NASA payloads launched into space as well as many in other government agencies 

such as NOAA and DoD. 

CAS-30 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT: AGENCY MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS 

STRATEGIC CAPABILITIES ASSETS PROGRAM (SCAP)

ARC JET

This capability includes assets that provide simulated high temperature, high velocity environments, and 

that support the design, development, test, and evaluation activities of thermal protection materials, 

vehicle structures, aerothermodynamics, and hypersonics at ARC and JSC. A gas (typically air) is heated 

and accelerated to supersonic/hypersonic speeds by a continuous electrical arc. This high temperature gas 

passes over a test sample, and produces an approximation of the surface temperature and pressure 

environments experienced by a vehicle on atmospheric entry. 

Arc jet testing has been critical in the safe return from orbit of space shuttles with tile damage; providing 

essential validation of materials for the Mars entry missions such as Mars Science Laboratory. The 

Dragon spacecraft, made by the commercial company Space Exploration Technologies, also completed its 

heat shield development testing at NASA's Arc Jet Facility. 

Program Schedule 

Agency thermal 

vacuum capability and 

risk assessment 

TBD 2012

Close JSC Arc Jet 

Facility

TBD 2013

ARC arc jet capability 

and risk assessment 

TBD 2013

Simulator capability 

and risk assessment

TBD 2014

CAS-31 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT: AGENCY MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS 

STRATEGIC CAPABILITIES ASSETS PROGRAM (SCAP)

Program Management & Commitments 

Project/Element Provider

Simulators Provider: ARC, LaRC 

Project Management: ARC, LaRC 

NASA Center: ARC, LaRC 

Cost Share: DoD, FAA, commercial organizations

Thermal-Vacuum, 

Vacuum, and 

Acoustic Chambers

Provider: GRC, GSFC, JPL, JSC, MSFC

Project Management: GRC, GSFC, JPL, JSC, MSFC 

NASA Center: GRC, GSFC, JPL, JSC, MSFC 

Cost Share: DoD, commercial organizations

Provider: ARC 

Project Management: ARC 

NASA Center: ARC 

Cost Share: DoD, Commercial organizations

Arc Jets

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

NASA has extended the assessment schedule from bi-annual to tri-annual. This extension was necessary 

due to budget challenges. Extending time between assessments was determined to pose the lowest risk to 

program requirements within the allocated budget. 

Review Type Performer Last Review Purpose/Outcome Next Review

Performance Jacobs Engineering 9-Mar Independent assessment of GSFC, JSC, 

and JPL thermal vacuum technical 

capability and identify high risk areas

2012

Performance Jacobs Engineering 10-Sep Independent assessment of ARC arc jet 

technical capability and identify high 

risk areas

2013

Performance Jacobs Engineering 10-Jun Independent assessment of GRC and 

MSFC thermal vacuum technical 

capability and identify high risk areas

2013

Performance Jacobs Engineering 11-Mar Independent assessment of ARC and 

LaRC simulator technical capability and 

identify high risk areas

2014

CAS-32 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT: AGENCY MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS

HEADQUARTERS BUDGET BY OFFICE

AGENCY MANAGEMENT BUDGET BY HEADQUARTERS OFFICE

Actual Estimate Notional

($ in millions in full cost)1 FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

Science 27.8 28.6 27.6 27.6 27.6 27.6 27.6

Aeronautics Research 6.7 7.1 6.8 6.8 6.8 6.8 6.8

Space Technology 28.2 28.7 27.7 27.7 27.7 27.7 27.7

Human Exploration Office 5.2 5.8 5.6 5.6 5.6 5.6 5.6

Education 2.5 2.7 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6

Mission Directorates 70.4 73.0 70.4 70.4 70.4 70.4 70.4

Office of the Administrator 29.7 28.5 23.5 23.5 23.5 23.5 23.5

Chief Engineer 4.6 4.7 4.6 4.6 4.6 4.6 4.6

Chief Financial Office 26.2 27.3 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5

Chief Health and Medical Office 1.3 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5

Chief Information Office 6.8 8.3 8.6 8.6 8.6 8.6 8.6

Chief Scientist 0.0

Communication 14.5 13.8 12.9 12.9 12.9 12.9 12.9

Diversity and Equal Opportunity 4.8 3.9 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.5

General Counsel

Independent Program and Cost Evaluation2

International and Interagency Relations

8.9 8.5 8.3 8.3 8.3 8.3 8.3

11.7 12.1 11.9 11.9 11.9 11.9 11.9

Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs 3.8 3.9 3.7 3.7 3.7 3.7 3.7

Safety and Mission Assurance 6.9 6.7 6.5 6.5 6.5 6.5 6.5

Small Business Programs 1.6 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7

Staff Offices 120.8 120.9 114.0 114.0 114.0 114.0 114.0

Agy Operations/JPL NASA Mgt Office 6.1 6.4 8.2 8.2 8.2 8.2 8.2

Human Capital Mgt 30.3 30.2 29.2 29.2 29.2 29.2 29.2

Headquarters Operations 113.7 115.1 113.9 113.9 113.9 113.9 113.9

Strategic Infrastructure 16.5 16.3 15.0 15.0 15.0 15.0 15.0

Internal Controls and Mgt Systems 2.2 2.1 2.1 2.1 2.1 2.1 2.1

Procurement 7.1 7.2 7.1 7.1 7.1 7.1 7.1

Mission Support Directorate Front Office 4.1 2.7 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2

NASA Shared Services Center 13.4 12.4 12.9 12.9 12.9 12.9 12.9

Protective Services 16.9 17.2 16.8 16.8 16.8 16.8 16.8

Mission Support 210.4 209.5 207.4 207.4 207.4 207.4 207.4

Total Agency Management 401.6 403.3 391.8 391.8 391.8 391.8 391.8

(1) In accordance with the President's proposal to implement a five-year non-security discretionary spending freeze, budget figures shown for 

years after FY 2014 are notional and do not represent policy. Funding decisions will be made on a year-by-year basis. 

(2) Starting in FY 2012, work content for the Independent Program and Cost Evaluation office was moved to the Office of Administrator. 

CAS-33 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT: AGENCY MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS

HEADQUARTERS TRAVEL BUDGET BY OFFICE

HEADQUARTERS TRAVEL BUDGET BY OFFICE

Actual Estimate

($ in millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013

Science 1.7 1.6 1.6

Aeronautics Research 0.8 0.6 0.6

Space Technology 1.2 1.2 1.2

Human Exploration Office 2.9 2.1 2.1

Education 0.3 0.5 0.5

Mission Directorates 6.8 6.0 6.0

Office of the Administrator1 0.4 1.2 1.2

Chief Engineer 1.2 0.9 0.9

Chief Financial Office 0.4 0.3 0.3

Chief Health and Medical Office 0.1 0.1 0.1

Chief Information Office 0.7 0.6 0.6

Communication 0.3 0.3 0.2

Diversity and Equal Opportunity 0.1 0.1 0.1

General Counsel 0.1 0.1 0.1

Independent Program and Cost Evaluation1 1.0 n/a n/a

International and Interagency Relations 0.7 0.7 0.6

Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs 0.1 0.1 0.1

Safety and Mission Assurance 0.3 0.3 0.3

Small Business Programs 0.1 0.1 0.1

Staff Offices 5.4 4.6 4.5

Agency Operations/JPL NASA Management Office 0.1 0.1 0.1

Human Capital Management 1.3 1.0 0.9

Headquarters Operations 0.1 0.1 0.1

Strategic Infrastructure 0.4 0.5 0.4

Internal Controls and Management Systems 0.0 0.1 0.1

Procurement 0.1 0.2 0.2

Mission Support Directorate Front Office 0.2 0.2 0.1

Protective Services 0.2 0.1 0.1

Mission Support 2.4 2.2 1.9

Total Headquarters Travel Budget 14.6 12.8 12.4

(1) Starting in FY12, work content for the Independent Program and Cost Evaluation office was moved to the Office of Administrator.

CAS-34 
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT: AGENCY MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS

HEADQUARTERS FTE ASSIGNMENTS BY CENTER

CIVIL SERVANT FULL TIME EQUIVALENT DISTRIBUTION BY HEADQUARTERS 

OFFICE

Headquarters Total 

FTE

SMD 160

Actual

FY 2011

SES NonCareer

22

Contract Total 

WYE FTE

58 155

Estimate

FY 2012

SES NonCareer

19

Contract Total 

WYE FTE

50 155

FY 2013

SES NonCareer

19

Contract 

WYE

50

ARMD 39 8 14 40 9 10 39 9 10

ST 30 3 3 32 1 4 32 1 4

HEO 164 15 28 164 18 76 158 18 76

EDUC 14

Mission Directorates 407

2

50 0

21 15

124 406

3

50 0

22 15

161 399

3

50 0

22

161

Office of the Administrator 25 5 8 0 63 12 8 12 63 12 8 12

Chief Engineer 25 8 26 24 8 15 24 8 15

CFO 105 9 1 40 104 9 1 35 104 9 1 35

CHMO 8 1 9 1 4 9 1 4

CIO 40 6 27 48 8 26 48 8 27

Communications 53 5 3 30 49 5 3 28 49 5 3 28

Diversity and Equal Opp. 19 3 7 18 3 3 18 3 3

GC 43 6 2 40 6 2 40 6 2

1 Ind. Prog. and Cost Eval. 44

Int'l. and Inter-Agy Relations 52

5

7

7

6 52 7 6 52 7 6

Legis. and Intergov. Affairs 27 2 4 27 4 4 26 4 4

SMA 39 6 4 35 6 19 35 6 19

Small Business Programs 5

Staff Offices 485

1

64 18

3 5

150 474

1

70 18

3 5

151 473

1

70 18

3

152

NASA Mgt Office 25 1 6 27 1 2 25 1 2

Human Capital Mgt. 36 4 17 36 5 7 35 5 7

HQ Operations 105 3 324 111 4 304 104 4 293

Infrastructure 61 7 6 57 7 16 57 7 16

Int. Controls and Mgt. Sys. 10 1 1 10 0 1 9 0 1

Procurement 36 3 33 4 33 4

Msn. Supp. Dir. Front Ofc. 14 2 13 4 10 4

Protective Services 48

Mission Support 335

NASA HQ Total 1,227

1

22

136

0

18

3 46

357 333

631 1,213

2

27

147

0

18

8 45

338 318

650 1,190

2

27

147

0

18

8

327

640

(1) Starting in FY 2012, work content for the Independent Program and Cost Evaluation office was moved to the Office of Administrator. 

CAS-35 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND 

RESTORATION

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President's Budget Request 432.9 486.0 619.2 450.4 450.4 450.4 450.4

Construction of Facilities 373.3 441.2 552.8 359.5 362.9 360.0 360.0

Environmental Compliance and Restoration 59.6 44.8 66.4 90.9 87.5 90.4 90.4

CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE ..... CECR- 2 

AND RESTORATION OVERVIEW

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

Institutional Construction of Facilities CECR- 7 

Science Construction of Facilities CECR- 9 

Exploration Construction of Facilities CECR- 10

Space Operations Construction of Facilities CECR- 11 

Summary of FY 2013 Construction Projects CECR- 12 

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION ............ CECR-31 

 

CECR-1 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND 

RESTORATION (CECR)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President's Budget Request 432.9 486.0 619.2 450.4 450.4 450.4 450.4

Construction of Facilities 373.3 441.2 552.8 359.5 362.9 360.0 360.0

Environmental Compliance and Restoration 59.6 44.8 66.4 90.9 87.5 90.4 90.4

Budget Change Explanation - CoF

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 111.6

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 25.3%

Budget Change Explanation - ECR

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 21.6

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 48.2%

This 67-year old boiler was salvaged from a WWII ship 

and has been an experiment workhorse and national 

research asset for reentry vehicle thermal protection 

systems. The ArcJet Steam Vacuum Boiler at ARC, 

CA, generates superheated steam to create the vacuum 

in the arc jet. The condition of the boiler has reached 

the point where there is a high probability of failure 

during testing. The boiler does not meet current 

California emission standards, which limits the 

facility’s available test time. The FY 2013 budget 

includes a project to replace this boiler with three high 

efficiency boilers. 

CECR provides for design and execution of 

programmatic and non-programmatic discrete and 

minor revitalization construction of facilities 

projects, facility demolition projects, and 

environmental compliance and restoration 

activities. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, funding for all Construction of 

Facilities (CoF) projects, including programmatic 

requirements, will be requested through the CECR 

account. For programmatic CoF requirements, 

projects in formulation have identified a cost 

estimate for the FY 2013 request. Funds 

associated with out-year estimates for 

programmatic construction will remain in 

programmatic accounts. Consistent with the FY 

2013 changes, NASA has identified all 

Exploration and Space Operations programmatic 

construction requirements. 

CECR-2 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND 

RESTORATION (CECR)

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA began construction of three high performance repair by replacement facilities 

including the Facilities Support Center at DFRC, the Integrated Services Building at LaRC, and a 

replacement Engineering Office Building 4220 at MSFC. 

NASA began refurbishment of a key science facility, Building 26 at GSFC, and completed construction 

of NASA’s first net zero energy building, Propellants North at KSC. 

NASA also completed all field work related to decontamination and decommissioning of the Plum Brook 

Reactor Facility in Sandusky, OH. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA will continue essential infrastructure repair and revitalization activities as well as 

repair by replacement of facilities. Repair by replacement projects are those that provide sustainable and 

energy efficient infrastructure by replacing old, inefficient, deteriorated buildings with new, efficient, 

high-performance buildings. 

NASA will continue to reduce infrastructure by disposing of unneeded facilities, and to demolish 

unneeded Shuttle infrastructure such as the mate/demate device at DFRC and infrastructure at White 

Sands Space Harbor. NASA will also demolish several facilities that it no longer uses at Plum Brook 

Station, Sandusky, OH. 

NASA will pursue its strategy to recapitalize essential infrastructure through projects that include the 

replacement of essential electrical and mechanical systems at NASA’s Space Power Facility at Plum 

Brook Station (in Sandusky, OH), which is NASA’s largest space environmental test facility. NASA will 

also replace the Arc Jet Facility steam vacuum boiler system at ARC. The budget also completes interim 

soil cleanups and publication of an environmental impact statement for final soils cleanup at Santa Susana 

Field Laboratory in Los Angeles, CA. 

Themes 

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

The CoF program will make capital repairs to NASA’s critical infrastructure to improve safety and 

security, protect NASA’s infrastructure, and improve NASA’s operating efficiency by reducing utility 

usage. The program will continue to "right size" the infrastructure by demolishing infrastructure that 

NASA no longer needs. Projects with initial cost estimates between $1 and $10 million are included in 

the program as minor revitalization and construction projects, and projects with initial cost estimates of 

$10 million or greater are budgeted as discrete projects. Projects with initial cost estimates of $1 million 

CECR-3 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND 

RESTORATION (CECR)

or less are accomplished by routine day-to-day facility maintenance and repair activities provided for in 

program and Center operating budgets, which are funded within the Cross Agency Support account. 

NASA will continue to invest in projects that protect the Agency’s critical assets, improve mission 

assurance, reduce mission risk, and maintain mission essential capabilities. Investment in projects, such as 

replacing the steam vacuum boilers at the ARC Arc Jet Facility, supports an essential function for a 

national aerospace test asset. Utility system repairs and replacements will improve reliability throughout 

NASA’s infrastructure and reduce the risk of utility-caused mission failures. Refurbishment of an 

engineering building at JSC and the start of construction of a high-efficiency administrative building at 

KSC will continue to support NASA’s long term strategy of reducing operating costs, modernizing and 

consolidating key functions, and developing sustainable and energy efficient infrastructure by replacing 

old, inefficient, deteriorated buildings with new efficient high performance buildings. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $552.8 million. This represents a $111.6 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($441.2 million). The change reflects facility requirements identified to support 21st Century 

Launch Complex, Orion MPCV, and SLS. The FY 2013 request includes: 

• $384.0 million for Institutional CoF, which supports NASA’s long term strategy of reducing 

operating costs, modernizing and consolidating key functions and developing sustainable and 

energy efficient infrastructure by replacing old, inefficient, deteriorated buildings with new 

efficient high performance buildings. 

$143.7 million for Exploration CoF, which supports Exploration programs such as SLS and Orion 

MPCV. 

$21.9 million for Space Operations CoF, which supports Space Operations programs including 

21st Century Launch Complex, Space Communications and Networks (SCaN), and Launch 

Support Program (LSP). 

$3.2 million for Science CoF, which will improve the efficiency of JPL’s data management and 

meet the Administration direction to consolidate data centers. 

• 

• 

• 

KEY ACHIEVEMENT IN FY 2011 

Completion of the Facilities Support Center at DFRC eliminates a serious flight line safety issue by 

relocating a non-flightline function and personnel away from the flightline. The completed consolidated 

engineering building at MSFC consolidates the engineering workforce, that was previously dispersed 

throughout the Center. NASA also completed construction of the Consolidated Information Technology 

Center at DFRC and NASA’s first net zero energy building, Propellants North, at KSC. 

CECR-4 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND 

RESTORATION (CECR)

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION

NASA’s ECR program cleans up pollutants released to the environment during past activities. NASA 

prioritizes cleanups, ensuring that the highest priority liabilities are those that protect human health and 

the environment, and preserve natural resources for future missions. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $66.4 million. This represents a $21.6 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($44.8 million). The largest projects in the FY 2013 request include: 

• $15.5 million for implementing investigation and cleanup of contaminated groundwater and soils 

at Santa Susana Field Laboratory in accordance with a new Consent Order with the State of 

California. 

$13.9 million for continuing cleanup of ground water contamination and investigation of soil 

contamination at White Sands Test Facility, NM, to comply with the facility permit issued by the 

state. 

$7.4 million for continuing investigation and cleanup of ground water and soil contamination at 

KSC. 

$6.7 million for operating and maintaining systems to address contaminated groundwater 

emanating from JPL. 

• 

• 

• 

KEY ACHIEVEMENT IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA completed all field work related to decontamination and decommissioning of the 

Plum Brook Reactor Facility in Sandusky, OH. Completion of field work ends a decade-long effort and 

allows NASA to turn in its “Possess but do not Operate” license in accordance with Nuclear Regulatory 

Commission guidelines. 

CECR-5 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND 

RESTORATION (CECR)

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

CECR-6 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION

INSTITUTIONAL CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

265.1

FY 2012

310.6

--

FY 2013

384.0

73.4

FY 2014

359.5

FY 2015 FY 2016

362.9 360.0

FY 2017

360.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 23.6%

 

The Wallops Island Bridge along Virginia State Route 

175 is the only access to Wallops Island, which is 

NASA’s mid-Atlantic launch site and the Navy’s 

integrated warfare training site. The concrete bridge 

supports are spalling, raising safety concerns for the 

inter-coastal waterway and the people and space 

hardware that must cross the bridge. Spalling is damage 

caused by moisture seeping through the top layer of the 

concrete causing chipping, flaking, or scaling when it 

freezes and expands. If not repaired, it can cause 

crumbling and destruction of a structure. The FY 2013 

budget includes the replacement of this bridge. 

The Institutional CoF program will make capital 

repairs to NASA’s critical infrastructure to 

improve safety and security, protect NASA’s 

infrastructure, and improve NASA’s operating 

efficiency by reducing utility usage. The program 

will continue to "right-size" the infrastructure by 

demolishing infrastructure that is no longer 

needed. Projects with initial cost estimates 

between $1 and $10 million are included in the 

program as minor revitalization and construction 

projects, and projects with initial cost estimates of 

$10 million or greater are budgeted as discrete 

projects. Projects with initial cost estimates of 

$1 million or less are accomplished by routine 

day-to-day facility maintenance and repair 

activities provided for in program and Center 

operating budgets. 

NASA will invest in projects that protect the 

Agency’s critical assets, improve mission 

assurance, reduce mission risk, and maintain 

mission essential capabilities. NASA will also 

revitalize critical national assets such as replacing 

the stem vacuum boilers at the ARC Arc Jet 

Complex. This is NASA’s first investment in its 

strategy to consolidate arc jet capability at ARC 

and modernize the capability to meet future research requirements. Utility system repairs and 

replacements will improve reliability throughout NASA’s infrastructure and reduce the risk of utilitycaused mission failures. Refurbishment of an engineering building at JSC and the start of construction of 

a high efficiency administrative building at KSC will continue to support NASA’s long term strategy of 

reducing operating costs, modernizing and consolidating key functions and developing sustainable and 

energy efficient infrastructure by replacing old, inefficient, deteriorated buildings with new efficient high 

performance buildings. 

NASA will continue to reduce infrastructure by disposing of unneeded facilities and demolish unneeded 

Shuttle infrastructure such as the mate/demate device at Dryden Facilities Support Center and 

infrastructure at White Sands Space Harbor. The demolition of the bridge at GRC has been deferred. 

CECR-7 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION

INSTITUTIONAL CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

North Campus has already been declared excess and NASA is working with General Service 

Administration for the disposal. The total acreage is 9.8 acres. NASA will also recapitalize essential 

infrastructure through projects that include the replacement of essential electrical and mechanical systems 

at NASA’s Space Power Facility, NASA’s largest space environmental test facility, and the replacement 

of NASA’s Arc Jet Facility steam vacuum boiler system. 

EXPLANATION OF PROGRAM CHANGES

No significant program changes. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $384.0 million. This represents a $73.4 million increase from the FY 2012 

estimate ($310.6 million). The FY 2013 request includes: 

• Three repair by replacement projects, which support NASA’s long term strategy of reducing 

operating costs, modernizing and consolidating key functions and developing sustainable and 

energy efficient infrastructure by replacing old, inefficient, deteriorated buildings with new 

efficient high performance buildings. 

Seventeen projects that restore, replace, and upgrade horizontal infrastructure at NASA Centers. 

This improves reliability throughout NASA’s infrastructure and reduces the risk of utility-caused 

mission failures. 

• 

CECR-8 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION

SCIENCE CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

52.5

--

FY 2012

11.5

--

FY 2013

3.2

-8.3

FY 2014

0.0

FY 2015 FY 2016

0.0 0.0

FY 2017

0.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -72.2%

 

JPL is the key Center for managing deep space science 

research data, which includes data collection, 

processing, and distribution for researcher use. JPL’s 

current data center is housed in a temporary modular 

building. Inadequate temperature and humidity control, 

as well as leaks, pose a risk to the data center servers, 

potentially causing loss of access to critical research 

data. The FY 2013 budget includes a project to replace 

this data center, consolidating it with servers across JPL 

and from off site locations into the new data center. 

The Science CoF program includes construction 

funding required to support Science programs and 

projects. This request provides funds to replace 

the data center at JPL that will reduce the risk to 

science data, improve the efficiency of JPL’s data 

management and meet the presidential directive to 

consolidate data centers. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

For programmatic CoF, projects in formulation 

have identified a cost estimate for the FY 2013 

request. Funds associated with out-year estimates 

for programmatic construction remain in 

programmatic accounts. FY 2013 Science CoF 

budget request includes funding to replace the data 

center at JPL. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $3.2 million. This represents an $8.3 million decrease from the FY 2012 estimate 

($11.5 million). 

CECR -9 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION

EXPLORATION CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

15.1 

--

FY 2012

52.5 

--

FY 2013

143.7 

91.2 

FY 2014

0.0 

FY 2015 FY 2016

0.0 0.0 

FY 2017

0.0 

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 173.7%

 

The 50-story high, 50-year old Vehicle Assembly 

Building (VAB) and neighboring Launch Control 

Center are NASA icons and National historical 

landmarks, housing eight acres under one roof. The 

VAB, one of the tallest buildings in Florida, is used for 

final assembly of heavy lift launch vehicles in 

preparation for transport to the launch pad. The control 

center is the communication and command center for 

launch operations at Launch Complex 39, the planned 

launch site for NASA’s new Space Launch System.

Exploration CoF provides construction funding 

required to support Exploration programs and 

projects. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES 

FOR FY 2013 

For programmatic CoF, projects in formulation 

have identified a cost estimate for the FY 2013 

request. Funds associated with out-year estimates 

for programmatic construction remain in 

programmatic accounts. FY 2013 Exploration 

CoF includes funding for SLS and Orion MPCV 

construction requirements necessary to implement 

NASA’s new direction, consistent with the NASA 

Authorization Act of 2010. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $143.7 million. This 

represents a $91.2 million increase from the FY 

2012 estimate ($52.5 million). The FY 2013 

request provides for CoF requirements in support 

of Exploration programs including SLS and 

MPCV. 

NASA will begin modifying Launch Complex 39 at KSC to support the new SLS. NASA will begin with 

major repairs, code upgrades and safety improvements to the Launch Control Center, Vehicle Assembly 

Building (VAB) and the VAB Utility Annex. This initial work will be required to support any launch 

vehicle operated from Launch Complex 39 and will allow NASA to begin modernizing the facilities 

while vehicle specific requirements are being developed. 

NASA will also begin work at the Michoud Assembly Facility, in New Orleans, LA, to prepare the 

facility for manufacturing tooling for the manufacture of SLS and MPCV systems. 

CECR-10 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION

SPACE OPERATIONS CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

40.6

--

FY 2012

66.7

--

FY 2013

21.9

-44.8

FY 2014

0.0

FY 2015 FY 2016

0.0 0.0

FY 2017

0.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -67.2%

 

Over the next 10-15 years the planets align in 

such a way that the Southern Hemisphere will 

have the best overall view of the existing 

spacecraft spread out across the Solar System. A 

34-meter beam waveguide antenna, like the one 

pictured, is proposed for Canberra, Australia. 

The Canberra complex already supports over 

three-dozen individual robotic spacecraft, and 

the additional antenna will support these 

missions, plus the planned and expected growth 

in deep space missions over the next decade.

Space Operations CoF provides construction funding 

required to support Space Operations programs and 

projects, including 21st Century Launch Complex, 

SCaN, and LSP. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR 

FY 2013 

For programmatic CoF, projects in formulation have 

identified a cost estimate for the FY 2013 request. Funds 

associated with out-year estimates for programmatic 

construction remain in programmatic accounts. Space 

Operations CoF includes funding for 21st Century 

Launch Complex construction requirements necessary to 

implement NASA’s new direction, consistent with the 

NASA Authorization Act of 2010. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $21.9 million. This represents a 

$44.8 million decrease from the FY 2012 estimate 

($66.7 million). 

The FY 2013 request provides for CoF requirements in 

support of 21st Century Launch Complex, SCaN, and 

LSP. 

CECR-11 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

SUMMARY OF CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

In Millions of Dollars 

Actual 

FY 

2011 

Estimate

FY 

2012 

Request

FY 

2013 

Restore Building 26 (GSFC) 14.0 --- --- 

Modify Thermal Vacuum Chamber A (JSC) 38.5 11.5 --- 

Minor Revitalization of Facilities at Various Locations --- --- 3.2 

Science CoF 52.5 11.5 3.2

 

Repair and Modify Launch Complex 39B for SLS, (KSC) --- 6.1 28.5 

Repairs and Modifications to VAB, LCC and Utility Annex, (KSC) --- --- 15.7 

Modifications to Vehicle Assembly Building (KSC) --- 2.4 --- 

Modifications to Test Stand 4572 for SLS Structural Testing of LH2 Tank (MSFC) --- --- 24.5 

Modifications for SLS Component Fabrication, Bldg, 103, MAF (MSFC) --- --- 11.5 

Modifications for SLS Manufacturing, Bldg, 110, MAF (MSFC) --- --- 12.0 

Modifications for SLS Manufacturing, Bldg, 420, MAF (MSFC) --- --- 27.5 

Modifications to Hazardous Processing Facilities, (KSC) --- 3.0 --- 

Revitalize High Pressure Industrial Water System (SSC) --- 6.0 --- 

Modifications to Accommodate SLS Core Stages, MAF (MSFC) --- 5.5 --- 

Modify Space Power Facility, Plum Brook Station (GRC) 1.2 --- --- 

Construct A-3 Propulsion Test Facility (SSC) 13.5 --- --- 

Minor Revitalization of Facilities at Various Locations --- 29.5 24.0

Facilities Planning and Design (Various Locations) 0.4 --- --- 

Exploration CoF 15.1 52.5 143.7

 

Construct 34-Meter Beam Waveguide Antennas, Canberra, Australia (JPL) 7.3 14.5 10.9 

Modifications to Launch Complex 39 Pad B (KSC) 14.7 --- --- 

Modifications to Hazardous Processing Facilities (KSC) --- 13.0 --- 

Modifications to Vehicle Assembly Building (KSC) --- 10.9 

Revitalize High Pressure Industrial Water System (SSC) 10.0 --- 

Upgrades to Wallops Range Assets (GSFC) 0.9 --- --- 

Minor Revitalization of Facilities at Various Locations 14.7 18.3 11.0

Facility Planning and Design (Various Locations) 3.0 --- --- 

Space Operations CoF 40.6 66.7 21.9 

 

Replace Steam Vacuum System Boiler, Arc Jet Complex (ARC) --- --- 31.2 

Replace Support Systems in Space Power Facility Test Building No. 1411, 

 Phase 2 (GRC) 

Repair Domestic Water System Main Piping, Phase 1 (GRC) 

 --- --- 22.0 

11.0 

Upgrade Logistics Facility (GSFC) --- --- 10.2 

Refurbish North Wing, Project Engineering Building 45 (JSC) --- --- 10.0 

CECR-12 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

Repair Chilled Water System, Emergency Power Plant (48) (JSC) 

Construct Replacement Shared Services and Office Building, Phase 1 (KSC) 

Revitalize High Pressure Industrial Water System (SSC) 

Construct Flight Project Center (GSFC) 

Launch Facilities Protection, WFF (GSFC) 

Construct West Arroyo Parking Structure (JPL) 

Revitalize Water and Waste Water Systems, Various Locations (KSC) 

Construct Integrated Services Building (LaRC) 

Renovate East Test Area Industrial Water Distribution System (MSFC) 

Replace Potable Water System (SSC) 

Construct Replacement Facilities Support Center (DFRC) 

Construct Replacement Engineering Office Building 4220 (MSFC) 

Minor Revitalization of Facilities at Various Locations 

Demolition of Facilities 

Facility Planning and Design 

 --- 

 --- 

 --- 

--- 

18.9 

 --- 

 --- 

20.4 

 --- 

 --- 

12.5 

40.0 

136.0 

15.5 

21.8 

 --- 

 --- 

 --- 

36.9 

17.0 

18.0 

27.6 

30.0 

15.0 

10.0 

 --- 

 --- 

95.6 

22.9 

37.6 

11.9 

45.0 

24.0 

--- 

 --- 

 --- 

 --- 

 --- 

 --- 

 --- 

 --- 

 --- 

164.9 

20.0 

33.8 

Institutional CoF 265.1 310.6 384.0

DISCRETE PROJECTS

Exploration CoF 

Project Title: Repair and Modify LC-39B Complex for SLS 

Location: KSC, FL 

FY 2013 Construction Estimate: $28.5 million 

Scope/Description

This project repairs and modifies selected facility systems at Launch Complex (LC) 39B to SLS 

processing and launch operations. This is the second phase of a five-phase project currently budgeted at 

$89.2 million ($6.1 million in FY 2012, $28.5 million in FY 2013, $9.4 million in FY 2014 and $45.2 

million in the outyears). 

This phase consists primarily of modifications to the ground cooling system; repairs and modifications to 

the potable water and fire-suppression piping systems; modifications to the ignition overpressure and 

sound suppression system; modifications on the launch pad side of the mobile launcher/launch pad 

interfaces; upgrade of the pneumatics system; installation of a liquid oxygen vaporizer; and miscellaneous 

demolition activities. This phase of work will be a complete and usable segment of the overall five-year 

plan. 

As SLS technical requirements mature, NASA may need to add, delete, or substitute, individual work 

elements within the project. NASA will update the scope/description of the project in the President’s 

Budget Request for each subsequent year, if any such adjustments are made. 

CECR-13 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

Basis of Need

The family of facilities and facility systems collectively referred to as LC-39B includes a launch pad; 

supporting horizontal infrastructure such as potable and fire suppression water piping; liquid hydrogen 

and liquid oxygen storage facilities; a fire water storage tank; low voltage electrical power substations; 

security fencing and guard gates; two operations support buildings; and a variety of smaller facility 

elements mostly found within the confines of the perimeter fence surrounding the pad, or within walking 

distance of it. 

LC-39B is over 40 years old and is still primarily configured for Shuttle launch operations. Many of the 

facility systems within the 39B launch complex are in varying states of disrepair and need to be refreshed 

and sometimes reconfigured to support the new SLS program. Specific to this phase, the project restores 

the functionality and reliability of the deteriorated facility systems and infrastructure identified in the 

preceding scope/description, and corrects their inadequate configuration for use in support of SLS. 

The repairs and modifications provided for by this project must be completed in time to support future 

SLS launches because there are no other launch facilities that have the size or capabilities necessary to 

otherwise support SLS launch operations. Failure to implement this project will seriously impact NASA’s 

ability to transition and sustain the use of this launch complex to support SLS. 

Other Related Costs Amount ($M) 

Studies/Design 3.1

Related Equipment N/A 

Activation N/A

Other N/A

Estimated Schedule Start Complete 

Design 02/2012 Dec-12

Construction 03/2013 Jun-15

Activation 07/2015 Sep-15

 

 

 

Project Title: Repairs and Modifications to VAB, Launch Control Center (LCC), and Utility Annex 

(UA) 

Location: KSC, FL 

FY 2013 Construction Estimate: $15.7 million 

Scope/Description

This project repairs and modifies selected facility systems in the VAB, LCC, and VAB UA to enable SLS 

processing and launch operations. This is the second phase of a five-phase project currently budgeted at 

$137.5million ($13.3 million in FY 2012, $15.7 million in FY 2013, $68.9 million in FY 2014 and $39.6 

million in the outyears). 

This phase consists primarily of repairs and modifications to the fire suppression water supply 

distribution system supporting the VAB and LCC. Work includes replacement of fire-water pumps 

housed in the UA and booster pumps in the upper levels of the VAB that pressurize the fire-water supply 

system for the VAB; repair and reconfiguration of the current interconnects from the UA to the VAB and 

LCC to decouple the LCC from the VAB high pressure, high volume fire water system; addition of new 

fire-water pumps dedicated to the LCC to pressurize the existing fire-water system for the LCC; repair, 

replacement, and reconfiguration, as required, of the fire-water risers from ground level to the roof level 

in the VAB to valves that serve as redistribution points to the individual high bays and common areas of 

the VAB. This phase of the project also provides, although to a lesser extent, for safety and security 

CECR-14 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

upgrades to other facility systems throughout the VAB/LCC/UA complex. This phase of work will be a 

complete and usable segment of the overall five-year plan. 

As SLS technical requirements mature, NASA may need to add, delete, or substitute, individual work 

elements within the project. NASA will update the scope/description of the project in the President’s 

Budget Request for each subsequent year, if any such adjustments are made. 

Basis of Need

The VAB is a 50-story building with multi-level access platforms and associated support infrastructure. It 

is uniquely designed to receive, assemble, integrate, process, and service very large and complex launch 

vehicles. No other facility in the U.S. has this basic capability. Facility systems such as overhead cranes, 

power, water, compressed gases, communications, and fire suppression, are located inside the building. 

The UA supplies the VAB and the LCC with hot water, chilled water, compressed air, and fire 

suppression water. Launch operations are controlled within the LCC, which is physically attached to the 

VAB and thus shares common infrastructure. 

The VAB must be reconfigured from the current Shuttle-support configuration to a configuration that can 

reliably support the SLS. This includes the supporting utility systems as well as the facility itself. Most of 

the utility services for the VAB originate within the UA and are common to both the VAB and the LCC. 

Many of the facility systems within the VAB/LCC/UA complex are in varying states of disrepair and 

need to be refreshed, and sometimes reconfigured, to support the new program. Specific to this phase, the 

fire suppression system in the VAB is about 50 years old and the piping has experienced significant 

internal corrosion, affecting the flow-capacity and causing leaks that cumulatively amount to about 5,000 

gallons per week. The system is no longer serviceable in its current state and will be restored to meet 

National Fire Protection Association life-safety code standards. In its current configuration, the fire 

suppression pumping system in the UA feeds the VAB and the LCC. This may cause the LCC system to 

experience overpressure situations that can lead to major water damage to the LCC. The damages from 

one such incident in2010 required repair costs in excess of $1 million. 

The repairs and modifications provided for by this project must be completed in time to support future 

SLS launches because there are no other facilities that have the size or capabilities necessary to otherwise 

support SLS vehicle assembly operations. 

Other Related Costs Amount $M) 

Studies/Design 0.9

Related Equipment N/A 

Activation N/A

Other N/A

Estimated Schedule Start Complete 

Design Aug-11 Sep-12

Construction Jan-13 Jan-14

Activation Jan-15 Mar-15

 

 

 

CECR-15 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

Project Title: Modifications to Test Stand 4572 for SLS Structural Testing of Liquid Hydrogen 

Tank 

Location: MSFC, Huntsville, AL 

FY 2013 Construction Estimate: $24.5 million 

Scope/Description

This project includes facility modifications of the existing test stand 4572 to accommodate development 

and qualification of SLS Stages components at the MSFC. The components to be developed and qualified 

are based on the near term convergence of the SLS Stages Element Point of Departure design and the 

prime contractors design solution. There are multiple trade studies in process that will determine the final 

component configuration and requirements that will be verified through testing at this location. This 

project will be funded in two phases (FY 2012 to FY2013). The first phase (FY 2012, $5.5 million) 

includes demolition of existing steel external to the concrete tower. The external steel is unsuitable with 

respect to physical condition and form to support the component tests. Stabilization of the existing 

concrete foundation will be developed in the first phase as well. This second phase (FY 2013, $24.5 

million) will include the fabrication and installation of new concrete foundation to support the special test 

equipment, work platforms, failure recovery system and pneumatic systems. This project is not functional 

until both phases have been constructed. 

Basis of Need

Provides qualification data required to validate the SLS Stages Element. Directly mitigates technical and 

schedule risk of the SLS program. 

Other Related Costs Amount ($M) 

Studies/Design 2.2

Related Equipment 9.5 

Activation N/A

Other N/A

Estimated Schedule Start Complete 

Design FY 2012 FY2012

Construction Jan-13 Jan-14

Activation Jul-14

 

 

 

Project Title: Modifications for SLS Component Fabrication, Building. 103 

Location: Michoud Assembly Facility (MAF), New Orleans, LA 

FY 2013 Construction Estimate: $11.5 million 

Scope/Description

This project includes facility modifications to Building 103 at MAF to accommodate multiple SLS core 

stage manufacturing steps. The primary manufacturing processes include slosh baffle assembly, structural 

mechanical assembly for forward skirt/instrument unit assembly, avionics installation for forward skirt, 

intertank assembly, core thrust structure for mechanical assembly and main propulsion system/avionics 

installation, miscellaneous thermal protection system application, and wire harness installation. The 

modifications for each area will be specific/ unique to that process but in general will include 

modifications or new foundations, floor trenches, electrical service, compressed air, missile grade air, 

process water, chilled water, lighting, grounding and other miscellaneous modifications necessary to meet 

individual processing requirements. 

CECR-16 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

Basis of Need

These facility modifications are necessary to accommodate SLS core stage production operations in 

Building 103. The work includes the necessary facility modifications required to accommodate the 

installation of new as well as the modification to existing tooling in Building 103 in support of the SLS 

production process. The liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen tanks for SLS differ in length and 

configuration than the tanks associated with the external tank project. These changes as well as revised 

manufacturing techniques/ processes necessitate facility modifications. 

Other Related Costs Amount ($M) 

Studies/Design 0.5

Related Equipment 25 

Activation N/A

Other N/A

Estimated Schedule Start Complete 

Design May-12 Jul-13

Construction Jan-13 Apr-14 

Activation N/A May-14

 

 

 

Project Title: Modifications for SLS Manufacturing, Building. 110 

Location: Michoud Assembly Facility, New Orleans, LA 

FY 2013 Construction Estimate: $12 million 

Scope/Description 

This project includes the facilities modifications to Building 110 at MAF to accommodate several SLS 

production processes. The major processes addressed by this project are the internal cleaning of the liquid 

hydrogen and liquid oxygen tanks in Cell E, the hydrostatic proof-loading of the liquid oxygen tank in 

Cell F, and the stacking of tank components in Cell A. These modifications include foundations, cell 

walls and doors, elevators, cell lid, access platforms and stairs, personnel doors, HVAC, common solution 

wash system, control systems, numerous utilities such as steam condensate, chilled water, plant air, 

process water, power etc, lighting and grounding. The work will include all related activities necessary to 

meet the SLS requirements for tank washing, stacking and proof loading in Building 110. 

Basis of Need:

These facility modifications are necessary to accommodate SLS core stage production operations in 

Building 110. The work includes the necessary facility modifications required to accommodate the 

installation of new as well as the modification to existing tooling in Building 110 in support of the SLS 

production process. The liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen tanks for SLS differ in length and 

configuration than the tanks associated with the external tank project. These differences require 

modifications to tank processing supporting structures, facility utilities both in quantities and 

configuration and control system components upgrades. These changes as well as revised manufacturing 

techniques/ processes necessitate facility modifications to support SLS processing requirements. 

Other Related Costs Amount ($M) 

Studies/Design 0.7

Related Equipment 3.5 

Activation N/A

Other N/A

Estimated Schedule Start Complete 

Design FY2012 FY2012

Construction Apr-13 Sep-14

Activation Oct-14

 

 

 

CECR-17 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

CECR-18 

Project Title: Modifications for SLS Manufacturing, Building. 420 

Location: Michoud Assembly Facility, New Orleans, LA 

FY 2013 Construction Estimate: $27.5 million 

Scope/Description: 

This project includes the facility modifications for MAF Building 420 Cells 3 and 4 to accommodate the 

horizontal mating and final integration of the core stage for SLS. The cells for this building will be 

extended to accommodate the horizontal integration of the core stage. The major modifications/additions 

required to complete this work are foundations and piling, paving, structural addition, siding, roofing, 

cranes, HVAC, mechanical equipment, compressed air, lighting, power and grounding. The work will 

include all related activities necessary to meet the SLS requirements for core stage mating and final 

integration in Building 420. 

Basis of Need:

These facility modifications are necessary to accommodate SLS core stage production operations in 

Building 420. The work includes the necessary facility modifications required to accommodate the 

installation of new tooling in Building 420 in support of the SLS production process. The liquid hydrogen 

and liquid oxygen tanks for SLS differ in length and configuration than the tanks associated with the 

external tank project. The overall length of the core stage necessitates horizontal mating of the tank 

assemblies in this facility rather than vertical mating performed for the external tank project in a different 

facility. These differences require modifications to the building length and additional utilities, foundations 

and cranes. These tank size changes as well as revised manufacturing techniques/ processes necessitate 

facility modifications to support SLS processing requirements. 

Other Related Costs Amount ($M) 

Studies/Design 2.5

Related Equipment 3.5 

Activation N/A

Other N/A

Estimated Schedule Start Complete 

Design FY2012 FY2012

Construction Jul-13 Oct-14 

Activation Nov-14

 

 

 

Space Operations CoF 

Project Title: Construct 34-Meter Beam Waveguide Antennas 

Location: Canberra, Australia 

Program Supported: SCAN 

FY 2013 Construction Estimate: $10.9 million 

Scope/Description

This project includes fabrication and installation of the foundations and pedestals, panels, gearboxes, 

bearings, electric drives, encoders, beam waveguide mirrors, sub-reflector and sub-reflector positioner for 

Deep Space Network antennas. It includes design and construction facilities in and around the Canberra 

Deep Space Communication Complex. These include paved access roads, trenches, drainage, flood 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

control devices, water main and distribution system, antenna apron, security fence, heating, ventilation, 

and air conditioning, electrical power distribution, fire detection and suppression system, and surveillance 

system assembly. The first antenna estimated construction cost is $24.0 million and expected to be 

completed in FY 2015. NASA is anticipating that subsequent antennas will be impacted by an increase in 

cost for high demand materials and by the foreign exchange rate. These factors were included in estimates 

for the second and third antenna. The second antenna just started and estimated construction cost is $25.2 

million. Construction of the third antenna is anticipated to begin in FY 2014 with an estimated 

construction cost of $26.5 million. The total estimated construction cost for all three antennas is $75.7 

million ($6.8 million in FY 2010, $7.3 million in FY 2011, $14.5 million in FY 2012, $10.9 million in FY 

2013 and $36.2 million in outyears FY 2014 to FY 2016). 

Basis of Need

Beam waveguide antennas are needed to add resilience in the southern hemisphere for the Deep Space 

Network. This will support additional mission loading from projects currently under development and 

scheduled for launch sometime during or after 2015.The 70 meter antennas at each complex are reaching 

the end of their service life. These projects will enhance the capability of the 70 meter antenna at 

Canberra. 

Other Related Costs Amount ($M) 

Studies/Design 0.4

Related Equipment N/A 

Activation N/A

Other N/A

Estimated Schedule Start Complete 

Design Oct-09 Mar-10

Construction Sep-10 Dec-17

Activation N/A N/A

 

 

 

Institutional CoF 

Project Title: Replace Steam Vacuum System Boiler, Arc Jet Complex 

Location: ARC, Moffett Field, CA 

FY 2013 Construction Estimate: $31.2 million 

Scope/Description

This project will replace the 67 year old boiler with three new boilers each capable of providing 50 

percent of the capacity of the existing boiler but also allowing for maintenance without disruption. 

Installation will include a canopy structure to protect the new boilers and the ancillary HVAC, fire 

suppression, electrical, controls interface, and plumbing systems. This project will include demolition and 

disposal of existing boiler, building, and supporting infrastructure. 

Basis of Need

The Arc Jet Complex is a critical mission support facility for the Agency, providing a vital component in 

thermal protection system development for all programs as it is required for any re-entry vehicle. 

Currently the facility steam vacuum system relies on a single 65 year old, World War II ship boiler and is 

limited to operate at 10 percent of its maximum capacity in order to meet current nitrogen oxide and 

carbon monoxide emissions. The existing boiler cannot be further modified to enhance its emission level. 

CECR-19 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

Permission to operate under this limitation is a specific exemption in the 2012 regulations. It is extremely 

likely that this exemption will not be included in future updates of the regulations. Future updates to the 

air emission regulations poses unacceptable risk to continue boiler operations. Furthermore, the age and 

constant maintenance requirements pose very high probability of failure. The consequences of failure are 

severe. Without the boiler, facility test operations in all three test legs; Interaction Heating Facility, the 

Aerodynamic Heating Facility, and the Panel Test Facility, would cease immediately, impacting missions 

across the Agency. Repair or replacement would require anywhere from two to 18 months depending on 

its severity. An unscheduled interruption of this duration would impact vital programs across all science 

and engineering mission directorates. 

Other Related Costs Amount ($M) 

Studies/Design 2.6

Related Equipment N/A 

Activation N/A

Other N/A

Estimated Schedule Start Complete 

Design Jun-11 Jul-12

Construction Apr-13 Mar-14

Activation Mar-14 Jul-14

 

 

 

Project Title: Replace Support Systems in Space Power Facility (SPF) Test Building 1411, Phase 2 

Location: GRC (Plum Brook Station), Sandusky, OH 

FY 2013 Construction Estimate: $22.0 million 

Scope/Description

This project is the second of two phases of institutional repairs to the SPF Test Building 1411 at 

GRC/Plum Brook Station. The SPF at Plum Brook Station is a mission critical facility for the Agency that 

provides testing services for multiple programs. The scope of work for this phase includes the 

repair/replacement of existing roofing on the disassembly area, the electrical/mechanical room, the pump 

room, the shop area, and the cryogenic room. In addition, the project will include the refurbishment of the 

assembly area and vacuum chamber HVAC systems, the disassembly area HVAC systems, and other 

miscellaneous HVAC systems around the SPF Test Building. The facility electrical systems (high, 

medium, and low voltage) will be refurbished and arc flash protection will be implemented. Existing high 

bay crane controls will be replaced with new equipment and the test chamber door controls and 

lift/translate mechanisms will be upgraded. Other facility systems that will be refurbished include the 

control room, the intercom system, and various facility plumbing and sump pump systems. Lastly, the 

vacuum chamber vibration isolation system will be refurbished, and a mission essential infrastructure 

facility security system will be installed. 

Basis of Need

SPF at Plum Brook Station is a mission critical facility for the Agency that provides testing services for 

multiple programs. Currently, the disassembly area of SPF is being outfitted with vibration and acoustic 

facilities to support environmental testing of the Orion MPCV. In addition, SPF is being considered for 

future testing needs to support human rated space systems. SPF is a highly sought-after facility for 

reimbursable testing activities such as parachute testing for the U.S. Army and for payload fairing testing 

of nearly all the large expendable launch vehicles throughout the world including the Boeing Delta IV and 

Lockheed Martin Atlas V launch vehicle (vehicles used for many NASA missions). SPF Building 1411 

was constructed in 1968, and most of the building systems are original equipment and are beyond their 

useful life. These institutional repairs will ensure that a clean, safe, temperature/humidity-controlled, 

CECR-20 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

weather-tight atmosphere is available for handling expensive test and flight hardware. In addition, the 

project will significantly reduce the deferred maintenance for the facility. 

Other Related Costs Amount ($M) 

Studies/Design 1.7

Related Equipment N/A 

Activation N/A

Other N/A

Estimated Schedule Start Complete 

Design Apr-10 Apr-12

Construction May-13 Nov-14 

Activation N/A N/A

 

 

 

Project Title: Repair Domestic Water System Main Piping, Phase 1 

Location: GRC, Cleveland, OH 

FY 2013 Construction Estimate: $11.0 million 

Scope/Description

This project is the first of two planned phases for repairing the domestic water distribution system at 

GRC/Lewis Field. The domestic water main is over 60 years old and has had numerous major failures in 

the past five years. Included in the scope of work for this project is the replacement of the 12 inches 

diameter Walcott Road main from Taylor Road to Moffett Road, the replacement of the 6 inches diameter 

service supply line to Building 102, and the relocation of the service supply line to Building 49 (relocate 

the supply line away from the front entrance). In addition, this project will replace the currently nonfunctional 24 inches, diameter main isolation valve north of Building 101 and abandon the leaking service 

supply line to Building 140 (which is scheduled for demolition in the future). Lastly, this project will 

install water meters to multiple buildings at Lewis Field. This project will provide necessary repairs that 

will eliminate costly emergency repairs and avoid building closures which require personnel to be 

evacuated. The reduction of leaks will also help GRC to meet water reduction goals. Phase 2 is currently 

estimated at $13 million for a total of $24 million. 

Basis of Need

The GRC/Lewis Field city water piping mains and fire hydrants are 60 years old and there have been 

numerous system failures in the past five years. Since many of the existing main isolation valves are 

nonfunctional, piping failures require shutdown of large sections of the mains resulting in loss of water 

service to many buildings. The locations of many of the mains and branch lines to the building are 

inaccessible (i.e., under sidewalks, roads, and drives) making leaks expensive to repair. Relocation of the 

mains and branch lines into the tree lawns will allow for better access for repair and maintenance. 

In the recent Energy and Water Functional Review and Environmental Functional Review conducted at 

GRC/Lewis Field in July 2010, several deficiencies were identified with the city water distribution 

system. The environmental review identified excessive chlorine in wastewater discharge as a top Center 

challenge, which is symptomatic of city water system leaks. Also the Energy and Water Functional 

Review cited significant leaks in the distribution system requiring repairs as a top risk to mission. Further, 

in order to comply with Energy and Independence Security Act of 2007 annual water intensity reduction 

mandates, eliminating system leaks is a first order priority. This project addresses all the cited 

deficiencies. 

CECR-21 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

Other Related Costs Amount ($M) 

Studies/Design 8.8

Related Equipment N/A 

Activation N/A

Other N/A

Estimated Schedule Start Complete 

Design/PER Sep-12 Sep-12

Construction May-13 Oct-14

Activation N/A N/A

 

 

 

Project Title: Upgrade Logistics Facility 

Location: GSFC, Greenbelt, MD 

FY 2013 Construction Estimate: $10.2 million 

Scope/Description

This project is to upgrade 93,000 square feet of space in the Logistics Building in order to gain 

efficiencies in the logistics operations at GSFC. It will co-locate eight remaining logistics functions 

currently housed in Building 16 with five logistics functions already in this building. The work includes 

walls, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and all other necessary upgrades to accommodate the following 

logistics functions: packing and crating, traffic management, projects parts storage, Headquarters 

publications and furniture, business, management and procurement, micro-electronics fabrication, 

HAZMAT management and disposal. The project will provide GSFC with one consolidated logistics 

facility for the GSFC Greenbelt campus. Consolidating the logistics function, along with the construction 

of the Flight Projects Building in 2012, will allow the Building 16 complex to be demolished as a part of 

the demolition program in accordance with the Center master plan. 

Basis of Need

This project is a linked critical component of the GSFC master plan. An independent study conducted in 

the summer of 2009, determined that the logistics operations at the Center would be adversely impacted if 

all core logistics functions were not co-located in one facility. The information and Logistics 

Management Division provides critical logistical services that support every line of business at GSFC. 

This consolidation will improve operational efficiencies. This project is the last component necessary 

prior to demolishing the Building 16 Complex. Building 16 has numerous deficiencies and a $2.3 million 

deferred maintenance backlog. The consolidated logistics facility will allow GSFC to reduce current 

replacement value by approximately 20 percent. The project is addressed in the 2002 Master Plan 

Environment Assessment. 

Other Related Costs Amount ($M) 

Studies/Design 0

Related Equipment 0.9 

Activation N/A

Other 0.2

Estimated Schedule Start Complete 

Design Nov-11 Mar-12

Construction Dec-12 Dec-13 

Activation N/A N/A

 

 

 

CECR-22 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

Project Title: Refurbish North Wing, Project Engineering Building 45 

Location: JSC, Houston, TX 

FY 2013 Construction Estimate: $10.0 million 

Scope/Description

The project will continue the JSC Central Campus Refurbishment program to address renewal of 

substandard and deteriorated precast panel buildings that provide housing for ongoing program 

commitments. This project will provide for a total refurbishment of the north wing of Building 45 Project 

Engineering Office (13,500 square feet). It will be reconfigured and converted to a center medical clinic 

that will accommodate both flight medicine and occupational health to serve the astronauts and JSC 

workers on-site. This consolidation of the current clinic functions now performed in Building 8 and offsite facilities will improve operational efficiencies. The refurbishment of north wing of Building 45 will 

include asbestos abatement, improved indoor air quality by replacement of HVAC systems, correction of 

accessibility issues and life-safety violations, replacement of sprinkler and alarm systems and increased 

energy efficiency as a result of upgrading the building envelope. Fire sprinkler and alarm systems will be 

replaced. The electrical equipment in the north wing will be replaced. The building envelope will be 

upgraded including replacement of the roof and window wall system. The electrical system will be 

upgraded, including replacement of the electrical equipment and addition of emergency power to allow 

the new clinic to remain functional after power loss/ hurricane. Site improvements included in the project 

address the functional change of the facility with the addition of parking, revised traffic circulation and 

ambulance access. Also included in the project will be civil upgrades to provide parking and ambulance 

access to the facility. The electrical system will be revised to accommodate emergency power via a 

portable generator to allow the facility to remain functional after power loss/hurricane. 

Basis of Need

The JSC Central Campus Revitalization Plan and master plan identify Building 45 as the second major 

refurbishment scheduled after the completion of construction of the new office building that was designed 

as transition space. Building 45 was constructed in 1965 as the Project Engineering Building and 

Technical Library. The library has been outsourced, and the space is currently used as flex space. 

Building 8 was built as a photographic laboratory. The site clinic, that serves both astronauts and the onsite workers, is currently located on the east portion of Building 8 on both the first and second floors. The 

clinic function in this space is marginal, and the strategic housing plan has identified building 45 north 

wing as a suitable space to relocate the clinic. The HVAC systems are over 45 years old and have 

marginal fresh air to meet indoor air quality standards. There are numerous deficiencies and no 

ambulance receiving area in Building 8. The presence of asbestos throughout the Building 8, make 

facility modifications and improvements not economically feasible in an occupied clinic. The facility has 

experienced high failure rates of equipment and critical components are obsolete. Repairs for Building 45 

(north and south wings) have escalated over 200 percent since 2006. Similarly, the clinic work orders for 

repair have almost tripled since 2006. Mechanical and electrical equipment rooms are combined and 

equipment cannot be replaced without cutting the equipment into pieces. 

Other Related Costs Amount ($M) 

Studies/Design/PER 0.6 

Related Equipment 0.3 

Activation N/A

Other N/A

Estimated Schedule Start Complete 

Design (Design/Build) May-13 N/A 

Construction May-13 May-15

 Activation May-15 May-15

 

CECR-23 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

Project Title: Repair Chilled Water System, Emergency Power Plant 48 

Location: JSC, Houston, TX 

FY 2013 Construction Estimate: $11.9 million 

Scope/Description

This project is to upgrade the chilled water system in the Emergency Power Building 48. It will replace 

the current mechanical system with a new system comprised of four 500 ton electric centrifugal chillers 

that would satisfy both the summer and winter peak cooling loads while attaining an N+2 redundant 

capability of the chiller modules. This capacity will serve Building 30 Mission Control Center Complex 

as primary service and provide back-up cooling to Building 46 Central Computing Facility. The chillers 

will be part of a variable flow chilled water system. Four new pumps designed in a parallel configuration 

will support the chillers. The plant underwent major modification in the mid-1980s and capacity addition 

in the early 1990s, but much of the original mid-60s equipment is still in use. Frequent component 

failures result in major downtime. This project will provide the reliability of the chilled water supply 

essential for mission and equipment support. 

Basis of Need

The Building 48 chilled water plant was originally installed in the mid-1960s to support Mission Control 

Building 30. The Building 48 chilled water plant also now serves as a backup chilled water source for the 

Central Computing Facility Bldg 46. Much of the original equipment is still in use. The chilled water 

plant underwent major modification in the mid-1980s to add Chillers 3 and 4 and again in the early 1990s 

to increase the size of Chillers 1 and 2 based on the heat loads existing at that time. The economic 

lifespan of chillers and industrial pumps is typically 15 to 20 years. While Chiller 1 is over 20 years old 

and Chiller 2 is 15 years old, both units are now oversized due to advances in computer technology over 

the entire center that has reduced the system heat load since the units were installed. Because of the 

reduced load both units now operate at or near the surge region causing damage to the chillers and 

reducing efficiency. Over the past two years Chiller 1 has been out of service ten times (two major 

downtimes), and Chiller 2 has been out of service seven times (one major downtime) due to component 

failure. Chillers 3 and 4 are obsolete units past their useful life. Inspections show significant wear in the 

evaporator tubes and condenser tubes. The heads (part of the pressure boundary) are in poor shape. Over 

the past two years Chiller 3 has been out of service three times (one major downtime), and Chiller 4 has 

been out of service seven times (one major downtime) due to component failure. Chiller 4 has recently 

failed catastrophically and may not be economically repairable. The pumps are generally in deteriorated 

condition while the pipe thickness is in many places below minimal allowable code requirements. 

Other Related Costs Amount ($M) 

Studies/Design 1.1

Related Equipment N/A 

Activation N/A

Other N/A

Estimated Schedule Start Complete 

Design Jan-11 Aug-12

Construction Mar-13 Mar-15

Activation Mar-15 Mar-15

 

 

 

CECR-24 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

Project Title: Construct Replacement Shared Services and Office Building, Phase 1 

Location: KSC, FL 

FY 2013 Construction Estimate: $45.0 million 

Scope/Description

Central Campus Phase 1 provides for the design, construction, and outfitting of an administrative office 

building and a shared services facility. It is estimated to cost $85 million and is budgeted in two phases 

($45 million in FY 2013 and $40 million in FY 2014). The project will be implemented using a 

design/build acquisition strategy. The new administrative building will be designed and built with 

features that will enable additional space to be added to it in future phases with minimal disruptions to 

occupants or facility construction interfaces. Site improvements include upgrades to the utilities 

infrastructure and existing pedestrian walkways, and limited modifications to the surrounding roads and 

parking lots. All central campus facilities will strive to achieve platinum certification requirements of the 

United States Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED. This 

project is in alignment with the approved Agency master plan. 

Basis of Need

The Central Campus is a ten-year approximately $300 million project to replace, consolidate and rightsize administrative, laboratory, and shared services facilities currently scattered across the industrial area 

of KSC. The project will enable deconstruction of approximately 900,000 square feet of physical plant 

that will be between 50 to 60 years old by the time it is deactivated and deconstructed. These facilities 

have obsolete, unreliable, and inefficient facility systems that frequently break down and disrupt 

operations. Most of these facilities do not have sprinkler systems and many of the fire alarms, smoke 

detection systems, and fire exits are not code compliant. These buildings typically have hazardous 

materials such as asbestos, polychlorinated biphenyls ballasts, mercury thermostats, and lead, chromium, 

and cadmium based paints. These hazardous materials make major renovations and routine maintenance 

activities very costly. Most of the buildings are not Americans with Disabilities Act code compliant. 

The Central Campus will have modern, energy efficient and environmentally responsible facilities in a 

pedestrian friendly campus environment. When completed, it will reduce the existing Headquarters 

Building footprint by approximately fifty percent. The life cycle analysis of the overall project shows 

$400 million in operations, maintenance, and energy savings over 40 years. The plan is purposely 

formulated to provide very flexible options for the future. Future phases will only be pursued in response 

to firm housing and technical requirements, and the plan can be easily modified to react to future funding 

availability. 

Other Related Costs Amount ($M) 

Studies/Design 2.3

Related Equipment 1.4 

Activation 1.7

Other 0.7

Estimated Schedule Start Complete 

Design Apr-13 N/A

Construction Apr-13 Sep-15

Activation Sep-15 Dec-15

 

 

 

CECR-25 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

Project Title: Revitalize High Pressure Industrial Water (HPIW) System 

Location: SSC, MS 

FY 2013 Construction Estimate: $24.0 million 

Scope/Description

This project is to construct the final stage of a two phase construction project of a new HPIW distribution 

piping system. Total project cost is $40 million: $16 million in FY 2012 and $24 million in FY 2013. The 

project will replace the nearly 50 year old piping system with a new, similar system. The HPIW directly 

supports rocket engine testing in the A and B Test Complexes at the SSC by supplying water for test 

stand deflector coolant, fire protection (deluge system), and diffuser operation. It also furnishes water for 

fire protection of the liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen barges located at the test stand docks. 

Replacement of the HPIW is necessary due to age-related poor condition (i.e., excessive leakage caused 

by corrosion). Continuous use of the facilities supported by this project is consistent with the SSC master 

plan and Agency goals to reduce deferred maintenance and upgrade basic institutional infrastructure. This 

project will provide a complete and useable portion of the distribution system with the FY 2013 phase. 

Basis of Need

The current system built in the early sixties has reliability provided fire protection and deflector cooling 

for the A and B Test Stands. The system is fast approaching the end of its useful life as evidenced by the 

numerous outages over the last several years to repair leaks within the system. The costs of the project 

would be phased over a two-year period beginning in FY 2012. 

Other Related Costs Amount ($M) 

Studies/Design 3.0

Related Equipment N/A 

Activation N/A

Other N/A

Estimated Schedule Start Complete 

Design Jun-10 Dec-11

Construction Oct-12 Jan-15

Activation N/A N/A

 

 

 

CECR-26 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

Minor Revitalization & Construction of Facilities (projects 

less than $10.0 million each) 

This request includes facility revitalization and construction needs with initial cost estimate greater than 

$1.0 million but less than $10.0 million per project. Projects with initial cost estimates of $1.0 million or 

less are normally accomplished by routine day-to-day facility maintenance and repair activities provided 

for in direct program and Center operating budgets. Proposed FY 2013 institutional minor revitalization 

and construction projects total $164.9 million for components of the basic infrastructure and institutional 

facilities, and programmatic projects total $38.2 million. These resources provide for revitalization and 

construction of facilities at NASA facility installations and government-owned industrial plants 

supporting NASA activities. Revitalization and modernization projects provide for the repair, 

modernization, and/or upgrade of facilities and collateral equipment. Repair projects restore facilities and 

components to a condition substantially equivalent to the originally intended and designed capability. 

Repair and modernization work includes the substantially equivalent replacement of utility systems and 

collateral equipment necessitated by incipient or actual breakdown. It also includes major preventive 

measures that are normally accomplished on a cyclic schedule and those quickly needed out-of-cycle, 

based on adverse condition information revealed during predictive testing and inspection efforts. 

Modernization and upgrade projects include both restoration of current functional capability and 

enhancement of the condition of a facility so that it can more effectively accomplish its designated 

purpose, increase its functional capability, or so that it can meet new building, fire, and accessibility 

codes. 

The minor revitalization and construction projects that comprise this request are of the highest priority, 

based on relative urgency, and expected return on investment. During the year, some rearrangement of 

priorities may be necessary, which may cause a change in some of the items to be accomplished. 

MINOR REVITALIZATION CENTER DISTRIBUTION

Science 

A. Jet Propulsion Laboratory, $3.2 million

1. Restore Data Center, Phase 3 

Exploration

A. Kennedy Space Center, $10.2 million 

1. Modification Canister Rotation Facility 

2. Repairs to Various Buildings (BMAR Reduction) 

B. Marshall Space Flight Center, $13.8 million 

1. Modifications to Bldg 220 for Shipping and Receiving and Support, MAF 

2. Modifications to Test Stand 4699 for SLS Structural Tank Testing, MSFC 

3. Replace West Master Substation, Phase 3, MAF 

4. Replace Substation 21, MAF 

5. Replace Main Sanitary Sewer System, MAF 

CECR-27 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

Space Operations 

A. Jet Propulsion Laboratory, $5.1 million 

 1. Replace Beam Waveguide Azimuth Tracks, 34 meter Subnet, Goldstone, CA 

 2. Upgrade Fire Protection, Canberra, Australia 

 3. Construct Facilities for 80 kilowatt Transmitter DSS-26, Goldstone, CA 

 4. Demolish Space Launch Complex (SLC) 17, Vandenberg, CA 

B. Kennedy Space Center, $5.9 million 

1. Crawlerway Road Transitions 

2. Repairs to Crawlerway 

3. Upgrade Lighting 

4. Upgrade Mechanical Systems 

5. Waste Management Facility 

Institutional 

A. Ames Research Center, $5.8 million 

1. Replace Substation 115 kilovolt High Voltage Cables 

B. Dryden Flight Research Center, $17.7 million 

1. Revitalize Mission Control Infrastructure 

2. Repair Primary Electrical Distribution, Phase 8 of 8 

C. Glenn Research Center, $25.0 million 

1. Repair Steam Distribution System, Phase 1 

2. Repair Electrical Distribution and Control Systems, Phase 1 

3. Horizontal Communications Infrastructure 

D. Goddard Space Flight Center, $11.5 million 

1. Construct Mission Launch Command Center 

2. Repair Causeway Bridge, WFF 

3. Replace Fire Detection System, WFF 

E. Jet Propulsion Laboratory, $6.3 million 

1. Restore Data Center, Phase 2 

F. Johnson Space Center, $12.7 million 

1. Upgrade Central Heating and Cooling Plant 24 

2. Upgrade Fire Alarm Network, Phase 2 

G. Kennedy Space Center, $21.0 million 

1. Repair and Repave Roads 

2. Repair Centerwide Fire Monitoring, Detection, and Alarm System, Phase 3 

3. Revitalize Medium Voltage Electrical Distribution System, Industrial and Payload Processing 

Areas 

H. Langley Research Center, $16.5 million 

1. Repair and Upgrade Potable Water Supply and Metering 

2. Upgrade Sanitary Sewer System 

3. Upgrade Fire Station and Emergency Operations Center 

CECR-28 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

I. Marshall Space Flight Center, $35.2 million 

1. Repair by Replacement Building 43YY 

2. Revitalize Building 4666 

3. Revitalize Central Chilled Water System 4473 

4. Replace Building Control Systems 

5. Repair and Replace Fire and Gas Detection Systems 

J. Stennis Space Center, $13.2 million 

1. Revitalize Utility Systems 

2. Install Environmental Compliance Hardware 

3. Refurbish and Replace Helium Compressors 

Demolition of Facilities 

Cognizant Office: Office of Strategic Infrastructure 

FY 2013 Estimate: $20.0 million 

The funds requested will be used to eliminate inactive and obsolete facilities that are no longer required 

for NASA’s mission. Abandoned facilities pose a potential safety and environmental liabilities as well as 

being eyesores at the Centers. These facilities must still be maintained at minimal levels to prevent 

increasing safety and environmental hazards and these recurring maintenance costs impose a drain on the 

limited maintenance dollars available at the Centers. Demolishing these abandoned facilities will allow 

the Agency to avoid non-productive operating costs required to keep abandoned facilities safe and secure. 

Furthermore, demolition is the most cost effective way to reduce the Agency deferred maintenance. 

NASA identifies potential facilities for the demolition program through special studies to determine if the 

facility is required for a current of future missions. Facilities that are no longer needed are included in a 

five-year demolition plan that sets project schedules based on last need, annual costs avoided, potential 

liability, and project execution factors. Individual project schedules are sometimes adjusted in response to 

factors such as consultation with states on historic properties, changes in operational schedules, 

environmental remediation, funding profiles, local market forces, and value of recycled materials. 

Facility Planning and Design 

Cognizant Office: Office of Strategic Infrastructure 

FY 2013 Estimate: $33.8 million 

 

These funds are required for: advance planning and design activities; special engineering studies; facility 

engineering research; preliminary engineering efforts required to initiate design-build projects; 

preparation of final designs, construction plans, specifications, and associated cost estimates; and 

participation in facilities-related professional engineering associations and organizations. These resources 

CECR-29 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION:

CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 CONSTRUCTION

provide for project planning and design activities associated with non-programmatic construction 

projects. Project planning and design activities for construction projects required to conduct specific 

programs or projects are included in the appropriate budget line item. Other activities funded include: 

master planning; value engineering studies; design and construction management studies; facility 

operation and maintenance studies; facilities utilization analyses; engineering support for facilities 

management systems; and capital leveraging research activities. The increase in facilities planning and 

design is crucial in implementation of the NASA recapitalization. These recapitalization projects are 

necessary to make progress toward required sustainability, energy and stewardship goals. 

CECR-30 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE & RESTORATION (ECR)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 59.6 44.8 66.4 90.9 87.5 90.4 90.4

Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 21.6

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- 48.2%

 

This groundwater treatment system just outside JPL 

removes chemicals disposed at JPL during the 40s and 

50s. The system cleans up the aquifer and provides 

clean drinking water for the City of Pasadena to 

distribute to its customers. It is operated in accordance 

with a signed Federal facilities agreement with EPA.

NASA’s ECR program cleans up hazardous 

materials and wastes that have been released to the 

surface or groundwater at NASA installations, 

NASA-owned industrial plants supporting NASA 

activities, current or former sites where NASA 

operations have contributed to environmental 

problems, and other sites where the Agency is 

legally obligated to address hazardous pollutants. 

The current 122 cleanup projects are estimated to 

cost more than $1 billion and are located across all 

NASA Centers. NASA prioritizes these cleanups 

to address the highest liabilities first, protect 

human health and the environment, and preserve 

natural resources. ECR program activities include 

projects, studies, assessments, investigations, 

sampling, plans, designs, construction, related 

engineering, program support, monitoring, and 

regulatory agency oversight costs. Funding also 

covers land acquisitions necessary to ensure 

operation of remedial treatment processes and sites 

as part of the remediation and cleanup measures. 

Consistent with recent Executive Orders and regulatory requirements, the ECR program also provides for 

strategic investment in environmental methods and practices that ensure NASA may continue to carry out 

its scientific and engineering missions. Included are investments in methodologies for reducing energy 

intensity and greenhouse gas emissions and support for operational activities, by ensuring that advances 

in materials and chemical risk management are incorporated early in mission design phases. 

Additional information concerning NASA’s ECR program can be found at: 

http://www.nasa.gov/offices/emd/home/ecr.html. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

NASA is restructuring structuring priorities to best accommodate environmental cleanup requirements at 

numerous sites and facilities within a controlled fiscal environment. 

CECR-31 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE & RESTORATION (ECR)

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, NASA negotiated and signed a consent order with the State of California covering cleanup of 

contaminated soils at the Santa Susana Field Laboratory near Los Angeles. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

In FY 2013, NASA will continue to support cleanups at all NASA Centers, with priority given to 

protecting human health and the environment in balance with EPA and state regulatory agreements and 

requirements. Major program achievements planned for FY 2013 include: 

• Completion of interim soil cleanups and publication of Environmental Impact Statement for final 

soils cleanup at Santa Susana Field Laboratory; and 

• Completion of source area investigations at White Sands Test Facility. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 funding request represents a prioritized, risk-based approach for incrementally addressing 

its cleanup portfolio and is based upon the relative urgency and the potential health and safety hazards 

related to each individual cleanup. As studies, assessments, investigations, plans, regulatory approvals, 

and designs progress and as new discoveries or regulatory requirements change, NASA expects that 

program priorities may change, requiring revisions to planned activities. 

The FY 2013 request is $66.4 million. This represents a $21.6 million increase from the FY 2012 estimate 

($ 44.8 million). The largest projects in the FY 2013 request include: 

• $15.5 million for implementing investigation and cleanup of contaminated groundwater and soils 

at Santa Susana Field Laboratory in accordance with a new Consent Order with the State of 

California; 

$13.9 million for continuing cleanup of ground water contamination and investigation of soil 

contamination at White Sands Test Facility, New Mexico to comply with the facility permit 

issued by the state; 

$7.4 million for continuing investigation and cleanup of ground water and soil contamination at 

KSC; and 

$6.7 million for operating and maintaining systems to address contaminated groundwater 

emanating from JPL. 

• 

• 

• 

CECR-32 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE & RESTORATION (ECR)

Projects 

RESTORATION

This project addresses cleanup liabilities at all NASA Centers and component facilities. As of the start of 

FY 2012, known liabilities totaled $1.023 billion with many of the individual cleanups estimated to take 

more than 15 years to complete. NASA policy is to address these liabilities using a “worst first” approach 

to ensure human health and the environment are protected and to facilitate mission readiness. 

In FY 2011, NASA completed all field work related to decontamination and decommissioning of the 

Plum Brook Reactor Facility in Sandusky, OH. NASA also completed construction of a groundwater 

treatment system that addresses off-site contamination and provides the City of Pasadena with clean 

drinking water. Additionally, NASA negotiated and signed a consent order with the State of California 

covering cleanup of contaminated soils at the Santa Susana Field Laboratory near Los Angeles. 

In 2013, NASA will continue to support cleanups at all NASA Centers with priority given to protecting 

human health and the environment in balance with EPA and State regulatory agreements and 

requirements. Major restoration project achievements planned for FY 2013 include: 

• Completion of interim soil cleanups and publication of the environmental impact statement for 

final soils cleanup at Santa Susana Field Laboratory; 

Implementation of soil and groundwater cleanup actions at MSFC; and 

Completion of source area investigations at White Sands Test Facility. 

• 

• 

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE & FUNCTIONAL LEADERSHIP

This project invests in environmental methods and risk reduction practices that ensure NASA may 

continue to carry out its scientific and engineering missions. Included are investments in methodologies 

for sustainably reducing energy intensity and greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting operational 

activities by ensuring that advances in chemical risk management are incorporated early in mission design 

phases. 

In FY 2011, NASA formally executed an international agreement with ESA to work together on testing of 

chromium-free coatings. NASA also put into place an international agreement with Portugal to cooperate 

on sustainable building techniques, lead-free solder research, environmental cleanup technologies, 

hazardous waste minimization, innovative fuel cell applications, and solar-thermal air conditioning 

systems. 

In 2013, NASA will continue to reduce mission risk by forming international and domestic joint projects 

to effectively leverage NASA resources into increased value. 

CECR-33 
CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE & RESTORATION (ECR)

Program Schedule 

Complete Remedial 

Action, WFFSites 5 & 12 (Former 

Wind Tunnel)

08/2013 

Complete source 

investigations,

White Sands

Q4 FY 2013

Complete Interim

Santa Susana

Q4 FY 2013

Complete Remedial 

Action, ARC- AO14, 

Northern Fill Area

08/2014

Complete Cleanup 

Action, MSFC-OU-2 

Industrial 

Sewer

09/2014

Complete Soil

Removal, MSFC- OU5 

Building 4700 Area

09/2015

Complete Remedial 

Actions required by the 

SSFL Agreement of 

Consent

09/2017

Complete Closure of 

RCRA Part B Operating 

Units, WSTF

09/2017

Program Management & Commitments 

Project/Element Provider

Restoration Provider: All NASA Centers

Project Management: NASA Headquarters

NASA Center: All

Cost Share: Not applicable

Environmental 

Compliance and 

Functional 

Leadership 

Provider: Selected NASA Centers

Project Management: NASA Headquarters

NASA Center: GRC, KSC, MSFC, SSC

Cost Share: USAF, Centro Para Prevenção da Poluição 

(Portugal), ESA

Acquisition Strategy 

NASA Centers typically acquire cleanup services through a variety of contract mechanisms including 

fixed price as well as time and materials contracts for more complicated efforts. 

CECR-34 
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL (OIG)

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request 36.3 38.3 37.0 37.0 37.0 37.0 37.0

INSPECTOR GENERAL OVERVIEW ........................... IG-2 

IG-1 
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL (OIG)

FY 2013 BUDGET

Actual Estimate Notional

Budget Authority (in $ millions)

FY 2013 President’s Budget Request

Change From FY 2012 Estimate

FY 2011

36.3

--

FY 2012

38.3

--

FY 2013

37.0

-1.3

FY 2014

37.0

FY 2015 FY 2016

37.0 37.0

FY 2017

37.0

Percent Change From FY 2012 Estimate -- -- -3.4%

Note: The FY 2012 estimate includes a $1 million transfer from NASA’s Cross Agency Support account to the OIG to commission “a 

comprehensive independent assessment of NASA's strategic direction and agency management.” The $1 million transfer is for a one time-study 

and will not affect future budgets. 

For FY 2013, the NASA Office of Inspector General (OIG) requests $37.0 million. This request will 

support the work of 206 auditors, investigators, analysts, specialists, lawyers, and support staff located at 

NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC, and 11 other locations throughout the United States. 

OIG conducts audits, reviews, and investigations of NASA programs to prevent and detect fraud, waste, 

abuse, and mismanagement and to assist NASA management in promoting economy, efficiency, and 

effectiveness. 

The OIG Office of Audits (OA) conducts independent and objective audits of NASA programs, projects, 

operations, and contractor activities. In addition, OA oversees the work of the independent public 

accounting firm that conducts the annual audit of NASA’s financial statements. OA reviews target highrisk areas and Agency management challenges, responds to NASA’s changing needs and priorities, and 

provides measurable results that help NASA achieve its space exploration, scientific, and aeronautics 

research missions. 

The Office of Investigations (OI) investigates allegations of cybercrime, fraud, waste, abuse, and 

misconduct related to NASA programs, projects, operations, and resources. OI refers its findings to the 

Department of Justice for criminal prosecution and civil litigation or to NASA management for 

administrative action. Through its investigations, OI develops recommendations for NASA management 

to reduce the Agency’s vulnerability to criminal activity. Given that NASA spends approximately 85 

percent of its budget on contracts and grants, OI targets its resources to maintaining the integrity of 

NASA’s procurement process and the safety of NASA’s missions and information systems. In the 

procurement area, OI’s caseload includes investigations of false claims submitted by NASA contractors, 

conflict of interest cases involving NASA employees who place private gain before public service, and 

Procurement Integrity Act violations. 

Finally, OI seeks to prevent and deter misconduct at NASA through an aggressive “lessons learned” 

approach with NASA management. To this end, OIG works with NASA officials to remedy 

vulnerabilities within their programs and operations that may have allowed misconduct to occur. 

EXPLANATION OF MAJOR CHANGES FOR FY 2013 

None. 

IG-2 
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL (OIG)

ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2011 

In FY 2011, OA issued 31 audit products, and identified $7.5 million in questioned costs and $107.1 

million in funds that could have been put to use more effectively. 

The OIG’s audit products included reports on: 

• NASA’s efforts to effectively manage its Mars Science Laboratory project to accomplish its 

exploration objectives while meeting revised milestones and controlling costs; 

NASA management of its National Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite Systems 

Preparatory Project; 

The challenges facing NASA in its transition to commercial crew transportation services; and 

NASA’s selection of display locations for the retired Space Shuttle orbiters. 

• 

• 

• 

In addition, OA reported on NASA’s use of grant funds, controls over spending for NASA’s academic 

training program and its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, and weaknesses in 

NASA’s information technology security. Other reports assessed NASA’s facilities maintenance program 

and the reliability of the Agency’s real property asset data. 

In FY 2011, OI investigated a wide variety of criminal and administrative matters involving procurement 

fraud, theft, counterfeit parts, ethics violations, and computer intrusions, leading to more than $24 million 

in criminal, civil, and administrative penalties and settlements. More than $2.8 million of these funds 

were returned directly to NASA. Overall OI investigative work resulted in 30 indictments, 26 convictions, 

35 sentencings, nine civil settlements, 49 administrative actions, and eight suspensions and debarments. 

Examples of OI’s work over the past year include a public report summarizing the results of an 

investigation into allegations of misconduct by a former senior NASA employee and several contractor 

employees relating to a $1.26 billion NASA space communications contract, a sentence of 41 months 

imprisonment and three years probation for a former NASA Chief of Staff for conspiring to steer 

approximately $600,000 in NASA funds to one of his clients, and guilty verdicts on multiple criminal 

counts against the owners of a company that received more than $3 million in SBIR grants from NASA. 

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS PLANNED FOR FY 2013 

Going forward, OIG will focus its audit work in the areas identified in November 2011 as NASA’s top 

management and performance challenges: 

• Future of U.S. Space Flight; 

Project Management; 

Infrastructure and Facilities Management; 

Acquisition and Contract Management; and 

Information Technology Security and Governance. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

In ongoing audits, OIG is examining NASA’s efforts to develop the Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle, the use 

and effectiveness of NASA’s management of lease agreements on its real property, and management 

practices and challenges that contribute to cost overruns, schedule delays, and performance shortfalls in 

IG-3 
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL (OIG)

its programs and projects. In addition, OIG is continuing its work assessing NASA’s information 

technology security and governance, overseeing the work of the independent accounting firm performing 

the audit of NASA’s financial statements, and reviewing NASA grants to fund scientific research, 

scholarships, fellowships, and educational activities. 

BUDGET EXPLANATION

The FY 2013 request is $37 million, a $0.3 million or 0.8% decrease from the FY 2012 enacted level of 

$37.3 million. The FY 2012 enacted level is $1 million less than the FY 2012 estimate because the 

estimate includes a $1 million transfer to the OIG from NASA’s Cross Agency Support account to 

commission “a comprehensive independent assessment of NASA's strategic direction and Agency 

Management.” The $1 million transfer is for a one time study and will not affect future budgets. 

OIG will continue to identify opportunities to promote efficient and effective spending in accordance with 

the November 2011 Executive Order on “Promoting Efficient Spending” to meet the $37 million funding 

level. Specifically, the FY 2013 request includes: 

• $31.6 million (85 percent of the proposed budget) for personnel and related costs, including 

salaries, benefits, monetary awards, workers’ compensation, permanent change of station costs, 

and Government contributions for Social Security, Medicare, health and life insurance, retirement 

accounts, and Thrift Savings Plan accounts. Salaries include the required additional 25 percent 

law enforcement availability pay for criminal investigators. 

$1.1 million (three percent), for travel, per diem at current rates, and related expenses. OIG staff 

is located at 11 offices on or near NASA installations and contractor facilities. 

$2.8 million (eight percent), for the annual audit of the Agency’s financial statements. 

$1.5 million (four percent), for operations expenses, including equipment, training, government 

vehicles, special equipment for criminal investigators, transit subsidies, and information 

technology equipment unique to OIG. 

• 

• 

• 

In accordance with the Inspector General Reform Act of 2008 (P.L. 110-409) the Inspector General 

certifies that $0.4 million for staff training and $0.1 million to support the Council of Inspectors General 

on Economy and Efficiency satisfy all known training requirements and planned contributions to the 

Council. 

IG-4 
SUPPORTING DATA

FUNDS DISTRIBUTION BY INSTALLATION ........................ SD- 2 

CIVIL SERVICE FULL-TIME EQUIVALENT DISTRIBUTION .... SD- 5 

WORKING CAPITAL FUND ............................................. SD- 7 

BUDGET BY OBJECT CLASS .......................................... SD- 10 

STATUS OF UNOBLIGATED FUNDS ................................. SD- 11 

REIMBURSABLE ESTIMATES .......................................... SD- 12 

ENHANCED USE LEASING ............................................. SD- 13 

BUDGET FOR MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE .......................... SD- 15 

BUDGET FOR SAFETY OVERSIGHT ................................. SD- 17 

PHYSICIANS’ COMPARABILITY ALLOWANCE ................... SD- 19 

BUDGET FOR STEM EDUCATION ................................... SD- 21 

BUDGET FOR PUBLIC RELATIONS .................................. SD- 22 

CONSULTING SERVICES ................................................ SD- 23 

E-GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES AND BENEFITS ................... SD- 25 

COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENT TABLES .......................... SD- 34 

SD-1 
SUPPORTING DATA

FUNDS DISTRIBUTION BY INSTALLATION

FUNDS BY MISSION BY NASA CENTER

($ in millions)

Actual Estimate Notional

FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

Science 226.3 199.0 180.3 152.4 133.7 162.5 221.3

Aeronautics 131.7 128.1 127.3 129.0 129.4 124.9 121.3

Space Technology 71.4 81.2 107.1 99.3 96.0 95.7 95.9

Exploration 56.7 42.6 37.6 39.7 36.1 36.4 37.2

Space Operations 20.4 27.2 17.9 16.7 17.2 15.7 15.9

Education 5.7 1.2 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0

Cross Agency Support 215.5 208.4 201.8 201.8 201.8 201.8 201.8

Const. & Env. Comp. 15.8 3.0 37.6 30.9 32.8 31.0 79.6

ARC Total 743.5 690.6 710.6 670.8 648.0 668.9 773.9

Science 80.4 74.8 70.6 50.6 71.2 58.2 58.3

Aeronautics 52.3 66.6 65.9 63.1 61.1 60.0 53.9

Space Technology 10.3 18.5 24.4 25.4 25.4 25.4 25.4

Exploration 8.5 5.4 5.5 5.7 5.9 6.0 6.2

Space Operations 4.5 3.3 0.9 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.1

Education 10.8 3.9 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7

Cross Agency Support 69.0 66.1 65.9 65.9 65.9 65.9 65.9

Const. & Env. Comp. 26.9 22.2 22.3 30.1 33.4 29.3 31.3

DFRC Total 262.7 260.8 256.1 241.6 263.7 245.7 241.8

Science 44.1 47.2 33.8 21.3 21.7 18.6 18.5

Aeronautics 150.8 149.4 124.5 124.3 128.0 117.2 115.7

Space Technology 65.3 86.2 125.7 151.8 157.9 139.5 131.6

Exploration 75.1 47.6 48.6 52.3 46.3 48.1 50.1

Space Operations 60.7 59.0 54.4 56.4 55.8 55.8 56.1

Education 13.1 10.5 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9

Cross Agency Support 221.3 217.9 209.4 209.4 209.4 209.4 209.4

Const. & Env. Comp. 35.4 23.5 61.0 51.8 41.1 60.4 40.2

GRC Total 665.9 641.3 658.4 668.3 661.2 649.9 622.5

Science 2,471.1 2,465.1 2,112.1 2,045.7 1,856.2 1,654.9 1,581.1

Aeronautics 0.7 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Space Technology 58.4 77.7 70.7 81.0 85.4 68.8 41.4

Exploration 7.2 1.4 1.2 1.5 1.4 1.5 1.7

Space Operations 169.6 181.9 311.3 231.0 243.5 157.0 83.5

Education 61.5 1.8 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3

Cross Agency Support 457.9 458.5 443.9 443.9 443.9 443.9 443.9

Const. & Env. Comp. 48.0 59.8 23.3 28.1 39.6 50.1 26.1

GSFC Total 3,274.3 3,246.2 2,963.6 2,832.3 2,671.2 2,377.5 2,179.0

SD-2 
SUPPORTING DATA

FUNDS DISTRIBUTION BY INSTALLATION

($ in millions)

Actual Estimate Notional

FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

Science

Aeronautics

Space Technology

Exploration

Space Operations

Education

Cross Agency Support

Const. & Env. Comp.

1,150.3

0.0

54.7

13.9

166.8

2.0

22.4

16.5

959.1

0.1

34.7

7.6

173.6

0.3

16.5

40.4

777.4

0.0

82.6

8.6

171.8

0.0

18.8

31.1

596.4

0.0

31.0

4.8

188.7

0.0

18.8

14.7

525.8

0.0

15.3

0.3

189.9

0.0

18.8

44.7

473.7

0.0

12.3

0.3

188.3

0.0

18.8

14.7

332.4

0.0

12.3

0.3

184.4

0.0

18.8

46.7

JPL Total 1,426.6 1,232.1 1,090.4 854.4 794.8 708.1 595.1

Science

Aeronautics

Space Technology

Exploration

Space Operations

Education

Cross Agency Support

Const. & Env. Comp.

25.8

0.1

56.6

1,649.4

3,669.4

8.2

416.9

78.9

19.1

48.0

1,306.9

3,104.5

3.0

387.4

41.5

20.4

45.4

1,166.9

2,817.6

1.0

363.2

48.5

20.4

40.9

1,165.9

3,015.0

1.0

363.2

38.4

22.9

39.3

1,157.4

3,020.3

1.0

363.2

62.2

22.8

39.2

1,161.0

3,059.6

1.0

363.2

45.4

22.4

38.8

1,157.5

3,081.3

1.0

363.2

50.4

JSC Total 5,905.4 4,910.4 4,463.1 4,644.9 4,666.4 4,692.3 4,714.7

Science

Space Technology

Exploration

Space Operations

Education

Cross Agency Support

Const. & Env. Comp.

319.3

18.3

546.9

452.9

5.5

372.7

50.9

299.1

23.4

708.3

307.6

1.4

390.1

94.9

160.2

22.5

1,219.8

217.2

0.9

367.7

148.0

105.6

20.4

1,273.8

198.2

0.9

367.7

69.2

5.1

21.5

1,265.8

198.2

0.9

367.7

40.1

173.0

21.3

1,265.4

200.1

0.9

367.7

48.6

150.8

21.3

1,034.0

202.4

0.9

367.7

35.6

KSC Total 1,766.5 1,824.8 2,136.3 2,035.7 1,899.2 2,077.0 1,812.7

Science

Aeronautics

Space Technology

Exploration

Space Operations

Education

Cross Agency Support

Const. & Env. Comp.

110.7

183.6

54.8

50.8

11.6

11.8

291.3

41.7

122.5

194.2

65.0

29.1

0.2

4.2

300.5

50.7

111.6

203.8

85.8

26.6

0.1

1.2

290.5

18.0

108.4

204.0

98.9

33.8

0.1

1.2

290.5

54.3

115.4

202.8

98.4

30.8

0.1

1.2

290.5

29.2

112.3

165.1

101.0

31.8

0.1

1.2

290.5

48.2

103.9

165.5

106.0

33.1

0.1

1.2

290.5

30.8

LaRC Total 756.3 766.4 737.5 791.1 768.4 750.2 731.0

Science

Aeronautics

Space Technology

Exploration

Space Operations

Education

Cross Agency Support

Const. & Env. Comp.

154.8

0.7

49.9

1,341.3

458.6

2.6

422.9

75.8

134.3

0.1

69.0

1,348.3

192.6

2.1

430.1

92.5

123.8

0.0

85.4

1,207.3

195.4

0.9

409.3

148.8

120.4

0.0

99.8

1,317.0

168.2

0.9

409.3

114.4

123.0

0.0

105.0

1,379.0

166.5

0.9

409.3

98.2

124.9

0.0

132.9

1,380.7

169.4

0.9

409.3

89.5

98.0

0.0

153.1

1,352.3

167.3

0.9

409.3

74.9

MSFC Total 2,506.4 2,269.0 2,170.9 2,230.0 2,281.9 2,307.6 2,255.8

SD-3 
SUPPORTING DATA

FUNDS DISTRIBUTION BY INSTALLATION

($ in millions)

Actual Estimate Notional

FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

Science 4.0 1.4 1.9 1.9 1.9 1.9 1.9

Space Technology 5.1 5.0 5.7 6.1 6.1 6.1 6.1

Exploration 40.3 48.1 17.8 18.1 19.8 20.2 20.6

Space Operations 33.1 31.6 33.1 31.6 31.2 31.1 31.0

Education 0.7 0.8 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7

Cross Agency Support 55.7 56.8 54.8 54.8 54.8 54.8 54.8

Const. & Env. Comp. 22.9 35.4 38.2 12.6 22.6 26.0 26.9

SSC Total 161.8 179.1 152.1 125.8 137.0 140.7 141.8

Science 333.0 752.1 1,319.1 1,691.3 2,037.6 2,111.6 2,325.8

Aeronautics 13.6 31.0 30.0 31.1 30.2 84.2 95.0

Space Technology 11.8 65.2 43.7 44.4 48.8 56.8 67.1

Exploration 30.5 167.6 193.0 163.9 133.7 125.2 383.5

Space Operations 98.7 105.4 193.6 129.1 112.3 158.0 213.1

Education 23.7 107.0 91.5 91.5 91.5 91.5 91.5

Cross Agency Support 411.2 461.5 422.3 422.3 422.3 422.3 422.3

Const. & Env. Comp. 19.9 22.1 42.4 5.9 6.4 7.0 7.8

Inspector General 36.3 38.3 37.0 37.0 37.0 37.0 37.0

Prior Approp. (1.0)

NASA HQ Total 978.6 1,749.2 2,372.4 2,616.5 2,919.7 3,093.5 3,643.0

 NASA Total 18,448.0 17,770.0 17,711.4 17,711.4 17,711.4 17,711.4 17,711.4

0.7

Note: Funds will not be fully distributed to Centers until after future acquisition decisions are made. Thus, Center FY 2013 allocations should 

not be considered final or directly comparable to FY 2012 allocations. 

The outyear budgets for SMD at Headquarters is larger than that at the Centers pending future mission selections. When missions are selected, 

funds distribution to Centers is adjusted. 

SD-4 
SUPPORTING DATA

CIVIL SERVICE FULL-TIME EQUIVALENT DISTRIBUTION

The workforce level proposed in the budget supports NASA’s traditional investments in space 

exploration, aeronautics research, space technology development, science investigation, and sharing the 

results of Agency activities with the public and educators. 

The Agency will apply its capabilities to the range of mission, research, and technology work while 

continuing to reshape and realign workforce skills to adjust to changing requirements. NASA anticipates 

offering buyouts in selected surplus skill areas, and is prepared to identify, recruit and retain employees 

who possess essential/critical skills and competencies. The workforce will continue to demonstrate the 

relevance of its work to society, apply itself to contemporary problems, lead or participate in emerging 

technology opportunities, and communicate the challenges and results of Agency programs and activities. 

Average Agency full-time equivalent (FTE) levels are expected to decline by over 250 FTE from FY 

2012 to FY 2013. This ceiling decline addresses workforce at several Centers affected by changes in the 

human spaceflight portfolio, is consistent with overall Agency budget reductions, and reflects the planned 

end of a temporary FTE increase in FY 2010 to FY 2011 that was granted to encourage early career hiring 

at Centers. 

CIVIL SERVICE FULL-TIME EQUIVALENT DISTRIBUTION BY CENTER

Actual Estimate Notional

 FY 2011 1 FY 20122 FY 20132 FY 20142 FY 20152 FY 20162 FY 20172

ARC 1,231.6 1,230.0 1,219.2 1,219.2 1,219.2 1,219.2 1,219.2

DFRC 556.6 555.0 551.2 551.2 551.2 551.2 551.2

GRC 1,655.3 1,652.0 1,627.5 1,619.9 1,619.9 1,619.9 1,619.9

GSFC 3,356.9 3,392.0 3,372.3 3,352.4 3,352.4 3,352.4 3,352.4

JSC 3,307.8 3,219.4 3,151.2 3,151.2 3,151.2 3,151.2 3,151.2

KSC 2,145.9 2,098.2 2,049.2 2,049.2 2,049.2 2,049.2 2,049.2

LaRC 1,934.3 1,928.0 1,911.2 1,911.2 1,911.2 1,911.2 1,911.2

MSFC 2,538.7 2,489.6 2,440.8 2,440.7 2,440.7 2,440.7 2,440.7

SSC 285.7 307.0 307.0 307.0 307.0 307.0 294.0

HQ 1,226.9 1,212.8 1,189.5 1,189.5 1,189.5 1,189.5 1,189.5

NSSC 132.4 145.0 145.0 145.0 145.0 145.0 145.0

NASA Total 18,372.1 18,229.0 17,964.2 17,936.7 17,936.7 17,936.7 17,923.7

OIG 206.0 213.0 213.0 213.0 213.0 213.0 213.0

1 Includes 288 student FTE 

2 Includes 285 student FTE 

SD-5 
SUPPORTING DATA

CIVIL SERVICE FULL-TIME EQUIVALENT DISTRIBUTION

FY 2013 FTE DISTRIBUTION BY ACCOUNT BY CENTER

NASA Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Workforce - FY 2013

 Science  Aeronautics  Space Technology  Exploration  Space Operations  Education  Cross Agency Support  Reimbursable/Working Capital  NASA-Funded Total  Agency TOTAL 

ARC 155.0 236.3 119.3 117.1 18.9 5.5 562.1 5.0 1,214.2 1,219.2

DFRC 98.5 166.7 26.5 16.1 3.1 5.2 220.1 15.0 536.2 551.2

GRC 84.9 373.6 138.2 246.5 147.6 7.0 627.1 3.0 1,624.9 1,627.9

GSFC 1,238.9 - 124.0 9.3 150.0 7.2 1,618.9 224.0 3,148.3 3,372.3

JSC 40.2 - 102.4 855.9 1,255.9 7.2 889.6 - 3,151.2 3,151.2

KSC 0.6 - 76.0 613.5 464.4 7.4 871.2 16.0 2,033.1 2,049.1

LaRC 213.5 533.8 164.0 153.7 0.5 8.0 837.7 - 1,911.2 1,911.2

MSFC 146.0 - 105.1 907.6 252.1 6.5 1,023.5 - 2,440.8 2,440.8

SSC 6.7 - 11.7 64.3 41.7 5.0 146.6 31.0 276.0 307.0

HQ - - - - - - 1,189.5 - 1,189.5 1,189.5

NSSC - - - - - - - 145.0 0.0 145.0

NASA Total 1,984.3 1,310.4 867.2 2,984.0 2,334.2 59.0 7,986.3 439.0 17,525.4 17,964.4

OIG 213.0

SD-6 
SUPPORTING DATA

WORKING CAPITAL FUND

The NASA Working Capital Fund (WCF) was established to satisfy specific recurring needs for goods 

and services through use of a business-like buyer and seller approach under which NASA’s WCF entities 

provide goods or services pursuant to contracts and agreements with their customers. The overarching 

aim of WCF is to promote economy, efficiency, and accountability with fully reimbursed rates by 

focusing on streaming operations, extending resources, measuring performance, and improving customer 

satisfaction. 

NASA’s WCF is comprised of three entities: 

• NASA Shared Services Center (NSSC); 

Solutions for Enterprise-Wide Procurement (SEWP) Government-Wide Acquisition Contract; 

and 

Information Technology (IT) Infrastructure Integration Program (I3P). 

• 

• 

WORKING CAPITAL FUND BUDGET SUMMARY

Actual Estimate

($ in millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 

NASA Shared Services Center (NSSC) 74.1 85.1 85.9

Solutions for Enterprise-Wide Procurement (SEWP) 10.0 11.0 11.5

IT Infrastructure Integration Program (I3P) 0.0 237.2 303.1

Total Spending Authority 84.1 333.3 400.5

Unobligated Brought Forward, Oct. 1 5.4 4.9 25.0

Recoveries of Prior Yr. Unpaid Obligations 0.7 1.8 1.9

Total Spending Authority (see above) 84.1 333.3 400.5

Total Budgetary Resources 90.2 340.0 427.4

NASA Shared Services Center (NSSC) (74.9) (85.8) (88.7)

Solutions for Enterprise Wide Procurement (SEWP) (10.5) (10.0) (10.8)

IT Infrastructure Integration Program (I3P) 0.0 (219.2) (304.3)

Total Obligations (85.4) (315.0) (403.8)

NASA Unobligated Balance (end of year)* 4.8 25.0 23.6

*Unobligated balance end-of-year is budgetary resources less obligation 

NASA SHARED SERVICES CENTER (NSSC) 

NSSC opened in March 2006 to provide centralized administrative processing services and customer 

contact center operations for support of human resources, procurement, financial management, Agency 

information technology (IT), and Agency business support services. NASA established NSSC, a function 

under the NASA Headquarters Mission Support Directorate, as a public/private partnership. NSSC has 

SD-7 
SUPPORTING DATA

WORKING CAPITAL FUND

awarded its major business management and IT services contract to Computer Sciences Corporation. 

Typical expenditures are related to civil service workforce, support contractor, other direct procurements, 

and Agency training purchases. 

NSSC is located on the grounds of SSC and operates in a manner that provides for transparency and 

accountability of costs and services. NASA has reduced its administrative costs through centralized 

processing at NSSC. The work performed by NSSC frees Agency resources that can then be redirected to 

NASA’s mission of space exploration, scientific discovery, and aeronautics research. 

NSSC’s revenue streams include funding from the NASA Centers, mission directorates, and various 

NASA mission support offices. During FY 2013, NSSC will continue to offer similar services as in FY 

2012 with no significant new scope anticipated. 

SOLUTIONS FOR ENTERPRISE-WIDE PROCUREMENT (SEWP) 

SEWP refers to operations related to the Government-Wide Acquisition Contract that was established 

under the authority of section 5112 of the Information Technology Management Reform Act (40 U.S.C. 

1412(e)) enacted in 1996, under which NASA is designated by the Office of Management and Budget as 

a Federal government Executive Agent for SEWP contracts. 

SEWP was established as a WCF entity to allow all Federal agencies use of a best value tool to purchase 

IT product solutions and services. Under this approach, the buying power of Federal Agencies is 

combined to acquire best value for IT products and services very efficiently. Typical acquisitions include 

a wide range of advanced technologies such as UNIX-Linux, and Windows-based desktops and servers, 

along with peripherals, network equipment, storage devices, security tools, software, and other IT 

products and product-based solutions. 

SEWP promotes aggressive pricing using online tools to obtain multiple, competitive quotes from 

vendors. On average, SEWP quotes have a 15 percent savings for any Federal customer using SEWP 

contracts. In addition, SEWP offers a low surcharge to recover NASA’s costs to operate the program with 

an average 0.36 percent fee as compared to the Government standard of 0.75 percent. SEWP revenue is 

generated solely from the surcharge fees on all transactions processed. For FY 2012, the Federal 

government is projected to save about $4 million in service fees (based on the difference between General 

Service Administration and SEWP surcharge fees) and $30 million in overall costs for IT product 

solutions and services using NASA SEWP contracts. 

IT INFRASTRUCTURE INTEGRATION PROGRAM (I3P) 

WCF operations supporting I3P began in early FY 2012. WCF enables I3P to improve the efficiency and 

economy in which contract services and management are provided to support NASA’s IT strategic 

initiatives and to increase visibility into NASA’s IT budget and expenditures. Under I3P, NASA has 

consolidated 19 separately managed contracts into four centrally managed ones described as follows: 

• The Enterprise Applications Service Technologies contract supports NASA Enterprise 

Applications Competency Center (NEACC) applications hosted by MSFC. The NEACC operates 

SD-8 
SUPPORTING DATA

WORKING CAPITAL FUND

and maintains a broad spectrum of NASA’s enterprise applications, with an emphasis on fully 

integrating business process expertise with application and technical knowledge. A small team of 

civil servants and support contractors sustain operations, implement new applications and 

capabilities, and provide business readiness support to the stakeholders and end-users. 

The NASA Integrated Communications Services contract provides wide and local area network, 

telecommunications, video, and data services hosted at MSFC. 

The Web Enterprise Service Technologies contract will provide public Web site hosting, Web 

content management and integration, and search services. Services are planned to be hosted by 

GSFC and ARC. However, this contract is not yet awarded. 

The Agency Consolidated End-User Services contract provides program management, 

provisioning and support of desktops, laptops cell phones, personal digital assistants, office 

automation software, and video conferencing. Services are hosted by NSSC. 

• 

• 

• 

I3P’s consolidated contracting approach benefits NASA by providing cost saving opportunities such as 

the reduction in administrative burden involved with the business management of contracts and a 

significant reduction in procurement request transaction volume. Other I3P benefits include: the 

streamlining of budgeting, funding, and costing I3P services; achieving transparency through the 

provision of detailed customer monthly billings; and providing consolidated, consistent reporting of 

Agency-wide consumption of I3P-related goods and services. 

I3P is unique in that revenue streams and expenditures are limited to contract costs for its four service 

contracts. Revenue streams include funding from the NASA Centers, NASA Mission Directorates, and 

various NASA mission support offices. In FY 2013, the I3P WCF will continue to offer similar services 

as in FY 2012, with no significant new scope anticipated. Note that FY 2013 amounts are higher than 

FY 2012 due to the initial phase-in period of Centers across the different I3P contracts at different times 

throughout FY 2012. FY 2013 is the first full year of operations for the I3P contracts, which is reflected 

in the FY 2013 anticipated funding level. 

SD-9 
SUPPORTING DATA

BUDGET BY OBJECT CLASS

($ in millions)

SciAerSpaExSpaEdCrCoCoOff N

Full-time permanent

Other than full-time permanent

Other personnel compensation

Special personal service payments

224.0

24.0

1.0

0.0

141.0

11.0

0.0

0.0

102.0

5.0

1.0

0.0

335.0

15.0

1.0

0.0

267.0

10.0

3.0

0.0

5.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

880.0

40.0

34.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

24.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

1,978.0

105.0

40.0

0.0

Total Personnel compensation

Civilian personnel benefits

Benefits to former personnel

Travel & transport. of persons

Transport. of things

Rental payments to GSA

Rental payments to others

Communications, utilities & misc

Printing and reproduction

Advisory and assistance services

Other services

Other purchases of goods & 

services from Gov accounts

Operation and maint. of facilities

R and D contracts

Medical care

Operation and maint. of equip.

Supplies and materials

Equipment

Land and structures

Grants, subsidies, and contrib.

249.0

68.0

0.0

17.0

3.0

0.0

8.0

3.0

1.0

142.0

251.0

156.0

24.0

3,309.0

0.0

68.0

22.0

48.0

9.0

536.0

152.0

41.0

0.0

6.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

5.0

0.0

17.0

29.0

7.0

26.0

193.0

0.0

16.0

13.0

20.0

4.0

23.0

108.0

30.0

0.0

4.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

6.0

11.0

4.0

5.0

495.0

0.0

3.0

4.0

7.0

0.0

20.0

351.0

97.0

0.0

9.0

18.0

0.0

0.0

6.0

0.0

251.0

29.0

29.0

90.0

2,868.0

0.0

63.0

16.0

23.0

3.0

80.0

280.0

77.0

0.0

15.0

1,256.0

0.0

1.0

10.0

1.0

173.0

99.0

49.0

65.0

1,761.0

0.0

162.0

38.0

14.0

6.0

9.0

5.0

3.0

0.0

1.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

5.0

8.0

0.0

1.0

6.0

0.0

1.0

1.0

0.0

0.0

71.0

954.0

248.0

1.0

23.0

4.0

26.0

3.0

68.0

4.0

190.0

330.0

48.0

297.0

155.0

5.0

414.0

18.0

40.0

48.0

23.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

30.0

7.0

57.0

98.0

77.0

0.0

11.0

2.0

1.0

273.0

0.0

24.0

8.4

0.0

1.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

3.6

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

2,123.0

572.4

1.0

76.0

1,281.0

26.0

12.0

92.0

6.0

814.0

767.6

350.0

606.0

8,864.0

5.0

738.0

114.0

153.0

343.0

762.0

Other Object Classes 4,665.0 400.0 589.0 3,582.0 3,736.0 97.0 1,945.0 556.0 13.0 15,583.0

NASA Total, Direct 4,914.0 552.0 697.0 3,933.0 4,016.0 102.0 2,899.0 556.0 37.0 17,706* oss Agency Support nstruction, Environmental mpliance, and Remediation ice of the Inspector General ASA Total ence onautics ce Technology ploration ce Operations ucation

*Total estimated obligations 

SD-10 
SUPPORTING DATA

STATUS OF UNOBLIGATED FUNDS

The table below displays actual and estimated unobligated balances of direct discretionary budget 

authority in each NASA appropriation account at the end of each fiscal year. Data is presented on a noncomparable basis (i.e., based solely on an appropriation account’s activity or projected activity, with no 

adjustment to the FY 2011 or FY 2012 amounts to make them comparable to the budget structure 

underlying the FY 2013 request). 

UNOBLIGATED FUNDS SUMMARY BY APPROPRIATIONS ACCOUNT

($ in millions)

Unobligated Balance (Budget Authority) 

Actual Estimate

9/30/2011 9/30/2012 9/30/2013

Science 77.0 75.0 72.0

Aeronautics 12.0 11.0 11.0

Space Technology -- 11.0 13.0

Exploration 186.0 71.0 71.0

Space Operations 88.0 97.0 94.0

Education 28.0 7.0 5.0

Cross Agency Support 3.0 19.0 18.0

Construction & Environmental Compliance and Restoration 109.0 108.0 171.0

Science, Exploration and Aeronautics -- 3.0 --

Office of the Inspector General 1.0 -- --

NASA Total 502.0 392.0 442.0

Note: The end of FY 2013 unobligated balance is based on historical performance of the account. The $171.0 million Construction and 

Environmental Compliance and Restoration account figure is starkly than the previous numbers due to a sharp increase in FY 2013

appropriation and estimated carryover of prior year funds. 

SD-11 
SUPPORTING DATA

REIMBURSABLE ESTIMATES

Reimbursable agreements are agreements where the NASA costs associated with the undertaking are 

borne by the non-NASA partner. NASA undertakes reimbursable agreements when it has equipment, 

facilities, and services that it can make available to others in a manner that does not interfere with NASA 

mission requirements. As most reimbursable requests to NASA do not occur until the year of execution, 

the FY 2012 to 2013 estimates are based on an annual survey of Centers’ anticipated reimbursable 

agreements. 

REIMBURSABLE ESTIMATES BY APPROPRIATIONS ACCOUNT

($ in millions)

Actual Estimate

FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013

Cross-Agency Support

Office of the Inspector General

1,891.2

0.7

2,200.0

1.2

2,300.0

1.2

NASA Total 1,891.9 2,201.2 2,301.2

SD-12 
SUPPORTING DATA

ENHANCED USE LEASING

In 2003, NASA Congress authorized NASA to demonstrate leasing authority and collections at two 

Centers. In 2007 and in 2008, Congress amended that authority such that NASA may enter into leasing 

arrangements at all Centers after December 2008. After deducting the costs of administering the leases, 

Centers are then permitted to retain 65 percent of net receipt revenue, and the balance is made available 

agency-wide for NASA. These funds are in addition to annual appropriations. To ensure annual oversight 

and review, the 2010 Consolidated Appropriations Act, P.L. 111-117 contains a provision that requires 

NASA to submit an estimate of gross receipts and collections and proposed use of all funds collected in 

the annual budget justification submission to Congress. There are no civil servants funded from Enhanced 

Use Leasing (EUL) income. The table below depicts the estimated FY 2013 EUL expenses and revenues. 

The amounts identified under Capital Asset Account Expenditures may be adjusted between projects 

listed based on actual contract award. 

SUMMARY OF FY 2013 EUL ACTIVITY

(in $ thousands) ARC KSC SSC Agency Total

Base Rent 5,443.6 41.0 35.6 5,520.2

Institutional Support Income 1,802.9 133.9 3.0 1,939.8

Total Rent Income 7,246.5 174.9 38.6 0.0 7,460.0

Institutional Support Costs (1,802.9) (133.9) (3.0) (1,939.8)

Lease Management and Administration (768.0) (768.0)

Ltenant Building Maintenance and Repair (960.5) (960.5)

Total Cost Associated with Leases (3,531.4) (133.9) (3.0) 0.0 (3,668.3)

Net Revenue from Lease Activity 3,715.1 41.0 35.6 0.0 3,791.7

Beginning Balance, Capital Asset Account 694.4 1,279.5 1,973.9

Net Revenue from Lease Activity Retained at Center 2,414.8 26.7 23.1 1,327.1 3,791.7

Total Available, Capital Asset Account 3,109.2 26.7 23.1 2,606.6 5,765.6

Planned Maintenance, Various Buildings 1,714.0 26.7 23.1 1,763.8

Replace Roofs on Various Buildings (ARC)

Energy and Sustainability Upgrades, Various Buildings 

(Various Centers)

Unobligated Carryover to Complete Prior Year Projects

1,395.2 1,395.2

2,606.6 2,606.6

Capital Asset Account Expenditures 3,109.2 26.7 23.1 2,606.6 5,765.6

Capital Asset Account Ending Balance 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Additional Reimbursable Demand Services Requested by 

Leasees (including overhead) 2,748.1 2,748.1

Cost to Fulfill Reimbursable Demand Services (including 

overhead) (2,748.1) (2,748.1)

Net Activity due to Reimb. Demand and Services 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

In Kind Activity 0.0 162.0 0.0 0.0 162.0

0.0

0.0

SD-13 
SUPPORTING DATA

ENHANCED USE LEASING

DEFINITIONS

Base Rent 

Revenue collected from tenant for rent of land or buildings. 

Institutional Support Costs 

Cost for institutional shared services such as fire, security, first responder, communications, common 

grounds, road, and infrastructure maintenance, and routine administrative support and management 

oversight (i.e., environmental). 

Total Rental Income 

Total gross proceeds from EUL activities for expenses due to renting NASA property. 

In-Kind 

Consideration accepted in lieu of rent payment. (Only applies to selected leases signed prior to January 1, 

2009.) 

Reimbursable Demand Services 

Services such as janitorial, communications, and maintenance that solely benefit the tenant and provided 

for their convenience. There is no net income received by NASA, as these payments may only cover the 

costs of NASA and its vendors providing these services. 

Overhead 

General and administrative costs associated with management of the specified demand services. 

SD-14 
SUPPORTING DATA

BUDGET FOR MICROGRAVITY SCIENCES

BUDGET FOR INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION RESEARCH

The HEOMD supports research to take advantage of the unique environment of reduced gravity on ISS in 

two broad categories, Exploration ISS Research and Non-Exploration ISS Research. 

BUDGET SUMMARY

Actual Estimate Notional

($ in millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 

Exploration ISS Research 69.0 23.0 22.0 20.0 20.0 19.0 18.0

Non- Exploration ISS Research 173.0 210.0 217.0 212.0 217.0 222.0 226.0

NASA Total 242.0 233.0 239.0 233.0 237.0 241.0 244.0

% of Non-Exploration to Total 72.0% 90.0% 91.0% 91.0% 92.0% 92.0% 93.0%

The amounts included for FY 2011 reflect actual, FY 2012 thru FY 2017 are reflective of the PPBE 13 OMB President’s Budget Request. 

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION

Having launched the U.S. and international partner elements, and established six-person crew capability, 

the ISS program focus is now primarily on research. During FY 2012, NASA awarded a cooperative 

agreement to the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS), an independent non-profit 

organization with responsibility to further develop national uses of ISS. CASIS will oversee all research 

involving organizations other than NASA, and transfer current NASA biological and physical research to 

CASIS in future years. Space Operations oversight of existing research projects will be phased out and 

CASIS will co-select/manage new peer-reviewed projects. As on-going work within the NASA research 

project offices is completed in future years, extension/renewal decisions should be made by CASIS. 

Through the management partnership, research opportunities will be expanded to conduct research in life 

sciences, material sciences, biotechnologies, condensed matter physics and thermal sciences (e.g., fluid 

mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and combustion). NASA will continue to support research to 

meet NASA requirements for exploration including astronaut health and serve as a test bed for the 

development and demonstration of technology for future space exploration missions. 

EXPLORATION ISS RESEARCH

Exploration ISS Research supports the Agency’s need for improved knowledge about working and living 

in space to enable future long-duration human exploration missions. 

The Human Research Program will provide research results that reduce risks to crew health and 

performance that stem from prolonged exposure to reduced gravity, space radiation, and isolation during 

exploration missions. Risk mitigation will be achieved by conducting ISS research in human health 

SD-15 
SUPPORTING DATA

BUDGET FOR MICROGRAVITY SCIENCES

countermeasures, space human factors and habitability, behavioral health and performance, and 

exploration medicine, tools, and technologies. 

ISS Research will investigate the underlying gravity-dependent phenomena in the following areas: fire 

prevention, detection, and suppression; boiling; multiphase flow of fluids; and capillary driven flow. 

These applied research investigations will provide needed data that is useful in the future design of the 

following space technology areas: life support systems; propellant storage; power generation; thermal 

control; and advanced environmental monitoring and control. Funding for the Multi-User System Support 

(MUSS), which supports Exploration ISS Research, is included in the table above. The MUSS function is 

responsible for all payload physical, analytical and operations integration activities; projecting available 

utilization resources and accommodations; tactical planning; and execution of the day-to-day ISS 

integrated research plan for all payloads, including NASA, international partners, and non-NASA users. 

NON-EXPLORATION ISS RESEARCH

NASA allocates at least 15 percent of the funds budgeted for ISS research to ground-based, free-flyer, and 

ISS life and physical science research that is not directly related to supporting the human space 

exploration program, in accordance with Section 204 of the NASA Authorization Act of 2005. The 

purpose is to ensure the capacity to support ground-based research leading to space-based basic and 

applied scientific research in a variety of disciplines with potential direct national benefits and 

applications that can be advanced significantly from the uniqueness of microgravity and the space 

environment. Additionally, this allocation allows basic ISS research in fields including, physiological 

research, basic fluid physics, combustion science, cellular biotechnology, low-temperature physics, 

cellular research, materials science, and plant research to be carried out to the maximum extent 

practicable. This research helps to sustain existing U.S. scientific expertise and capability in microgravity 

research. 

The Non-Exploration ISS Research line in the above table also includes the Alpha Magnetic 

Spectrometer, and costs for MUSS support. These two activities support non-exploration ISS research and 

have been included in the microgravity budget justification for prior years. The Alpha Magnetic 

Spectrometer is a particle physics and astrophysics experiment that looks for dark matter, anti-matter, and 

strange matter. 

SD-16 
SUPPORTING DATA

BUDGET FOR SAFETY OVERSIGHT

The following table provides the safety and mission assurance budget estimates. This includes the 

Agency-wide safety oversight functions as well as the estimated project specific safety, reliability, 

maintainability, and quality assurance elements embedded within individual projects. 

BUDGET SUMMARY FOR SAFETY OVERSIGHT

Actual Estimate Notional

($ in millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

Safety and Mission Assurance 48.1 49.4 47.8 47.8 47.8 47.8 47.8

Institutional Operational Safety 29.0 30.7 30.7 30.7 30.7 30.7 30.6

Technical Authority/S&MA Spt. 51.0 50.7 52.3 52.3 52.3 52.6 53.4

Agency-wide Safety Oversight 128.1 130.8 130.8 130.8 130.8 131.1 131.8 

Program Specific 295.0 300.0 300.0 300.0 300.0 300.0 300.0 

NASA Total, Safety 423.1 430.8 430.8 430.8 430.8 431.1 431.8

DEFINITIONS

Agency-Wide Safety Oversight 

Agency level programs and activities that support the overarching NASA Safety and Mission Success 

program. 

Safety and Mission Assurance 

The Safety and Mission Assurance (S&MA) program administers and refines the pertinent policies, 

procedural requirements, and technical safety standards. The program participate in forums that provide 

advice to the Administrator, mission directorates, program managers, and Center directors who are 

ultimately accountable for the safety and mission success of all NASA programs, projects, and operations. 

Specific program responsibility include, among other activities, managing NASA’s Orbital Debris 

program, NASA’s Electronic Parts program, and the NASA Safety Center. 

Institutional Operational Safety 

NASA’s institutional operational safety program is driven by the Occupational Safety and Health 

Administration (OSHA) 29 Code of Federal Regulations 1960, OSHA Standards, NASA Procedural 

Requirements (NPR) 8715.1, NASA Safety and Health Handbook Occupational Safety and Health 

Programs, NPR 8715.3, and NASA’s general safety program requirements. The program includes 

construction safety, mishap prevention program including reporting and investigations, safety training, 

safety awareness, the voluntary protection program, safety metrics and trend analysis, contractor 

insight/oversight, support to safety boards and committees, support to emergency preparedness and fire 

safety program, aviation safety, explosives and propellants safety, nuclear safety requirements, radiation 

safety protection, confined space entry, fall protection, lifting devices, pressure vessel safety, hazard 

SD-17 
SUPPORTING DATA

BUDGET FOR SAFETY OVERSIGHT

reporting and abatement systems, cryogenic safety, electrical safety requirements (lock out/tag out), 

facility systems safety, risk management, institutional safety policy development, visitor and public 

safety, and institutional safety engineering. The institutional operational safety program requires 

significant Federal, state, and local coordination. 

S&MA Technical Authority and S&MA Support 

The S&MA technical authority program includes travel and labor only for all S&MA supervisors, branch 

chiefs or above, and designated deputies. In addition, where the principal job function of a nonsupervisory S&MA person consists of rendering authoritative decisions on S&MA requirements matters 

relating to the design or operation of a program or project, that person’s salary is included. These 

positions often are the lead S&MA manager positions for large programs where the decision making 

process is nearly a full time demand. This category does not include salary for those whose work only 

occasionally falls as an authority task. This includes travel funds in direct support of these individuals. 

S&MA is mission support, including administrative support, which cannot be directly charged to a 

program. This budget includes policy development across the programs, range safety, payload safety 

(ground processing), independent assessments, metrology and calibration (for Center), reliability and 

maintainability policy, Center-wide S&MA program integration and analysis, business and administrative 

support to S&MA directorates, and quality assurance for facilities and ground support hardware. 

Program Specific 

Project specific safety and mission assurance costs are included in individual project budgets. These costs 

include the technical and management efforts of directing and controlling the safety and mission 

assurance elements of the project. This incorporates the design, development, review, and verification of 

practices and procedures and mission success criteria intended to assure that the delivered spacecraft, 

ground systems, mission operations, and payload(s) meet performance requirements and function for their 

intended lifetimes. This element excludes mission and product assurance efforts directed at partners and 

subcontractors other than a review/oversight function, and the direct costs of environmental testing. These 

estimates are based on last year’s S&MA data call. 

SD-18 
SUPPORTING DATA

PHYSICIANS’ COMPARABILITY ALLOWANCE (PCA)

The Physicians’ Comparability Program permits agencies to provide allowances to certain Federal 

physicians who enter into service agreements with their agencies to address recruitment and retention 

problems. Physicians’ comparability allowances (PCAs) are critical to NASA’s ability to retain flight 

surgeons and physicians, as well as support NASA’s goal of maintaining a stable, high quality physician 

workforce. NASA’s physicians are required to acquire and maintain specialized experience vital to 

supporting the Agency’s missions on the ISS. JSC, NASA’s primary user of PCAs is located in Houston, 

Texas and competes with some of the best medical facilities in the country. The following report 

summarizes NASA’s use of this authority. 

PCA DATA SUMMARY

Actual Estimate

FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013

Number of Physicians Receiving PCAs 27.0 25.0 23.0

Number of Physicians with One-Year PCA Agreements 27.0 25.0 23.0

Number of Physicians with Multi-Year PCA Agreements

Average Annual PCA Physician Pay (without PCA payment) 156,341.0 156,545.0 156,746.0

Average Annual PCA Payment 20,438.0 20,634.0 20,515.0

Category I Clinical Position -JSC 25.0 23.0 21.0

Number of Physicians Category II Research Position

Receiving PCAs by Category III Occupational Health

Category (non-add) Category IV A Disability Evaluation

Category IV B Health and Medical Admin- KSC 2.0 2.0 2.0

*FY 2013 data will be approved during the FY 2014 budget cycle 

MAXIMUM ANNUAL PCA AMOUNT PAID TO EACH CATEGORY OF PHYSICIAN

The allowance amount authorized will be the minimum amount necessary to address the recruitment or 

retention problem and will be determined by considering the factors listed in 5 CFR 595.105(a). 

Allowance amounts may not exceed: 

• $14,000 per annum if the employee has served as a government physician for 24 months or less; 

$24,000 per annum if the employee has served as a government physician for 24 to 48 months; or 

$30,000 per annum if the employee has served as a government physician for more than 48 

months. 

• 

• 

RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION ISSUES

Category 1 Clinical Positions 

There are a number of recruitment and retention challenges at JSC: 

• The Houston area has world-renowned medical facilities with considerably higher physician 

salaries than NASA is able to offer at JSC. 

SD-19 
SUPPORTING DATA

PHYSICIANS’ COMPARABILITY ALLOWANCE (PCA)

• Time and effort to train a new physician to fully support a mission is approximately two years. 

JSC’s pre-PCA attrition rate was nine percent, with many terminating employment with less than 

three years of service. 

•

Therefore, NASA’s current needs for clinical resources continue to be re-evaluated in this post-Shuttle 

era: 

• Anticipating a reduced need for clinical resources, the Space Medicine Division made an active 

decision not to replace four civil service and seven contractor physician losses. 

Active astronauts who retire from NASA convert to the Lifetime Surveillance of Astronaut 

Health program, which is managed by the JSC physician staff. Therefore, although the active 

astronaut numbers are decreasing, the patient population in the program increases. 

Although NASA has had several clinical personnel reductions over the past year or so, the 

Agency has been able to absorb those losses and continue to provide clinical services in large part 

due to PCA. 

•

•

Category IV-B Health and Medical Administration 

NASA currently has two physicians receiving PCA at KSC, and the PCA has been an effective retention 

tool. 

HOW PCA ALLEVIATES RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION PROBLEMS

PCA has been very effective at NASA. The attrition rate at JSC for FY 2009 was zero; FY 2010 was three 

percent; and FY 2011 was seven percent (two losses with one loss due to death). JSC had limited hiring 

capability with no additional hires in FY 2010 or FY 2011. JSC’s concentration has been on retaining our 

current physicians which has been successful as evidenced by the low attrition rates. 

KSC has not experienced recruitment or retention issues due to the existence of PCA. The Center is 

looking to retain the current PCA allowance for FY 2012 and decreasing it in FY 2013 which negatively 

impacts the net income of KSC physicians. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

With decreasing funds expected in FY 2012 and beyond, retaining essential civil service clinical 

resources will become increasingly critical to maintaining core competencies and fulfilling 

mission objectives. 

SD-20 
SUPPORTING DATA

BUDGET FOR STEM EDUCATION

The U.S. government recognizes that Federal agencies have a valuable role in science, technology, 

engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. NASA investments in STEM education inspire student 

achievement in these fields, help educators develop skills, and share NASA’s missions with the public. 

Through real-world training at NASA’s facilities and interactions with the Agency’s scientists, engineers, 

and technicians, NASA is helping to build a qualified workforce both for its future missions and a strong 

national economy. 

NASA STEM EDUCATION INVENTORY FUNDING, BY ACCOUNT 

(in $ millions)

Actual Estimate Notional

FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

Total 157.4 148.2 117.3 117.3 117.3 117.3 117.3

Science 27.6 23.5 21.0 21.0 21.0 21.0 21.0

Aeronautics Research 2.1 2.7 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6

Space Technology 7.0 12.0 15.0 15.0 15.0 15.0 15.0

Exploration 1.7 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0

Space Operations 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8

Education 97.3 89.9 73.0 73.0 73.0 73.0 73.0

Aerospace Rsch and Career Dev. 45.5 40 24 24 24 24 24

 NASA Space Grant 45.5 40.0 24.0 24.0 24.0 24.0 24.0

STEM Education and Accountability 51.8 49.9 49.0 49.0 49.0 49.0 49.0

 MUREP 28.5 30.0 30.0 30.0 30.0 30.0 30.0

 STEM Ed. and Accountability Proj. 23.3 19.9 19.0 19.0 19.0 19.0 19.0

Cross Agency Support 20.9 17.3 2.9 2.9 2.9 2.9 2.9

SD-21 
SUPPORTING DATA

BUDGET FOR PUBLIC RELATIONS

The NASA budget for Public Affairs is funded within Cross-Agency Support under Center Management 

and Operations and Agency Management and Operations. All the Installations listed below, except for 

Headquarters, are in the Center Management and Operations account and the Headquarters budget is in 

the Agency Management and Operations account. 

These budgets include dissemination of information to the news media and the general public concerning 

NASA programs. Content includes support for public affairs/public relations, Center newsletters, internal 

communications, guest operations (including bus transportation), public inquiries, NASA TV, the 

http://www.nasa.gov portal, and other multimedia support. 

NASA PAO BUDGET SUMMARY, BY CENTER

($ in millions)

Actual Estimate Notional

FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

ARC 2.6 2.8 2.8 2.8 2.8 2.8 2.8

DFRC 1.7 1.5 1.7 1.0 1.0 1.1 1.1

GRC 2.8 2.9 3.1 3.1 3.1 3.1 3.1

GSRC 5.0 4.9 5.1 5.1 5.1 5.1 5.1

HQ 10.1 9.6 9.1 9.1 9.1 9.1 9.1

JSC 7.5 7.2 7.2 7.5 7.5 7.6 7.9

KSC 5.8 5.2 5.4 5.7 6.0 6.3 6.7

LaRC 3.1 3.3 3.4 3.4 3.4 3.4 3.4

MSFC 5.1 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8 5.0 5.1

SSC 2.0 2.0 1.9 1.9 2.0 1.8 1.8

NASA Total 45.8 44.0 44.2 44.3 44.9 45.3 46.1

SD-22 
SUPPORTING DATA

CONSULTING SERVICES

NASA uses paid experts and consultants to provide advice and expertise beyond that which is available 

from its in-house civil service workforce. Management controls ensure that there is ample justification for 

consulting services before these services are obtained. Much of the Agency’s expert and consultant 

support is for the NASA Advisory Council and the Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel. NASA uses experts 

and consultants to provide expertise on the selection of experiments for future space missions. The use of 

these experts and consultants provides the Agency with an independent view that assures the selection of 

experiments likely to have the greatest scientific merit. Other individuals provide independent views of 

technical and functional problems in order to provide senior management with the widest possible range 

of information to support making major decisions. 

NASA CONSULTING SERVICES BUDGET SUMMARY

Actual Estimate

(Costs in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013

Number of Paid Experts and Consultants 31.0 31.0

Annual FTE Usages 5.0 5.0

31.0

Salaries 0.2 0.2

5.0

0.2

Total Salary and Benefits Costs 

Travel Costs 

NASA Total Costs

0.3 0.3

0.2 0.2

0.5 0.5

0.3

0.2

0.5

Note: A broader definition of consulting services could include the total object class “Advising and 

Assistance Services” as shown in the Supporting Data Budget by Object Class section of this volume. 

Actual Estimate

(Costs in $ millions) FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013

Advisory and Assistance Services 880.0 855.0 814.0

NASA Total Costs 880.0 855.0 814.0

DEFINITIONS

Consultant 

A person who can provide valuable and pertinent advice generally drawn from a high degree of broad 

administrative, professional, or technical knowledge or experience. When an agency requires public 

advisory participation, a consultant also may be a person who is affected by a particular program and can 

provide useful views from personal experience. 

SD-23 
SUPPORTING DATA

CONSULTING SERVICES

Expert 

A person who is specially qualified by education and experience to perform difficult and challenging 

tasks in a particular field beyond the usual range of achievement of competent persons in that field. An 

expert is regarded by other persons in the field as an authority or practitioner of unusual competence and 

skill in a professional, scientific, technical, or other activity. 

These definitions are located under 5 CFR 304.102. The appointments are made under 5 U.S.C. 3109, and the use of this authority is reported 

annually to Office of Personnel Management (OPM). 

SD-24 
SUPPORTING DATA

E-GOV INITIATIVES AND BENEFITS

E-GOVERNMENT FUNDING CONTRIBUTIONS AND SERVICE FEES BY INITIATIVE

Initiative

2013 Contributions 

(Includes in Kind) 

(in $)

2013 Service 

(in $)

Fees* 

E-Rulemaking 10,000

Grants.gov 

E-Training

Recruitment One-Stop

EHRI 

E-Payroll

E-Travel

Integrated Acquisition Environment

IAE-Loans and Grants

155,066

1,500,000

121,150

391,602

4,219,800

2,050,726

1,729,154

89,973

Financial Management LoB 75,000

Human Resources Management LoB 65,217

Geospatial LoB 15,000

Budget Formulation and Execution LoB 105,000

NASA Total 415,283 10,531,486

* Service fees are estimates as provided by the E-Government initiative managing partners 

NASA’s FY 2013 Exhibit 300 IT business cases will be posted, after submission of the President’s 

Budget to Congress, on the IT Dashboard, located at http://it.usaspending.gov/. 

The E-Government initiatives serve the U.S. public, businesses, and Federal employees by delivering 

high quality services more efficiently at a lower price. Instead of expensive “stove-piped” operations, 

agencies work together to develop common solutions that achieve mission requirements at reduced cost, 

thereby making resources available for higher priority needs. Benefits realized through the use of these 

initiatives for NASA in FY 2013 are as follows: 

E-RULEMAKING (MANAGING PARTNER EPA) FY 2013 BENEFITS

NASA’s benefits for the E-Rulemaking initiative are largely focused on public benefits by providing onestop access to NASA and other Federal agency information on rulemakings and non-rulemaking activities 

on http://Regulations.gov. 

In addition to the process benefits the E-Rulemaking solution offers, it is estimated to provide cost 

avoidance benefits over traditional baseline paper processes to a level of $30 million over five years. The 

electronic docket solution selected by E-Rulemaking governance bodies is a centralized architecture that 

is configurable for each participating entity allowing role-based access to develop workflow and 

collaboration processes to manage their content. This centrally managed solution is estimated to save a 

range of $106 to $129 million over five years as compared to other alternatives that seek the same 

benefits but are based on decentralized architectures. These figures were calculated in the summer of 

2007 by an independent economist hired by the E-Rulemaking Program to develop a Cost-Benefit Model. 

SD-25 
SUPPORTING DATA

E-GOV INITIATIVES AND BENEFITS

NASA benefits through its participation and reliance on the Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) 

and http://Regulations.gov. NASA reaps substantial benefits by improving the transparency of its 

rulemaking actions while increasing public participation in the regulatory process. Direct budget cost 

savings and cost avoidance result from NASA’s transition to FDMS and Regulations.gov, enabling the 

agency to discontinue efforts to develop, deploy and operate specific individual online docket and public 

comment systems. Over a five-year period, NASA is estimated to save over $700,000 over alternative 

options that would provide similar services. 

GRANTS.GOV (MANAGING PARTNER HHS) FY 2013 BENEFITS

The http://Grants.gov Initiative benefits NASA and its grant programs by providing a single location with 

broader exposure to publish grant (funding) opportunities and application packages, making the process 

easier for applicants to apply to multiple agencies. All 26 major Federal grant making agencies posted 

100 percent of their synopses for discretionary funding opportunity announcements on Grants.gov. 

In addition, Grants.gov provides a single site for the grantee community to apply for grants using a 

standard set of forms, processes and systems giving greater access and ability to apply for Federal 

funding. Through the use of Grants.gov NASA is able to reduce operating costs associated with online 

posting and application of grants. Additionally, the Agency is able to improve operational effectiveness 

through the use of Grants.gov by increasing data accuracy and reducing processing cycle times. 

E-TRAINING (MANAGING PARTNER OPM) FY 2013 BENEFITS

The E-Training initiative provides access to premier electronic training systems and tools that support the 

training and development of the Federal workforce. The initiative advanced the accomplishment of 

agency missions through simplified and one-stop access to E-Training products and services. The 

availability of an electronic training environment enhances the ability of the Federal government and 

NASA to attract, retain, manage, and educate the highly skilled professionals needed for a flexible and 

high-performing government workforce. 

The E-Training initiative benefits NASA by reducing redundancies and achieving economies of scale in 

the purchase and/or development of e-learning content and in the purchase of learning technology 

infrastructure. In 2006, NASA streamlined three online training systems into one centralized, learning 

management system: SATERN, a “one-stop” approach offering Web-based training and career 

development resources. This centralized approach allows NASA to reduce and leverage training costs 

through the elimination of unique systems and standardization of training processes. 

Through SATERN, employees can view required training, launch online content, view training history, 

and self-register for approved courses and conferences. In addition, the system allows NASA officials to 

identify groups and individuals who have not met basic training requirements and ensure accountability 

for mission critical and federally mandated training and development. SATERN also offers employees 

access to career planning tools, individual development plans, and competency management assistance. 

Currently, SATERN offers learners access to more than 2,000 online courses and 10,000 online books 

and training videos. SATERN can be accessed at any time from work or home. 

SD-26 
SUPPORTING DATA

E-GOV INITIATIVES AND BENEFITS

RECRUITMENT ONE-STOP (MANAGING PARTNER OPM) FY 2013 BENEFITS

USAJOBS Simplifies the Federal Job Search Process for Job Seekers and Agencies. The 

http://USAJOBS.gov Web site provides a place where citizens can easily search for employment 

opportunities throughout the Federal Government. USAJOBS.gov is a fully operational, state-of-the-art 

recruitment system that simplifies the Federal job search process for both job seekers and agencies. 

Through USAJOBS.gov, users have access to: 

• A centralized repository for all competitive service job vacancies; 

A resumé repository used by agencies to identify critical skills; 

A standardized online recruitment tool and services; 

A standard application Process; and 

Intuitive job searches including e-mail notifications for jobs of interest. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Integration with Recruitment One-Stop (ROS) allows NASA to better attract individuals who can 

accomplish the Agency’s mission. The USAJOBS.gov interface allows job seekers to view and apply for 

all NASA employment opportunities, as well as those from other Federal agencies. On average, 

USAJOBS.gov has over 400,000 visitors per day (the online portal serviced over 21 million applications 

during FY 2010) and over 500,000 resumes are created monthly. 

In 2005, NASA adopted the USAJOBS.gov resumé as the basic application document for all NASA 

positions, except for astronaut positions. The Agency believes that implementation of ROS has resulted in 

significant intangible benefits in terms of providing better vacancy information to applicants. The 

numerous intangible benefits ROS provides to NASA and other agencies include: 

• Decreased hiring time for managers; 

An integrated solution to agency applicant assessment systems; 

A cost effective marketing and recruitment tool; 

Realized cost savings over commercial job posting boards; 

Reduced delays associated with filling critical Agency vacancies; and 

Enhanced competition with the private sector for the best and brightest talent for Federal service. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

ENTERPRISE HR INTEGRATION (MANAGING PARTNER OPM) FY 2013 BENEFITS

The Enterprise Human Resources Integration (EHRI) program supports the strategic management of 

human capital by providing agency customers with access to timely and accurate Federal workforce data. 

In support of this objective, EHRI has the following goals: Streamline and automate the exchange of 

Federal employee HR information government wide; Provide comprehensive knowledge management 

and workforce analysis, forecasting, and reporting across the Executive Branch; Maximize cost savings 

captured through automation; and Enhance retirement processing throughout the Executive Branch. 

A key initiative of EHRI is the electronic Official Personnel Folder (eOPF), a Web-based application 

capable of storing, processing, and displaying the OPFs of all current, separated, and retired Federal 

employees. When fully implemented, eOPF will cover the entire Executive Branch, as well as other 

Federal and local governments, with a total user population of more than 1.9 million. The system will 

replace the existing manual process by automating the Federal government’s HR processes and thereby 

SD-27 
SUPPORTING DATA

E-GOV INITIATIVES AND BENEFITS

creating a streamlined Federal HR system for all Federal employees. The initiative is achieving cost 

savings that are recognized on a per-folder basis. The total cost avoidance per folder is estimated at 

$55.56. 

Specific EHRI/eOPF benefits to NASA include improved convenience in searching, better security and 

safety to electronic files, more economical, streamlined business processes, and the ability to have a 

central repository of OPF records for the Agency. During FY 2010, NASA also deployed the eOPF 

capability of electronic transfer of eOPFs between agencies. Specific NASA employee benefits include 

secure online access to OPFs, automatic notification when documents are added, exchange of retirement 

and HR data across agencies and systems, and the elimination of duplicate and repetitive personnel data 

in personnel folders. NASA completed its implementation to eOPF in March 2008, and transitioned 

personnel actions processing to NSSC. 

E-PAYROLL (MANAGING PARTNER OPM) FY 2013 BENEFITS

The E-Payroll Initiative standardizes and consolidates Federal government-wide civilian payroll services 

and processes by simplifying and standardizing HR/payroll policies and procedures and better integrating 

payroll, HR, and finance functions. Prior to beginning the initiative, 26 Federal agencies provided payroll 

services. Four providers were selected to furnish payroll services for the Executive Branch. In 2004, the 

Department of Interior began serving as NASA’s payroll provider, using their system, the Federal 

Personnel and Payroll System (FPPS), to process NASA’s HR and Payroll transactions and supply all key 

delivery aspects of its payroll operation functions. The E-Payroll initiative benefits NASA by permitting 

the Agency to focus on its Mission-related activities, rather than on administrative payroll functions. 

Payroll processing costs are reduced through economies of scale and avoiding the cost of duplicative 

capital system modernization activities. The initiative also promotes standardization of business processes 

and practices and unified service delivery. 

E-TRAVEL (MANAGING PARTNER GSA) FY 2013 BENEFITS

The E-Government Travel Service (ETS) is a government-wide Web-based service that provides 

standardized travel management practices to consolidate Federal travel, minimize cost and produce 

customer satisfaction. From travel planning and authorization to the review and approval of post-travel 

reimbursement, this end-to-end service streamlines travel management and will enable the government to 

capture real-time visibility into the buying choices of travelers and assist agencies in optimizing their 

travel budgets while saving taxpayers money. 

The benefits of the ETS include: 

• Increased cost savings associated with overall reduction in Travel Management Center 

transaction service fees; 

Improved strategic source pricing through cross-government purchasing agreements; 

Improved business process functionality as a result of streamlined travel policies and processes; 

Enhanced security and privacy controls for the protection of government and personal data; and 

Improved agency oversight and audit capabilities. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

SD-28 
SUPPORTING DATA

E-GOV INITIATIVES AND BENEFITS

Since ETS is a fully integrated, end-to-end travel solution, program cost avoidance is realized by a 

reduction of traveler and manager time for planning, arranging, authorizing, approving and post-travel 

reimbursement processing. Travelers also benefit from ETS’ increased efficiency in the end-to-end 

electronic solution as their reimbursements are expedited. Additional initiative savings are realized from 

the elimination of costly paper-based systems, the decommissioning of legacy travel systems and the 

reduction of agency overhead by consolidating the number of travel contracts. 

NASA completed migration of its travel services to HP Enterprise Services (formerly Electronic Data 

Systems Corporation (EDS)), one of the three designated E-Travel service providers, in mid-2009. 

Completing this migration has allowed NASA to provide more efficient and effective travel management 

services. Potential benefits include cost savings associated with cross-government purchasing agreements 

and improved functionality through streamlined travel policies and processes, strict security and privacy 

controls, and enhanced Agency oversight and audit capabilities. NASA employees are also benefitting 

through more efficient travel planning, authorization, and reimbursement processes. Prior to ETS, the 

estimated overall government-wide on-line adoption rate for travel reservations was approximately 6 

percent. To date, the on-line booking engine adoption rate is over 64 percent resulting in dramatic cost 

savings as a result of lowering travel agent service fees. 

INTEGRATED ACQUISITION ENVIRONMENT (MANAGING PARTNER GSA) FY 2013

BENEFITS

The Integrated Acquisition Environment (IAE) initiative is designed to streamline the process of reporting 

on subcontracting plans and provide agencies with access to analytical data on subcontracting 

performance. Use of the IAE common services allows agencies to focus on agency-specific needs such as 

strategy, operations, and management while leveraging shared services for common functions. 

Furthermore, use of a government-wide business focused service environment reduces funding and 

resources for technical services and support for acquisition systems originally housed by individual 

agencies. 

IAE facilitates and supports cost-effective acquisition of goods and services by agencies. The IAE 

initiative provides common acquisition functions and shared services that benefit all agencies, such as the 

maintenance of information about business-partner organizations (e.g., banking, certifications, business 

types, capabilities, and performance). IAE provides benefits to the government and business-partner 

organizations by improving cross-agency coordination that helps to improve the government’s buying 

power, while providing business partners maximum visibility and transparency into the process. IAE 

provides various services, tools and capabilities that can be leveraged by the acquisition community, 

including buyers, sellers, and the public, to conduct business across the Federal government space. 

Government buyers can: 

• Search for commercial and government sources; 

Post synopses and solicitations; 

Securely post sensitive solicitation documents; 

Access reports on vendors’ performance; 

Retrieve vendor data validated by the Small Business Administration and the Internal Revenue 

Service; 

• 

• 

• 

• 

SD-29 
SUPPORTING DATA

E-GOV INITIATIVES AND BENEFITS

• Identify excluded parties; and 

• Report contract awards. 

Business suppliers can: 

• Search business opportunities by product, service, agency, or location; 

Receive e-mail notification of solicitations based on specific criteria; 

Register to do business with the Federal government; 

Enter representations and certifications one time; 

Revalidate registration data annually; and 

Report subcontracting accomplishments. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

The U.S. public can: 

• Retrieve data on contract awards; 

Track Federal spending; 

Search to find registered businesses; and 

Monitor business opportunities. 

• 

• 

• 

Through adoption of the tools and services provided by IAE, NASA improves its ability to make 

informed and efficient purchasing decisions and allows it to replace manual processes. If NASA were not 

allowed to use the IAE systems, they would need to build and maintain separate systems to record vendor 

and contract information, and to post procurement opportunities. Agency purchasing officials would not 

have access to databases of important information from other agencies on vendor performance and could 

not use systems to replace paper-based and labor-intensive work efforts. 

INTEGRATED ACQUISITION ENVIRONMENT – LOANS & GRANTS FY 2013

BENEFITS

All agencies participating in the posting and/or awarding of Contracts and Grants & Loans are required by 

the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA) of 2006 as well as the American 

Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 reporting requirements to disclose award information on a 

publicly accessible Web site. FFATA requires OMB to lead the development of a single, searchable Web 

site through which the public can readily access information about grants and contracts provided by 

Federal government agencies. More information on the development of this website can be found at 

http://www.federalspending.gov. 

Based on the recommendations of the Transparency Act Taskforce, the website leverages functionality 

provided by IAE initiative to provide Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) numbers as the unique 

identifier. An existing IAE Dun and Bradstreet (D&B) transaction-based contract for the contract 

community was expanded to provide government-wide D&B services for the Grants & Loans 

community. These services include parent linkage, help desk support, world database lookup, business 

validation and linkage monitoring, matching services, as well as the use of DUNS numbers. The 

enterprise D&B contract provides substantial savings to the participating agencies over their previous 

agency transaction-based D&B contracts. 

SD-30 
SUPPORTING DATA

E-GOV INITIATIVES AND BENEFITS

On December 14, 2007, OMB launched http://www.USASpending.gov to meet FFATA statutory 

requirements, ahead of schedule. Since that launch, OMB has and will continue to work with agencies to 

improve the quality, timeliness, and accuracy of their data submissions and has released a series of 

enhancements to the site. USASpending.gov complements other websites providing the public Federal 

program performance information (e.g., http://USA.gov, http://Results.gov, and http://ExpectMore.gov). 

USASpending.gov provides: 

• The name of the entity receiving the award; 

The amount of the award; 

Information on the award, including transaction type, funding agency; 

The location of the entity receiving the award; and 

A unique identifier of the entity receiving the award. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

In addition to routine enhancements to improve usability and maintainability, USASpending.gov is 

focused on supporting implementation of sub-contract and sub-grant awards reporting. 

All agencies participating in the posting and/or awarding of Contracts and Grants & Loans are required by 

the FFATA and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 reporting requirements to disclose 

award information on a publicly accessible Web site. Cross-government cooperation with OMB’s 

Integrated Acquisition Environment initiative allows agencies and contributing bureaus to meet the 

requirements of FFATA by assigning a unique identifier, determining corporate hierarchy, and validating 

and cleaning up incorrect or incomplete data. 

The FY 2013 funding requirements as it relates to the IAE – Loans and Grants funding line supports 

FFATA for the relationship with D&B and DUNS support services. In addition to provision of DUNS 

numbers, D&B is now providing business and linkage data seamlessly, and the business arrangement 

supports the quality of data by real-time updates. NASA and other agencies will leverage the linkages to 

corporate organizational rollups based on parental and subsidiary relationships. 

LINE OF BUSINESS

Financial Management LoB (Managing Partners Department of Energy and Department 

of Labor) FY 2013 Benefits 

The Financial Management Line of Business (FM LoB) leverages shared service solutions that improve 

the quality of Federal financial data and decrease known inefficiencies—and costs—that are typical of 

redundant financial management systems. FM LoB’s Shared Services Providers offer participating 

agencies the economies of scale and expertise in IT and financial reporting not always available within a 

single agency. An emphasis is being placed on greater standardization, transparency, and business process 

improvements as opposed to solely technology improvements. 

The FM LoB initiative uses standard business practices and meets federal accounting standards for 

financial reporting. This level of standardization across all Federal agencies would provide executive 

decision makers with accurate information from which to assess program performance and risks, evaluate 

costs, and improve stewardship across the Federal government. 

SD-31 
SUPPORTING DATA

E-GOV INITIATIVES AND BENEFITS

Current Administration policy requires agencies to conduct a competition among Federal and Commercial 

Shared Services Providers before attempting to modernize financial systems. Commercial Shared 

Services Providers have not yet been designated to support the same range of services provided by 

Federal Shared Services Providers. NASA may be interested in offering its services as a financial 

management Shared Services Provider, depending on future commercial option, policy developments, and 

further analysis. 

Human Resources Management LoB (Managing Partner OPM) FY 2013 Benefits 

The HR LoB vision is to create government-wide, modern, cost-effective, standardized, and interoperable 

HR solutions to provide common core functionality to support the strategic management of human 

resources through the establishment of Shared Service Centers. Driven from a business perspective, the 

solutions will address distinct business improvements enhancing the government’s performance of HR 

and payroll services in support of agency missions delivering services to citizens. The HR LoB concept of 

operations calls for agencies to receive core services from an HR LoB provider. These core services are 

defined as personnel action processing, compensation management (payroll), and benefits management. 

Leveraging shared services solutions will allow the HR LoB to significantly improve HR and payroll 

service delivery, save taxpayer dollars, and reduce administrative burdens. 

NASA works in partnership with one of the approved service providers, the Department of Interior’s 

National Business Center (NBC). Through this partnership, NASA shares and receives “best-in-class” HR 

solutions. NBC delivers developed solutions to their customer agencies, enabling improved efficiencies 

and system integrations at a fraction of the cost and delivery time than similar solutions could have been 

produced by NBC. NASA achieves the benefits of best-in-class HR solutions through implementation and 

integration of NBC- and NASA-developed HR solutions. NASA’s participation in HR LoB allows the 

Agency to participate in the implementation of modern HR solutions and benefit from best practices and 

government-wide strategic HR management. 

Geospatial LoB (Managing Partner DOL) FY 2013 Benefits 

The Geospatial LoB will better serve agencies’ missions and the Nation’s interests by developing a more 

strategic, coordinated, and leveraged approach to producing, maintaining, and using geospatial data and 

services across the Federal government. Specific goals of the Geospatial LoB include establishing a 

collaborative governance mechanism, coordinating a government-wide planning and investment strategy 

and optimizing and standardizing geospatial data and services. 

Contributing agencies and bureaus will receive value from the development of the Geospatial LoB 

primarily through improved business performance and cost savings. Enhanced governance processes, 

improved business planning and investment strategies, and optimization and standardization of geospatial 

business data and services will produce the following results: 

• Collaborative management of geospatial investments will be made more adaptable, proactive and 

inclusive; 

Enterprise business needs and agency core mission requirements will be identified, planned, 

budgeted, and exploited in a geospatial context; 

Long-term costs of geo-information delivery and access will be reduced while minimizing 

duplicative development efforts; 

• 

• 

SD-32 
SUPPORTING DATA

E-GOV INITIATIVES AND BENEFITS

• Effective, yet less costly commercial off the shelf systems and contractual business support 

operations will replace legacy geospatial applications; and 

Business processes will be optimized and knowledge management capabilities will exist for 

locating geospatial data and obtaining services. 

• 

As a science agency, the work of NASA’s science and mission professionals is inherently different from 

duties and functions performed by operational agencies. These differences lead NASA to organize and 

manage data to best facilitate science activities rather than a central focus of data dissemination. Scientific 

inquiry often leads scientist to use different schemas for analyzing data and information produced from 

remote sensing data (e.g., a common grid or projection). NASA will continue to apply the elements of 

FGDC standards where these are appropriate. In FY 2008, NASA signed an Memorandum of 

Understanding with the Department of Labor to continue its active participation in the Geospatial LoB. 

Budget Formulation & Execution LOB (Managing Partner Education) FY 2013 Benefits 

The Budget Formulation and Execution LoB (BFE LoB) provides benefits to NASA and other partner 

agencies by encouraging best practices crossing all aspects of Federal budgeting—from budget 

formulation and execution to performance to human capital needs. To benefit all agencies, BFE LoB 

continues to support the idea of shared service budget systems. The Agency has not chosen to move to a 

new budget system; however, NASA is looking into some of the BFE LoB components, such as MAX 

Collect and Analytics to compliment its current budgeting tools. 

BFE LoB’s “MAX Federal Community,” a secure government-only collaborative Web site, provides 

significant benefits for collaboration across and within agencies, as well as knowledge management. The 

Community site is commonly used for sharing information, collaboratively drafting documents (including 

the direct-editing of documents posted on the site), supporting workgroups, submitting central reports, 

and much more. NASA currently has well over 1500 users that are registered and eligible to take 

advantage of the MAX Federal Community. 

SD-33 
SUPPORTING DATA

COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENT TABLES

EXPLANATION OF COMPARABILITY TABLES 

As requested by Congress in House Report 112-284, the FY 2011 actual and FY 2012 estimates have 

been adjusted to display their budgets in a presentation that is “comparable” to the content of items 

proposed in the FY 2013 budget. This presentation allows direct comparability of yearly budget data 

associated with an investment, regardless of the account (or theme, program, etc.) in which it was, or is 

currently being, executed. 

The following pages provide detailed crosswalks of non-comparable FY 2011 actual and FY 2012 

estimates to their comparable amounts. The following guidelines will assist in interpreting the tables. 

• The gray title box in the upper left hand corner indicates the fiscal year in which budget and 

accounts are being addressed. 

The budget structure running on top of the table is the FY 2013 structure that is used in the rest of 

this volume. The layers in the structure from the top down are for the account, theme, program, 

and reporting attribute. Note that when theme, program or reporting attribute titles are identical 

they are combined to simplify the display. The amounts displayed under this budget structure 

“block” are comparable (adjusted) amounts for the reporting attribute you see in the tables in the 

rest of this volume. 

The budget structure running on the left side of the table is that fiscal year’s operating plan 

budget structure. Note that when titles are identical they were often combined to simplify the 

display. The amounts to the right of the structure are the unadjusted amounts from the fiscal 

year’s operating plan with the proposed allocation of the Public Law 112-55 rescission displayed 

separately for FY 2012. 

The amounts in the matrix are the adjustments to the unadjusted amounts used to derive the 

comparable budget presentation you see in the tables in the rest of this volume. 

No table for the Construction and Environmental Compliance and Restoration account was 

prepared because there are no adjustments related to that account. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

SD-34 
APPLIED SCIENCES

Earth Science Research & 

Ana;ysis

Computing & Management

Global Precipitation 

Measurement

LANDSAT Data Community 

Mission

Ice, Cloud & Land Elevation 

Satellite (ICE SAT-II)

Soil Moisture Active & 

Passive

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

OCO-2

Venture Class Missions

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Pathways

Planetary Science Research

& Analysis

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Education & Directorate 

Management

299.0 162.1 133.6 166.0 59.7 92.5 389.5 89.0 32.0 61.7 147.4 52.8 36.6 122.3 24.0 4.6 

SCIENCE 4,919.7EARTH SCIENCE

Earth Science Research....................................

1,721.9

461.1 299.0 162.1 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Earth Systematic Missions................................. 841.2 ---------------------- 133.6 166.0 59.7 92.5 389.5 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Earth System Science Pathfinder...................... 182.8 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 89.0 32.0 61.7 -----------------------------------------------------------------Earth Science Multi-Mission Operations............ 147.4 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 147.4 ------------------------------------------------------Earth Science Technology................................. 52.8 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 52.8 -------------------------------------------Applied Sciences............................................... 36.6 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 36.6 --------------------------------

PLANETARY SCIENCE

Planetary Science Research..............................

1,450.8

158.8 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 122.3 24.0 4.6 

Lunar Quest Program........................................ 130.2 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Discovery........................................................... 192.0 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------New Frontiers.................................................... 213.2 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Mars Exploration................................................ 547.4 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Outer Planets..................................................... 91.9 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Technology........................................................ 117.3 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ASTROPHYSICS

Astrophysics Research......................................

1,107.9

146.9

Cosmic Origins................................................... 705.9Physics of the Cosmos...................................... 108.7Exoplanet Exploration........................................ 46.4 (See next page for Astrophysics, JWST, and Heliophysics)Astrophysics Explorer........................................ 100.0

HELIOPHYSICS

Heliophysics Research......................................

639.2

160.8

Living with a Star............................................... 218.4Solar Terrestrial Probes..................................... 168.3Heliophysics Explorer Program.......................... 91.7New Millenium.................................................... 0.1

FY 2011 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

PLANETARY SCIENCE RES

$158.8

FY 2011 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for the Science Account

Budget Authority

($ millions)

EARTH SCIENCE 

RESEARCH

$461.1

EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

$841.2

EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE 

PATHFINDER

$182.8

SCIENCE -- $4,919.7

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUCTUR

EARTH SCIENCE MULTI-MISSION OPERATIONS

EARTH SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY

EARTH SCIENCE

$1,721.9
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

SD-36
APPLIED SCIENCES

Earth Science Research & 

Ana;ysis

Computing & Management

Global Precipitation 

Measurement

LANDSAT Data Community 

Mission

Ice, Cloud & Land Elevation 

Satellite (ICE SAT-II)

Soil Moisture Active & 

Passive

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

OCO-2

Venture Class Missions

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Pathways

Planetary Science Research

& Analysis

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Education & Directorate 

Management

299.0 162.1 133.6 166.0 59.7 92.5 389.5 89.0 32.0 61.7 147.4 52.8 36.6 122.3 24.0 4.6 

SCIENCE 4,919.7EARTH SCIENCE

Earth Science Research....................................

1,721.9

461.1 299.0 162.1 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Earth Systematic Missions................................. 841.2 ---------------------- 133.6 166.0 59.7 92.5 389.5 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Earth System Science Pathfinder...................... 182.8 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 89.0 32.0 61.7 -----------------------------------------------------------------Earth Science Multi-Mission Operations............ 147.4 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 147.4 ------------------------------------------------------Earth Science Technology................................. 52.8 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 52.8 -------------------------------------------Applied Sciences............................................... 36.6 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 36.6 --------------------------------

PLANETARY SCIENCE

Planetary Science Research..............................

1,450.8

158.8 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 122.3 24.0 4.6 

Lunar Quest Program........................................ 130.2 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Discovery........................................................... 192.0 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------New Frontiers.................................................... 213.2 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Mars Exploration................................................ 547.4 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Outer Planets..................................................... 91.9 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Technology........................................................ 117.3 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ASTROPHYSICS

Astrophysics Research......................................

1,107.9

146.9

Cosmic Origins................................................... 705.9Physics of the Cosmos...................................... 108.7Exoplanet Exploration........................................ 46.4 (See next page for Astrophysics, JWST, and Heliophysics)Astrophysics Explorer........................................ 100.0

HELIOPHYSICS

Heliophysics Research......................................

639.2

160.8

Living with a Star............................................... 218.4Solar Terrestrial Probes..................................... 168.3Heliophysics Explorer Program.......................... 91.7New Millenium.................................................... 0.1

FY 2011 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

PLANETARY SCIENCE RES

$158.8

FY 2011 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for the Science Account

Budget Authority

($ millions)

EARTH SCIENCE 

RESEARCH

$461.1

EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

$841.2

EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE 

PATHFINDER

$182.8

SCIENCE -- $4,919.7

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUCTUR

EARTH SCIENCE MULTI-MISSION OPERATIONS

EARTH SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY

EARTH SCIENCE

$1,721.9
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

SD-36
PHYSICS OF THE 

COSMOS

$108.7

EXOPLANET 

EXPLORATION

$46.4

Astrophysics Research

& Analysis

Balloon Project

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Hubble Space Telescope

Stratospheric Observatory

for Infrared Astronomy

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Nuclear Spectroscopic 

Telescope Array (NuStar)

Gravity & Extreme

Magnetism

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Heliophysics Research & 

Analysis

Sounding Rocklets

59.6 26.8 60.5 91.7 79.9 57.6 108.7 46.4 36.1 23.0 41.0 476.8 34.0 45.9 

SCIENCE 4,919.7

(See previous page for Earth Science and Planetary Science)

ASTROPHYSICS

Astrophysics Research.......................................

1,107.9

146.9 59.6 26.8 60.5 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cosmic Origins.................................................... 705.9 --------------------------------- 91.7 79.9 57.6 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 476.8 -------------------------Physics of the Cosmos........................................ 108.7 ------------------------------------------------------------------ 108.7 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------Exoplanet Exploration......................................... 46.4 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.4 ---------------------------------------------------------------------Astrophysics Explorer......................................... 100.0 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 36.1 23.0 -----------------------------------------------

HELIOPHYSICS

Heliophysics Research........................................

639.3

160.8 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 34.0 45.9 

Living with a Star................................................. 218.4 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Solar Terrestrial Probes...................................... 168.3 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Heliophysics Explorer Program........................... 91.7 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

New Millenium..................................................... 0.1 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

COSMIC ORIGINS

$229.1

ASTROPHYSICS

EXPLORER

$100.0

FY 2011 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

ASTROPHYSICS 

RESESARCH

$146.9

FY 2011 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for the Science Account

Budget Authority

($ millions)

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUC

SCIENCE -- $4,919.7

ASTROPHYSICS

$631.1

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE

HELIOPHYSICS R

$160.8
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

SD-38
Aviation Safety

Airspace Systems

Fundamental

Aeronautics

Aeronautics Test

Program

Integrated Systems

Research

Aeronautics Management

NASA Space Grant

EPSCOR

Minority University 

Research Program

STEM Education & 

Accountability Projects

67.3 87.2 206.3 76.4 75.9 20.4 45.5 24.9 28.5 46.5

AERONAUTICS 533.5AERONAUTICS 533.5

Aviation Safety..................................................... 67.3 67.3 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------Airspace Systems................................................. 87.2 ---------- 87.2 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------Fundamental Aeronautics.................................... 221.4 ---------- ---------- 206.3 ---------- ---------- 15.1 ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------Aeronautics Test Program.................................... 76.4 ---------- ---------- ---------- 76.4 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------

Integrated Systems Research.............................. 81.2 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 75.9 5.3 ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------

EDUCATION 145.4

---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 45.5 24.9 28.5 11.5

EDUCATION 145.4

Higher Education STEM Education...................... 110.4Informal STEM Education.................................... 0.9 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 0.9

K-12 STEM Education.......................................... 34.1 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 34.1

FY 2011 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

FY 2011 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for:

Aeronautics & Education

Accounts

Budget Authority

($ millions)

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUCTURE

AERONAUTICS -- $533.5 EDUCATION -- $145.4

AERONAUTICS

$533.5

EDUCATION

$145.4
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

SD-40
COMMERCIAL 

CARGO

Crew Vehicle Development

MPCV Program Integration 

& Support

Launch Vehicle

Development

SLS Program Integration & 

Support

Commercial Orbital 

Transport. Services

SPOC Pension Liability

Program Integration

Flight & Ground Ops.

Flight Harware

ISS Systems O&M

ISS Research

ISS Crew &

Cargo Transport.

Space Communications

Networks

Space Communications 

Support

TDRS

Replenishment

1,086.0 110.0 1,313.8 222.3 250.0 299.4 307.4 154.7 77.6 0.0 618.6 502.4 471.9 1,681.1 175.7 856.8 142.8 347.8 92.0 16.9 112.8 83.3 44.

EXPLORATION 3,928.6

HUMAN EXPLORATION CAPABILITIES 2,982.1

Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle.................................. 1,196.0 1,086.0 110.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

Space Launch System.......................................... 1,786.1 ---------- ---------- 1313.8 222.3 250.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

COMMERCIAL SPACE FLIGHT 606.8

Commercial Cargo................................................ 299.4 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 299.4 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

Commercial Crew.................................................. 307.4 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 307.4 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

EXPLORATION RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 339.7

Exploration Technology Development.................. 185.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 77.6 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

Human Research Program................................... 154.7 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 154.7 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

SPACE OPERATIONS 5,320.9SPACE SHUTTLE 1,592.9

Space Shuttle Program......................................... 1,592.9 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 618.6 502.4 471.9 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION (ISS) 2,713.6

ISS Program.......................................................... 2,713.6 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 1,681.1 175.7 856.8 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

SPACE & FLIGHT SUPPORT 1,014.4

21st Century Space Launch Complex.................. 142.8 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 142.8 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------Space Communications & Navigation.................. 456.7 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 347.8 92.0 16.9 ---------- ---------- ---------Human Spaceflight Operations............................. 112.8 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 112.8 ---------- ---------

Launch Services.................................................... 83.3 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 83.3 ---------

Rocket Propulsion Test......................................... 44.2 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 44.

Space Technology Program................................. 174.6 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

CROSS AGENCY SUPPORT 3,130.7CENTER MANAGEMENT & OPERATIONS 2,189.0

Center Management & Operations....................... 2,189.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

AGENCY MANAGEMENT & OPERATIONS 941.7

Agency Management............................................ 401.9 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

Safety & Mission Success..................................... 191.2 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

Agency IT Services............................................... 145.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

Innovative Partnerships Program......................... 174.3 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

Strategic Capabilities Assets................................ 29.4 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

FY 2011 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for:

Exploration,

Space Operations,

Space Technology,

&

Cross Agency Support

Accounts

Budget Authority

($ millions)

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUCTURE

EXPLORATION -- $3,928.6 SPACE OPERATIONS -- $5,320.9 

EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

$ 2,982.1

C. SPACEF'GT

$606.8

EXPLORATION 

R&D - $339.7

SPACE SHUTTLE

MULTI-PURPOSE $1,592.9

CREW VEHICLE

$1,196.0

SPACE LAUNCH 

SYSTEM

$1,536.1

EXPLORATION GROUND DEVELOPMENT

COMMERCIAL CREW

HUMAN RESEARCH PROGRAM

INTERNATIONAL SPACE 

STATION (ISS)

$2,713.6

SPACE & FLIGHT SUPPORT

$839.8

FY 2011 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

ADVANCED EXPLORATION SYSTEMS

21ST CENTURY SPACE LAUNCH COMPLEX SPACE COMMUNICATIONS & NAVIGATION $456.7

HUMAN SPACEFLIGHT

OPERATIONS

LAUNCH

SERVICES

ROCKET PROPULSION TESTING
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SD-42
APPLIED SCIENCES

Earth Science Research & 

Ana;ysis

Computing & Management

Global Precipitation 

Measurement

LANDSAT Data Community 

Mission

Ice, Cloud & Land Elevation 

Satellite (ICE SAT-II)

Soil Moisture Active & 

Passive

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

OCO-2

Venture Class Missions

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Pathways

Planetary Science Research

& Analysis

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Education & Directorate 

Management

Near Earth Object 

Observations

Lunar Science

Lunar Atmosphere & Dust 

Environment Explorer

SfSiLd

SCIENCEEARTH SCIENCE

Earth Science Research

Op. Plan

5,079.01,765.7

Resc.

(5.3)(5.2)

Total

5,073.71,760.5

332.3 107.7 92.9 159.3 120.5 176.3 332.0 98.4 53.6 36.3 163.4 51.2 36.4 122.3 4.0 20.4 27.4 66.7 70.4 

440.1 440.1

Earth Science Research and Analysis......... 332.3 332.3 332.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Computing and Management....................... 107.7 107.7 -------- 107.7 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Earth Systematic Missions 882.1 (1.1) 881.0

Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM)... 92.9 92.9 -------- -------- 92.9 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---Glory Mission................................................ 0.0 0.0 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM).... 159.3 159.3 -------- -------- -------- 159.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---NPOESS Preparatory Project (NPP)........... 8.7 8.7 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 8.7 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Ice, Cloud & Land Elev. Sat. (ICESat-II)...... 120.5 120.5 -------- -------- -------- -------- 120.5 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Soil Moisture Active & Passive (SMAP)....... 176.3 176.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 176.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 324.4 (1.1) 323.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 323.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Earth System Science Pathfinder 192.5 (4.1) 188.4

Aquarius....................................................... 4.2 (4.1) 0.1 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 0.1 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

OCO-2.......................................................... 98.4 98.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 98.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 36.2 36.2 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 36.2 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Venture Class Missions................................ 53.6 53.6 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 53.6 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Earth Science Multi-Mission Operations 163.4 163.4

Earth Science Multi-Mission Operations...... 163.4 163.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 163.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Earth Science Technology 51.2 51.2

Earth Science Technology............................ 51.2 51.2 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 51.2 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Applied Sciences 36.4 36.4

Pathways...................................................... 36.4 36.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 36.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

PLANETARY SCIENCE

Planetary Science Research 

1,501.4 (0.0) 1,501.4

174.1 174.1

Planetary Science Research and Analysis.. 122.3 122.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 122.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Education and Directorate Management..... 4.0 4.0 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 4.0 -------- -------- -------- -------- ---Near Earth Object Observations................... 20.4 20.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 20.4 -------- -------- -------- ---

Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 27.4 27.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 27.4 -------- -------- ---

Lunar Quest Program 140.0 (0.0) 140.0

Lunar Science..............................................Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment 

66.8 (0.0) 66.8 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 66.7 -------- ---

Explorer 70.4 70.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 70.4 ---International Lunar Network......................... 2.8 2.8 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 

Discovery 172.6 172.6

GRAIL........................................................... 29.8 29.8 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 142.8 142.8 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

New Frontiers 160.7 160.7

Juno.............................................................. 31.4 31.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 129.4 129.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Mars Exploration 587.0 587.0

2009 Mars Science Lab................................ 174.0 174.0 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

MAVEN......................................................... 245.7 245.7 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 167.4 167.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Outer Planets 122.1 122.1 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Technology 144.9 144.9 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

(See next page for Astrophysics, JWST, and Heliophysics)

FY 2012 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

FY 2012 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for the Science Account

Budget Authority

($ millions)

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUCTURE

SCIENCE -- $5,073.7

EARTH SCIENCE

$1,760.5

EARTH SCIENCE 

RESEARCH

$440.1

EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

$881.0

PL

EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE 

PATHFINDER

$188.3

EARTH SCIENCE MULTI-MISSION OPERATIONS

EARTH SCIENCE TECHNOLOGYPLANETARY SCIENCE RESEARCH $174.1 LUNAR QUEST PROGR

$140.0 
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SD-44
PHYSICS OF THE 

COSMOS

$108.7

EXOPLANET 

EXPLORATION

$46.4

Astrophysics Research

& Analysis

Balloon Project

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Hubble Space Telescope

Stratospheric Observatory

for Infrared Astronomy

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Nuclear Spectroscopic 

Telescope Array (NuStar)

Gravity & Extreme

Magnetism

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Heliophysics Research & 

Analysis

Sounding Rocklets

Research Range

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

SCIENCEASTROPHYSICS

Astrophysics Research 

Op. Plan

5,079.0

672.7

Resc.

(5.3)

Total

5,073.7

672.7

64.6 31.6 67.9 95.7 84.2 57.4 108.3 50.8 11.8 63.2 37.2 518.6 32.9 52.4 20.1 69.

(Earth Science and Planetary Science on previous page)

164.1 164.1

Astrophysics Research and Analysis............ 64.6 64.6 64.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Balloon Project............................................. 31.6 31.6 ----------- 31.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 67.9 67.9 ----------- ----------- 67.9 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Cosmic Origins 237.3 237.3

Hubble Space Telescope (HST)................... 95.7 95.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- 95.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Strato. Observ. for Infrared Astron. (SOFIA) 84.2 84.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 84.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 57.4 57.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 57.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Physics of the Cosmos 108.3 108.3 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 108.3 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------Exoplanet Exploration 50.8 50.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 50.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------Astrophysics Explorer 112.2 112.2

Nuclear Spect. Telescope Array (NuStar)..... 11.8 11.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 11.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Gravity and Extreme Magnetism (GEM)....... 63.2 63.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 63.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 37.2 37.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 37.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE

James Webb Space Telescope

518.6 518.6

518.6 518.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 518.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

HELIOPHYSICS

Heliophysics Research

620.6 (0.0) 620.6175.2 175.2

Heliophysics Research and Analysis............ 32.9 32.9 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 32.9 ----------- ----------- ---------

Sounding Rockets........................................ 52.4 (0.0) 52.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 52.4 ----------- ---------Research Range.......................................... 20.1 20.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 20.1 ---------Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 69.9 69.9 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 69.

Living with a Star 196.3 196.3

Radiation Belt Storm Probes (RBSP)........... 86.1 86.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Solar Probe Plus.......................................... 49.5 49.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 60.6 60.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Solar Terrestrial Probes 188.8 188.8

Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) 170.3 170.3 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Other Missions and Data Analysis 18.5 18.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Heliophysics Explorer Program 60.2 60.2

IRIS.............................................................. 39.1 39.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 21.1 21.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

COSMIC ORIGINS

237.3

ASTROPHYSICS

EXPLORER

$112.2

FY 2012 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

ASTROPHYSICS 

RESESARCH

$164.1

FY 2012 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for the Science Account

Budget Authority

($ millions)

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUCTURE

SCIENCE -- $5,073.7

ASTROPHYSICS

$672.7

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE

HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

$175.2
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SD-46
Aviation Safety

Airspace Systems

Fundamental

Aeronautics

Aeronautics Test

Program

Integrated Systems

Research

Aeronautics Management

NASA Space Grant

EPSCOR

Minority University

Research Program

STEM Education & 

Accountability Projects

Op. Plan Resc. Total 80.1 92.7 186.3 79.4 104.2 26.7 38.9 17.3 30.0 50.0

AERONAUTICS 569.9 (0.5) 569.4AERONAUTICS 569.9 (0.5) 569.4

Aviation Safety..................................................... 80.1 80.1 80.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- - ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------

Airspace Systems................................................. 92.7 92.7 ----------- 92.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- - ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------

Fundamental Aeronautics.................................... 186.3 186.3 ----------- ----------- 186.3 ----------- ----------- ----------- - ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------

Aeronautics Test Program.................................... 79.4 79.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- 79.4 ----------- ----------- - ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------

Integrated Systems Research.............................. 104.2 104.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 104.2 ----------- - ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------

Aeronautics Strategy and Management............... 27.2 (0.5) 26.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 26.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------

EDUCATION 138.4 (2.4) 136.2

---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 38.9 ---------- ---------- ----------

AEROSPACE RESEARCH & CAREER DEVEL. 58.4 (2.4) 56.2

NASA Space Grant.............................................. 40.0 (1.2) 38.9EPSCOR.............................................................. 18.4 (1.2) 17.3 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 17.3 ---------- ----------

STEM EDUCATION & ACCOUNTABILITY 80.0 0.0 80.0

Minority University Research & Ed. Program....... 30.0 30.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 30.0 ----------STEM Education & Accountability........................ 50.0 50.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- - ---------- ---------- ---------- 50.0

FY 2012 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

FY 2012 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for:

Aeronautics & Education

Accounts

Budget Authority

($ millions)

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUCTURE

AERONAUTICS -- $569.4 EDUCATION -- $136.2

AERONAUTICS

$569.4

AEROSPACE 

RESEARCH & 

CAREER 

DEVELOPMENT

$56.2

STEM EDUCATION 

& 

ACCOUNTABILITY

$80.0
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SD-48
COM. 

SPACE.

Crew Vehicle Development

MPCV Program Integration &

Support

Launch Vehicle

Development

SLS Program Integration & 

Support

SPOC Pension Liability

Program Integration

Flight & Ground Ops.

Flight Harware

ISS Systems O&M

ISS Research

ISS Crew &

Cargo Transport.

Space Communications

Networks

Space Communications 

Support

TDRS

Replenishment

1,142.9 57.1 1,456.1 46.4 304.5 406.0 157.7 142.0 0.0 470.0 19.4 40.0 26.8 1,418.7 225.5 1,185.7 123.5 364.2 66.0 15.2 107.3 81.0 43.6 166.7 29.5 

EXPLORATIONHUMAN EXPLORATION CAPABILITIES

Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle.............................

3,724.3 (3.7) 3,720.5

3,007.5 0.0 3,007.0

1,200.0 0.0 1,200.0

 Crew Vehicle Development.............................. 1,142.9 1,142.9 1,142.9 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 MPCV Program Integration & Support............. 57.1 57.1 ----------- 57.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Space Launch System...................................... 1,807.5 (0.4) 1,807.0

 Launch Vehicle Development........................... 1,456.5 (0.4) 1,456.1 ----------- ----------- 1,456.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 SLS Program Integration & Support................ 46.4 46.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- 46.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Ground Systems Development & Operations.. 304.5 304.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 304.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

COMMERCIAL SPACE FLIGHT

Commercial Crew

406.0 0.0 406.0

406.0 406.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 406.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 

EXPLORATION RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

Human Research Program

310.8 (3.3) 307.5

157.7 157.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 157.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Advanced Exploration Systems 153.1 (3.3) 149.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 142.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

SPACE OPERATIONSSPACE SHUTTLE

Space Shuttle Program

4,207.2 (11.7) 4,195.5

559.3 (3.1) 556.2

559.3 (3.1) 556.2

 SPOC Pension Liability..................................... 470.0 470.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 470.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Program Integration.......................................... 22.5 (3.1) 19.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 19.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Flight & Gound Operations............................... 40.0 40.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 40.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Flight Hardware................................................. 26.8 26.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 26.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION (ISS)

Interational Space Station Program

2,829.9 0.0 2,829.9

2,829.9 0.0 2,829.9

 ISS Systems Operations & Maintenance......... 1,418.7 1,418.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 1,418.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 ISS Research.................................................... 225.5 225.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 225.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 ISS Crew & Cargo Transportation.................... 1,185.7 1,185.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 1,185.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

SPACE & FLIGHT SUPPORT

21st Century Space Launch Complex

818.0 (7.3) 810.7

130.0 (6.5) 123.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 123.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Space Communications & Navigation 446.0 (0.5) 445.5

 Space Communications Networks................... 364.4 (0.2) 364.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 364.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Space Communications Support...................... 66.3 (0.3) 66.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 66.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 TDRS Replenishment....................................... 15.2 15.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 15.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Human Spaceflight Operations 107.6 (0.3) 107.3 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 107.3 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Launch Services 81.0 81.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 81.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Rocket Propulsion Test 43.6 43.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 43.6 ----------- ----------- 

Space Technology 9.8 (1.3) 8.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 0.7 

SPACE TECHNOLOGYSPACE TECHNOLOGY

SBIR & STTR

548.5 0.0 548.5

----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 160.5 ----------- 

548.5 0.0 548.5160.5 160.5

Partnerships Devel. & Strategic Integration 26.4 26.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 26.4 

Crosscutting Space Tech. Development 181.6 181.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Exploration Technology Development 180.0 180.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

CROSS AGENCY SUPPORTCENTER MANAGEMENT & OPERATIONS

Center Management & Operations

3,002.9 (0.1) 3,002.9

2,204.1 0.0 2,204.1

2,204.1 2,204.1

 Center Institutional Capabilities........................ 1,703.4 1,703.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Center Programmatic Capabilities.................... 500.7 500.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

AGENCY MANAGEMENT & OPERATIONS

Agency Management

798.8 (0.1) 798.8

403.3 (0.1) 403.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Safety & Mission Success 198.2 198.2

 Safety and Mission Assurance......................... 49.4 49.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------  Chief Engineer.................................................. 105.2 105.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Chief Health and Medical Officer...................... 4.5 4.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------  Independent Verification and Validation.......... 39.1 39.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Agency IT Services 159.1 159.1 IT Management................................................. 14.6 14.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Applications....................................................... 67.8 67.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Infrastructure..................................................... 76.6 76.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Innovative Partnerships Program 8.9 8.9 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 6.2 2.4 

Strategic Capabilities Assets 29.3 29.3 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

SBIR & STTR

PARTERNSHIPS DEVELOPMENT &

STRATEGIC INTEGRATION

SPACE SHUTTLE $556.2

HUMAN SPACEFLIGHT

OPERATIONS

LAUNCH

SERVICES

FY 2012 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

FY 2012 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for:

Exploration,

Space Operations,

Space Technology,

&

Cross Agency Support

Accounts

Budget Authority

($ millions)

MULTI-PURPOSE 

CREW VEHICLE

$1,200.0

EXPLORATION GROUND SYSTEMS

COMMERCIAL CREW

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUCTURE

SPACE TECHNO

SPACE & FLIGHT SUPPORT

$800.9

SPACE TEC

$57

SPACE COMMUNICATIONS

& NAVIGATION

$445.5

HUMAN RESEARCH PROGRAM

ROCKET PROPULSION TESTING

ADVANCED EXPLORATION SYSTEMSSPACE LAUNCH SYSTEM $1,502.6

EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

$ 3,007.1

EXPLORATION R&D - 

$299.7

EXPLORATION -- $3,712.8 SPACE OPERATIONS -- $4,187.0

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION 

(ISS)

$2,829.9

21ST CENTURY SPACE LAUNCH COMPLEX
SD-50

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PHYSICS OF THE 

COSMOS

$108.7

EXOPLANET 

EXPLORATION

$46.4

Astrophysics Research

& Analysis

Balloon Project

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Hubble Space Telescope

Stratospheric Observatory

for Infrared Astronomy

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Nuclear Spectroscopic 

Telescope Array (NuStar)

Gravity & Extreme

Magnetism

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Heliophysics Research & 

Analysis

Sounding Rocklets

59.6 26.8 60.5 91.7 79.9 57.6 108.7 46.4 36.1 23.0 41.0 476.8 34.0 45.9 

SCIENCE 4,919.7

(See previous page for Earth Science and Planetary Science)

ASTROPHYSICS

Astrophysics Research.......................................

1,107.9

146.9 59.6 26.8 60.5 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cosmic Origins.................................................... 705.9 --------------------------------- 91.7 79.9 57.6 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 476.8 -------------------------Physics of the Cosmos........................................ 108.7 ------------------------------------------------------------------ 108.7 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------Exoplanet Exploration......................................... 46.4 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.4 ---------------------------------------------------------------------Astrophysics Explorer......................................... 100.0 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 36.1 23.0 -----------------------------------------------

HELIOPHYSICS

Heliophysics Research........................................

639.3

160.8 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 34.0 45.9 

Living with a Star................................................. 218.4 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Solar Terrestrial Probes...................................... 168.3 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Heliophysics Explorer Program........................... 91.7 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

New Millenium..................................................... 0.1 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

COSMIC ORIGINS

$229.1

ASTROPHYSICS

EXPLORER

$100.0

FY 2011 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

ASTROPHYSICS 

RESESARCH

$146.9

FY 2011 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for the Science Account

Budget Authority

($ millions)

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUC

SCIENCE -- $4,919.7

ASTROPHYSICS

$631.1

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE

HELIOPHYSICS R

$160.8
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SD-38
Aviation Safety

Airspace Systems

Fundamental

Aeronautics

Aeronautics Test

Program

Integrated Systems

Research

Aeronautics Management

NASA Space Grant

EPSCOR

Minority University 

Research Program

STEM Education & 

Accountability Projects

67.3 87.2 206.3 76.4 75.9 20.4 45.5 24.9 28.5 46.5

AERONAUTICS 533.5AERONAUTICS 533.5

Aviation Safety..................................................... 67.3 67.3 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------Airspace Systems................................................. 87.2 ---------- 87.2 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------Fundamental Aeronautics.................................... 221.4 ---------- ---------- 206.3 ---------- ---------- 15.1 ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------Aeronautics Test Program.................................... 76.4 ---------- ---------- ---------- 76.4 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------

Integrated Systems Research.............................. 81.2 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 75.9 5.3 ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------

EDUCATION 145.4

---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 45.5 24.9 28.5 11.5

EDUCATION 145.4

Higher Education STEM Education...................... 110.4Informal STEM Education.................................... 0.9 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 0.9

K-12 STEM Education.......................................... 34.1 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 34.1

FY 2011 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

FY 2011 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for:

Aeronautics & Education

Accounts

Budget Authority

($ millions)

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUCTURE

AERONAUTICS -- $533.5 EDUCATION -- $145.4

AERONAUTICS

$533.5

EDUCATION

$145.4
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SD-40
COMMERCIAL 

CARGO

Crew Vehicle Development

MPCV Program Integration 

& Support

Launch Vehicle

Development

SLS Program Integration & 

Support

Commercial Orbital 

Transport. Services

SPOC Pension Liability

Program Integration

Flight & Ground Ops.

Flight Harware

ISS Systems O&M

ISS Research

ISS Crew &

Cargo Transport.

Space Communications

Networks

Space Communications 

Support

TDRS

Replenishment

1,086.0 110.0 1,313.8 222.3 250.0 299.4 307.4 154.7 77.6 0.0 618.6 502.4 471.9 1,681.1 175.7 856.8 142.8 347.8 92.0 16.9 112.8 83.3 44.

EXPLORATION 3,928.6

HUMAN EXPLORATION CAPABILITIES 2,982.1

Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle.................................. 1,196.0 1,086.0 110.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

Space Launch System.......................................... 1,786.1 ---------- ---------- 1313.8 222.3 250.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

COMMERCIAL SPACE FLIGHT 606.8

Commercial Cargo................................................ 299.4 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 299.4 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

Commercial Crew.................................................. 307.4 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 307.4 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

EXPLORATION RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 339.7

Exploration Technology Development.................. 185.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 77.6 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

Human Research Program................................... 154.7 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 154.7 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

SPACE OPERATIONS 5,320.9SPACE SHUTTLE 1,592.9

Space Shuttle Program......................................... 1,592.9 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 618.6 502.4 471.9 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION (ISS) 2,713.6

ISS Program.......................................................... 2,713.6 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 1,681.1 175.7 856.8 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

SPACE & FLIGHT SUPPORT 1,014.4

21st Century Space Launch Complex.................. 142.8 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 142.8 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------Space Communications & Navigation.................. 456.7 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 347.8 92.0 16.9 ---------- ---------- ---------Human Spaceflight Operations............................. 112.8 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 112.8 ---------- ---------

Launch Services.................................................... 83.3 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 83.3 ---------

Rocket Propulsion Test......................................... 44.2 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 44.

Space Technology Program................................. 174.6 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

CROSS AGENCY SUPPORT 3,130.7CENTER MANAGEMENT & OPERATIONS 2,189.0

Center Management & Operations....................... 2,189.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

AGENCY MANAGEMENT & OPERATIONS 941.7

Agency Management............................................ 401.9 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

Safety & Mission Success..................................... 191.2 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

Agency IT Services............................................... 145.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

Innovative Partnerships Program......................... 174.3 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

Strategic Capabilities Assets................................ 29.4 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------

FY 2011 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for:

Exploration,

Space Operations,

Space Technology,

&

Cross Agency Support

Accounts

Budget Authority

($ millions)

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUCTURE

EXPLORATION -- $3,928.6 SPACE OPERATIONS -- $5,320.9 

EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

$ 2,982.1

C. SPACEF'GT

$606.8

EXPLORATION 

R&D - $339.7

SPACE SHUTTLE

MULTI-PURPOSE $1,592.9

CREW VEHICLE

$1,196.0

SPACE LAUNCH 

SYSTEM

$1,536.1

EXPLORATION GROUND DEVELOPMENT

COMMERCIAL CREW

HUMAN RESEARCH PROGRAM

INTERNATIONAL SPACE 

STATION (ISS)

$2,713.6

SPACE & FLIGHT SUPPORT

$839.8

FY 2011 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

ADVANCED EXPLORATION SYSTEMS

21ST CENTURY SPACE LAUNCH COMPLEX SPACE COMMUNICATIONS & NAVIGATION $456.7

HUMAN SPACEFLIGHT

OPERATIONS

LAUNCH

SERVICES

ROCKET PROPULSION TESTING
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SD-42
APPLIED SCIENCES

Earth Science Research & 

Ana;ysis

Computing & Management

Global Precipitation 

Measurement

LANDSAT Data Community 

Mission

Ice, Cloud & Land Elevation 

Satellite (ICE SAT-II)

Soil Moisture Active & 

Passive

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

OCO-2

Venture Class Missions

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Pathways

Planetary Science Research

& Analysis

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Education & Directorate 

Management

Near Earth Object 

Observations

Lunar Science

Lunar Atmosphere & Dust 

Environment Explorer

SfSiLd

SCIENCEEARTH SCIENCE

Earth Science Research

Op. Plan

5,079.01,765.7

Resc.

(5.3)(5.2)

Total

5,073.71,760.5

332.3 107.7 92.9 159.3 120.5 176.3 332.0 98.4 53.6 36.3 163.4 51.2 36.4 122.3 4.0 20.4 27.4 66.7 70.4 

440.1 440.1

Earth Science Research and Analysis......... 332.3 332.3 332.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Computing and Management....................... 107.7 107.7 -------- 107.7 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Earth Systematic Missions 882.1 (1.1) 881.0

Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM)... 92.9 92.9 -------- -------- 92.9 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---Glory Mission................................................ 0.0 0.0 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM).... 159.3 159.3 -------- -------- -------- 159.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---NPOESS Preparatory Project (NPP)........... 8.7 8.7 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 8.7 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Ice, Cloud & Land Elev. Sat. (ICESat-II)...... 120.5 120.5 -------- -------- -------- -------- 120.5 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Soil Moisture Active & Passive (SMAP)....... 176.3 176.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 176.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 324.4 (1.1) 323.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 323.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Earth System Science Pathfinder 192.5 (4.1) 188.4

Aquarius....................................................... 4.2 (4.1) 0.1 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 0.1 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

OCO-2.......................................................... 98.4 98.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 98.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 36.2 36.2 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 36.2 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Venture Class Missions................................ 53.6 53.6 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 53.6 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Earth Science Multi-Mission Operations 163.4 163.4

Earth Science Multi-Mission Operations...... 163.4 163.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 163.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Earth Science Technology 51.2 51.2

Earth Science Technology............................ 51.2 51.2 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 51.2 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Applied Sciences 36.4 36.4

Pathways...................................................... 36.4 36.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 36.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

PLANETARY SCIENCE

Planetary Science Research 

1,501.4 (0.0) 1,501.4

174.1 174.1

Planetary Science Research and Analysis.. 122.3 122.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 122.3 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Education and Directorate Management..... 4.0 4.0 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 4.0 -------- -------- -------- -------- ---Near Earth Object Observations................... 20.4 20.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 20.4 -------- -------- -------- ---

Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 27.4 27.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 27.4 -------- -------- ---

Lunar Quest Program 140.0 (0.0) 140.0

Lunar Science..............................................Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment 

66.8 (0.0) 66.8 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 66.7 -------- ---

Explorer 70.4 70.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 70.4 ---International Lunar Network......................... 2.8 2.8 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 

Discovery 172.6 172.6

GRAIL........................................................... 29.8 29.8 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 142.8 142.8 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

New Frontiers 160.7 160.7

Juno.............................................................. 31.4 31.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 129.4 129.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Mars Exploration 587.0 587.0

2009 Mars Science Lab................................ 174.0 174.0 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

MAVEN......................................................... 245.7 245.7 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 167.4 167.4 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Outer Planets 122.1 122.1 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

Technology 144.9 144.9 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---

(See next page for Astrophysics, JWST, and Heliophysics)

FY 2012 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

FY 2012 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for the Science Account

Budget Authority

($ millions)

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUCTURE

SCIENCE -- $5,073.7

EARTH SCIENCE

$1,760.5

EARTH SCIENCE 

RESEARCH

$440.1

EARTH SYSTEMATIC MISSIONS

$881.0

PL

EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE 

PATHFINDER

$188.3

EARTH SCIENCE MULTI-MISSION OPERATIONS

EARTH SCIENCE TECHNOLOGYPLANETARY SCIENCE RESEARCH $174.1 LUNAR QUEST PROGR

$140.0 
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SD-44
PHYSICS OF THE 

COSMOS

$108.7

EXOPLANET 

EXPLORATION

$46.4

Astrophysics Research

& Analysis

Balloon Project

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Hubble Space Telescope

Stratospheric Observatory

for Infrared Astronomy

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Nuclear Spectroscopic 

Telescope Array (NuStar)

Gravity & Extreme

Magnetism

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

Heliophysics Research & 

Analysis

Sounding Rocklets

Research Range

Other Missions &

Data Analysis

SCIENCEASTROPHYSICS

Astrophysics Research 

Op. Plan

5,079.0

672.7

Resc.

(5.3)

Total

5,073.7

672.7

64.6 31.6 67.9 95.7 84.2 57.4 108.3 50.8 11.8 63.2 37.2 518.6 32.9 52.4 20.1 69.

(Earth Science and Planetary Science on previous page)

164.1 164.1

Astrophysics Research and Analysis............ 64.6 64.6 64.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Balloon Project............................................. 31.6 31.6 ----------- 31.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 67.9 67.9 ----------- ----------- 67.9 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Cosmic Origins 237.3 237.3

Hubble Space Telescope (HST)................... 95.7 95.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- 95.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Strato. Observ. for Infrared Astron. (SOFIA) 84.2 84.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 84.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 57.4 57.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 57.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Physics of the Cosmos 108.3 108.3 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 108.3 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------Exoplanet Exploration 50.8 50.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 50.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------Astrophysics Explorer 112.2 112.2

Nuclear Spect. Telescope Array (NuStar)..... 11.8 11.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 11.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Gravity and Extreme Magnetism (GEM)....... 63.2 63.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 63.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 37.2 37.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 37.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE

James Webb Space Telescope

518.6 518.6

518.6 518.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 518.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

HELIOPHYSICS

Heliophysics Research

620.6 (0.0) 620.6175.2 175.2

Heliophysics Research and Analysis............ 32.9 32.9 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 32.9 ----------- ----------- ---------

Sounding Rockets........................................ 52.4 (0.0) 52.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 52.4 ----------- ---------Research Range.......................................... 20.1 20.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 20.1 ---------Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 69.9 69.9 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 69.

Living with a Star 196.3 196.3

Radiation Belt Storm Probes (RBSP)........... 86.1 86.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Solar Probe Plus.......................................... 49.5 49.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 60.6 60.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Solar Terrestrial Probes 188.8 188.8

Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) 170.3 170.3 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Other Missions and Data Analysis 18.5 18.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Heliophysics Explorer Program 60.2 60.2

IRIS.............................................................. 39.1 39.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

Other Missions and Data Analysis................ 21.1 21.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------

COSMIC ORIGINS

237.3

ASTROPHYSICS

EXPLORER

$112.2

FY 2012 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

ASTROPHYSICS 

RESESARCH

$164.1

FY 2012 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for the Science Account

Budget Authority

($ millions)

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUCTURE

SCIENCE -- $5,073.7

ASTROPHYSICS

$672.7

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE

HELIOPHYSICS RESEARCH

$175.2
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SD-46
Aviation Safety

Airspace Systems

Fundamental

Aeronautics

Aeronautics Test

Program

Integrated Systems

Research

Aeronautics Management

NASA Space Grant

EPSCOR

Minority University

Research Program

STEM Education & 

Accountability Projects

Op. Plan Resc. Total 80.1 92.7 186.3 79.4 104.2 26.7 38.9 17.3 30.0 50.0

AERONAUTICS 569.9 (0.5) 569.4AERONAUTICS 569.9 (0.5) 569.4

Aviation Safety..................................................... 80.1 80.1 80.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- - ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------

Airspace Systems................................................. 92.7 92.7 ----------- 92.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- - ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------

Fundamental Aeronautics.................................... 186.3 186.3 ----------- ----------- 186.3 ----------- ----------- ----------- - ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------

Aeronautics Test Program.................................... 79.4 79.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- 79.4 ----------- ----------- - ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------

Integrated Systems Research.............................. 104.2 104.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 104.2 ----------- - ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------

Aeronautics Strategy and Management............... 27.2 (0.5) 26.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 26.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------

EDUCATION 138.4 (2.4) 136.2

---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 38.9 ---------- ---------- ----------

AEROSPACE RESEARCH & CAREER DEVEL. 58.4 (2.4) 56.2

NASA Space Grant.............................................. 40.0 (1.2) 38.9EPSCOR.............................................................. 18.4 (1.2) 17.3 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 17.3 ---------- ----------

STEM EDUCATION & ACCOUNTABILITY 80.0 0.0 80.0

Minority University Research & Ed. Program....... 30.0 30.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 30.0 ----------STEM Education & Accountability........................ 50.0 50.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- - ---------- ---------- ---------- 50.0

FY 2012 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

FY 2012 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for:

Aeronautics & Education

Accounts

Budget Authority

($ millions)

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUCTURE

AERONAUTICS -- $569.4 EDUCATION -- $136.2

AERONAUTICS

$569.4

AEROSPACE 

RESEARCH & 

CAREER 

DEVELOPMENT

$56.2

STEM EDUCATION 

& 

ACCOUNTABILITY

$80.0
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SD-48
COM. 

SPACE.

Crew Vehicle Development

MPCV Program Integration &

Support

Launch Vehicle

Development

SLS Program Integration & 

Support

SPOC Pension Liability

Program Integration

Flight & Ground Ops.

Flight Harware

ISS Systems O&M

ISS Research

ISS Crew &

Cargo Transport.

Space Communications

Networks

Space Communications 

Support

TDRS

Replenishment

1,142.9 57.1 1,456.1 46.4 304.5 406.0 157.7 142.0 0.0 470.0 19.4 40.0 26.8 1,418.7 225.5 1,185.7 123.5 364.2 66.0 15.2 107.3 81.0 43.6 166.7 29.5 

EXPLORATIONHUMAN EXPLORATION CAPABILITIES

Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle.............................

3,724.3 (3.7) 3,720.5

3,007.5 0.0 3,007.0

1,200.0 0.0 1,200.0

 Crew Vehicle Development.............................. 1,142.9 1,142.9 1,142.9 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 MPCV Program Integration & Support............. 57.1 57.1 ----------- 57.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Space Launch System...................................... 1,807.5 (0.4) 1,807.0

 Launch Vehicle Development........................... 1,456.5 (0.4) 1,456.1 ----------- ----------- 1,456.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 SLS Program Integration & Support................ 46.4 46.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- 46.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Ground Systems Development & Operations.. 304.5 304.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 304.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

COMMERCIAL SPACE FLIGHT

Commercial Crew

406.0 0.0 406.0

406.0 406.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 406.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- 

EXPLORATION RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

Human Research Program

310.8 (3.3) 307.5

157.7 157.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 157.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Advanced Exploration Systems 153.1 (3.3) 149.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 142.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

SPACE OPERATIONSSPACE SHUTTLE

Space Shuttle Program

4,207.2 (11.7) 4,195.5

559.3 (3.1) 556.2

559.3 (3.1) 556.2

 SPOC Pension Liability..................................... 470.0 470.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 470.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Program Integration.......................................... 22.5 (3.1) 19.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 19.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Flight & Gound Operations............................... 40.0 40.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 40.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Flight Hardware................................................. 26.8 26.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 26.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION (ISS)

Interational Space Station Program

2,829.9 0.0 2,829.9

2,829.9 0.0 2,829.9

 ISS Systems Operations & Maintenance......... 1,418.7 1,418.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 1,418.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 ISS Research.................................................... 225.5 225.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 225.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 ISS Crew & Cargo Transportation.................... 1,185.7 1,185.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 1,185.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

SPACE & FLIGHT SUPPORT

21st Century Space Launch Complex

818.0 (7.3) 810.7

130.0 (6.5) 123.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 123.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Space Communications & Navigation 446.0 (0.5) 445.5

 Space Communications Networks................... 364.4 (0.2) 364.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 364.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Space Communications Support...................... 66.3 (0.3) 66.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 66.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 TDRS Replenishment....................................... 15.2 15.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 15.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Human Spaceflight Operations 107.6 (0.3) 107.3 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 107.3 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Launch Services 81.0 81.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 81.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Rocket Propulsion Test 43.6 43.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 43.6 ----------- ----------- 

Space Technology 9.8 (1.3) 8.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 0.7 

SPACE TECHNOLOGYSPACE TECHNOLOGY

SBIR & STTR

548.5 0.0 548.5

----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 160.5 ----------- 

548.5 0.0 548.5160.5 160.5

Partnerships Devel. & Strategic Integration 26.4 26.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 26.4 

Crosscutting Space Tech. Development 181.6 181.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Exploration Technology Development 180.0 180.0 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

CROSS AGENCY SUPPORTCENTER MANAGEMENT & OPERATIONS

Center Management & Operations

3,002.9 (0.1) 3,002.9

2,204.1 0.0 2,204.1

2,204.1 2,204.1

 Center Institutional Capabilities........................ 1,703.4 1,703.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Center Programmatic Capabilities.................... 500.7 500.7 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

AGENCY MANAGEMENT & OPERATIONS

Agency Management

798.8 (0.1) 798.8

403.3 (0.1) 403.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Safety & Mission Success 198.2 198.2

 Safety and Mission Assurance......................... 49.4 49.4 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------  Chief Engineer.................................................. 105.2 105.2 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Chief Health and Medical Officer...................... 4.5 4.5 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------  Independent Verification and Validation.......... 39.1 39.1 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Agency IT Services 159.1 159.1 IT Management................................................. 14.6 14.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Applications....................................................... 67.8 67.8 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

 Infrastructure..................................................... 76.6 76.6 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

Innovative Partnerships Program 8.9 8.9 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 6.2 2.4 

Strategic Capabilities Assets 29.3 29.3 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 

SBIR & STTR

PARTERNSHIPS DEVELOPMENT &

STRATEGIC INTEGRATION

SPACE SHUTTLE $556.2

HUMAN SPACEFLIGHT

OPERATIONS

LAUNCH

SERVICES

FY 2012 OPERATING PLAN BUDGET STRUCTURE

FY 2012 COMPARABILITY ADJUSTMENTS

for:

Exploration,

Space Operations,

Space Technology,

&

Cross Agency Support

Accounts

Budget Authority

($ millions)

MULTI-PURPOSE 

CREW VEHICLE

$1,200.0

EXPLORATION GROUND SYSTEMS

COMMERCIAL CREW

FY 2013 REQUEST BUDGET STRUCTURE

SPACE TECHNO

SPACE & FLIGHT SUPPORT

$800.9

SPACE TEC

$57

SPACE COMMUNICATIONS

& NAVIGATION

$445.5

HUMAN RESEARCH PROGRAM

ROCKET PROPULSION TESTING

ADVANCED EXPLORATION SYSTEMSSPACE LAUNCH SYSTEM $1,502.6

EXPLORATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

$ 3,007.1

EXPLORATION R&D - 

$299.7

EXPLORATION -- $3,712.8 SPACE OPERATIONS -- $4,187.0

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION 

(ISS)

$2,829.9

21ST CENTURY SPACE LAUNCH COMPLEX
SD-50

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MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

OVERVIEW ........................................................ MP- 2 

PERFORMANCE FRAMEWORK ..................................... MP- 2 

BUDGET BY STRATEGIC GOAL ..................................... MP- 4 

PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT .................................... MP- 5 

ACCURACY AND RELIABILITY OF NASA’S PERFORMANCE .... MP- 6 

DATA

LOW-PRIORITY PROGRAM ACTIVITIES ............................ MP- 7 

PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT ............................... MP- 8 

2012 MAJOR PROGRAM ANNUAL REPORT SUMMARY .... MP- 11 

CONFIDENCE LEVELS ................................................ MP- 11 

CHANGES IN MPAR COMPOSITION SINCE THE 2012 ............ MP- 11 

NASA BUDGET ESTIMATES

CHANGES IN COST AND SCHEDULE ESTIMATES FROM THE .... MP- 14 

2011 MPAR SUMMARY TABLE

2011 MPAR SUMMARY TABLE ..................................... MP- 14 

AGENCY PRIORITY GOALS ...................................... MP- 17 

INTRODUCTION TO THE FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN ... MP- 23 

UPDATE

FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE ......................... MP- 27 

INTRODUCTION TO THE FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN ... MP- 47 

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN .................................... MP- 49 

MP-1 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

OVERVIEW

PERFORMANCE FRAMEWORK

This section provides a comprehensive record of the past and planned performance for NASA’s programs 

and projects. It discusses: 

• NASA’s performance framework, budget by strategic goal, performance management approach, 

and verification and validation of performance information; 

Performance improvement initiatives; 

2012 Major Program Annual Report (MPAR); and 

FY 2012 and FY 2013 Performance Plans, including Agency Priority Goals and performance 

trends. 

• 

• 

• 

NASA’s 2011 Strategic Plan sets the direction and establishes the framework for the Agency’s 

performance. The performance framework consists of five levels of performance measures as seen in 

Figure 1. The strategic goals form the top of the framework, with four levels supporting the achievement 

of outcomes, objectives, performance goals, Agency Priority Goals, and annual performance goals. Each 

level in the framework is associated with a specific timeframe. The tactical plans of individual offices 

within NASA flow from the framework. The plans are generally internal to the Agency and guide each 

component to achieving performance goals and annual performance goals. 

Figure 1. Performance Framework 

Strategic Plan

StrategicGoals

Next 10 to 20 years and

beyond

Outcomes/

Objectives*

Up to 10 years

Performance Goals &

Agency Priority Goals

Up to 5 years

Annual

Performance

Plan

Annual Performance

Goals

1 year

Note: Objectives are not explicitly called out in the performance plan, consistent with information reflected in performance.gov and the FY 

2011 PAR. 

MP-2 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

OVERVIEW

The Strategic Plan sets the top three levels in the performance framework—strategic goals, outcomes, and 

objectives—which reflect NASA’s long-term plans for the next 10 to 20 years and beyond. The Strategic 

Plan represents the overall direction of the Agency and is the result of rigorous internal planning and 

external consultation with the Agency’s stakeholders. Each strategic goal may be supported by multiple 

NASA organizations, and requires internal stakeholder commitments and support to ensure success. 

While the Strategic Plan focuses on long-term activities, NASA’s performance goals, Agency Priority 

Goals, and annual performance goals, set quantifiable targets for NASA’s programs, projects, and offices. 

Performance goals and Agency Priority Goals focus on planned progress over the next 18 months to five 

years. Annual performance goals align to NASA’s themes and programs in the Congressional 

Justification (CJ). These measures are published in annual performance plans, which also identify each 

responsible program or office. The FY 2012 and FY 2013 Performance Plans are included in this section. 

NASA identifies the operational processes, training, skills and technology, as well as the human capital, 

information technology, resources, and strategies required to meet the performance goals listed in the 

program and project pages of the CJ. 

Certain NASA offices and mission directorates develop tactical plans to guide them in meeting 

performance commitments made to the public. They flow from the performance framework, and NASA 

makes these plans publicly available as often as possible. For example, in FY 2012, the Office of Human 

Capital Management will update the Agency’s plan for human capital programs, initiatives, and projects 

that will advance agency performance goals. The corresponding annual performance goals for this office 

are published in the FY 2012 and FY 2013 Performance Plans. Additional information on NASA’s 

human capital efforts is available at http://nasapeople.nasa.gov/. In addition, the NASA Office of 

Education developed NASA’s Fiscal Years 2011 and 2012 Annual Plan to Assist Historically Black 

Colleges and Universities (HBCU). The plan facilitates research and development activities at HBCUs 

that contribute substantially to NASA’s Mission, prepares faculty and students at HBCUs to successfully 

participate in the competitive research and educational processes of NASA’s mission directorates, 

engages underrepresented minority students, educators, and researchers in NASA’s education program, 

and partners with HBCUs to increase the number of students who successfully complete the curriculum 

requirements for undergraduate degrees in NASA-related fields. 

NASA’s performance framework also provides a means to communicate with stakeholders and the public. 

Through this framework, NASA holds itself accountable for the Nation’s investment in its programs and 

missions, reporting on achievements as well as shortfalls, and informing the performance plan for the next 

year. NASA reports progress in its performance plan to Congress and the public in the Agency’s annual 

Performance and Accountability Report (PAR), which supports programmatic decision-making at a 

government-wide level. NASA leverages this reporting process to monitor progress against the 

performance plan on a quarterly basis. This feedback allows NASA leaders to make course corrections 

through the year and to maintain alignment with strategic goals. 

MP-3 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

OVERVIEW

BUDGET BY STRATEGIC GOAL

NASA’s activities are guided by six strategic goals: 

• Strategic Goal 1: Extend and sustain human activities across the solar system. 

Strategic Goal 2: Expand scientific understanding of the Earth and the universe in which we live. 

Strategic Goal 3: Create the innovative new space technologies for our exploration, science, and 

economic future. 

Strategic Goal 4: Advance aeronautics research for societal benefit. 

Strategic Goal 5: Enable program and institutional capabilities to conduct NASA’s aeronautic and 

space activities. 

Strategic Goal 6: Share NASA with the public, educators, and students to provide opportunities to 

participate in our Mission, foster innovation, and contribute to a strong national economy. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

To reflect the budget for each strategic goal, NASA maps its annual approved budget authority to its 

strategic goals. This process involves mapping mission directorate, mission support, and Education 

accounts, and their supporting programs, to their respective strategic goals. This performance-to-budget 

alignment is indicated in the Agency’s annual performance plan that links each annual performance goal, 

and responsible program, to the strategic goals. 

Figure 2 illustrates how NASA’s FY 2013 budget request aligns to its strategic goals. 

MP-4 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

OVERVIEW

Figure 2. FY 2013 Budget by Strategic Goal 

PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT

NASA governs performance through four Agency-level councils with distinct charters and 

responsibilities. Specific details on the roles of the councils can be found in NASA’s Governance and 

Strategic Management Handbook. In FY 2011, NASA redesigned the governance council structure, 

creating a focused Executive Council, to address strategic and policy issues. The Strategic Management 

Council, which includes representatives from all parts of NASA, now makes recommendations on various 

issues to the Executive Council. Moreover, the Mission Support Council was modified to streamline 

processes that address Mission enabling issues; no changes were made to the Program Management 

Council. NASA will update the Governance and Strategic Management Handbook in 2012. The update 

will include current roles and processes, while maintaining the governance principles and strategic 

management system. 

NASA develops, implements, and continuously measures the Agency’s progress in pursuit of its strategic 

goals, outcomes, and performance measures through its strategic management system. This system 

includes planning and performance management processes that are essential for transparency and 

MP-5 

CECR

CAS

Education

Space Ops

Space Ops

Exploration

Exploration Aeronautics

Aeronautics

Science

Space Tech

$‐

$1,000.0

$2,000.0

$3,000.0

$4,000.0

$5,000.0

$6,000.0

$7,000.0

Strategic Goal 1 Strategic Goal 2 Strategic Goal 3 Strategic Goal 4 Strategic Goal 5 Strategic Goal 6

$ Millions

Construction and ECR (CECR) Cross‐Agency Support (CAS) Education

Space Operations Exploration Aeronautics

Science Space Technology
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

OVERVIEW

accountability. NASA’s integrated system provides data and information to decision makers through 

assessments of performance in relation to annual plans. The cycle requires programs to plan, develop and 

implement strategy; monitor, assess, and evaluate performance toward commitments; identify issues; and 

gauge programmatic and organizational progress. 

The performance data from NASA’s strategic management system provides a foundation for both 

programmatic and institutional decision-making processes and key investment decisions. Specific 

program and project pages provide additional details on how specific goals will be achieved. NASA’s 

planning and performance management processes provide this data to senior leadership through various 

formats, including: 

• Ongoing monthly and quarterly analysis and reviews of Agency activities; 

Annual assessments in support of budget formulation (for budget guidance and issue 

identification, analysis, and disposition); 

Annual reporting of performance, management issues, and financial position; 

Periodic, in-depth program or special purpose assessments; and 

Recurring or special assessment reports to internal and external organizations. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

NASA’s performance management system aligns internal management needs with the guidance and 

requirements of external stakeholders, including the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) 

Modernization Act and Executive Order 13450, “Improving Government Program Performance.” 

Examples of recent performance improvement activities are provided in Performance Improvement. 

In addition, NASA continues to find value in and improve upon its monthly forum, the Baseline 

Performance Review (BPR). As an integrated review of institutional and program activities, interrelated 

issues that impact performance and program risk are highlighted and actions are assigned for resolution. 

The BPR forum fosters communication across organizational boundaries to address mutual concerns and 

interests. 

ACCURACY AND RELIABILITY OF NASA’S PERFORMANCE DATA

In accordance with the GPRA Modernization Act, NASA ensures that performance data is accurate, 

complete, consistent, and current. Building on efforts in previous years, NASA also continues to promote 

robust verification and validation processes for all its performance measures to support the Agency’s 

internal decision-making and external reporting requirements. 

Data management provides the backbone for NASA’s performance management processes. The mission 

directorates and mission support offices collect data to assess performance and assign ratings to its 

performance goals and annual performance goals. Given the varying types of performance measures 

across mission directorates, sources of data, collection methods and record keeping, NASA has 

established a verification and validation methodology to meet each mission directorate’s needs. 

Each quarter, program officials submit to NASA management the supporting performance information 

that justifies each rating, and NASA managers review this data in periodic meetings. NASA also conducts 

additional reviews and evaluations of reported performance data to assess whether the information 

submitted is consistent with information reported at other internal reviews or assessments by external 

MP-6 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

OVERVIEW

independent entities, and is complete enough to portray an accurate picture of NASA’s performance. The 

quarterly reporting process contributes to the development of the Congressional Justification and 

performance plans by highlighting progress to date, cross-cutting coordination efforts, and effectively 

addressing areas of concerns, including but not limited to data quality limitations. The quarterly 

performance reporting and supporting verification processes culminate in the PAR. 

LOW PRIORITY PROGRAM ACTIVITIES

The 2013 Cuts, Consolidations, and Savings (CCS) volume of the President’s Budget identifies the lowerpriority program activities under the GPRA Modernization Act, 31 U.S.C. 1115(b)(10). The public can 

access the volume at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/budget. 

MP-7 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT

DESCRIPTION OF PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT

Performance improvement is a critical element of NASA’s performance management. NASA engages in 

a continuous performance improvement process in which it monitors performance against goals and 

baselines to identify areas for improvement, leverages results from external assessments, including those 

of NASA’s Office of Inspector General (OIG), the Government Accountability Office (GAO), and 

independent evaluations, and then undertakes specific actions to improve areas identified by the 

performance reporting. This section highlights some of the methods, both internal and external, that 

NASA has recently employed to assess performance improvement opportunities, and the resulting actions 

NASA has conducted in order to better achieve its performance goals. 

Internally, NASA engages in a number of activities to identify performance improvement opportunities, 

with a continuing focus in FY 2013 on improving the measures and analysis processes for monitoring and 

reporting on program performance. In FY 2011, NASA began performing quarterly performance 

assessments of progress made toward measures listed in the Agency’s FY 2011 Performance Plan. The 

quarterly assessments culminated in the FY 2011 PAR, which NASA published on November 15, 2011. 

The FY 2011 PAR provides a comprehensive view of NASA’s performance challenges as identified by 

external assessments, as well as challenges monitored through Agency-managed performance reviews. 

The Performance Improvement Plan section of PAR details how the Agency is addressing such 

challenges. In addition to PAR, NASA conducts a number of other internal activities to gauge and 

improve performance. The Major Program Annual Report that follows is another reporting tool used to 

determine how well NASA manages and plans the life cycle cost and schedule of missions. 

In FY 2011, NASA completed the first phase of another internal initiative with the aim of identifying 

improvement opportunities, which resulted in ongoing actions to improve performance. The Explanation 

of Change study, which has the goal of understanding the primary reasons for changes in cost and 

schedule estimates, first examined typical flight projects. A second phase of the study is underway to 

investigate flagship missions. The study resulted in 10 recommendations made to NASA leadership, 

based on analysis of documentation and interviews with key project personnel. Some of the 

recommendations have already been implemented such as Joint Confidence Level estimating, or are being 

incorporated in the latest revision of NASA Procedural Requirements (NPR) 7120.5: NASA Space Flight 

Program and Project Management Requirements. NPR 7120.5 version E is under policy review for final 

distribution expected July 2012. Others still being implemented include the incorporation of cost and 

schedule threats into a project’s formulation plans, and requiring more senior project representation onsite during the integration and test phase of the project. 

NASA also continues to engage in an Administration pilot program for impact evaluations, and in 

NASA’s case, evaluates changes in decision-making performance by partner organizations due to the 

availability of NASA products, primarily through a value-of-information or cost-benefit approach. NASA 

selected the Applied Sciences Program as its pilot, which completed impact analyses of two projects 

during FY 2011, initiated another three analyses in FY 2011, and will start at least one more in FY 2012. 

Information about the analyses will be posted to the Applied Sciences Program website when available. 

Also in FY 2012, NASA will publish a primer for the Earth science community on socioeconomic 

benefits and impacts assessments. In solicitations for decision support projects, the Applied Sciences 

Program will include language requiring impact analyses, including the budget and schedule to conduct 

them, as part of the projects. 

MP-8 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT

In addition to internal monitoring, NASA uses external assessments to identify areas for potential 

improvement. In November 2011, NASA’s OIG identified five areas that pose the top management and 

performance challenges to NASA leadership: the future of U.S. space flight, project management, 

infrastructure and facilities management, acquisition and contracting management, and information 

technology security and governance. More information on OIG’s assessment can be found in the 

Management Challenges letter from NASA’s OIG located in the FY 2011 PAR. GAO previously 

identified high risk factors along the same vein, including managing information technology, antiquated 

financial management systems, poor cost estimating, underestimated risks associated with development of 

major systems, and inadequate acquisition management in view of persistent cost growth and schedule 

slippage in the majority of projects. More details on GAO assessments are available on the GAO Web 

site. 

Once NASA has identified opportunities for performance improvement, it then makes changes in 

strategy, budget, and resource management aimed at meeting its improvement goals. One method NASA 

uses to initiate change involves performance improvement planning. When a NASA program does not 

meet its commitment as stated in the annual performance plan, responsible program officials must explain 

performance shortfalls and provide an improvement plan to address the issues impacting performance. In 

FY 2011, in an effort to set better performance improvement plans, NASA assessed the explanations of 

performance shortfalls and looked for trends in root causes to inform senior management on any crosscutting corrective actions that may be warranted. The FY 2011 PAR details these shortfalls, resulting 

improvement plans, and responsible organizations. 

NASA’s acquisition management practices present another opportunity for far-reaching improvement. 

NASA is currently pursuing Agency-wide actions to improve program and project management, 

including life cycle cost estimating, and acquisition practices to address challenges in life cycle cost and 

schedule management. NASA used information gathered on management and performance challenges, 

including the High Risk List identified by NASA’s OIG and the GAO, to help guide these actions, and 

then implemented a number of initiatives over the past seven years to reform and to improve NASA’s 

acquisition practices including: 

• In 2008, the Agency developed the NASA Policy Directive (NPD) 1000.5A to provide a 

framework for linking budgeting to decisions on life cycle cost and schedule baselines. 

In 2005, NASA implemented and began refining a new cost analysis and estimation processes, 

the Cost Analysis Data Requirement (CADRe) and Joint Confidence Level estimation. NASA 

expects the application of the JCL process to increase the insight of project and program 

managers and others into uncertainties and contingencies within an integrated cost and schedule 

plan. 

NASA improved its earned value management capabilities, starting with the codification in 

Agency policy in 1998. This technique has evolved over the past decade, and currently focuses on 

measuring the performance of the civil servant staff for a more holistic picture of a NASA 

project, which often consists of both externally procured and in-house design and development. 

NASA recently established and piloted of leading technical indicators at the Preliminary Design 

Review (PDR), the review just prior to committing to a cost and schedule baseline, to assess a 

project’s maturity. 

• 

• 

• 

NASA will continue ongoing assessments of its performance to discover opportunities for improvement. 

The regularity of these assessments keeps decision makers informed on the latest challenges with 

programs, projects, and the Agency, allowing them to improve strategy, budget, and resource 

MP-9 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT

management choices. Through this ongoing process, NASA continues to strive to meet or exceed its 

performance goals. 

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2012 MAJOR PROGRAM ANNUAL REPORT (MPAR) SUMMARY

2012 MPAR SUMMARY

The 2012 MPAR is provided to meet the requirements of section 103 of the NASA Authorization Act of 

2005 (P.L. 109-155; 42 U.S.C. 16613). The 2012 MPAR consists of this summary and FY 2013 Budget 

Estimate pages of MPAR Projects in Development. These project pages constitute each project’s Annual 

Report, or, if this is the first year for which it is in reporting, baseline report. The MPAR summary also 

includes the confidence level of achieving the commitments as requested in the Conference Report 

accompanying the FY 2010 Consolidated Appropriations Act (P.L. 111-117). 

CONFIDENCE LEVELS

NASA uses a confidence level approach to budgeting. This approach incorporates program and project 

risks into cost and budget estimates and, as such, is suited to NASA’s complex, high-risk portfolio. This 

approach affords project managers the necessary flexibility to manage and mitigate technical and other 

risks associated with NASA’s missions. The likelihood of meeting any given estimate is referred to as the 

confidence level (CL). 

Implementation of the confidence level approach varies depending on the type of program. Regarding 

confidence levels, NASA distinguishes between Space Flight and Ground System projects in 

development, projects in operations, and Research and Technology projects. All projects currently subject 

to MPAR reporting fall within the Space Flight category. NASA’s acquisition strategy policy (NPD 

1000.5A) requires spaceflight programs and projects to develop probabilistic cost estimates for 

spaceflight projects in development, which incorporate the likely cost impacts of project risks. NASA 

targets a confidence level of at least 70 percent for most of its programs and projects. NASA has included 

the confidence level in Table 1, where applicable. 

NASA evolved its probabilistic cost estimation from “cost risk only” to a joint cost and schedule 

approach designed to increase the likelihood of project success at the specified funding level. The 

application of the joint cost and schedule confidence level (JCL) approach will increase insight into risks 

and associated contingencies within a project’s integrated technical, cost, schedule, and phasing plan. 

NASA started developing estimates using the JCL approach during 2010. Many projects entering 

development before 2010 had baselines established under cost estimating policies that preceded JCL. 

Only two of the current MPAR projects were baselined before 2010. 

Research and technology development programs address technical and science challenges and outcomes. 

These programs do not include reserves or specific confidence levels within their estimated costs. Rather, 

the programs operate on a “level of effort” basis, matching progress to available funding and using 

interim milestones to assess on-going progress towards key research or technology goals. 

CHANGES IN MPAR COMPOSITION SINCE THE 2012 NASA BUDGET ESTIMATES

No new projects with estimated life cycle costs greater than $250 million received authority to proceed 

into development since the 2011 MPAR was prepared for the 2012 NASA Budget Estimates. 

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MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

2012 MAJOR PROGRAM ANNUAL REPORT (MPAR) SUMMARY

The 2011 MPAR in the 2012 NASA Budget Estimates included six projects that are no longer in MPAR 

reporting. Those projects are: Aquarius, Glory, GRAIL, Juno, MSL, and NPP. Aquarius, GRAIL, Juno, 

MSL, and NPP all launched successfully in FY 2011 and early FY 2012. The Glory mission launched in 

FY 2011 but was lost when the payload fairing from the Taurus XL launch vehicle failed to separate from 

the rocket. 

Updated cost and schedule estimates are provided in Table 1 for ten projects baselined in previous MPAR 

reports: 

• Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM); 

James Webb Space Telescope (JWST); 

Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer (LADEE); 

Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM); 

Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN); 

Magnetospheric MultiScale mission (MMS); 

Orbiting Carbon Observatory 2 (OCO-2); 

Radiation Belt Storm Probes (RBSP); 

Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA); and 

Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) K and L. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Figure 3 provides a summary of cost and schedule changes against established baselines for the 10 MPAR 

projects. 

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MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

2012 MAJOR PROGRAM ANNUAL REPORT (MPAR) SUMMARY

Figure Figure 3. Summary of Cost and Sc 3. Summary of Cost and Schedule Changes for MPAR Projects

‐6%

0%

4.5%

‐1%

0% 0% Under

review

‐1%

23%

‐12%

11

months

0

months

0

months

0

months

0

months

0

months

4

months

12

months

0

months

‐10

‐5

0

5

10

15

20

25

‐10%

‐5%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

GPM    JWST *    LADEE    LDCM    MAVEN MMS OCO‐2 **    RBSP   SOFIA † TDRS ††   

Key Milestone Change (months)

Development Cost Growth (%)

Development Cost Growth (%)

ScheduleGrowth (Months)

15% Development Cost Threshold

6 month Schedule Threshold

* The JWST rebaseline is officially established in the FY 2013 Congressional Justification. The original baseline Development cost was $2,581.1 

million and the original LRD was June 2014.  

** The cost and schedule for OCO-2 are currently under review due to uncertainty regarding the launch vehicle for the mission.

† In 2010, addressing concerns with SOFIA program performance, NASA approved a revised plan establishing new intermediate milestones that 

lead to Full Operational Capability (FOC) in December 2014. The plan established high confidence in the new cost estimates and activity 

schedules that will achieve the FOC milestone and enabled the recent successful completion of the initial science flights. There are no changes to 

SOFIA from last year.

†† TDRS reflects TDRS K/L only. 

NASA has rebaselined JWST and has made significant changes in the project’s management in 2011, in 

response to cost and schedule performance issues and the recommendations of the Independent 

Comprehensive Review Panel (ICRP) report. As a result of the rebaseline, the launch date moved from 

2014 to 2018, and the development cost increased from $2.581 billion to $6.198 billion. 

MP-13 
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2012 MAJOR PROGRAM ANNUAL REPORT (MPAR) SUMMARY

CHANGES IN COST AND SCHEDULE ESTIMATES FROM THE 2011 MPAR 

Three projects exceeded a cost or schedule threshold since the 2011 MPAR: 

• JWST cost and schedule estimates have grown since the baseline in 2009. The FY 2013 

Congressional Justification officially establishes a new baseline for JWST consistent with 

direction in NASA’s FY 2012 Appropriation to cap JWST formulation and development costs at 

$8.0 billion. 

The GPM project launch date slipped to June 2014 for several reasons. The Japanese Aerospace 

Exploration Agency (JAXA) is contributing an instrument for the mission, and after the March 

2011 earthquake in Japan, JAXA experienced component and delivery issues with the Dualfrequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) instrument. There were also delays in the spacecraft and 

GPM Microwave Imager (GMI) instrument development. Due to this schedule threshold breach, 

NASA is completing reporting required by Section 103 (d) of the NASA Authorization Act of 

2005, which will provide additional information on the GPM mission, including reasons for 

changes in schedule, alternatives assessed by the Agency, and the selected actions. 

The OCO-2 satellite was planned to launch on a Taurus XL, which following the failure in March 

2011 for the Glory mission, was put on hold pending the outcome of a failure investigation. As a 

result, the planned launch readiness date will change. The project’s cost and schedule are 

currently under review. 

• 

• 

MPAR SUMMARY TABLE

Table 1 provides cost, schedule, and confidence level information for NASA projects currently in 

development with life cycle cost estimates of $250 million or more. 

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2012 MAJOR PROGRAM ANNUAL REPORT (MPAR) SUMMARY

Table 1. MPAR Summary Table 

Project Base Year JCL (%)1

Development Cost Est. 

($M) Cost 

Change (%)

Key Mile- 2 stone

Key Milestone

Schedule 

Change 

(months)

Cost 

Change

Schedule 

Change

Factors 

Breaches 

Contributing to 

since 2011 MPAR

Base 2012 Base 2012 > 15%3 3 > 6 Mo Internal External

GPM 2010 70 4 555.2 519.3 -6.5 LRD Jul-13 Jun-14 11 X Spacecraft/ 

Instrument 

delays

March 2011 

earthquake 

in Japan

JWST5 2012 66 6,197.9 6,197.9 0 LRD Oct-18 Oct-18 0

LADEE 2011 70 168.2 175.8 4.5 LRD Nov-13 Nov-13 0

LDCM6 2010 70 583.4 577.2 -1.1 LRD Jun-13 Jun-13 0

MAVEN 2011 70 7 567.2 567.2 0 LRD Nov-13 Nov-13 0

MMS8 2010 70 857.3 857.3 0 LRD Mar-15 Mar-15 0

OCO-29 2011 70 10 249 U/R U/R LRD Feb-13 U/R U/R

RBSP 2009 70 (CL) 533.9 530.9 -0.6 LRD May-12 Sep-12 4 X Taurus XL 

LV

SOFIA 2007 70 919.5 1,128.4 22.6 FOC Dec-13 Dec-14 12 † †

TDRSK/L11

2010 75 (CL) 209.4 183.6 -12.3 LRD K: Dec-12

L: Dec-13

K: Dec-12

L: Dec-13

0

1 The confidence level (CL) estimates reported here reflect an evolving process as NASA improves its probabilistic estimation techniques and processes. Each estimate reflects the practices and policies at the time it was developed. 

Estimates that include combined cost and schedule risks are denoted as Joint Confidence Level (JCL) estimates; all other CLs reflect cost confidence without necessarily factoring the potential impacts of schedule changes on cost. 2 Key Milestone definitions: LRD = Launch Readiness Date; FOC = Full Operational Capability 

3 An “X” indicates new changes compared to the 2011 MPAR. A “†” represents a change that occurred prior to the 2011 MPAR. 

4

 For GPM, the JCL reflects the KDP-C Replan JCL, approved in October 2011. 

5

 The JWST rebaseline is officially established in the FY 2013 Congressional Justification. The original baseline development cost was $2,581.1 million and the original LRD was June 2014. Construction of Facilities funds are 

included in the project’s MPAR Cost Estimate. 

6

 For LDCM, the confidence level estimate addresses the full partnership; the development cost reflects the NASA portion of project costs. 7 For MAVEN, the JCL included schedule risk of the launch vehicle but used the Headquarters-provided launch vehicle cost as a pass-through number per agreement with the Standing Review Board (SRB). 8 For MMS, the confidence level estimate addresses the full partnership; the development cost reflects the NASA portion of project costs. 9 The cost and schedule for OCO-2 are currently under review (U/R) due to uncertainty regarding the launch vehicle for the mission. 10 For OCO-2, the JCL was performed for Phases C and D, excluding project managed unallocated future expenses, JPL fees, launch services, and low-level fixed cost activities at GSFC. 11 For TDRS, the confidence level (done for TDRS K/L) estimate addresses the full partnership; the development cost reflects the NASA portion of project costs. While current baseline costs are solely for TDRS K/L, TDRS M will be 

added to the project’s scope in FY 2012 pursuant to direction in the FY 2012 Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act (P.L. 112-55); accordingly, NASA will revise the TDRS baseline cost estimate in the coming 

months. 

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2012 MAJOR PROGRAM ANNUAL REPORT (MPAR) SUMMARY

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AGENCY PRIORITY GOALS

AGENCY PRIORITY GOALS

Per the GPRA Modernization Act, 31 U.S.C. 1115(b)(10), requirement to address Federal Goals in the 

agency Strategic Plan and Annual Performance Plan, please refer to Performance.gov for information on 

Federal Priority Goals. NASA supports the Federal Priority Goals through various activities, including 

those focused on education. NASA’s education portfolio is aligned with the priorities identified in the 

Committee on STEM’s Five-Year Strategic Plan. The Education Performance Goals under NASA 

Strategic Goals 5 and 6 are supportive of the Administration’s priorities and represent NASA’s 

contribution toward achievement of Federal efforts, including related Cross Agency Priority Goal(s). 

In FY 2010, NASA began tracking its two-year Agency Priority Goals, formerly called High Priority 

Performance Goals, which were developed in response to the GPRA Modernization Act and a White 

House initiative for building a high-performing government. While the Agency Priority Goals do not 

provide a complete representation of all high profile activities within NASA, they do represent important 

near-term priorities. Further details are available in the Agency Overview. For FY 2012 to FY 2013, 

NASA identified four new Agency Priority Goals which represent challenging, near-term targets that the 

Agency will reach to benefit the American people in the areas of space operations, human spaceflight, 

planetary science, and space technology. Though these goals represent activities already planned by 

NASA in that timeframe, NASA will be tracking more detailed action plans and quarterly milestones for 

these selected goals. This section lists the goals. More information can be found at 

http://www.performance.gov. NASA will publish an addendum to its Strategic Plan to reflect these new 

Agency Priority Goals. 

MP-17 
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AGENCY PRIORITY GOALS

Agency Priority Goal Statement: 

Impact Statement: Sustain operations and full utilization of the International Space Station (ISS). 

Key Indicator: By the end of FY 2013, NASA will complete at least three flights delivering research and 

logistics hardware to the ISS by U.S.-developed cargo delivery systems.

Description: The ISS is a major stepping stone in achieving NASA’s exploration goals across the solar 

system. It provides a space-based research and development laboratory to safely perform 

multidisciplinary, cutting-edge research. The continuously crewed laboratory—the Nation’s newest 

National Laboratory—enables the ongoing evolution of research and technology objectives and ensures 

that the benefits of this multinational investment can be realized. 

In order to provide cargo transportation to and from ISS—for the Agency and for users of the Station in 

its capacity as a National Laboratory—NASA will depend on U.S. industry to provide commercial 

resupply services following the retirement of the Space Shuttle. These commercial services are planned to 

help support U.S. operations and utilization of the ISS to meet NASA mission objectives, NASA 

obligations for international utilization cargo under the ISS Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), and 

the needs of other civil and commercial users of the Space Station. 

Goal Leader: Mark Uhran, Director, 

International Space Station Division 

Contributing Programs: International Space Station, 

ISS Crew and Cargo Transportation, Federal Aviation 

Administration (FAA) 

Supports Strategic Goal 1: 

Extend and sustain human activities across the solar system. 

Supports Outcome 1.1: 

Sustain the operation and full use of the International Space Station (ISS) and expand efforts to utilize the 

ISS as a National Laboratory for scientific, technological, diplomatic, and educational purposes and for 

supporting future objectives in human space exploration. 

MP-18 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

AGENCY PRIORITY GOALS

Agency Priority Goal Statement: 

Impact Statement: Develop the Nation’s next generation Human Space Flight (HSF) system to allow for 

travel beyond low Earth orbit (LEO). 

Key Indicator: By September 30, 2013, NASA will finalize cross-program requirements and system 

definition to ensure that the first test flight of the Space Launch System (SLS) and Multi-Purpose Crew 

Vehicle (MPCV) programs is successfully achieved at the end of 2017 in an efficient and cost effective 

way.

Description: NASA’s Human Exploration Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD) has been charged 

with developing the nation’s next generation Human Space Flight (HSF) system as mandated in the 

NASA Authorization Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-267). The next generation of HSF vehicles, which include the 

Orion Multi-purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) and the Space Launch System (SLS), are making significant 

progress on once again returning Americans to beyond low Earth orbit (LEO). The Exploration Ground 

Systems (EGS) program provides support for these vehicles as well as other users of launch systems at 

the Kennedy Space Center (KSC). 

NASA’s plan calls for the initial destination for human spaceflight beyond LEO to target an asteroid by 

the middle of the next decade. Other destinations could include cis-lunar space (the region between the 

Earth’s atmosphere and the Moon) such as the Earth-Moon Lagrange points, the lunar surface, and 

eventually Mars and its moons. All of these destinations are scientifically compelling and rich in data that 

will provide continuous expansion of human knowledge of the universe and inspire humankind. 

Goal Leader: William Hill, Assistant Deputy 

Associate Administrator, Exploration 

Systems Division 

Contributing Programs: Space Launch Services, Orion 

Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle, Exploration Ground 

Systems, Office of the Chief Technologist, Human 

Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate 

Advanced Exploration Systems division, Department of 

Defense (DoD), other government agencies, domestic, 

commercial, and international partners 

Supports Strategic Goal 1: 

Extend and sustain human activities across the solar system. 

Supports Outcome 1.3: 

Develop an integrated architecture and capabilities for safe crewed and cargo missions beyond low Earth 

orbit. 

MP-19 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

AGENCY PRIORITY GOALS

Agency Priority Goal Statement: 

Impact Statement: Use the Mars Science Laboratory Curiosity Rover to explore and quantitatively 

assess a local region on the surface of Mars as a potential habitat for life, past or present. 

Key Indicator: By September 30, 2013, NASA will assess the biological potential of at least one target 

environment on Mars by obtaining chemical and/or mineralogical analysis of multiple samples of its 

surface.

Description: The Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) launched on November 26, 2011, with the overall 

science objective of exploring and quantitatively assessing a local region on the surface of Mars as a 

potential habitat for life, past or present. This mission will use ten science instruments carried on a rover 

platform that will operate under its own power and telemetry and is expected to remain active for one 

Mars year (687 days). Mars, one of four terrestrial planets, provides the opportunity to answer many of 

the key questions concerning solar system history, planetary evolution, and the potential for life. Mars 

provides the opportunity to possibly answer origin and evolution of life questions, with its clear potential 

for past and possibly present biological activity. Furthermore, the Red Planet has a record of its climate 

and geologic evolution exposed over much of the surface—an incomparable treasure trove of ancient 

planetary processes, including those possibly leading to the origin of life. On Earth, rocks preserved from 

the first billion years are extremely rare and have been altered by weather and geologic processes. 

As the first roving analytical laboratory sent to another planet and the first astrobiology mission since 

Viking, the Curiosity rover will assess the biological potential of the site by investigating discovered 

organic and inorganic compounds and the processes that might preserve them. Also, the rover will 

characterize the site’s geology and geochemistry, including chemical, mineralogical, and isotopic 

composition. With the combination of remote sensing and analytical instrumentation, the rover team will 

be able to investigate the role of water, atmospheric evolution, and modern weather/climate. Curiosity 

will be able to characterize the spectrum of surface radiation, important to understanding the surface 

chemistry and the environment for future human exploration of Mars. Because of the tremendous 

analytical capabilities of Curiosity, what is discovered in the region of the landing site will provide 

ground truth for our orbital observations and enhance our understanding of mineral distributions planet–

wide. 

Goal Leader: Doug McCuistion, 

Director, Mars Exploration Program 

Contributing Programs: Science Mission Directorate (SMD), 

Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate 

(HEOMD), Ames Research Center, Goddard Space Flight Center, 

Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Kennedy Space Flight Center, United 

Launch Alliance, U.S. Department of Energy, Los Alamos 

National Laboratory, the Southwest Research Institute, Canadian, 

Russian, Spanish, French and German space agencies 

Supports Strategic Goal 2: 

Expand scientific understanding of the Earth and the universe in which we live. 

Supports Outcome 2.3: 

Ascertain the content, origin, and evolution of the solar system and the potential for life elsewhere. 

MP-20 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

AGENCY PRIORITY GOALS

Agency Priority Goal Statement: 

Impact Statement: Enable bold new missions and make new technologies available to Government 

agencies and U.S. industry. 

Key Indicator: By September 30, 2013, document the maturation of new technologies by completing 

4,065 technology-related products, including patents, licenses, and mission use agreements. 

Description: Our Nation’s competitiveness is due in large part to decades of investment in technology 

and innovation. These investments allow NASA to achieve the increasingly challenging and complex 

science, exploration, and aeronautics mission goals that will enable new missions never before possible. 

Through collaboration and partnership which has been a vital component of NASA’s mission, we are 

building tomorrow’s technologies today. Our efforts are advancing the technological capabilities and 

systems available to government agencies and U.S. industry. This investment creates high-tech jobs in the 

United States and will strengthen the U.S. global leadership in technology and innovation. 

NASA strives to make the latest technologies available to industry and other government agencies as 

soon as they are developed. This transfer of technology provides countless opportunities for private 

industry to develop new innovative commercial products and services ensuring the greatest benefit from 

the Nation’s investment in Space Technology. 

NASA’s plan implements a robust effort that matures technologies so that they are used by NASA 

missions as well as other government agencies and the private sector. NASA identifies and patents those 

technologies that are promising while industry licenses existing patents. Some technologies also are 

distributed via other collaborative research partnerships. Through this Agency Priority Goal, NASA will 

illustrate its success in developing and transferring innovations from the inventors to the users while 

contributing to U.S. economic growth. 

Goal Leader: Mason Peck, Chief 

Technologist 

Contributing Programs: Human Exploration Operations 

Mission Directorate (HEOMD), Science Mission Directorate 

(SMD), Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate (ARMD), 

Office of the Chief Engineer (OCE), Office of the Chief Health 

and Medical Officer (OCHMO), Office of Safety and Mission 

Assurance (OSMA), Office of General Counsel (OGC), NASA 

Centers, additional partnerships with other government agencies, 

industry, and international entities 

Supports Strategic Goal 3: 

Create the innovative new space technologies for our exploration, science, and economic future. 

Supports 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. 

MP-21 
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AGENCY PRIORITY GOALS

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MP-22 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

INTRODUCTION TO THE FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN 

UPDATE

INTRODUCTION TO THE FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

Each fiscal year, NASA’s budget request to Congress contains an annual performance plan that aligns 

with the funds requested. NASA typically needs to update some measures in the plan at the beginning of 

the year of execution.When the final appropriation differs from the amount requested, or if Congressional 

or Executive direction places a different emphasis on programs relative to what was initially requested, an 

update to the annual performance plan may be required. Additionally, the dynamic nature of research and 

development can lead to shifting priorities, and the activities that were originally identified in the annual 

performance plan may no longer be pursued by NASA. 

NASA submitted the FY 2012 Performance Plan with its FY 2012 Congressional Justification in 

February 2011. Since then, several factors – in addition to typographical or other inaccuracies and 

changes to NASA’s budget structure – have made it necessary to update the plan. First, NASA’s 

execution of its FY 2011 performance plan was impacted by the year-long continuing resolution, and 

some activities were not initiated. As a result, one measure (APG 3.4.1.5: ST-11-7) was delayed from FY 

2011 and carried over to FY 2012 (3.4.1.5: ST-12-17), which involves completion of the original activity 

and additional related activities. In other cases, work has already been completed, and the measures have 

been updated accordingly. In addition, NASA received Congressional or Executive direction through the 

FY 2012 Appropriation in November 2011, as well as other issued directives and guidance; as a result, 

NASA updated or combined measures. 

This section provides a summary of NASA’s performance commitments for FY 2012. Measures that have 

been revised are identified with an asterisk (*). Measures that have been deleted or re-written and 

combined with other measures are listed below: 

APG 2.3.3.2: PS-12-10: Complete the Mars 16 Mission Confirmation Review. (Rationale for change: 

Budgetary Congressional/Executive direction.) 

• Performance Goal 3.1.1.3: Establish and maintain a culture of innovation at each of the 10 NASA 

Centers through the development of new Center ideas and technologies. (Rationale for change: 

Budgetary Congressional/Executive direction.) 

APG 3.1.1.3: ST-12-3: Twenty innovative projects will be initiated across the NASA Centers. 

(Rationale for change: Goal reduced based on budgetary Congressional/Executive direction. 

Measure was combined with 3.1.1.1: ST-12-1) 

Performance Goal 3.1.1.6: Accelerate the development of push technologies to support the future 

space, science and exploration needs of NASA, other government agencies, and the commercial 

space sector. (Rationale for change: Budgetary Congressional/Executive direction. Measure was 

combined with 3.1.1.1: ST-12-1.) 

APG 3.1.1.6: ST-12-6: Complete 100 research plans. (Rationale for change: Goal reduced based 

on budgetary Congressional/ Executive direction.) 

Performance Goal 3.2.2.1: Mature technologies that enable small satellites to provide game 

changing capabilities for the government and commercial space sectors. (Rationale for change: 

Goal deleted based on budgetary Congressional/Executive direction.) 

APG 3.2.2.1: ST-12-8: Initiate development of at least two new technologies with game changing 

potential for small satellites. (Rationale for change: Goal deleted based on budgetary 

Congressional/ Executive direction.) 

• 

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MP-23 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

INTRODUCTION TO THE FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN 

UPDATE

• Performance Goal 3.4.1.3: Successful application of Small Business Innovation Research and 

Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) technologies into commercial products or 

services. (Rationale for change: Goal deleted based on budgetary Congressional/ Executive 

direction.) 

APG 3.4.1.3: ST-12-15: Greater than 35 percent of the Phase II Small Business Innovation 

Research and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) technology projects awarded 

between 2007-2011 will be transferred into commercial products or services. (Rationale for 

change: Goal deleted based on budgetary Congressional/ Executive direction.) 

APG 5.1.1.1: AMO-12-1: Ninety percent of Shuttle workforce is assigned to follow-on work by 

FY 2012 year-end. (Rationale for change: APG complete. New APG covers activity area and 

consolidates measures.) 

APG 5.1.1.1: AMO-12-2: Twenty percent or more of annual recruitments will be through the 

early career hiring initiatives. (Rationale for change: New APG covers activity area and 

consolidates measures.) 

Performance Goal 5.1.1.2: Build skills across all levels of the workforce through Leadership 

Development Opportunities. (Rationale for change: Consolidated measure.) 

APG 5.1.1.2: AMO-12-3: Install an Agency-wide mentoring program that includes an automated 

system for matching mentors and mentees. (Rationale for change: New APG covers activity area 

and consolidates measures.) 

APG 5.1.1.2: AMO-12-4: Eighty percent of the Agency’s leadership training and development 

programs include “leading through transformation” content. (Rationale for change: New APG 

covers activity area and consolidates measures.) 

Performance Goal 5.1.1.3: Achieve and sustain an effective labor-management dialogue. 

(Rationale for change: Consolidated measure.) 

APG 5.1.1.3: AMO-12-5: Identify and address at least three significant labor-management 

challenges identified during the year during periodic Agency-led Labor Management Forums. 

(Rationale for change: New APG covers activity area and consolidates measures.) 

Performance Goal 5.1.1.4: Adopt and respond to innovative employee feedback mechanisms. 

(Rationale for change: Consolidated measure.) 

APG 5.1.1.4: AMO-12-6: Seventy-five percent of NASA’s primary installations implement 

improvement initiatives derived from the Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey. (Rationale for 

change: New APG covers activity area and consolidates measures.) 

Performance Goal 5.2.1.1: Through 2015, assure zero fatalities or permanent disabling injuries to 

the public. (Rationale for change: Consolidated three performance goals into one.) 

Performance Goal 5.2.1.2: By 2015, achieve a four percent reduction in the total case rate and lost 

time rate for the NASA civil service work force. (Rationale for change: Consolidated three 

performance goals into one.) 

Performance Goal 5.2.1.3: By 2015, reduce damage to NASA assets by eight percent from the 

2010 baseline. (Rationale for change: Consolidated three performance goals into one.) 

Performance Goal 5.2.3.2: HPPG: Conserve valuable natural resources by reducing NASA's 

energy and water use.(Rationale for change: HPPG completed. Energy efficiency efforts 

continue to be tracked and reported elsewhere.) 

APG 5.2.3.2: ECR-12-1: Reduce energy intensity use annually by three percent from an FY 2003 

baseline. (Rationale for change: HPPG completed. Energy efficiency efforts continue to be 

tracked and reported elsewhere.) 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

MP-24 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

INTRODUCTION TO THE FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN 

UPDATE

• APG 5.2.3.2: ECR-12-2: Reduce potable water use annually by two percent from an FY 2007 

baseline. (Rationale for change: HPPG completed. Energy efficiency efforts continue to be 

tracked and reported elsewhere.) 

APG 5.2.3.2: ECR-12-3: Reduce fleet vehicle energy use annually by two percent of petroleum 

products from an FY 2005 baseline. (Rationale for change: HPPG completed. Energy efficiency 

efforts continue to be tracked and reported elsewhere.) 

Performance Goal 5.5.1.1: HPPG: Establish an independent non-profit (NPO) organization to 

enhance the utilization of the ISS as a National Laboratory. (Rationale for change: HPPG 

completed.) 

APG 5.5.1.1: ISS-12-6: Facilitate non-profit organization (NPO) implementation of its initial 

grants solicitation process. (Rationale for change: HPPG completed.) 

Efficiency Measure APG AMO-12-20: Maintain system execution time during the year-end close 

process at FY 2010 baseline. (Rationale for change: Included in original submission erroneously.) 

• 

• 

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MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

INTRODUCTION TO THE FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN 

UPDATE

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FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

*Measures that have been revised. 

** The Performance Goals in support of Earth Science, Heliophysics, Planetary Science, and Astrophysics themes are distinct activities supporting the scientific objectives established in NASA’s 

Strategic Plan

FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

Strategic Goal 1 Extend and sustain human activities across the solar system. 

Outcome 1.1 Sustain the operation and full use of the International Space Station (ISS) and expand 

efforts to utilize the ISS as a National Laboratory for scientific, technological, diplomatic, 

and educational purposes and for supporting future objectives in human space exploration. 

Performance Goal 1.1.1.1 Maintain capability for six on-orbit crew members. 

APG 

1.1.1.1: ISS-12-1* 

In concert with the International Partners, maintain a continuous six crew capability 

ISS by coordinating and managing resources, logistics, systems, and operational 

procedures. 

on the 

International 

Space Station International Space Station 

Performance Goal 1.1.1.2 HPPG: Safely fly out the Space Shuttle manifest and retire the fleet. 

APG 

1.1.1.2: SSP-12-1* 

Ensure the Space Shuttle Discovery is ready for transport to its final display location. 

Space Shuttle Space Shuttle 

Performance Goal 1.1.1.3 Provide cargo and crew transportation to support on-orbit crew members and utilization. 

APG 

1.1.1.3: ISS-12-2 

Fly the ISS spares, logistics, and utilization hardware as agreed to by the International 

Partners in the ISS transportation plan. 

International 

Space Station International Space Station 

APG 

1.1.1.3: ISS-12-3 

Complete at least two flights to the ISS by U.S.-developed cargo delivery systems. International 

Space Station International Space Station 

Performance Goal 1.1.1.4 Maintain and operate a safe and functional ISS. 

APG 

1.1.1.4: ISS-12-4 

Provide 100 percent of planned on-orbit resources (including power, data, crew time, 

logistics, and accommodations) needed to support research. 

International 

Space Station International Space Station 

APG 

1.1.1.4: ISS-12-5 

Achieve zero Type-A (damage to property at least $1 million or death) or Type-B (damage

to property at least $250 thousand or permanent disability or hospitalization of three or 

more persons) mishaps. 

International 

Space Station International Space Station 

Performance Goal 1.1.2.1 Advance knowledge of long-duration human space flight by establishing agreements with 

organizations to enable full utilization of the ISS. 

APG 

1.1.2.1: ISS-12-6* 

Accomplish a minimum of 90 percent of the on-orbit research objectives, as baselined by 

NASA and ISS Non-profit organization (NPO). 

International 

Space Station International Space Station 

Performance Goal 1.1.2.2 Conduct basic and applied biological and physical research to advance and sustain U.S. 

scientific expertise. 

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FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

APG 

1.1.2.2: ISS-12-7* 

Conduct flight definition review for at least five flight experiments in fundamental space 

biology. 

International 

Space Station International Space Station 

APG 

1.1.2.2: ISS-12-8* 

Deliver at least two physical sciences payloads for launch to the ISS. International 

Space Station International Space Station 

APG 

1.1.2.2: ISS-12-9* 

Conduct at least five experiments in combustion, fluids, or materials sciences on the ISS. International 

Space Station International Space Station 

Outcome 1.2 Develop competitive opportunities for the commercial community to provide best value 

products and services to low Earth orbit and beyond. 

Performance Goal 1.2.1.1 Develop competitive opportunities for the commercial community to provide best value 

products and services to low Earth orbit and beyond. 

APG 

1.2.1.1: CS-12-1* 

Perform Commercial Orbital Transportation Services (COTS) cargo demonstration 

missions and continue commercial crew transportation systems development. 

Commercial 

Spaceflight Commercial Cargo 

Performance Goal 1.2.1.2 Develop and document evaluation and certification processes for an integrated commercial 

crew transportation system. 

APG 

1.2.1.2: CS-12-2* 

Baseline ISS Crew Transportation and Service Requirements document, CTS-REQ-1130, 

and Crew Transportation Technical Standards and Design Evaluation Criteria document, 

CCT-STD-1140. 

Commercial 

Spaceflight Commercial Crew 

Outcome 1.3 Develop an integrated architecture and capabilities for safe crewed and cargo missions 

beyond low Earth orbit. 

Performance Goal 1.3.1.1 Complete design reviews for Space Launch System (SLS). 

APG 

1.3.1.1: ESD-12-1* 

Successfully complete the Space Launch System (SLS) Systems Requirements Review 

(SRR). 

Exploration 

Systems and 

Development Space Launch Systems 

Performance Goal 1.3.1.2* Complete design reviews for Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV). 

APG 

1.3.1.2: ESD-12-2* 

Complete testing of Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) Ground Test Article 

(GTA). 

Exploration 

Systems and 

Development 

Orion Multi-Purpose Crew 

Vehicle 

Performance Goal 1.3.2.1* Develop technologies that will enable biomedical research and mitigate health risks 

associated with human space exploration missions. 

APG 

1.3.2.1: ERD-12-1 

Develop and release two NASA Research Announcements that solicit from the external 

biomedical research community the highest quality proposals to mitigate space human 

health risks. 

Exploration 

Research and 

Development Human Research 

Performance Goal 1.3.2.2 Perform research to ensure that future human crews are protected from the deleterious 

effects of space radiation. 

APG Release Acute Radiation Risk Model Version 2 to assess effects of solar particle events Exploration Human Research 

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FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

1.3.2.2: ERD-12-2 during exploration missions. Research and 

Development 

Performance Goal 1.3.2.3 Develop exploration medical capabilities for long-duration space missions. 

APG 

1.3.2.3: ERD-12-3 

Deliver the next-generation space biomedical ultrasound device to enhance the Human 

Research Facility capability on the ISS through 2020. 

Exploration 

Research and 

Development Human Research 

Performance Goal 1.3.3.1 Prioritize the knowledge of hazards, opportunities, and potential destinations for human 

space exploration that will be of use to future operations of an integrated architecture for 

human space exploration. 

APG 

1.3.3.1: ERD-12-4 

In collaboration with the Planetary Science Division, develop a plan to return data that will 

support the selection of destinations and reduce risk for future human space exploration 

missions. 

Exploration 

Research and 

Development 

Advanced Exploration 

Systems 

Strategic Goal 2 Expand scientific understanding of the Earth and the universe in which we live. 

Outcome 2.1 Advance Earth system science to meet the challenges of climate and environmental change. 

Performance Goal 2.1.1.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.1.1: “Improve understanding of and improve the 

predictive capability for changes in the ozone layer, climate forcing, and air quality 

associated with changes in atmospheric composition.”) 

APG 

2.1.1.1: ES-12-1 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding and improving predictive capability for 

changes in the ozone layer, climate forcing, and air quality associated with changes in 

atmospheric composition. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan 

will be evaluated by external expert review. Earth Science Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 2.1.1.2*/** By 2015, launch at least two missions in support of objective 2.1.1. 

APG 

2.1.1.2: ES-12-2 

Complete the Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 (OCO-2) Systems Integration Review. 

Earth Science 

Earth System Science 

Pathfinder 

APG 

2.1.1.2: ES-12-3 

Complete the Earth Venture-1 (EV-1) Investigation Readiness Reviews (IRR) and begin 

initial field campaigns. Earth Science 

Earth System Science 

Pathfinder 

Performance Goal 2.1.2.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.1.2: “Enable improved predictive capability for 

weather and extreme weather events.”) 

APG 

2.1.2.1: ES-12-4 

Demonstrate planned progress in enabling improved predictive capability for weather and 

extreme weather events. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan 

will be evaluated by external expert review. Earth Science Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 2.1.2.2*/** By 2015, launch at least two missions in support of objective 2.1.2. 

APG 

2.1.2.2: ES-12-5 

Complete the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Pre-Environmental Review. 

Earth Science Earth Systematic Missions 

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FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

APG 

2.1.2.2: ES-12-3 

Complete the Earth Venture-1 Investigation Readiness Reviews (IRR) and begin initial 

field campaigns. Earth Science 

Earth System Science 

Pathfinder 

Performance Goal 2.1.3.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.1.3: “Quantify, understand, and predict changes 

in Earth’s ecosystems and biogeochemical cycles, including the global carbon cycle, land 

cover, and biodiversity.” 

APG 

2.1.3.1: ES-12-6 

Demonstrate planned progress in quantifying, understanding, and predicting changes in 

Earth’s ecosystems and biogeochemical cycles, including the global carbon cycle, land 

cover, and biodiversity. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan 

will be evaluated by external expert review. Earth Science Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 2.1.3.2*/** By 2015, launch at least two missions in support of objective 2.1.3. 

APG 

2.1.3.2: ES-12-7 

Complete the Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM) Systems Integration Review. 

Earth Science Earth Systematic Missions 

APG 

2.1.3.2: ES-12-2 

Complete the Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 (OCO-2) Systems Integration Review. 

Earth Science 

Earth System Science 

Pathfinder 

APG 

2.1.3.2: ES-12-3 

Complete the Earth Venture-1 (EV-1) Investigation Readiness Reviews (IRR) and begin 

initial field campaigns. Earth Science 

Earth System Science 

Pathfinder 

Performance Goal 2.1.4.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.1.4: “Quantify the key reservoirs and fluxes in 

the global water cycle and assess water cycle change and water quality.”) 

APG 

2.1.4.1: ES-12-8 

Demonstrate planned progress in quantifying the key reservoirs and fluxes in the global 

water cycle and assessing water cycle change and water quality. Progress relative to the 

objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert review. Earth Science Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 2.1.4.2*/** By 2015, launch at least two missions in support of objective 2.1.4. 

APG 

2.1.4.2: ES-12-5 

Complete the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Pre-Environmental Review. 

Earth Science Earth Systematic Missions 

APG 

2.1.4.2: ES-12-9 

Successfully complete the Soil Moisture Active-Passive (SMAP) Critical Design Review. 

Earth Science Earth Systematic Missions 

Performance Goal 2.1.5.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.1.5: “Improve understanding of the roles of the 

ocean, atmosphere, land and ice in the climate system and improve predictive capability for 

its future evolution.”) 

Multiple Programs 

APG 

2.1.5.1: ES-12-10 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding the roles of ocean, atmosphere, land, and 

ice in the climate system and improving predictive capability for future evolution. Progress 

relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert 

review. Earth Science 

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FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

APG 

2.1.5.1: ES-12-11 

Achieve mission success criteria for the Ocean Surface Topography Mission (OSTM). 

Earth Science Earth Systematic Missions 

Performance Goal 2.1.5.2 HPPG: Study Earth from space to understand climate change, weather, and human impact 

on our planet by launching at least two missions by 2015. 

APG 

2.1.5.2: ES-12-12 

Launch the National Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS) 

Preparatory Project (NPP). Earth Science Earth Systematic Missions 

Performance Goal 2.1.5.3*/** By 2015, launch at least three missions in support of objective 2.1.5. 

APG 

2.1.5.3: ES-12-13* 

Complete the Ice, Cloud, and Land Elevation Satellite-2 (ICESat-2) Preliminary Design 

Review. Earth Science Earth Systematic Missions 

APG 

2.1.5.3: ES-12-2 

Complete the Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 (OCO-2) Systems Integration Review. 

Earth Science 

Earth System Science 

Pathfinder 

Performance Goal 2.1.6.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.1.6: “Characterize the dynamics of Earth’s 

surface and interior and form the scientific basis for the assessment and mitigation of 

natural hazards and response to rare and extreme events.”) 

APG 

2.1.6.1: ES-12-14 

Demonstrate planned progress in characterizing the dynamics of Earth’s surface and 

interior and forming the scientific basis for the assessment and mitigation of natural hazards 

and response to rare and extreme events. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 

2010 Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert review. Earth Science Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 2.1.6.2*/** By 2015, launch at least one mission in support of objective 2.1.6. 

APG 

2.1.6.2: ES-12-7 

Complete the Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM) Systems Integration Review. 

Earth Science Earth Systematic Missions 

Performance Goal 2.1.7.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.1.7: “Enable the broad use of Earth system 

science observations and results in decision-making activities for societal benefits.”) 

APG 

2.1.7.1: ES-12-15* 

Advance at least 25 percent of decision-support projects at least one Applications Readiness 

Level. The Applications Readiness Level is a nine-stage index for tracking the 

advancement of an Earth science applications project along a continuum from initial 

concept through development and transition to operational use. Earth Science Applied Sciences 

APG 

2.1.7.1: ES-12-16* 

Increase the number of science data products delivered to Earth Observing System Data and 

Information System (EOSDIS) users. Earth Science 

Earth Science MultiMission Operations 

APG 

2.1.7.1: ES-12-17* 

Maintain a high level of customer satisfaction, as measured by exceeding the most recently 

available federal government average rating of the Customer Satisfaction Index. Earth Science 

Earth Science MultiMission Operations 

Outcome 2.2 Understand the Sun and its interactions with the Earth and the solar system. 

Performance Goal 2.2.1.1 ** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

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FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.2.1: “Improve understanding of the fundamental 

physical processes of the space environment from the Sun to Earth, to other planets, and 

beyond to the interstellar medium.”) 

APG 

2.2.1.1: HE-12-1 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding the fundamental physical processes of the 

space environment from the Sun to Earth, to other planets, and beyond to the interstellar 

medium. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be evaluated 

by external expert review. Heliophysics Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 2.2.1.2*/** By 2015, launch two missions in support of objective 2.2.1. 

APG 

2.2.1.2: HE-12-2 

Complete the Magnetospheric MultiScale (MMS) Systems Integration Review. 

Heliophysics Solar Terrestrial Probes 

APG 

2.2.1.2: HE-12-3 

Complete the Geospace Radiation Belt Storm Probes Launch Readiness Review. 

Heliophysics Living with a Star 

Performance Goal 2.2.2.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.2.2: “Improve understanding of how human 

society, technological systems, and the habitability of planets are affected by solar 

variability interacting with planetary magnetic fields and atmospheres.”) 

APG 

2.2.2.1: HE-12-4 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding how human society, technological systems, 

and the habitability of planets are affected by solar variability interacting with planetary 

magnetic fields and atmospheres. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 

Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert review. Heliophysics Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 2.2.2.2*/** By 2015, launch two missions in support of objective 2.2.2. 

APG 

2.2.2.2: HE-12-2 

Complete the Magnetospheric MultiScale (MMS) Systems Integration Review. 

Heliophysics Solar Terrestrial Probes 

APG 

2.2.2.2: HE-12-3 

Complete the Geospace Radiation Belt Storm Probes Launch Readiness Review. 

Heliophysics Living with a Star 

Performance Goal 2.2.3.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.2.3: “Maximize the safety and productivity of 

human and robotic explorers by developing the capability to predict extreme and dynamic 

conditions in space.”) 

APG 

2.2.3.1: HE-12-5 

Demonstrate planned progress in maximizing the safety and productivity of human and 

robotic explorers by developing the capability to predict the extreme and dynamic 

conditions in space. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will 

be evaluated by external expert review. Heliophysics Multiple Programs 

 

Living with a Star 

Performance Goal 2.2.3.2*/** By 2017, launch at least two missions in support of objective 2.2.3. 

APG Complete the Geospace Radiation Belt Storm Probes Launch Readiness Review. Heliophysics 

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FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

2.2.3.2: HE-12-3 

Outcome 2.3 Ascertain the content, origin, and evolution of the solar system and the potential for life 

elsewhere. 

Performance Goal 2.3.1.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.3.1: “Inventory solar system objects and identify 

the processes active in and among them.”) 

APG 

2.3.1.1: PS-12-1 

Demonstrate planned progress in inventorying solar system objects and identifying the 

processes active in and among them. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 

Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert review. 

Planetary Science Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 2.3.1.2*/** By 2017, launch at least two missions in support of objective 2.3.1. 

APG 

2.3.1.2: PS-12-2 

Complete New Frontiers 3 Preliminary Design Review. 

Planetary Science New Frontiers 

APG 

2.3.1.2: PS-12-3 

Complete the Discovery 12 mission concept studies. 

Planetary Science Discovery 

Performance Goal 2.3.2.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.3.2: “Improve understanding of how the Sun’s 

family of planets, satellites, and minor bodies originated and evolved.”) 

APG 

2.3.2.1: PS-12-4 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding how the Sun’s family of planets, satellites, 

and minor bodies originated and evolved. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 

2010 Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert review. Planetary Science Multiple Programs 

APG 

2.3.2.1: PS-12-5 

Complete MESSENGER mission success criteria. 

Planetary Science Discovery 

Performance Goal 2.3.2.2*/** By 2015, launch at least three missions in support of objective 2.3.2. 

APG 

2.3.2.2: PS-12-2 

Complete the New Frontiers 3 Preliminary Design Review. 

Planetary Science New Frontiers 

APG 

2.3.2.2: PS-12-6 

Complete the Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer (LADEE) Systems 

Integration Review. Planetary Science Lunar Quest 

APG 

2.3.2.2: PS-12-18* 

Complete GRAIL mission success criteria. 

Planetary Science Discovery 

Performance Goal 2.3.3.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.3.3: “Improve understanding of the processes 

that determine the history and future of habitability of environments on Mars and other 

solar system bodies.”) 

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FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

APG 

2.3.3.1 : PS-12-7 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding the processes that determine the history and 

future of habitability of environments on Mars and other solar system bodies. Progress 

relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert 

review. Planetary Science Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 2.3.3.2*/** By 2015, launch at least two missions in support of objective 2.3.3. 

APG 

2.3.3.2: PS-12-8 

Complete the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) Launch Readiness Review. 

Planetary Science Mars Exploration 

APG 

2.3.3.2: PS-12-9 

Complete the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN Mission (MAVEN) Systems 

Integration Review. Planetary Science Mars Exploration 

Performance Goal 2.3.4.1 ** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.3.4: “Improve understanding of the origin and 

evolution of Earth’s life and biosphere to determine if there is or ever has been life 

elsewhere in the universe.”) 

APG 

2.3.4.1 : PS-12-11 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding the origin and evolution of life on Earth 

and throughout the biosphere to determine if there is or ever has been life elsewhere in the 

universe. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be evaluated 

by external expert review. 

Planetary Science Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 2.3.5.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.3.5: “Identify and characterize small bodies and 

the properties of planetary environments that pose a threat to terrestrial life or exploration 

or provide potentially exploitable resources.”) 

APG 

2.3.5.1: PS-12-12 

Demonstrate planned progress in identifying and characterizing small bodies and the 

properties of planetary environments that pose a threat to terrestrial life or exploration or 

provide potentially exploitable resources. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 

2010 Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert review. 

Planetary Science Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 2.3.5.2* Return data for selection of destinations in order to lower risk for human space exploration 

beyond low Earth orbit. 

APG 

2.3.5.2: PS-12-13 

Demonstrate planned progress in characterizing potentially hazardous objects that are 

possible destinations for future human space exploration. Planetary Science Multiple Programs 

Outcome 2.4 Discover how the universe works, explore how it began and evolved, and search for Earthlike planets. 

Performance Goal 2.4.1.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.4.1: “Improve understanding of the origin and 

destiny of the universe, and the nature of black holes, dark energy, dark matter, and 

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FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

gravity.”) 

APG 

2.4.1.1: AS-12-1 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding the origin and destiny of the universe, and 

the nature of black holes, dark energy, dark matter, and gravity. Progress relative to the 

objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert review. Astrophysics Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 2.4.1.2*/** By 2015, launch at least one mission in support of objective 2.4.1. 

APG 

2.4.1.2: AS-12-2 

Complete the Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR) Launch Readiness 

Review. Astrophysics Astrophysics Explorer 

Performance Goal 2.4.2.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.4.2: “Improve understanding of the many 

phenomena and processes associated with galaxy, stellar, and planetary system formation 

and evolution from the earliest epochs to today.”) 

APG 

2.4.2.1: AS-12-3 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding the many phenomena and processes 

associated with galaxy, stellar, and planetary system formation and evolution from the 

earliest epochs to today. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan 

will be evaluated by external expert review. 

Astrophysics Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 2.4.2.2** Design and assemble the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). 

APG 

2.4.2.2: JWST-12-1 

Begin integration of James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) flight optics into Optical 

Telescope Element (OTE). 

James Webb 

Space Telescope 

James Webb Space 

Telescope 

Performance Goal 2.4.2.3** Develop and operate an airborne infrared astrophysics observatory. 

APG 

2.4.2.3: AS-12-4 

Initiate the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) Segment 3 Aircraft 

modifications and upgrades. Astrophysics Cosmic Origins 

Performance Goal 2.4.3.1** Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled researchers and supporting 

knowledge base. (In support of objective 2.4.3: “Generate a census of extra-solar planets 

and measure their properties.”) 

APG 

2.4.3.1: AS-12-5 

Demonstrate planned progress in generating a census of extra-solar planets and measuring 

their properties. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be 

evaluated by external expert review. Astrophysics Multiple Programs 

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. 

Performance Goal 3.1.1.1* Develop and advance space technologies that support NASA’s science, exploration and 

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FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

discovery missions. 

APG 

3.1.1.1: ST-12-1* 

Research, study or develop concepts of 100 technologies as documented in technology 

reports or plans. 

Space 

Technology 

Crosscutting Space 

Technology Development 

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. 

APG 

3.1.1.2: ST-12-2* 

Conduct at least one Centennial Challenges competition. Space 

Technology 

Crosscutting Space 

Technology Development 

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. 

APG 

3.1.1.4: 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. Space 

Technology SBIR and STTR 

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. 

 

APG 

3.1.1.5: 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 nonSBIR/STTR funding). Space 

Technology SBIR and STTR 

Outcome 3.2 Infuse game changing and crosscutting technologies throughout the Nation’s space 

enterprise, to transform the Nation’s space mission capabilities. 

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. 

APG 

3.2.1.1: ST-12-7* 

Initiate three game changing technology projects. Space 

Technology 

Crosscutting Space 

Technology Development 

Performance Goal 3.2.3.1 Demonstrate small satellite capabilities with game changing and crosscutting potential for 

the government and commercial space sectors. 

APG 

3.2.3.1: ST-12-9 

Initiate at least one new small satellite mission that will demonstrate game changing or 

crosscutting technologies in space. 

Space 

Technology 

Crosscutting Space 

Technology Development 

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. 

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FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

MP-37 

FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

APG 

3.2.4.1: ST-12-10* 

Complete preliminary design of at least one system-level technology for flight or relevant 

environment demonstration. 

Space 

Technology 

Crosscutting Space 

Technology Development 

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. 

APG 

3.2.5.1: 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. 

Space 

Technology 

Crosscutting Space 

Technology Development 

Outcome 3.3 Develop and demonstrate the critical technologies that will make NASA’s exploration, 

science, and discovery missions more affordable and more capable. 

Performance Goal 3.3.1.1 Demonstrate robotic technologies that support in-space operations, scientific discovery, and 

work as assistants with the crew. 

APG 

3.3.1.1: ERD-12-5* 

Develop telerobotic software for remote manipulation of Robonaut 2. Space 

Technology 

Exploration Technology 

Development 

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. 

APG 

3.3.2.1: ERD-12-6* 

Complete tests of Extra Vehicular Activity (EVA) Portable Life Support System (PLSS) 

subsystem in a vacuum chamber environment. 

Exploration 

Research and 

Development 

Advanced Exploration 

Systems 

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. 

APG 3.3.2.2: ST-12-12* Complete the Mission Concept Review for the Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer 

demonstration. 

Space 

Technology 

Exploration Technology 

Development 

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. 

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. 

APG 

3.4.1.1: ST-12-13 

Establish at least 12 technology-related significant partnerships during FY 2012. Space 

Technology 

Partnership Development 

and Strategic Integration 

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 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

agreements, and Space Act Agreements per year. 

APG 

3.4.1.2: ST-12-14 

Complete at least 30 technology transfer agreements during FY 2012. Space 

Technology SBIR and STTR 

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. 

APG 

3.4.1.5: ST-12-17* 

Ensure that 75 percent of all NASA Space Technology Program’s projects are recorded in 

the portfolio database. 

Space 

Technology 

Partnership Development 

and Strategic Integration 

Strategic Goal 4 Advance aeronautics research for societal benefit. 

Outcome 4.1 Develop innovative solutions and advanced technologies through a balanced research 

portfolio to improve current and future air transportation. 

Performance Goal 4.1.1.1 Transfer knowledge to the aviation community to better manage safety in aviation. 

APG 

4.1.1.1: AR-12-1 

Develop first generation engine icing performance degradation parametric simulation 

capability. Aeronautics Aviation Safety 

APG 

4.1.1.1: AR-12-2 

Provide static code analysis techniques for certification. 

Aeronautics Aviation Safety 

APG 

4.1.1.1: AR-12-3 

Develop concept of operations for an integrated vehicle health assurance system. 

Aeronautics Aviation Safety 

APG 

4.1.1.1: AR-12-4 

Demonstrate algorithm to predict at least three anomalies in massive datasets. 

Aeronautics Aviation Safety 

Performance Goal 4.1.2.1 HPPG: Increase efficiency and throughput of aircraft operations during arrival phase of 

flight. Aeronautics Airspace Systems 

APG 

4.1.2.1: AR-12-5 

Develop Initial Weather Translation Models. 

Aeronautics Airspace Systems 

APG 

4.1.2.1: AR-12-6 

Demonstrate safe Interval Management Procedures to a Single Airport with dependent 

parallel runways. Aeronautics Airspace Systems 

APG 

4.1.2.1: AR-12-7 

NASA will provide the results of the human-in-the-loop (HITL) simulations and the field 

trial to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as they are completed, with the final 

report being provided in September 2012. (HPPG milestone) Aeronautics Airspace Systems 

Performance Goal 4.1.3.1* Deliver tools, technologies, and knowledge that can be used to more efficiently and 

effectively design future air vehicles and their components to overcome national 

performance and capability challenges. 

APG 4.1.3.1: AR-12-8 Characterize gaseous and particulate emissions of hydro treated renewable jet fuel as a 

potential carbon dioxide (CO2) neutral aviation fuel. Aeronautics Fundamental Aeronautics 

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MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

APG 4.1.3.1: AR-12-9 Demonstrate drag reduction benefits of active flow control for a representative rotorcraft 

fuselage configuration. Aeronautics Fundamental Aeronautics 

APG 4.1.3.1: AR-12-10 Validate the effectiveness of Micro-array Flow Control devices for improving performance 

and flow quality in low-boom supersonic propulsion inlets. Aeronautics Fundamental Aeronautics 

APG 4.1.3.1: AR-12-11 Demonstrate First Generation Integrated Multi-Disciplinary Simulation Tool for Analysis 

and Design of Reusable Air-Breathing Launch Vehicles. Aeronautics Fundamental Aeronautics 

Outcome 4.2 Conduct systems-level research on innovative and promising aeronautics concepts and 

technologies to demonstrate integrated capabilities and benefits in a relevant flight and/or 

ground environment. 

Performance Goal 4.2.1.1 Reduce technical risk by conducting research at an integrated system-level on promising 

aeronautical concepts and technologies in a relevant environment. 

APG 4.2.1.1: AR-12-12 Demonstrate low-weight, damage-tolerant stitched composite structural concept on curved 

panel subjected to combined tension and internal pressure loads. Aeronautics 

Integrated Systems 

Research 

APG 4.2.1.1: AR-12-13 Develop integrated Human Systems Integration, Communications, and Separation 

Assurance subproject test concept and Phase 2 test objectives necessary to achieve humanin-the-loop simulation and flight test series milestones supporting the Unmanned Aircraft 

Systems (UAS) Integration in the National Airspace System (NAS) Project. 

Aeronautics 

Integrated Systems 

Research 

Strategic Goal 5 Enable program and institutional capabilities to conduct NASA’s aeronautics and 

space activities. 

Outcome 5.1 Identify, cultivate, and sustain a diverse workforce and inclusive work environment that is 

needed to conduct NASA missions. 

Performance Goal 

5.1.1.1* 

Define and build the workforce skills and competencies needed for the Agency’s 

technology development and deep space exploration. 

APG 

5.1.1.1: AMO-12-1* 

Sustain (from the previous fiscal year) NASA’s Innovation Score, as measured by the 

Innovation-related questions of the Employee Viewpoint Survey (EVS), by taking actions 

such as refining and updating human capital policies, programs, and systems to support and 

encourage innovation to meet NASA’s missions. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations Agency Management 

Performance Goal 

5.1.1.5* 

Advance a workplace environment of equal opportunity, in which discrimination 

allegations, including harassing conduct and retaliation for equal employment opportunity 

(EEO) activity, are addressed promptly and effectively and in which reasonable 

accommodations are provided to individuals with disabilities. 

 

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MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

APG 

5.1.1.5: AMO-12-7* 

Implement eight planned actions to address two identified potential employment barriers 

concerning individuals with disabilities, Asian/Pacific Islander, African American, 

Hispanic and female employees, based on the NASA Model Equal Employment 

Opportunity (EEO) Agency Plan. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations Agency Management 

Performance Goal 

5.1.1.6 

Implement an Agency-wide Diversity and Inclusion Framework to develop a more 

demographically diverse workforce and a more inclusive work environment. 

 

APG 

5.1.1.6: AMO-12-8* 

Implement an Agency Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Strategic Plan aligned with the 

Government-wide D&I Strategic Plan. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations Agency Management 

Performance Goal 

5.1.2.1 

Assure that student participants in NASA higher education projects are representative of the 

diversity of the Nation. 

APG 

5.1.2.1: ED-12-1 

Achieve 40 percent participation of underserved and underrepresented (in race and/or 

ethnicity) in NASA higher education projects. Education Multiple Programs 

APG 

5.1.2.1: ED-12-2 

Achieve 45 percent participation of women in NASA higher education projects. 

Education Multiple Programs 

Outcome 5.2 Ensure vital assets are ready, available, and appropriately sized to conduct NASA’s 

missions. 

Performance Goal 

5.2.1.1* 

Through 2015, assure the safety of NASA’s activities and reduce damage to assets through 

the development, implementation, and oversight of Agency-wide safety, reliability, 

maintainability, and quality assurance policies and procedures. 

APG 

5.2.1.1: AMO-12-9* 

Assure zero fatalities or permanent disabling injuries to the public resulting from NASA 

activities during FY 2012. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations Safety and Mission Success 

APG5.2.1.1: AMO-12-10* Maintain a Total Case Rate and Lost Time Case Rate that meets the goals of the President’s 

Protecting Our Workers and Ensuring Reemployment (POWER) initiative. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations Safety and Mission Success 

APG 5.2.1.1: AMO-12-11* Reduce damage to NASA assets (excluding launched flight hardware) by two percent 

during FY 2012, based on a five-year running average (that also excludes launched flight 

hardware). 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations Safety and Mission Success 

Performance Goal 

5.2.2.1* 

By 2014, consolidate and centralize the management of information technology (IT) 

enterprise services for end user services, communications, and enterprise applications. 

Agency IT Services (AITS) 

APG 

5.2.2.1: AMO-12-12* 

Achieve full operational capability (FOC) for three service offices as part of the NASA 

Information Technology Infrastructure Integration Program (I3P). 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations 

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MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

Performance Goal 

5.2.2.2 

By 2015, implement a capability to identify and prevent unauthorized intrusions on the 

NASA institutional and mission networks. 

APG 

5.2.2.2: AMO-12-13 

Implement intrusion detection sensors monitored by the NASA Security Operations Center 

(SOC) on 75 percent of NASA institutional network monitoring sites. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations Agency IT Services (AITS) 

Performance Goal 

5.2.2.3 

By 2014, decommission the Agency Administrative mainframe computer. 

 

APG 

5.2.2.3: AMO-12-14 

Migrate or retire all administrative systems from the Agency Administrative mainframe 

computer. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations Agency IT Services (AITS) 

Performance Goal 

5.2.2.4 

By 2015, reduce data center energy consumption by 30 percent. 

 

APG 

5.2.2.4: AMO-12-15 

Reduce the number of NASA data centers by 10 percent. Agency 

Management and 

Operations Agency IT Services (AITS) 

Performance Goal 

5.2.2.5* 

Promote knowledge sharing and collaboration by effectively communicating IT Labs 

initiatives, projects and resources for information technology (IT) across NASA in support 

of the Agency’s Mission. 

APG 

5.2.2.5: AMO-12-16* 

Identify innovative information technologies and create active participation opportunities 

for NASA scientists and engineers to collaborate on missions. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations Agency IT Services (AITS) 

Performance Goal 

5.2.3.1 

Consolidate functions and offices to reduce real property need, and use Agency Integrated 

Master Plan to identify and dispose of excess and aged facilities beyond useful life. 

APG 

5.2.3.1: AMO-12-17 

Finalize remaining Center Master Plans into the Agency Integrated Master Plan. Agency 

Management and 

Operations Agency Management 

APG 

5.2.3.1: COF-12-1 

Initiate facilities demolition process for five significant Agency facilities in addition to 

demolition processes initiated in FY 2011. 

Construction of 

Facilities Institutional CoF 

Outcome 5.3 Ensure the availability to the Nation of NASA-owned strategically important test 

capabilities. 

Performance Goal 

5.3.1.1 

Develop and execute the Rocket Propulsion Test (RPT) Master Plan. 

 

APG 

5.3.1.1: SFS-12-1 

Meet Rocket Propulsion Test (RPT) Master Plan requirements for year one. Space and Flight 

Support Rocket Propulsion Test 

Performance 

5.3.2.1 

Goal Ensure that testing capabilities are available in order to support the research, development, 

test and engineering milestones of NASA and Department of Defense (DoD) programs. 

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MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

APG 

5.3.2.1: AR-12-14 

Achieve ratings greater than 86 percent for overall quality and timeliness of Aeronautics 

Test Program (ATP) facility operations. Aeronautics Aeronautics Test 

Outcome 5.4 Implement and provide space communications and launch capabilities responsive to 

existing and future science and space exploration missions. 

Performance Goal 

5.4.1.1 

Complete Launch Services Program (LSP) objectives for all NASA-managed expendable 

launches. 

APG 

5.4.1.1: SFS-12-2 

Sustain 100 percent success rate with the successful launch of NASA-managed expendable 

launches as identified on the Launch Services Flight Planning Board manifest. 

Space and Flight 

Support Launch Services 

Performance Goal 

5.4.1.2 

Continue utilizing existing contract mechanisms and agreements with emerging launch 

vehicle providers to gain information for future Launch Service orders and to provide 

technical exchanges to enhance early launch success. 

APG 

5.4.1.2: SFS-12-3 

Incorporate information sharing processes into programmatic policies and incorporate into 

crew demonstration activities and future crew transportation service contracts. 

Space and Flight 

Support Launch Services 

Performance Goal 

5.4.2.1 

By FY 2014, enable future government and commercial launching and testing from the 

Florida launch and range complex. 

APG 

5.4.2.1: SFS-12-4* 

Complete the 21st Century Space Launch Complex (21st CSLC) System Requirements 

Review/System Design Review. 

Space and Flight 

Support 

21st Century Space Launch 

Complex 

Performance Goal 

5.4.3.1 

By 2014, launch two functionally identical Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) 

spacecraft in geosynchronous orbits to replenish the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite 

System (TDRSS) constellation. 

APG 

5.4.3.1: SFS-12-5 

Complete Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) K Pre-ship Review. Space and Flight 

Support 

Space Communications and 

Navigation 

Performance Goal 

5.4.3.2 

By FY 2016, replace or upgrade obsolete and unsustainable systems of the TDRSS Ground 

Segment at the White Sands Complex (WSC). 

APG 

5.4.3.2: SFS-12-6 

Complete the Space Network Ground Segment Sustainment (SGSS) Preliminary Design 

Review (PDR). 

Space and Flight 

Support 

Space Communications and 

Navigation 

Performance Goal 

5.4.3.3 

By FY 2018, replace aging and obsolete Deep Space Network (DSN) 70-meter antenna at 

Canberra Deep Space Communications Complex (CDSCC). 

APG 

5.4.3.3: SFS-12-7 

Complete Deep Space Station-35 (DSS-35) antenna fabrication at vendor. Space and Flight 

Support 

Space Communications and 

Navigation 

Outcome 5.5 Establish partnerships, including innovative arrangements, with commercial, international, 

and other government entities to maximize mission success. 

Performance Goal 

5.5.2.1 

Actively engage and provide leadership in international and interagency forums. 

 

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MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

APG 

5.5.2.1: AMO-12-18 

Establish an internal Interagency Partnerships Working Group (IPWG) led by the Office of 

International and Interagency Relations (OIIR) to improve Agency-wide coordination of 

interagency partnerships and related interagency working groups. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations Agency Management 

Strategic Goal 6 Share NASA with the public, educators, and students to provide opportunities to 

participate in our Mission, foster innovation, and contribute to a strong national 

economy. 

Outcome 6.1 Improve retention of students in STEM disciplines by providing opportunities and activities 

along the education pipeline. 

Performance Goal 6.1.1.1 Provide educators nationwide with knowledge and tools with which to inspire students in 

STEM fields. 

APG 6.1.1.1: ED-12-3* 35,000 educators participate in NASA education programs. Education Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 6.1.2.1 Provide higher education students with authentic NASA mission-based opportunities that 

build knowledge and skills needed for STEM careers. 

APG 6.1.2.1: ED-12-4* 20,000 undergraduate and graduate students participate in NASA education opportunities. 

Education Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 6.1.2.2 Provide elementary and secondary students with authentic NASA mission-based 

opportunities that build STEM knowledge, skills and career awareness. 

APG 

6.1.2.2: ED-12-5* 

200,000 elementary and secondary students participate in NASA instructional and 

enrichment activities. Education Multiple Programs 

APG 

6.1.2.2: ED-12-6 

85 percent of elementary and secondary students express interest in STEM careers 

following their involvement in NASA education programs. Education 

STEM Education and 

Accountability 

Performance Goal 

6.1.3.1* 

Promote equal opportunity compliance and encourage best practices among NASA grant 

recipient institutions. 

APG 6.1.3.1: AMO-12-19* Provide equal opportunity (EO) assessment and technical assistance, or onsite compliance 

assessment on-location, at a minimum of three STEM or STEM-related programs that 

receive NASA funding. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations Agency Management 

Outcome 6.2 Promote STEM literacy through strategic partnerships with formal and informal 

organizations. 

Performance Goal 6.2.1.1 Provide educator professional development experiences and materials that align to needs 

and opportunities identified by districts, states, Department of Education, professional 

organizations, and other stakeholders. 

APG 

6.2.1.1: ED-12-7* 

50 percent of educators use NASA resources in their curricula after participating in NASA 

professional development as measured by survey responses. Education 

STEM Education and 

Accountability 

Outcome 6.3 Engage the public in NASA’s missions by providing new pathways for participation. 

MP-43 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme Contributing Program 

Performance Goal 6.3.1.1 By 2015, establish an Agency-wide portfolio of participatory engagement opportunities. 

APG 

6.3.1.1: AMO-12-20 

Issue a competitive opportunity to engage the public in NASA’s activities. Agency 

Management and 

Operations Agency Management 

Outcome 6.4 Inform, engage and inspire the public by sharing NASA’s missions, challenges, and results. 

Performance Goal 6.4.1.1 Leverage communities of practice to facilitate sharing of NASA successes and challenges 

with the public. 

APG 6.4.1.1: ED-12-9* 420 museums and science centers across the country actively engage the public in major 

NASA events. Education Multiple Programs 

Performance Goal 

6.4.2.1 

Use current and emerging communications technologies to reach increasingly broad 

audiences. 

APG 6.4.2.1: AMO-12-21 Evaluate communication tools for impact and establish Agency best practices. Agency 

Management and 

Operations Agency Management 

Performance Goal 

6.4.3.1 

Make available Agency records through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), Privacy 

Act, and Open Government Initiative in accordance with federal laws and regulations. 

APG 6.4.3.1: AMO-12-22 Finalize NASA Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) regulations. Agency 

Management and 

Operations Agency Management 

Uniform Efficiency Measures 

AR-12-15* Deliver at least 86 percent of on-time availability for operations and research facilities. 

Aeronautics 

Research Aeronautics Test Program 

ES-12-20 Complete all development projects within 110 percent of the cost and schedule baseline. Earth Science Multiple Programs 

ES-12-21 

Deliver at least 90 percent of scheduled operating hours for all operations and research 

facilities. Earth Science Multiple Programs 

ES-12-22 Peer-review and competitively award at least 90 percent, by budget, of research projects. Earth Science Multiple Programs 

ES-12-23 

Reduce time within which 80 percent of NASA Research Announcement (NRA) grants are 

awarded, from proposal due date to selection, by four percent per year, with a goal of 180 

days. Earth Science Multiple Programs 

HE-12-6 Complete all development projects within 110 percent of the cost and schedule baseline. Heliophysics Multiple Programs

HE-12-7 

Deliver at least 90 percent of scheduled operating hours for all operations and research 

facilities. Heliophysics Multiple Programs 

HE-12-8* Peer-review and competitively award at least 95 percent, by budget, of research projects. Heliophysics Multiple Programs 

HE-12-9 

Reduce time within which 80 percent of NASA Research Announcement (NRA) grants are 

awarded, from proposal due date to selection, by four percent per year, with a goal of 180 Heliophysics Multiple Programs 

MP-44 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2012 PERFORMANCE PLAN UPDATE

FY 2012 Performance Plan 

Contributing 

Measure # Description Theme Contributing Program 

days. 

PS-12-14* Complete all development projects within 110 percent of the cost and schedule baseline. Planetary Science Multiple Programs 

Deliver at least 90 percent of scheduled operating hours for all operations and research 

PS-12-15* facilities. Planetary Science Multiple Programs 

PS-12-16* Peer-review and competitively award at least 95 percent, by budget, of research projects. Planetary Science Multiple Programs 

Reduce time within which 80 percent of NASA Research Announcement (NRA) grants are 

awarded, from proposal due date to selection, by four percent per year, with a goal of 180 

PS-12-17* days. Planetary Science Multiple Programs 

AS-12-6 Complete all development projects within 110 percent of the cost and schedule baseline. Astrophysics Multiple Programs

Deliver at least 90 percent of scheduled operating hours for all operations and research 

AS-12-7 facilities. Astrophysics Multiple Programs 

AS-12-8 Peer-review and competitively award at least 95 percent, by budget, of research projects. Astrophysics Multiple Programs 

Maintain time within which 80 percent of NASA Research Announcement (NRA) grants 

AS-12-9* are awarded, from proposal due date to selection, at no more than 180 days. Astrophysics Multiple Programs 

*Measures that have been revised. 

** The Performance Goals in support of Earth Science, Heliophysics, Planetary Science, and Astrophysics themes are distinct activities supporting the scientific objectives established in NASA’s 

Strategic Plan.

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MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

INTRODUCTION TO THE FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

INTRODUCTION TO THE FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

In FY 2011, the President signed the GPRA Modernization Act of 2010, instituting a new level of 

performance requirements for all government agencies. The goal of this legislation is a transparent 

performance planning and reporting process. NASA’s FY 2013 Performance Plan encompasses this 

approach to performance planning and reflects the current prioritization of NASA’s programs and 

projects. The FY 2013 plan addresses NASA’s near and long term goals to better clarify its planning 

strategy to the public. The FY 2013 plan also streamlines many of the Agency’s goals to strengthen their 

relationship to NASA’s Strategic Goals and government-wide goals. This section provides a summary of 

NASA’s performance commitments in FY 2013. 

Multi-year performance trends are incorporated into the FY 2013 Performance Plan. Figure 4 provides 

definitions for the ratings. NASA’s method for trending multi-year performance data is to show the 

linkages between measures tracking similar data and annual progress for follow-on program activities. 

Linked measures, even if revised in subsequent years, are shown as related performance data. They are 

not meant to show back data for measures written exactly the same. In some cases, measures have been 

updated over the years to improve accuracy and data quality. For detailed information on performance 

ratings and measures from FY 2009 to FY 2011, visit http://www.nasa.gov/news/budget/index.html. 

Figure 4: Rating Criteria for Annual Performance Goals 

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INTRODUCTION TO THE FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

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MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

†FY12 trending is shown as required but ratings data will not be available until close of fiscal year. 

†† The Performance Goals in support of Earth Science, Heliophysics, Planetary Science, and Astrophysics themes are distinct activities supporting the scientific objectives established in NASA’s 

Strategic Plan. 

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

Strategic 

Goal 1 

Extend and sustain human activities across the solar system.

Outcome 1.1 Sustain the operation and full use of the International Space 

Station (ISS) and expand efforts to utilize the ISS as a National 

Laboratory for scientific, technological, diplomatic, and 

educational purposes and for supporting future objectives in 

human space exploration. 

Performance 

Goal 1.1.1.1 

Maintain capability for six on-orbit crew members. 

APG 

1.1.1.1: ISS 

13-1 

In concert with the International Partners, maintain a continuous 

six crew capability on the ISS by coordinating and managing 

resources, logistics, systems, and operational procedures. 

International 

Space Station 

International 

Space Station 

9ISS6 

Green 

10ISS07

Green 

ISS-11-1

Green 

ISS-12-1 

APG 

1.1.1.1: ISS 

13-2 

Complete at least three flights, delivering research and 

hardware to the ISS, by U.S. developed cargo delivery 

logistics 

systems. 

International 

Space Station 

International 

Space Station 

9ISS6 

Green 

10ISS07

Green 

ISS-11-1

Green 

ISS-12-3 

Performance 

Goal 1.1.2.1 

Advance engineering, technology, and science research on the 

ISS. 

APG 

1.1.2.1: ISS 

13-3 

Accomplish a minimum of 90 percent of the on-orbit research 

and technology development objectives. Objectives are 

baselined by NASA and the ISS Non-profit organization one 

month prior to each increment, which is the time period 

between crew rotations. 

International 

Space Station 

International 

Space Station 

9ISS2 

Green 

10ISS02

Green 

ISS-11-5

Green 

ISS-12-6 

APG 

1.1.2.1: ISS 

13-4 

Fully utilize the ISS by ensuring that at least 75 percent of the 

research sites available are used. 

International 

Space Station 

International 

Space Station 

 

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MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

Performance 

Goal 1.1.2.2 

Conduct basic and applied biological and physical research to 

advance and sustain U.S. scientific expertise. 

APG 

1.1.2.2: ISS -

13-5 

Conduct flight definition reviews for at least five flight 

experiments in fundamental space biology that were selected 

through the 2010 International Space Life Sciences Research 

Announcement. 

International 

Space Station 

International 

Space Station 

9AC3 

Green 

10AC03

Green 

ERD-11-

1 

Green 

ERD-12-

1 

APG 

1.1.2.2: ISS13-6 

Deliver at least four physical sciences payloads for launch to 

the ISS. 

International 

Space Station 

International 

Space Station 

9AC1 

Green 

10AC01

Green 

ERD-11-

2 

Green 

ERD-12-

2 

APG 

1.1.2.2: ISS13-7 

Conduct at least six experiments in combustion, fluids, or 

materials sciences on the ISS. 

International 

Space Station 

International 

Space Station 

9AC2 

Green 

10AC02

Green 

ERD-11-

3 

Green 

ERD-12-

3 

Outcome 1.2 Develop competitive opportunities for the commercial 

community to provide best value products and services to low

Earth orbit and beyond. 

Performance 

Goal 1.2.1.1 

Create opportunities for interchange with commercial industry 

while developing competitive opportunities. 

APG 

1.2.1.1: CS 

13-1 

Execute Space Act Agreements (SAAs) for development of a 

commercial Crew Transportation System (CTS). 

Commercial 

Spaceflight 

Commercial Crew 9SFS5 

Green 

None CS-11-1

Green 

CS-12-1 

Outcome 1.3 Develop an integrated architecture and capabilities for safe 

crewed and cargo missions beyond low Earth orbit. 

Performance 

Goal 1.3.1.1 

Complete design reviews for the Space Launch System (SLS). 

APG 

1.3.1.1: ESD13-1 

Complete the SLS Preliminary Design Review (PDR) and 

establish the technical design, cost, and schedule baseline for

the SLS first flight. 

Exploration 

Systems and 

Development 

Space Launch 

Systems 

None None HEC-11-

1 

Green 

HEC-12-

1 

Performance 

Goal 1.3.1.2 

Complete design reviews for Orion Multi-Purpose Crew 

Vehicle (MPCV). 

APG 

1.3.1.2: ESD13-2 

Manufacture Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) flight 

test hardware required for initial integration testing for the 

Exploration Flight Test 1 (EFT-1). 

Exploration 

Systems and 

Development 

Orion MultiPurpose Crew 

Vehicle 

None None HEC-11-

2 

Green 

HEC-12-

2 

Performance 

Goal 1.3.2.1 

Develop technologies that will enable biomedical research and 

mitigate health risks associated with human space exploration 

missions. 

APG Complete two ISS physiological flight experiments that define Exploration Human Research None None ERD-11- ERD-12-

MP-50 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

1.3.2.1: ERD 

13-1 

requirements for maintaining astronaut health for long-duration 

missions. 

Research and 

Development 

4 

Green 

4 

Performance 

Goal 1.3.3.1 

Prioritize the knowledge of hazards, opportunities, and potential 

destinations for human space exploration that will be of use to 

future operations of an integrated architecture for human space 

exploration. 

APG 

1.3.3.1: ERD 

13-2 

Develop a set of strategic knowledge gaps on potential 

destinations for human spaceflight, conduct a review of these 

gaps by external advisory groups, and document the results in 

the Global Exploration Roadmap. 

Exploration 

Research and 

Development 

Advanced 

Exploration 

Systems 

None None None ERD-12-

7 

Strategic 

Goal 2 

Expand scientific understanding of the Earth and the

universe in which we live. 

Outcome 2.1 Advance Earth system science to meet the challenges of climate 

and environmental change. 

Performance 

Goal 2.1.1.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.1.1: “Improve understanding of and improve the 

predictive capability for changes in the ozone layer, climate 

forcing, and air quality associated with changes in atmospheric 

composition.”) 

APG 

2.1.1.1: ES-13-

1 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding and improving 

predictive capability for changes in the ozone layer, climate 

forcing, and air quality associated with changes in atmospheric 

composition. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 

2010 Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert review. 

Earth Science Multiple Programs 9ES1 

Green 

10ES01 

Green 

ES-11-1 

Green 

ES-12-1 

Performance 

Goal 2.1.1.2†† 

By 2015, launch at least two missions in support of objective 

2.1.1. 

APG 

2.1.1.2: ES13-2 

Complete the Earth Venture-2 (EV-2) Mission Definition 

Review (MDR). 

Earth Science Earth System 

Science Pathfinder 

None None ES-11-4 

Green 

ES-12-3 

Performance 

Goal 2.1.2.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.1.2: “Enable improved predictive capability for 

weather and extreme weather events.”) 

APG Demonstrate planned progress in enabling improved predictive Earth Science Multiple Programs 9ES7 10ES04 ES-11-5 ES-12-4 

MP-51 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

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FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

2.1.2.1: ES13-3 capability for weather and extreme weather events. Progress 

relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be 

evaluated by external expert review. 

Green Green Green 

Performance 

Goal 2.1.2.2†† 

By 2015, launch at least two missions in support of objective 

2.1.2. 

APG 

2.1.2.2: ES13-4 

Complete the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) 

mission observatory environmental testing. 

Earth Science Earth Systematic 

Missions 

9ES8 

Yellow 

10ES06 

Green 

ES-11-6 

Yellow 

ES-12-5 

APG 

2.1.2.2: ES13-2 

Complete the Earth Venture 2 (EV-2) Mission Definition 

Review (MDR). 

Earth Science Earth System 

Science Pathfinder 

None None ES-11-4 

Green 

ES-12-3 

Performance 

Goal 2.1.3.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.1.3: “Quantify, understand, and predict changes in 

Earth’s ecosystems and biogeochemical cycles, including the 

global carbon cycle, land cover, and biodiversity.” 

APG 

2.1.3.1: ES13-5 

Demonstrate planned progress in quantifying, understanding 

and predicting changes in Earth’s ecosystems and 

biogeochemical cycles, including the global carbon cycle, land 

cover, and biodiversity. Progress relative to the objectives in 

NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert 

review. 

Earth Science Multiple Programs 9ES10 

Green 

10ES07 

Green 

ES-11-7 

Green 

ES-12-6 

Performance 

Goal 2.1.3.2†† 

By 2015, launch at least two missions in support of objective 

2.1.3. 

APG 

2.1.3.2: ES13-6 

Launch the Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM). Earth Science Earth Systematic 

Missions 

9ES11 

Green 

10ES08 

Green 

ES-11-8 

Green 

ES-12-7 

APG 

2.1.3.2: ES13-2 

Complete the Earth Venture-2 (EV-2) Mission Definition 

Review (MDR). 

Earth Science Earth System 

Science Pathfinder 

None None ES-11-4 

Green 

ES-12-3 

Performance 

Goal 2.1.4.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.1.4: “Quantify the key reservoirs and fluxes in the 

global water cycle and assess water cycle change and water 

quality.”) 

MP-52 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

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FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

APG 

2.1.4.1: ES13-7 

Demonstrate planned progress in quantifying the key reservoirs 

and fluxes in the global water cycle and assessing water cycle 

change and water quality. Progress relative to the objectives in 

NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert 

review. 

Earth Science Multiple Programs 9ES13 

Green 

10ES09 

Green 

ES-11-9 

Green 

ES-12-8 

Performance 

Goal 2.1.4.2†† 

By 2015, launch at least two missions in support of objective 

2.1.4. 

APG 

2.1.4.2: ES13-4 

Complete the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) 

mission observatory environmental testing. 

Earth Science Earth Systematic 

Missions 

9ES8 

Yellow 

10ES06 

Green 

ES-11-6 

Yellow 

ES-12-5 

APG 

2.1.4.2: ES13-8 

Complete the Soil Moisture Active-Passive (SMAP) Systems 

Integration Review (SIR). 

Earth Science Earth Systematic 

Missions 

9ES14 

Green 

10ES10 

Yellow 

ES-11-

10 

Yellow 

ES-12-9 

Performance 

Goal 2.1.5.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.1.5: “Improve understanding of the roles of the 

ocean, atmosphere, land and ice in the climate system and 

improve predictive capability for its future evolution.”) 

APG 

2.1.5.1: ES13-9 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding the roles of 

ocean, atmosphere, land, and ice in the climate system and 

improving predictive capability for future evolution. Progress 

relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be 

evaluated by external expert review. 

Earth Science Multiple Programs 9ES15 

Green 

10ES11 

Green 

ES-11-

11 

Green 

ES-12-10 

Performance 

Goal 2.1.5.2†† 

By 2015 launch at least three missions in support of objective 

2.1.5. 

APG 

2.1.5.2: ES13-10 

Complete the Ice, Cloud, and Land Elevation Satellite-2 

(ICESat-2) Critical Design Review. 

Earth Science Earth Systematic 

Missions 

9ES16 

Yellow 

10ES12 

Green 

ES-11-

14 

Yellow 

ES-12-13 

Performance 

Goal 2.1.6.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.1.6: “Characterize the dynamics of Earth’s surface 

and interior and form the scientific basis for the assessment and 

mitigation of natural hazards and response to rare and extreme 

events.”) 

MP-53 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

APG 

2.1.6.1: ES13-11 

Demonstrate planned progress in characterizing the dynamics of 

Earth’s surface and interior and forming the scientific basis for 

the assessment and mitigation of natural hazards and response 

to rare and extreme events. Progress relative to the objectives 

in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be evaluated by external 

expert review. 

Earth Science Multiple Programs 9ES17 

Green 

10ES13 

Green 

ES-11-

15 

Green 

ES-12-14 

Performance 

Goal 2.1.6.2†† 

By 2015, launch at least one mission in support of objective 

2.1.6. 

APG 

2.1.6.2: ES13-6 

Launch the Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM). Earth Science Earth Systematic 

Missions 

9ES11 

Green 

10ES08 

Green 

ES-11-8 

Green 

ES-12-7 

Performance 

Goal 2.1.7.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.1.7: “Enable the broad use of Earth system science 

observations and results in decision-making activities for 

societal benefits.”) 

APG 

2.1.7.1: ES13-12 

Advance at least 25 percent of decision-support projects one 

Applications Readiness Level. The Applications Readiness 

Level is a nine-stage index for tracking the advancement of an 

Earth science applications project along a continuum from 

initial concept through development and transition to 

operational use. 

Earth Science Applied Sciences 9ES18 

Green 

10ES14 

Green 

ES-11-

16 

Green 

ES-12-15 

APG 

2.1.7.1: ES13-13 

Increase the number of science data products delivered to Earth 

Observing System Data and Information System (EOSDIS) 

users. 

Earth Science Earth Science 

Multi-Mission 

Operations 

9ES19 

Green 

10ES15 

Green 

ES-11-

17 

Green 

ES-12-16 

APG 

2.1.7.1: ES13-14 

Maintain a high level of customer satisfaction, as measured by 

exceeding the most recently available federal government 

average rating of the Customer Satisfaction Index. 

Earth Science Earth Science 

Multi-Mission 

Operations 

9ES20 

Green 

10ES16 

Green 

ES-11-

18 

Green 

ES-12-17 

Outcome 2.2 Understand the Sun and its interactions with the Earth and the 

solar system. 

Performance 

Goal 2.2.1.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.2.1: “Improve understanding of the fundamental 

physical processes of the space environment from the Sun to 

MP-54 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

Earth, to other planets, and beyond to the interstellar medium.”) 

APG 

2.2.1.1: HE13-1 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding the 

fundamental physical processes of the space environment from 

the Sun to Earth, to other planets, and beyond to the interstellar 

medium. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 

Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert review. 

Heliophysics Multiple Programs 9HE1 

Green 

10HE01 

Green 

HE-11-1

Green 

HE-12-1 

APG 

2.2.1.1: HE13-2 

Achieve mission success criteria for the Solar Dynamics 

Observatory (SDO). 

Heliophysics Living with a Star None None None None 

Performance 

Goal 2.2.1.2†† 

By 2015, launch two missions in support of objective 2.2.1. 

APG 

2.2.1.2: HE13-3 

Complete integration of the payload to the Magnetospheric 

Multiscale (MMS) satellite #1 (of four). 

Heliophysics Solar Terrestrial 

Probes 

9HE2 

Green 

10HE02 

Green 

HE-11-2

Green 

HE-12-2 

Performance 

Goal 2.2.2.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.2.2: “Improve understanding of how human society, 

technological systems, and the habitability of planets are 

affected by solar variability interacting with planetary magnetic 

fields and atmospheres.”) 

APG 

2.2.2.1: HE13-2 

Achieve mission success criteria for the Solar Dynamics 

Observatory (SDO). 

Heliophysics Living with a Star None None None None 

APG 

2.2.2.1: HE13-4 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding how human 

society, technological systems, and the habitability of planets 

are affected by solar variability interacting with planetary 

magnetic fields and atmospheres. Progress relative to the 

objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be evaluated by 

external expert review. 

Heliophysics Multiple Programs 9HE6 

Green 

10HE06 

Green 

HE-11-4

Green 

HE-12-4 

Performance 

Goal 2.2.2.2†† 

By 2015, launch two missions in support of objective 2.2.2. 

APG 

2.2.2.2: HE13-3 

Complete integration of the payload to the Magnetospheric 

Multiscale (MMS) satellite #1 (of four). 

Heliophysics Solar Terrestrial 

Probes 

9HE2 

Green 

10HE02 

Green 

HE-11-2

Green 

HE-12-2 

Performance 

Goal 2.2.3.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

MP-55 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

objective 2.2.3: “Maximize the safety and productivity of 

human and robotic explorers by developing the capability to 

predict extreme and dynamic conditions in space.”) 

APG 

2.2.3.1: HE13-5 

Demonstrate planned progress in maximizing the safety and 

productivity of human and robotic explorers by developing the 

capability to predict the extreme and dynamic conditions in 

space. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 

Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert review. 

Heliophysics Multiple Programs 9HE8 

Green 

10HE08 

Green 

HE-11-5

Green 

HE-12-5 

Performance 

Goal 2.2.3.2†† 

By 2017, launch at least two missions in support of objective 

2.3.2. 

APG 2.2.3.2: 

HE-13-6 

Complete the Solar Orbiter Collaboration Mission Confirmation 

Review. 

Heliophysics Living with a Star 

Outcome 2.3 Ascertain the content, origin, and evolution of the solar system 

and the potential for life elsewhere. 

Performance 

Goal 2.3.1.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.3.1: “Inventory solar system objects and identify the 

processes active in and among them.”) 

APG 

2.3.1.1: PS13-1 

Demonstrate planned progress in inventorying solar system 

objects and identifying the processes active in and among them. 

Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science 

Plan will be evaluated by external expert review. 

Planetary Science Multiple Programs None None PS-11-1 

Green 

PS-12-1 

Performance 

Goal 2.3.1.2†† 

By 2017, launch at least two missions in support of objective 

2.3.1. 

APG 

2.3.1.2: PS13-2 

Initiate the preliminary design for the Discovery 12 mission. Planetary Science Discovery None None None PS-12-3 

APG 

2.3.1.2: PS13-5 

Complete the OSIRIS-REx Preliminary Design Review (PDR). Planetary Science New Frontiers None 10PS04 

Green 

PS-11-3 

Green 

PS-12-2 

Performance 

Goal 2.3.2.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.3.2: “Improve understanding of how the Sun’s 

family of planets, satellites, and minor bodies originated and 

evolved.”) 

MP-56 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

APG 

2.3.2.1: PS13-3 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding how the Sun’s 

family of planets, satellites, and minor bodies originated and 

evolved. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 

Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert review. 

Planetary Science Multiple Programs 9PS1 

Green 

10PS01 

Green 

PS-11-4 

Green 

PS-12-4 

Performance 

Goal 2.3.2.2†† 

By 2015, launch at least three missions in support of objective 

2.3.2. 

APG 

2.3.2.2: PS13-4 

Launch the Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer 

(LADEE). 

Planetary Science Lunar Quest None None None PS-12-6 

APG 

2.3.2.2: PSComplete the OSIRIS-REx Preliminary Design Review (PDR). Planetary Science New Frontiers None 10PS04 

Green 

PS-11-3 

Green 

PS-12-2 

13-5 

Performance 

Goal 2.3.3.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.3.3: “Improve understanding of the processes that 

determine the history and future of habitability of environments 

on Mars and other solar system bodies.”) 

APG 

2.3.3.1: PS13-6 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding the processes 

that determine the history and future of habitability of 

environments on Mars and other solar system bodies. Progress 

relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be 

evaluated by external expert review. 

Planetary Science Multiple Programs 9PS8 

Green 

10PS09 

Green 

PS-11-8 

Green 

PS-12-7 

Performance 

Goal 2.3.3.2†† 

By 2015, launch at least two missions in support of objective 

2.3.3. 

APG 

2.3.3.2: PS13-7 

Complete the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN 

Mission (MAVEN) Pre-Ship Review (PSR). 

Planetary Science Mars Exploration None 10PS08 

Green 

PS-11-10

Green 

PS-12-9 

Performance 

Goal 2.3.4.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.3.4: “Improve understanding of the origin and 

evolution of Earth’s life and biosphere to determine if there is 

or ever has been life elsewhere in the universe.”) 

APG 

2.3.4.1: PS13-8 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding the origin and 

evolution of life on Earth and throughout the biosphere to 

determine if there is or ever has been life elsewhere in the 

Planetary Science Multiple Programs 9PS5 

Green 

10PS07 

Green 

PS-11-11

Green 

PS-12-11 

universe. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 2010 

MP-57 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert review. 

Performance 

Goal 2.3.5.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.3.5: “Identify and characterize small bodies and the 

properties of planetary environments that pose a threat to 

terrestrial life or exploration or provide potentially exploitable 

resources.”) 

APG 

2.3.5.1: PS13-9 

Demonstrate planned progress in identifying and characterizing 

small bodies and the properties of planetary environments that 

pose a threat to terrestrial life or exploration or provide 

potentially exploitable resources. Progress relative to the 

objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be evaluated by 

external expert review. 

Planetary Science Multiple Programs 9PS9 

Green 

10PS10 

Green 

PS-11-12

Green 

PS-12-12 

Performance 

Goal 2.3.5.2 

Return data for selection of destinations in order to lower risk 

for human space exploration beyond low Earth orbit. 

APG 

2.3.5.2: PS13-10 

Demonstrate planned progress in characterizing potentially 

hazardous objects that are possible destinations for future 

human space exploration. 

Planetary Science Multiple Programs None None None PS-12-13 

Outcome 2.4 Discover how the universe works, explore how it began and 

evolved, and search for Earth-like planets. 

Performance 

Goal 2.4.1.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.4.1: “Improve understanding of the origin and 

destiny of the universe, and the nature of black holes, dark 

energy, dark matter, and gravity.”) 

APG 

2.4.1.1: AS13-1 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding the origin and 

destiny of the universe and the nature of black holes, dark 

energy, dark matter, and gravity. Progress relative to the 

objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be evaluated by 

external expert review. 

Astrophysics Multiple Programs 9AS1 

Green 

10AS01 

Green 

AS-11-1

Green 

AS-12-1 

APG 

2.4.1.1: AS13-2 

Achieve mission success criteria for the Fermi Gamma-ray 

Space Telescope. 

Astrophysics Physics of the 

Cosmos 

None 10AS04 

Green 

None None 

Performance Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

MP-58 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

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FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

Goal 2.4.2.1†† researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.4.2: “Improve understanding of the many 

phenomena and processes associated with galaxy, stellar, and 

planetary system formation and evolution from the earliest 

epochs to today.”) 

APG 

2.4.2.1: AS13-3 

Demonstrate planned progress in understanding the many 

phenomena and processes associated with galaxy, stellar, and 

planetary system formation and evolution from the earliest 

epochs to today. Progress relative to the objectives in NASA’s 

2010 Science Plan will be evaluated by external expert review. 

Astrophysics Multiple Programs 9AS6 

Green 

10AS09 

Green 

AS-11-3

Green 

AS-12-3 

Performance 

Goal 2.4.2.2†† 

Design and assemble the James Webb Space Telescope 

(JWST). 

APG 

2.4.2.2: JWST13-1 

Initiate James Webb Space Telescope Backplane Support 

Frame Assembly. 

James Webb Space 

Telescope 

James Webb Space 

Telescope 

9AS4 

Green 

10AS06 

Green 

JWST11-1 

Green 

JWST12-1 

Performance 

Goal 2.4.2.3†† 

Develop and operate an airborne infrared astrophysics 

observatory. 

APG 

2.4.2.3: AS13-4 

Complete the Systems Requirement Review (SRR) for the 

initial second generation Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared 

Astronomy (SOFIA) instrument. 

Astrophysics Cosmic Origins 9AS5 

Yellow 

10AS07 

Yellow 

AS-11-4

Green 

AS-12-4 

Performance 

Goal 2.4.3.1†† 

Provide national scientific capabilities through necessary skilled 

researchers and supporting knowledge base. (In support of 

objective 2.4.3: “Generate a census of extra-solar planets and 

measure their properties.”) 

APG 

2.4.3.1: AS13-5 

Demonstrate planned progress in generating a census of extrasolar planets and measuring their properties. Progress relative to 

the objectives in NASA’s 2010 Science Plan will be evaluated 

by external expert review. 

Astrophysics Multiple Programs 9AS7 

Green 

10AS10 

Green 

AS-11-5

Green 

AS-12-5 

APG 

2.4.3.1: AS13-6 

Achieve mission success criteria for the Kepler mission. Astrophysics Exoplanet 

Exploration 

9AS8

Green 

None None None 

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 

improve the future capabilities of NASA, other government 

agencies, and the aerospace industry. 

to 

MP-59 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

Performance 

Goal 3.1.1.1 

Develop and advance space technologies that support NASA’s 

science, exploration and discovery missions. 

APG 

3.1.1.1-ST13-1 

Research, study, or develop concepts for 100 technologies as 

documented in technology reports or plans. 

Space Technology Crosscutting Space 

Technology 

Development 

None None ST-11-6 

Green 

ST-12-1 

Outcome 3.2 Infuse game changing and crosscutting technologies throughout 

the Nation’s space enterprise, to transform the Nation’s space 

mission capabilities. 

Performance 

Goal 3.2.1.1 

Develop and advance space technologies that support NASA’s 

science, exploration, and discovery missions. 

APG 

3.2.1.1-ST13-2 

Complete three feasibility studies, ground demonstrations, or 

laboratory experiments proving the technical feasibility of new 

space technologies. 

Space Technology Crosscutting Space 

Technology 

Development 

None 

None 

ST-11-7 

Green 

ST-12-7 

APG 

3.2.1.1: ST13-3 

Implement at least one new small satellite mission that was 

initiated in FY 2012 and demonstrate game changing or 

crosscutting technologies in space. 

Space Technology Crosscutting Space 

Technology 

Development 

None None None ST-12-9 

APG 

3.2.1.1: ST13-4 

Implement at least three Technology Demonstration Missions 

(TDM) technology development projects that were initiated in 

the previous two years. 

Space Technology Crosscutting Space 

Technology 

Development 

None None ST-11-

10 

Green 

ST-12-10 

APG 3.2.1.1: 

ST-13-5 

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. 

Space Technology Crosscutting Space 

Technology 

Development 

None None ST-11-

11 

Green 

ST-12-11 

Outcome 3.3 Develop and demonstrate the critical technologies that will

make NASA’s exploration, science, and discovery missions 

more affordable and more capable. 

Performance 

Goal 3.3.1.1 

Develop and test technologies that can be used in human 

exploration missions. 

APG 3.3.1 .1: 

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. 

Exploration 

Research and 

Development 

Advanced 

Exploration 

Systems 

 

Performance 

Goal 3.3.2.1 

Develop advanced spacesuits to improve the ability of 

astronauts to conduct Extra Vehicular Activities (EVA) for inspace operations and surface exploration. 

APG Test a packaged Portable Life Support System (PLSS) for an Exploration Advanced None None ERD-11- ERD-12-

MP-60 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

3.3.2.1: ERD13-4 advanced spacesuit in a vacuum chamber. Research and 

Development 

Exploration 

Systems 

8 

Green 

9 

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. 

Performance 

Goal 3.4.1.1 

Accelerate the development and adoption of NASA-funded 

technology through the establishment of cost-sharing 

partnerships. 

APG 3.4.1.1: 

ST-13-6 

Establish a total of two partnerships with U.S. industry, other 

U.S. agencies, or other entities to develop technology that 

supports NASA’s missions or national interests. 

Space Technology Partnership 

Development and 

Strategic 

Integration 

9IPP2 

Green

None ST-11-

14 

Green 

ST-12-13 

Strategic 

Goal 4 

Advance aeronautics research for societal benefit. 

Outcome 4.1 Develop innovative solutions and advanced technologies 

through a balanced research portfolio to improve current and 

future air transportation. 

Performance 

Goal 4.1.1.1 

Transfer knowledge to the aviation community to better manage 

safety in aviation. 

APG 

4.1.1.1: AR13-1 

Conduct flight tests to characterize the ice crystal weather 

environment, which can adversely affect jet engine 

performance. 

Aeronautics Aviation Safety None None None AR-12-1 

APG 

4.1.1.1: AR13-2 

Develop onboard capabilities that aid in-flight decision-making 

through instantaneous health assessment of aircraft systems. 

Aeronautics Aviation Safety 9AT1 

Green 

10AT01 

Green 

AR-11-2

Green 

AR-12-2 

Performance 

Goal 4.1.2.1 

Demonstrate advanced technologies and solutions to achieve 

fuel efficient increases in operational performance of the Next 

Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) while 

reducing noise and emissions. 

APG 

4.1.2.1: AR13-3 

Conduct human-in-the-loop simulations for taxi operations 

conformance, which will reduce fuel consumption during 

movement on the airport surface. 

Aeronautics Airspace Systems None None None None 

Performance 

Goal 4.1.3.1 

Deliver tools, technologies, and knowledge that can be used to 

more efficiently and effectively design future air vehicles and 

their components to overcome national performance and 

MP-61 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

capability challenges. 

APG 

4.1.3.1: AR13-4 

Develop, improve, and validate a multi-fidelity toolset to assess 

the noise characteristics of future subsonic aircraft. 

Aeronautics Fundamental 

Aeronautics 

9AT7 

Green 

10AT07 

Green 

AR-11-6

Green 

None 

APG 

4.1.3.1: AR13-5 

Validate high fidelity tools for sonic boom and drag prediction 

to enable the design of future supersonic air vehicles. 

Aeronautics Fundamental 

Aeronautics 

9AT9 

Green 

10AT09 

Green 

AR-11-8

Green 

AR-12-

10 

Outcome 4.2 Conduct systems-level research on innovative and promising 

aeronautics concepts and technologies to demonstrate integrated 

capabilities and benefits in a relevant flight and/or ground 

environment. 

Performance 

Goal 4.2.1.1 

Demonstrate advanced technologies to reduce fuel burn, noise, 

and emissions for advanced aircraft expected for introduction 

into the Next Generation Air Transportation System. 

APG 

4.2.1.1: AR13-6 

Conduct tests to validate low-noise characteristics of a hybrid 

wing body aircraft concept. 

Aeronautics Integrated Systems 

Research 

None None None None 

APG 

4.2.1.1: AR13-7 

Complete flight evaluations to assess the capabilities of the 

Live, Virtual, Constructive (LVC) distributed simulation 

environment. 

Aeronautics Integrated Systems 

Research 

None None None None 

Strategic 

Goal 5 

Enable program and institutional capabilities to conduct 

NASA’s aeronautics and space activities. 

Outcome 5.1 Identify, cultivate, and sustain a diverse workforce and 

inclusive work environment that is needed to conduct NASA 

missions. 

Performance 

Goal 

5.1.1.1 

Define and build diverse workforce skills and competencies 

needed for the Agency’s technology development and deep 

space exploration. 

APG 

5.1.1.1: AMO13-1 

Sustain NASA’s Innovation Score, as measured by the 

innovation-related questions in the Employee Viewpoint Survey 

(EVS), by taking actions like refining and updating human 

capital policies, programs, and systems to support and 

encourage innovation to meet NASA’s missions. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations 

Agency 

Management 

9ED5 

Green 

10ED04 

Yellow 

AMO11-2 

Green 

AMO12-1 

MP-62 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

Performance 

Goal 

5.1.1.2 

Advance a workplace environment that affords Equal 

Employment Opportunities (EEO) to all employees and takes 

proactive diversity and inclusion efforts. 

APG 

5.1.1.2: AMO13-2 

Sustain five programs and processes designed to proactively 

prevent discrimination, as outlined in the Model EEO Agency 

Plan. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations 

Agency 

Management 

None 10WF01

Green 

AMO11-7 

Yellow 

AMO12-7 

APG 

5.1.1.2: AMO13-3 

Implement three diversity and inclusion capabilities as outlined 

in the Agency Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Implementation 

Plan. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations 

Agency 

Management 

None 10WF02

Green 

AMO11-8 

Yellow 

AMO12-8 

Performance 

Goal 

5.1.2.1 

Assure that students participating in NASA higher education 

projects are representative of the diversity of the Nation, based 

on student enrollment data maintained by the U.S. Department 

of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics. 

APG 

5.1.2.1: ED13-1 

Provide significant, direct student awards in higher education to

(1) racially or ethnically underrepresented students, (2) females, 

and (3) persons with disabilities at percentages that meet or 

exceed the national STEM enrollment percentages for these 

populations, as determined by the most recent publicly available 

data from the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center 

for Education Statistics for a minimum of two of the three 

categories. 

Education Multiple Programs 9ED3 

Red 

10ED03 

Yellow 

ED-11-1

Yellow 

ED-12-1

Yellow 

Outcome 5.2 Ensure vital assets are ready, available, and appropriately sized 

to conduct NASA’s missions. 

Performance 

Goal 

5.2.1.1 

Through 2015, assure the safety of NASA’s activities and 

reduce damage to assets through the development, 

implementation, and oversight of Agency-wide safety, 

reliability, maintainability, and quality assurance policies and 

procedures. 

APG 

5.2.1.1: AMO13-4 

Assure zero fatalities or permanent disabling injuries to the 

public resulting from NASA activities during FY 2013. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations 

Safety and Mission 

Success 

None 10SMS0

1 

Green 

AMO11-9 

Green 

AMO12-9 

APG 

5.2.1.1: AMO13-5 

Maintain a Total Case Rate and Lost Time Case Rate that meets 

the goals of the President’s Protecting Our Workers and 

Ensuring Reemployment (POWER) initiative. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations 

Safety and Mission 

Success 

None 10SMS0

1 

Green 

AMO11-10 

Red 

AMO12-10 

MP-63 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

APG 

5.2.1.1: AMO13-6 

Reduce damage to NASA assets (excluding launched flight 

hardware) by two percent during FY 2013, based on a five-year 

running average (that also excludes launched flight hardware). 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations 

Safety and Mission 

Success 

None 10SMS0

1 

Green 

AMO11-11 

Red 

AMO12-11 

Performance 

Goal 

5.2.2.1 

By 2015, reduce data center energy consumption by 30 percent 

(from baseline data defined during FY 2012). 

APG 

5.2.2.1: AMO13-7 

Implement power metering in 100 percent of NASA data 

centers. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations 

Agency IT 

Services (AITS) 

None None AMO11-15 

Green 

AMO12-15 

Performance 

Goal 

5.2.3.1 

Between 2012 and 2016, eliminate obsolete and unneeded 

facilities and support the elimination of facilities that will not be 

needed after Space Shuttle retirement. 

APG 

5.2.3.1: COF13-1 

Initiate the demolition or disposal of five facilities or structures 

during 2013 to reduce the Agency’s footprint. 

Construction of 

Facilities 

Institutional CoF None None COF-11-

1 

Green 

COF-12-

1 

Outcome 5.3 Ensure the availability to the Nation of NASA-owned 

strategically important test capabilities. 

Performance 

Goal 

5.3.1.1 

Review monthly the current state of the NASA and Department 

of Defense (DoD) test capabilities and known test requirements 

and test requests. 

APG 

5.3.1.1: SFS13-1 

Incorporate test capability modifications and known test 

requirements in the yearly Rocket Propulsion Test (RPT) 

Master Plan update. 

Space and Flight 

Support 

Rocket Propulsion 

Test 

9SFS4 

Yellow 

10SFS09

Yellow 

SFS-11-

1 

Green 

SFS-12-1 

Performance 

Goal 

5.3.2.1 

Ensure that testing capabilities are available to support the 

research, development, test, and engineering milestones of 

NASA and Department of Defense (DoD) programs. 

APG 

5.3.2.1: AR13-8 

Provide a new engine icing test capability to address the highaltitude engine icing problem encountered by commercial 

aircraft. 

Aeronautics Aeronautics Test None None None None 

Outcome 5.4 Implement and provide space communications and launch 

capabilities responsive to existing and future science and space 

exploration missions. 

Performance 

Goal 

5.4.1.1 

Complete objectives for all NASA- managed expendable 

launches. 

MP-64 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

APG 

5.4.1.1: SFS13-2 

Sustain a 100 percent success rate with the successful launch of 

NASA managed expendable launches as identified on the 

Launch Services Flight Planning Board manifest. 

Space and Flight 

Support 

Launch Services None 10SFS11

Green 

SFS-11-

2 

Yellow 

SFS-12-2 

Performance 

Goal 

5.4.1.2 

Achieve savings for the Agency through acquisition reforms. 

APG 

5.4.1.2: AMO13-8 

Achieve savings in contract costs of $10 million in FY 2013, 

using FY 2012 as the baseline from which to measure savings. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations 

Agency 

Management 

None None None None 

Performance 

Goal 5.4.2.1 

Prioritize and complete launch and range complex 

modernization studies and projects to better enable government 

and commercial activities at the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) 

and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS). 

APG 

5.4.2.1: ESD13-3 

Complete the transfer of required Space Shuttle Program (SSP) 

and Constellation Program (CxP) assets to the Exploration 

Ground Systems (EGS) Program for use by SLS/MPCV at the 

Kennedy Space Center (KSC). 

Exploration 

Systems and 

Development 

Exploration 

Ground Systems 

None None None None 

APG 

5.4.2.1: SFS13-3 

Continue to establish and develop 21st Century Space Launch 

Complex (21stCSLC) partnerships aimed at understanding 

government and commercial ground processing, launch, and 

range infrastructure requirements, while implementing the 

modifications identified during the FY 2011 initiated studies. 

Space and Flight 

Support 

21st Century 

Space Launch 

Complex 

None None None None 

Performance 

Goal 

5.4.3.1 

By 2014, launch two functionally identical Tracking and Data 

Relay Satellite (TDRS) communications spacecraft to replenish 

the existing TDRS System constellation. 

APG 

5.4.3.1: SFS13-4 

Prepare TDRS L for its Flight Readiness Review (FRR). Space and Flight 

Support 

Space 

Communications 

and Navigation 

9SFS6 

Green 

10SFS07

Yellow 

SFS-11-

5 

Green 

SFS-12-5 

Outcome 5.5 Establish partnerships, including innovative arrangements, with 

commercial, international, and other government entities to 

maximize mission success. 

Performance 

Goal 

5.5.1.1 

Working with the ISS National Laboratory management entity, 

expand utilization of the ISS by non-NASA organizations. 

MP-65 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

APG 

5.5.1.1: ISS13-8 

Facilitate the non-profit organization’s (NPO) establishment of

the ISS National Laboratory Marketplace to allow researchers 

and prospective investors to interact and to demonstrate its 

effectiveness by producing at least one externally funded 

research agreement. 

International 

Space Station 

International 

Space Station 

None None ISS-11-6

Green 

ISS-12-6 

Performance 

Goal 

5.5.2.1

Continue and improve coordination of NASA’s international 

and interagency agreement activities. 

APG 

5.5.2.1: AMO13-9 

Implement improved management of existing agreements by 

incorporating Office of International and Interagency Relations 

(OIIR)-led interagency agreements into the Agency agreements 

database (i.e., the Space Act Agreement Maker). 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations 

Agency

Management 

None None AMO11-18 

Green 

AMO12-13 

Strategic 

Goal 6 

Share NASA with the public, educators, and students to 

provide opportunities to participate in our Mission, foster 

innovation, and contribute to a strong national economy. 

Outcome 6.1 Improve retention of students in STEM disciplines by providing 

opportunities and activities along the education pipeline. 

Performance 

Goal 6.1.1.1

Assure the availability and accessibility of NASA’s online 

curricular support and resources to improve educators’ STEM 

content knowledge and enhance student interest and proficiency 

in STEM disciplines. 

APG 6.1.1.1: 

ED-13-2 

Maintain no fewer than 1,000 online STEM-based teaching 

tools for K-12 and informal educators and higher education 

faculty. 

Education Multiple Programs 9ED7 

Green 

10ED07 

Green 

ED-11-3

Green 

ED-12-3 

Performance 

Goal 6.1.2.1

Focus resources, including content, facilities, and personnel, to 

improve the impact of NASA’s STEM education efforts on 

areas of greatest national need, as identified in the 2011 NASA 

Education Design Team report, ensuring that NASA-unique 

assets are leveraged when conducting direct-service student 

activities. 

APG 6.1.2.1: 

ED-13-3 

Conduct no fewer than 200 interactive K-12 student activities 

that leverage the unique assets of NASA’s missions. 

Education STEM Education 

and Accountability 

None None None None 

Performance 

Goal 

6.1.3.1 

Promote equal opportunity compliance and encourage best 

practices among NASA grant recipient institutions. 

MP-66 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Measure # Description 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

APG 6.1.3.1: 

AMO-13-10 

Provide equal opportunity assessment and technical assistance, 

or on-site compliance assessment, at a minimum of two STEMrelated programs that receive NASA funding. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations

Agency 

Management 

None 10WF11

Green 

AMO11-19 

Green 

AMO12-19 

Outcome 6.2 Promote STEM literacy through strategic partnerships with 

formal and informal organizations. 

Performance 

Goal 6.2.1.1 

Increase NASA’s engagement in national STEM education 

policy discussions to improve curricula, inform national 

standards in STEM subjects, and ensure coordination and 

sharing of best practices across federal STEM agencies to avoid 

duplication, overlap, or fragmentation. 

APG 6.2.1.1: 

ED-13-4 

Participate in no fewer than 20 STEM education advisory 

boards, STEM-related committees, or other events or activities 

related to national STEM education policy. 

Education Multiple Programs None None None None 

Outcome 6.3 Engage the public in NASA’s missions by providing new 

pathways for participation. 

Performance 

Goal 6.3.1.1 

By 2015, establish an Agency-wide portfolio of participatory 

engagement opportunities. 

APG 6.3.1.1: 

AMO-13-11 

Evaluate portfolio of participatory engagement activities and 

establish best practices. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations 

Agency 

Management 

None None AMO11-20 

Green 

AMO12-20 

Outcome 6.4 Inform, engage and inspire the public by sharing NASA’s 

missions, challenges, and results. 

Performance 

Goal 6.4.1.1 

Continue to provide opportunities for learners to engage in 

STEM education through NASA content provided to informal 

education institutions. 

APG 6.4.1.1: 

ED-13-5 

Maintain the NASA Museum Alliance and/or other STEM 

Education strategic partnerships in no fewer than 30 states, U.S. 

Territories and/or the District of Columbia. 

Education STEM Education 

and Accountability 

9ED11 

Green 

10ED10 

Green 

ED-11-9

Green 

ED-12-9 

Performance 

Goal 

6.4.2.1

Use current and emerging communications technologies to 

reach increasingly broad audiences. 

APG 6.4.2.1: 

AMO-13-12 

Evaluate for effectiveness social media tools the Agency uses to 

expand public outreach. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations 

Agency 

Management 

None None AMO11-21 

Green 

AMO12-21 

Performance 

Goal 

Make available Agency records through the Freedom of 

Information Act (FOIA) and Privacy Act and Open Gov in 

MP-67 
MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

FY 2013 PERFORMANCE PLAN

FY 2013 Performance Plan Multi-year Performance Data 

Contributing 

Theme 

Contributing 

Measure # Description Program FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12† 

6.4.3.1 accordance with federal laws and regulations. 

APG 

6.4.3.1:AMO13-13 

Decrease the Freedom of Information (FOIA) backlog of 

requests by 10 percent. 

Agency 

Management and 

Operations 

Agency 

Management 

None None AMO11-22 

Green 

AMO12-22 

†FY 2012 trending is shown as required but ratings data will not be available until close of fiscal year. 

†† The Performance Goals in support of Earth Science, Heliophysics, Planetary Science, and Astrophysics themes are distinct activities supporting the scientific objectives established in NASA’s 

Strategic Plan. 

MP-68 
FY 2013 PROPOSED APPROPRIATIONS LANGUAGE

SCIENCE

For necessary expenses, not otherwise provided for, in the conduct and support of science research and 

development activities, including research, development, operations, support, and services; maintenance 

and repair, facility planning and design; space flight, spacecraft control, and communications activities; 

program management; personnel and related costs, including uniforms or allowances therefor, as 

authorized by 5 U.S.C. 5901-5902; travel expenses; purchase and hire of passenger motor vehicles; and 

purchase, lease, charter, maintenance, and operation of mission and administrative aircraft, 

$4,911,200,000, to remain available until September 30, 2014, of which up to $14,500,000 shall be 

available for a reimbursable agreement with the Department of Energy for the purpose of re-establishing 

facilities to produce fuel required for radioisotope thermoelectric generators to enable future missions. 

AERONAUTICS

For necessary expenses, not otherwise provided for, in the conduct and support of aeronautics research 

and development activities, including research, development, operations, support, and services; 

maintenance and repair, facility planning and design; space flight, spacecraft control, and 

communications activities; program management; personnel and related costs, including uniforms or 

allowances therefor, as authorized by 5 U.S.C. 5901-5902; travel expenses; purchase and hire of 

passenger motor vehicles; and purchase, lease, charter, maintenance, and operation of mission and 

administrative aircraft, $551,500,000, to remain available until September 30, 2014. 

SPACE TECHNOLOGY

For necessary expenses, not otherwise provided for, in the conduct and support of space research and 

technology development activities, including research, development, operations, support, and services; 

maintenance and repair, facility planning and design; space flight, spacecraft control, and 

communications activities; program management; personnel and related costs, including uniforms or 

allowances therefor, as authorized by 5 U.S.C. 5901-5902; travel expenses; purchase and hire of 

passenger motor vehicles; and purchase, lease, charter, maintenance, and operation of mission and 

administrative aircraft, $699,000,000, to remain available until September 30, 2014. 

EXPLORATION

For necessary expenses, not otherwise provided for, in the conduct and support of exploration research 

and development activities, including research, development, operations, support, and services; 

maintenance and repair, facility planning and design; space flight, spacecraft control, and 

communications activities; program management; personnel and related costs, including uniforms or 

allowances therefor, as authorized by 5 U.S.C. 5901-5902; travel expenses; purchase and hire of 

passenger motor vehicles; and purchase, lease, charter, maintenance, and operation of mission and 

administrative aircraft, $3,932,800,000, to remain available until September 30, 2014. 

PAL-1 
FY 2013 PROPOSED APPROPRIATIONS LANGUAGE

SPACE OPERATIONS

For necessary expenses, not otherwise provided for, in the conduct and support of space operations 

research and development activities, including research, development, operations, support and services; 

space flight, spacecraft control and communications activities, including operations, production, and 

services; maintenance and repair, facility planning and design; program management; personnel and 

related costs, including uniforms or allowances therefor, as authorized by 5 U.S.C. 5901-5902; travel 

expenses; purchase and hire of passenger motor vehicles; and purchase, lease, charter, maintenance and 

operation of mission and administrative aircraft, $4,013,200,000, to remain available until September 30, 

2014. 

EDUCATION

For necessary expenses, not otherwise provided for, in carrying out aerospace and aeronautical education 

research and development activities, including research, development, operations, support, and services; 

program management; personnel and related costs, including uniforms or allowances therefor, as 

authorized by 5 U.S.C. 5901-5902; travel expenses; purchase and hire of passenger motor vehicles; and 

purchase, lease, charter, maintenance, and operation of mission and administrative aircraft, $100,000,000, 

to remain available until September 30, 2014. 

CROSS AGENCY SUPPORT

For necessary expenses, not otherwise provided for, in the conduct and support of science, aeronautics, 

exploration, space operations and education research and development activities, including research, 

development, operations, support, and services; maintenance and repair, facility planning and design; 

space flight, spacecraft control, and communications activities; program management; personnel and 

related costs, including uniforms or allowances therefor, as authorized by 5 U.S.C. 5901-5902; travel 

expenses; purchase and hire of passenger motor vehicles; not to exceed $63,000 for official reception and 

representation expenses; and purchase, lease, charter, maintenance, and operation of mission and 

administrative aircraft, $2,847,500,000, to remain available until September 30, 2014. 

PAL-2 
FY 2013 PROPOSED APPROPRIATIONS LANGUAGE

CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION

For necessary expenses for construction of facilities including repair, rehabilitation, revitalization, and 

modification of facilities, construction of new facilities and additions to existing facilities, facility 

planning and design, and restoration, and acquisition or condemnation of real property, as authorized by 

law, and environmental compliance and restoration, $619,200,000, to remain available until September 

30, 2018: Provided, That notwithstanding section 315 of the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 

(51 U.S.C. 20145), all proceeds from leases entered into under that section shall be deposited into this 

account and shall be available for a period of 5 years: Provided further, That such proceeds referred to in 

the previous proviso shall be available for obligation for fiscal year 2013 in an amount not to exceed 

$3,791,000: Provided further, That each annual budget request shall include an annual estimate of gross 

receipts and collections and proposed use of all funds collected pursuant to section 315 of the National 

Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 (51 U.S.C. 20145). 

OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL

For necessary expenses of the Office of Inspector General in carrying out the Inspector General Act of 

1978, $37,000,000, of which $500,000 shall remain available until September 30, 2014. 

ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

Funds for announced prizes otherwise authorized shall remain available, without fiscal year limitation, 

until the prize is claimed or the offer is withdrawn. 

Not to exceed 5 percent of any appropriation made available for the current fiscal year for the National 

Aeronautics and Space Administration in this Act may be transferred between such appropriations, but no 

such appropriation, except as otherwise specifically provided, shall be increased by more than 10 percent 

by any such transfers: Provided, That any funds transferred to "Construction and Environmental 

Compliance and Restoration" for construction activities shall not increase that account by more than 20 

percent: Provided further, That balances so transferred shall be merged with and available for the same 

purposes and the same time period as the appropriations to which transferred: Provided further, That any 

transfer pursuant to this provision shall be treated as a reprogramming of funds under section 505 of this 

Act and shall not be available for obligation except in compliance with the procedures set forth in that 

section. 

Section 30102(c) of title 51 of the United States Code, is amended by striking "and" at the end of 

paragraph (2) and inserting before the period at the end: "; and (4) refunds or rebates received on an ongoing basis from a credit card services provider under the National Aeronautics and Space 

Administration's credit card programs." 

PAL-3 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

21CSLC 21st Century Space Launch Complex 

AA Associate Administrator 

AAAC Astronomy and Astrophysics Advisory Committee 

ACCESS Advanced Collaborative Connections for Earth System Science 

ACE Advanced Composition Explorer 

ACRIMSat Active Cavity Radiometer Irradiance Monitor Satellite 

ACS Advanced Camera for Surveys (Hubble Space Telescope instrument) 

ACT Advanced Component Technologies 

ADA Americans with Disabilities Act 

ADAP Astrophysics Data Analysis Program 

ADCAR Astrophysics Data Curation and Archival Research 

ADS Astrophysics Data System 

AES Advanced Exploration Systems 

AFOSR Air Force Office of Scientific Research 

AFRL Air Force Research Laboratory 

AIM Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere 

AirMOSS Airborne Microwave Observatory of Subcanopy and Subsurface 

AIRS Advanced Infrared Sounder 

AITS Agency Information Technology Services 

ALHAT Autonomous Landing and Hazard Avoidance Technology 

ALI Advanced Land Imager 

AMMOS Advanced Multi-Mission Operations System 

AMMP Aircraft Maintenance and Modification Program 

AMO Agency Management and Operations 

AMS Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer 

AMSR-E Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer for the Earth Observing 

System 

AMSU Advance Microwave Sounding Unit 

AO Announcement of Opportunity 

APPEL Academy of Program/Project and Engineering Leadership 

APRET Astrophysics Research and Enabling Technology program (replaces 

APRA) 

APG Annual Performance Goal 

APL Applied Physics Laboratory (Johns Hopkins University) 

APMC Agency Program Management Council 

APRA Astrophysics Research and Analysis 

ARC Ames Research Center 

ARCD Aerospace Research and Career Development 

ARMD Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate 

REF -1 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

ARTEMIS Acceleration, Reconnection, Turbulence and Electrodynamics of the 

Moon’s Interaction with the Sun 

ASAP Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel 

ASCENDS Active Sensing of Carbon dioxide Emissions over Nights, Days and 

Seasons 

ASEB Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board of the National Academies 

ASP Airspace Systems Program 

ASPERA-3 Analyzer of Space Plasma and Energetic Atoms-3 

ASMP Aeronautics Strategy and Management Program 

ASTER Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission Reflection Radiometer 

ATD Air Traffic Management Technology Demonstration 

ATK Alliant Techsystems Inc. 

ATLO Assembly, Test, Launch Operations 

ATMS Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder (NPOESS Preparatory 

Project instrument) 

ATP Aeronautics Test Program 

ATP Astrophysics Theory Program 

ATTREX Airborne Tropical Tropopause Experiment 

ATV Automated Transfer Vehicle 

AU Astronomical Units 

AURA Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy 

AvSP Aviation Safety Program 

BA Budget Authority 

BAA Broad Agency Announcement 

BATC Ball Aerospace and Technology Corporation 

BHP Behavioral Health and Performance 

BIRA Belgian Space Agency 

BMAR Back-log Maintenance and Repair 

BPR Baseline Performance Review 

BRIC Biological Research In Canisters 

BTA Boilerplate Test Article 

BWB Blended Wing Body 

C2NOC Consolidated Corporated Network Operations Center 

C3S Command, Control, and Communication Segment 

CADRe Cost Analysis Data Requirement 

CALIOP Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization 

CALIPSO Cloud–Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations 

CARA California Association for Research in Astronomy 

CARVE Carbon in Arctic Reservoirs Vulnerability Experiment 

REF -2 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

CAS Cross-Agency Support 

CASIS Center for the Advancement of Science in Space 

CAST Commercial Aviation Safety Team 

CC Centennial Challenges Program 

CCAFS Cape Canaveral Air Force Station 

CCDev Commercial Crew Development 

CCMC Community Coordinated Modeling Center 

CCP Commercial Crew Program 

CCS Cuts, Consolidations, and Savings 

CCSP Climate Change Science Program 

CDC Centers for Disease Control 

CDR Critical Design Review 

CECR Construction and Environmental Compliance and Restoration 

CEOS Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (LaRC) 

CERES Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System 

CESR Centre d'Etude Spatiale des Rayonnements Mars exploration 

CFD Computational Fluid Dynamics 

CFO Chief Financial Officer 

ChemCam Chemistry Camera 

CHS Crew Health and Safety 

CIDP Central Instrument Data Processor 

CIF Center Innovation Fund Program 

CINDI Coupled Ion Neutral Dynamics Investigation 

CIO Chief Information Officer 

CIPAIR Curriculum Improvements Partnership Award for the Integration of 

Research 

CJ Congressional Justification (Budget) 

CL Confidence Level 

CLARREO Climate Absolute Radiance and Refractivity Observatory 

CLSRB Current Launch Schedule Review Board 

CMC Ceramic Matrix Composites 

CME Coronal Mass Ejection 

CMO Center Management Operations 

CMS Carbon Monitoring System 

CNES Centre Nationale D’Etudes Spatiale (French Space Agency) 

CO2 Carbon Dioxide 

CoF Construction of Facilities 

CONAE Argentina’s National Committee of Space Activities 

REF -3 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

CoNNeCT Communications, Navigation, and Networking reConfigurable Test Bed 

CoSTEM OSTP interagency Committee on STEM Education 

COTS Commercial Orbital Transportation Services 

CPS Cryogenic Propulsion Stage 

CPST Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer 

CPU Computer Processing Units 

CRF Capability Reliance Framework 

CRI Center for Rotorcraft Innovation 

CRS Commercial Resupply Services 

CrIS Cross-track Infrared Sounder (NPOESS Preparatory Project instrument) 

CRYOSTAT Cryogenic Propellant Storage And Transfer 

CSA Canadian Space Agency 

CSC Computer Sciences Corporation 

CSLE Civil Service Labor and Expenses 

CSTD Crosscutting Space Technology Development 

CT Crawler Transporter 

CTC Chief Technologist Council 

CTS Crew Transportation System 

CY Calendar Year 

CSPE Colorimetric Solid Phase Extraction 

DAAC Distributed Active Archive Centers 

DAN Dynamic Albedo of Neutrons 

DARPA Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency 

Dawn NASA Science Mission Directorate Discovery Program Mission 

DCAA Defense Contract Audit Agency 

DCMA Defense Contract Management Agency 

DDT&E Design, Development, Test, and Evaluation 

DESDynI Deformation, Ecosystem Structure, and Dynamics of Ice 

DFRC Dryden Flight Research Center 

DISCOVER- Deriving Information on Surface Conditions from Column and Vertically 

AQ Resolved Observations Relevant to Air Quality 

DIXI Deep Impact Extended Investigation 

DLR Deutches Zentrum für Luft- Raumfahrt (German Aerospace Center) 

DME Development, Modernization, and Enhancement 

DoD Department of Defense 

DOE Department of Energy 

DOI Department of Interior 

REF -4 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

DORIS Doppler Orbitography by Radiopositioning Integrated by Satellite (Ocean 

Surface Topography Mission instrument) 

DOT Department of Transportation 

DPMC Directorate Program Management Council 

DPR Dual-frequency Precipitation Radar (Global Precipitation Measurement 

instrument) 

DR Decommissioning Review 

DRS Disturbance Reduction System 

DSAC Deep Space Atomic Clock 

DSI Deutsches SOFIA Institut 

DSN Deep Space Network 

DSS Deep Space Station 

DTN Disruption Tolerant Networking 

EAI Excalibur Almaz, Inc. 

eTS (Federal) e-Travel Services, to migrate to a new service provider (eTS2) 

E/PO Education and Public Outreach 

ECR Environmental Compliance and Restoration 

ECT Energetic Particle, Composition and Thermal Plasma 

ED Department of Education 

ED NASA Education 

EDA En Route Descent Advisor 

EDL Entry, Descent, and Landing 

EDLT Entry, Descent and Landing Technologies 

EDR Environmental Data Record 

EEE Evolution of EOSDIS Elements 

EELV Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle 

EEO Equal Employment Opportunities 

EFW Electric Field and Waves Instrument 

EFT Exploration Flight Test 

EGS Exploration Ground Systems 

EHRS Electronic Health Records System 

ELC ExPRESS Logistics Carrier 

ELV Expendable Launch Vehicle 

ELVIS ELV Integrated Support 

EM Engineering Model 

EM2 Electronics Box Engineering Model 2 

EMFISIS Electric and Magnetic Field Instrument Suite and Integrated Science 

EMTGO ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter 

EO Equal Opportunity 

REF -5 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

EO-1 Earth Observing-One Mission 

EONS Education Opportunities in NASA STEM 

EOS Earth Observing System 

EOSDIS Earth Observing System Data and Information System 

EMTGO ExoMars Trace Gas Orbitor 

EPA Environmental Protection Agency 

EPMA Evaluation, Performance Monitoring, and Accountability (NASA, 

Education) 

EPOCh Extrasolar Planet Observations and Characterization 

EPOXI Extrasolar Planet Observation and Deep Impact Extended Investigation 

EPSCoR Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research 

ERA Environmentally Responsible Aviation 

ERD Exploration Research and Development 

ERV Earth Return Vehicle 

ESA European Space Agency 

ESD Earth Science Division 

ESD Exploration Systems Development 

ESDR Earth System Data Records 

ESM Earth Systematic Missions 

ESMD Exploration Systems Mission Directorate 

ESMP Earth Systematic Missions Program 

ESS Earth Science Subcommittee (of the NASA Advisory Committee) 

ESSP Earth System Science Pathfinder 

ESTO Earth Science Technology Office 

ESTP Earth Science Technology Program 

ETD Exploration Technology Development 

ETDD Enabling Technology Development and Demonstration 

ETM+ Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus 

ETU Engineering Test Unit 

EUL Enhanced Use Lease 

EUMETSAT European Meterological Satellite 

EUV Extreme Ultraviolet Variability 

EV Earth Venture 

EVA Extravehicular Activity 

EVE EUV Variability Experiment 

EVi Earth (Science) Venture Class Instruments for orbital missions of 

opportunity 

EUV Extreme UltraViolet 

EVS Earth (Science) Venture Class Sub-orbital projects 

REF -6 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

EVS Employee Viewpoint Survey 

EX Explorer Missions 

ExEP Exoplanet Exploration Program 

EXES Echelon-Cross-Echelle Spectrograph 

ExMC Exploration Medical Capability 

EXPRESS EXpedite PRocessing of Experiments to the Space Station 

FA Fundamental Aeronautics 

FAA Federal Aviation Administration 

FAP Fundamental Aeronautics Program 

FAR Federal Acquisition Regulation 

FCC Federal Communications Commission 

FCF Fluids and Combustion Facility (ISS) 

FGM Fluxgate Magnetometer (Thermal Emission Imaging System instrument) 

FGS Fine Guidance Sensor 

FGS-TF Fine Guidance Sensor - Tunable Filter 

FIE Formal and Informal Education (NASA, Education) 

FIFI LS Field Imaging Far-Infrared Line Spectrometer 

FINESSE First Infrared Exoplanet Spectroscopy Survey Explorer 

FLEX-2 FLame Extinguishment EXperiment-2 

FLITECAM First Light Infrared Test Experiment Camera 

FMI Finnish Meteorological Institute 

FO Follow On (to a mission) 

FOIA Freedom of Information Act 

FOR Flight Operations Review 

FORCAST Faint Object InfrRed CAmera for the SOFIA Telescope 

FPA Focal Plane Array 

FPD Flight Projects Directorate 

FPI Fast Plasma Investigation 

FRR Flight Readiness Review 

FTE Full Time Equivalency 

FUV Far Ultraviolet 

FY Fiscal Year 

GALEX Galaxy Evolution Explorer 

GAO Government Accountability Office 

GCD Game Changing Development 

GEMS Gravity and Extreme Magnetism 

GEO Geostationary Earth Orbit 

GES DAAC GSFC Earth Science Distributed Active Archive Center 

REF -7 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

GeV Gigaelectron volt 

GLAS Geoscience Laser Altimeter System 

GLAST Gamma–ray Large Area Space Telescope (now Fermi Gamma-ray Space 

Telescope) 

GLOBE Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment 

GMI GPM Microwave Imager (Global Precipitation Measurement instrument) 

GOES Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite 

GPM Global Precipitation Measurement 

GPRA Government Performance and Results Act 

GPS Global Positioning System 

GRACE Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment 

GRAIL Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory 

GRC Glenn Research Center 

GRC-PBS Glenn Research Center–Plum Brook Station 

GREAT German Receiver for Astronomy at Terahertz 

GRGT Guam Remote Ground Terminal 

GRIP Genesis and Rapid Intensification Processes 

GSDO Ground Systems Development and Operations 

GSFC Goddard Space Flight Center 

GTA Ground Test Article 

GUSSTO Galactic/Xgalactic Ultra long duration balloon Spectroscopic 

Stratospheric THz Observatory 

GWAC Government Wide Acquisition Contracts 

HAVT Hypersonic Air-breathing Vehicle Technologies 

HAWC High-resolution Airborne Wideband Camera 

HBCU Historically Black Colleges and Universities 

HCPA Hot Plasma Composition Analyzer 

HEC Human Exploration Capability 

HECC High End Computing Capability 

HEO Human Exploration and Operations 

HEOMD Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate 

HEPS High Efficiency Power Supply (MAVEN) 

HET Human Exploration Telerobotics 

HgCdTe Mercury-Cadmium-Telluride (type of array used in many instruments) 

HHC Health and Human Countermeasures 

HH&P Human Health & Performance 

HIAD Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator 

HIPAA Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act 

HIPO High-speed Imaging Photometer for Occultation 

REF -8 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

HIRDLS High Resolution Dynamic Limb Sounder 

HIRES High Resolution Echelle Spectrometer 

HIRS High Resolution Infrared Radiation Sounder 

HIS Heavy Ion Sensor 

HITL Human-in-the-loop 

HiVHAc High Voltage Hall Accelerator 

HLV Heavy Lift Vehicle 

HPIW High Pressure Industrial Water 

HPPG High Priority Performance Goal 

HQ NASA Headquarters 

HRJ Hydro-treated Renewable Jet 

HRP Human Research Program 

HSFO Human Space Flight Operations 

HSPD Homeland Security Presidential Directive 

HST Hubble Space Telescope 

HTV H-II Transfer Vehicle 

HypIRI Hyperspectral Infrared Imager 

I&T Integration and Test 

I3P Information Technology Infrastructure Integration Program 

IASI Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer 

IBEX Interstellar Boundary Explorer 

IBPD Integrated Budget and Performance Document 

ICA Innovative Concepts for Aviation 

IceBridge NASA Science Airborne mission 

ICESat Ice, Cloud, and Land Elevation Satellite 

ICEScape Impacts of Climate change on the Eco-Systems and chemistry of the 

arctic pacific environment 

ICRP Independent Comprehensive Review Panel 

IDIQ Indefinite Date/Indefinite Quantity 

IDPS Interface Data Processing Segment 

IE Innovations in Education (NASA, Education) 

IG Inspector General 

IIR Imaging Infrared Radiometer 

ILN International Lunar Network 

INKSNA Iran-North Korea-Syria Non-proliferation Act 

INPE Brazilian Institute for Space Research 

INTA Instituto Nacional de Técnica Aerospacial 

IPWG Interagency Partnerships Working Group 

IPAC Infrared Processing and Analysis Center 

REF -9 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

IPAO Independent Program Assessment Office 

IPCC International Panel on Climate Change 

IPO Integrated Program Office 

IPP Innovative Partnerships Program 

IPWG Interagency Partnerships Working Group 

IR Infrared 

IRAC Integrated Resilient Aircraft Controls 

IRIS Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph 

IRR Investigation Readiness Reviews 

IRSA NASA/IPAC Infrared Science Archive 

IRT Independent Review Team 

ISAS Institute of Space and Astronautical Science 

ISIM Integrated Science Instrument Module 

ISP In-Space Propulsion 

ISRO Indian Space Research Organisation 

ISRP Integrated Systems Research Program 

ISRU In-Situ Resource Utilization 

ISS International Space Station 

ISSMP International Space Station Medical Project 

ISTP International Solar Terrestrial Physics program (includes the satellites; 

Wind, Geotail, Polar, SoHO and Cluster projects) 

IT Information Technology 

ITIL Information Technology Infrastructure Library 

IUVS Imaging UltraViolet Spectrometer 

IV intravenous 

IV&V Independent Verification and Validation 

IXO International X-ray Observatory 

J-2X Upper Stage Engine (Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne, Inc) 

JADE Jovian Auroral Distributions Experiment 

JAXA Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency 

JCL Joint Confidence Level (cost and schedule) 

JDEM Joint Dark Energy Mission 

JEDI Jupiter Energetic particle Detector Instrument 

JHU John Hopkins University 

JHU-APL Johns Hopkins University–Applied Physics Laboratory 

JPDO Joint Planning and Development Office 

JPF Jenkins Pre-Doctoral Fellowship 

JPL Jet Propulsion Laboratory 

JPSS Joint Polar Satellite System 

REF -10 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

JSC Johnson Space Center 

JWST James Webb Space Telescope 

JRPA Joint Robotic Precursor Activities 

KDP Key Decision Point (review) 

KI Keck Interferometer 

KSA Keck Single Aperture 

KSC Kennedy Space Center 

L2 Second Sun-Earth Libration, or Lagrange Point 

L3 L-3 Communications Corporation 

LADEE Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer 

LANCE Land Atmosphere Near real-time Capability for EOS 

LaRC Langley Research Center 

LASCO Large Angle and Spectrometic Coronagraph 

LASER Lunar Advanced Science and Exploration Research 

LASP Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (University of Colorado, 

Boulder) 

LBT Large Binocular Telescope 

LBTI Large Binocular Telescope Interferometer 

LC Launch Complex 

LCAS Low-Cost Access to Space 

LCC Life Cycle Cost 

LCCE Life Cycle Cost Estimate 

LcPSO Land cover Project Science Office 

LCRD Laser Communications Relay Demonstration 

LDEX Lunar Dust EXperiment 

LDCM Landsat Data Continuity Mission 

LDSD Low Density Supersonic Decelerators 

LDT Long Duration Test 

LEED Leadership in Energy and Environment Design 

LEO Low Earth Orbit 

LH2 Liquid Hydrogen 

LISA Laser Interferometer Space Antenna 

LL Lincoln Laboratory 

LLC Limited Liability Company 

LLCD Lunar Laser Communications Demonstration 

LM Lockheed Martin 

LoB Lines of Business 

LOX Liquid Oxygen 

LPW Lunamuir Probe and Waves 

REF -11 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

LQP Lunar Quest Program 

LRD Launch Readiness Date 

LRO Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter 

LRR Launch Readiness Review 

LSAH Lifetime Surveillance of Astronaut Health 

LSP Launch Services Program 

LTO LTO NOx subsonic 

LV Launch Vehicle 

LVC Live, Virtual, Constructive 

LWS Living with a Star 

$M Dollars in Millions 

M3 Moon Mineralogy Mapper 

MA Multiple Access 

MACPEX Mid-latitude Airborne Cirrus Properties Experiment 

MAF Michoud Assembly Facility (NASA, managed by MSFC) 

MagEIS Magnetic Electron Ion Spectrometer instruments 

MAV Mars Assent Vehicle 

MAVEN Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN 

HAZMAT Hazardous Materials 

MCR Mission Concept Review 

MD Mission Directorate 

MDR Mission Definition Review 

MDSA Multi-sensor Data Synergy Advisor 

MEaSUREs Making Earth System data records for Use in Research Environments 

MEDLI Mars Science Laboratory Entry, Descent, and Landing Instrument 

MER Mars Exploration Rover 

MESSENGER Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging 

METI Ministry of Economy Trade and Industry (Japan) 

MEX Mars Express 

MI Minority serving Institutions 

MIB Mishap Investigation Board 

MICINN Spanish Space Agency 

MIDEX Medium-Class Explorer 

MIRI Mid-infrared Instrument (James Webb Space Telescope instrument) 

MISSE-X Materials International Space Station Experiment-X 

MISR Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer 

MIT Massachusetts Institute of Technology 

MLM Multipurpose Laboratory Module 

REF -12 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

MLS Microwave Limb Sounder 

MMEEV Multi-Mission Earth Entry Vehicle 

MMO Mars Mission Operations 

MMOD Micrometeoroid / Orbital Debris 

MMS Magnetospheric MultiScale 

MMSEV Multi-Mission Space Exploration Vehicle 

MO Missions of Opportunity 

MODIS Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer 

MOE Mission Operations Element 

MOPITT Measurements of Pollution in the Troposphere 

MOU Memorandum of Understanding 

MPAR Major Program Annual Report 

MPCV Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle 

MRI Magnetic Resonance Imaging 

MRO Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter 

MRR Mission Requirement Request 

MSA MUREP Small Activities 

MSFC Marshall Space Flight Center 

MSL Mars Science Laboratory 

MSS Magnetospheric MultiScale 

MUREP Minority University Research and Education Project 

MUSS Multi-User Systems and Support 

MUST Motivating Undergraduates in Science and Technology 

MWR Microwave Radiometer 

NAC NASA Advisory Committee 

NACA National Advisory Committee on Aeronautics 

NAR Non-Advocacy Review 

NAS National Airspace System 

NASA National Aeronautics and Space Administration 

NASDA National Space Development Agency of Japan 

NCAS NASA Contract Assurance Services 

NC2MS NICS Consolidated Configuration Management System 

NCI National Cancer Institute (National Institutes of Health) 

NCMS NICS Configuration Management System 

NEBULA NASA's Cloud Computing Platform 

NEN Near Earth Network 

NEO Near-Earth Object 

NEOO Near-Earth Object Observations 

REF -13 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

NEOWISE Near-Earth Object Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer 

NES NASA Explorer Schools 

NESC NASA Engineering and Safety Center 

NETS NASA Educational Technology Services 

NextGen Next Generation Air Transportation System 

NEXT NASA Evolutionary Xenon Thruster 

NExScI NASA Exoplanet Science Institute 

NGAS Northrup Grumman Aerospace Systems 

NGIMS Neutral Gas and Ion Mass Spectrometer 

NGO Non-Governmental Organization 

NGST Northrop Grumman Space Technology 

NH Northern Hemisphere 

NIAC NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts 

NICE NASA Innovations in Climate Education 

NICER Neutron star Interior Composition ExploreR 

NICS NASA Information Configuration Services 

NIH National Institute for Health 

NIR Near-Infrared 

NIRCam Near-Infrared Camera 

NIRSpec Near-Infrared Spectrometer 

NISN NASA Integrated Services Network 

NIVR Netherlands Agency for Aerospace Programs 

NLR National Aerospace Laboratory of the Netherlands 

NLS NASA Launch Services 

NLSI NASA Lunar Science Institute 

NMS Neutral Mass Spectrometer 

NMSU New Mexico State University 

NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 

NO2 Nitrogen Dioxide 

NOx Nitrogen Oxide 

NPAT National Partnership for Aeronautic alTesting 

NPD NASA Policy Directive 

NPO Non-Profit Organization 

NPOESS National Polar–orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System 

NPP Suomi National Polar orbiting Partnership (new name for NPOESS) 

NPR NASA Procedural Requirement 

NRA NASA Research Announcement 

NRC National Research Council 

REF -14 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

NRCC National Research Council Canada 

NRL Naval Research Laboratory 

NRO National Reconnaissance Office 

NRPTA National Rocket Propulsion Test Alliance 

NSBRI National Space Biomedical Research Institute 

NSC NASA Safety Center 

NSF National Science Foundation 

NSPD National Space Policy Directive 

NSSC NASA Shared Services Center 

NSSDC National Space Science Data Center 

NSTC National Science and Technology Council 

NSTI-MSI NASA Science and Technology Institute for Minority Serving Institutions 

NSWPC National Space Weather Program Council 

NTC NASA Technical Capabilities 

NTDC NASA Technical Capabilities Database 

NTEC NASA Technology Executive Council 

NTIA National Telecommunications and Information Administration 

NuSTAR Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array 

NUV Near Ultraviolet 

NWP Numerical Weather Prediction 

O2 Oxygen 

OA Office of Audits 

OCAMS OSRISIS-REx Camera Suite 

OCE Office of the Chief Engineer 

OCFO Office of Chief Financial Officer 

OCHMO Office of the Chief Health and Medical Officer 

OCIO Office of Chief Information Officer 

OCO Orbiting Carbon Observatory 

OCT Office of the Chief Technologist 

OGC Office of General Counsel 

OHCM Office of Human Capital Management 

OI Office of Investigations 

OIG Office of Inspector General 

OIIR Office of International and Interagency Relations 

OLA OSIRIS-REx Laser Altimeter 

OLI Operational Land Imager (Landsat Data Continuity Mission instrument) 

OLS Operational Linescan System 

OMB Office of Management and Budget 

REF -15 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

OMC Operations Management Council 

OM&DA Other Mission and Data Analysis 

OMEGA Offshore Membrane Enclosures for Growing Algae 

OMI Ozone Monitoring Instrument 

OMPS Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite (NPOESS Preparatory Project 

instrument) 

ONERA Office National d'Études et de Recherches Aérospatiales 

OPF Orbital Processing Facility 

OPM Office of Personnel Management 

ORR Operations Readiness Review 

OSC Orbital Sciences Corporation 

OSCAT Indian Space Agency's scatterometer instrument 

OSHA Occupational and Safety and Health Administration 

OSI Office of Strategic Infrastructure 

OSIRIS-REx Origins-Spectral Interpretation-Resource Identification-Security-Regolith 

Explorer 

OSMA Office of Safety and Mission Assurance 

OSP Orbital / Suborbital Program (of the USAF) 

OSTM Ocean Surface Topography Mission 

OSTP Office of Science and Technology Policy 

OSTST Ocean Surface Topography Science Team 

OTE Optical Telescope Element 

OTES OSIRIS-REx Thermal Emission Spectrometer 

OTIS Optical Telescope Element/ Integrated Science Module (JWST) 

OVIRS OSIRIS-REx Visible and Infrared Spectrometer 

OVWST Ocean Vector Winds Science Team 

P.L. Public Law 

P&F Particles and Fields 

PACE Pre-Aerosols, Carbon and Ecosystems 

Pan-STARRS USAF Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Reporting System 

PAR Performance and Accountability Report 

PAR Program Acceptance Review 

PARASOL Polarization & Anisotropy of Reflectances for Atmospheric Sciences 

coupled with Observations from a Lidar 

PART Program Assessment Rating Tool 

PB President’s Budget 

PBR President’s Budget Request 

PBS President’s Budget Submit 

PCA Physicians’ comparability allowance 

REF -16 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

PCAD Propulsion Cryogenics Advanced Development 

PCBs Polychlorinated biphenyls 

PCOS Physics of the Cosmos 

PDR Preliminary Design Review 

PDS Planetary Data System 

PI Principal Investigator 

PICS Partnerships, Innovation and Commercial Space 

PIP Payload Interface Processor 

PIR Program Implementation Review 

PIV Personal Identification Verification 

PLAR Post Launch Assessment Review 

PLSS Portable Life Support System 

PMA President's Management Agenda 

PMC Program Management Council 

PNAR Preliminary Non-Advocate Review 

PNT Positioning, Navigation, and Timing 

POWER Protecting Our Workers and Ensuring Reemployment Presidential 

Initiative 

PPS Precipitation Processing System 

PR Precipitation Radar 

PSBR Proton Spectrometer Belt Research 

PSC Polar Stratospheric Cloud 

PSL Propulsion Systems Laboratory 

PWC Price Waterhouse Coopers 

PWR Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne 

Q, or QTR Quarter 

QuikSCAT Quick SCATerometer 

R&A Research and Analysis 

R&D Research and Development 

R2 Robonaut 2 

RAP Robotics Alliance Project 

RBSP Radiation Belt Storm Probes 

RBSPICE Radiation Belt Science of Protons, Ions, Composition, and Electrons 

RF Radio Frequency 

RFI Request for Information 

RFP Request for Proposal 

RHESSI Reuven Ramaty High Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager 

RMP Risk Mitigation Phase 

Roscosmos Russian Federal Space Agency 

REF -17 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

ROSES Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Science 

RPS Radioisotope Power System 

RPS Relativistic Proton Spectrometer 

RTF Return to Flight 

RpK Rocketplane-Kistler 

RPT Rocket Propulsion Testing 

RR Readiness Review 

RS-25d Core Stage Engine (Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne, Inc) 

RS Russian Segment 

RSAS Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems 

RSDO Rapid Spacecraft Development Office 

RSRB Reusable Solid Rocket Booster 

RSRM Reusable Solid Rocket Motor 

RTAX A field programmable gate array on RSBP 

RTEMS Real-Time Executive for Multiprocessor Systems 

RTMM Real Time Mission Monitor 

RVT Reference Vehicle Design 

RTT Research Transition Teams 

RXTE Rossi X-Ray Timing Explorer 

S/A Solar array 

S&MA Safety and Mission Assurance 

S, R and Q Safety, Reliability, and Quality 

SA Single Access 

SA/SPaH Sample Acquisition, Processing, and Handling (drill for MSL) 

SAA Space Act Agreement 

SAC-D Satellite de Aplicaciones Cientificas–D (Argentina) 

SADA Solar Array Drive Assembly 

SAGE Stratospheric Aerosol and Gas Experiment 

SALMON Stand Alone Missions of Opportunity NRA 

SAO Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory 

SAP NASA’s Core Financial System 

SAR Synthetic Aperture Radar 

SAT Strategic Astrophysics Technology 

SAU Strategic Airspace Usage 

SBC Single Board Computer 

SBIR Small Business Innovative Research 

SBRS Santa Barbara Remote Sensing (Division of Raytheon) 

SCADA Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition 

REF -18 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

SCAMP Supersonics Caustic Analysis and Measurement Program 

SCaN Space Communications and Navigation 

SCAP Shared Capability Assets Program 

SCEM "The Scientific Context for Exploration of the Moon," NRC Planetary 

Science report 

SCNS Space Communications Network Services 

SDO Solar Dynamics Observatory 

SDP Spin-plane Double Probe 

SEAC4RS Southeast Asia Composition, Cloud, Climate Coupling Regional Study 

SeaWiFS Sea-viewing Wide Field-of-view Sensor 

SE&I System Engineering and Integration 

SEMAA Science Engineering Mathematics Aerospace Academy 

SEP Solar Energetic Particles 

SET Space Environment Testbeds 

SETAG Space Environment Test Alliance Group 

SEWP Solutions for Enterprise-Wide Procurement 

SFCO Space Flight Crew Operations 

SFS Space and Flight Support 

SFW Subsonic Fixed Wing 

SGSS Space Network Ground Segment Sustainment 

SH Southern Hemisphere 

SGLT Space-to-Ground Link Terminals 

SLPSRA Space, Life and Physical Sciences Research and Applications 

SLPSRAD Space Life and Physical Sciences Research and Applications Division 

SI Strategic Integration 

SIM Space Interferometry Mission 

SIR System Integration Review 

SMAP Soil Moisture Active/Passive 

SMD Science Mission Directorate 

SMEX Small Explorer 

SN Space Network 

SNC Sierra Nevada Corporation 

SNGG Space Network Ground Segment Sustainment 

SoI Summer of Innovation 

SMA Safety and Mission Assurance 

SMART-OP Stress Management And Resilience Training for Optimal Performance 

(on long duration missions) 

SMC/TEL Space and Mission Command/Test and Evaluation Directorate 

SMD Science Mission Directorate 

REF -19 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

SMEX Small Explorer 

SMS Safety and Mission Success 

SOC Security Operations Center 

SOC Solar Orbiter Collaboration 

SOFIA Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy 

SOHO Solar Heliospheric Observer 

SoloHI Solar and Heliospheric Imager 

SOMD Space Operations Mission Directorate 

SORCE Solar Radiation and Climate Experiment 

SOST Subcommittee on Ocean Science and Technology 

SpaceX Space Exploration and Technology 

SPF Space Power Facility 

SPHERES Synchronized Position Hold, Engage, Reorient, Experimental Satellites 

SPOC Space Program Operations Contract 

SPP Solar Probe Plus 

SR Senior Review 

SR Space Radiation 

SR&T Supporting Research and Technology 

SRB Senior Review Board 

SRB Standing Review Board 

SRC Sample Return Capsule 

SRG Stirling Radioisotope Generator 

SRM Solid Rocket Motor 

SRR System Requirement Review 

SRW Subsonic Rotary Wing 

SSC Stennis Space Center 

SSD Solar Sail Demonstration 

SSME Space Shuttle Main Engines 

SSP Space Shuttle Program 

SSS Sea Surface Salinity 

ST Space Technology 

ST7 Space Technology 7 mission 

STD Standard Technical Design 

STEM Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (Education) 

STEREO Solar TErrestrial RElations Observatory 

STI Scientific and Technical Information 

STP Solar Terrestrial Probes 

STRG Space Technology Research Grants Program 

REF -20 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

STS Space Transportation System 

STScI Space Telescope Science Institute 

STTR Small Business Technology Transfer Program 

Suomi NPP Suomi National Polar orbiting Partnership, formerly the NPOESS 

Preparatory Project or NPP 

SWEA Solar Wind Electron Analyzer 

SWIA Solar Wind Ion Analyzer 

SWIR Short Wave Infrared 

SWOT Surface Water and Ocean Topography 

SwRI Southwest Research Institute 

SXS High-Resolution Soft X-Ray Spectrometer 

TAT Test Assessment Team (JWST) 

TBD To be determined 

TCU Tribal Colleges and Universities 

TDEM Technology Development for Exoplanet Missions 

TDRS Tracking and Data Relay Satellite 

TDRSS Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System 

TES Transform Spectrometer 

TESS Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite 

THEMIS Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms 

TIMED Thermosphere, Ionosphere, Mesosphere, Energetics and Dynamics 

TIMS Thermal Infrared Multispectral Scanner 

TIRS Thermal Infrared Sensor 

TMI TRMM Microwave Imager 

TOF Time of Flight 

TPS Thermal Protection System 

T&R Transition and Retirement 

TRACE Transition Region and Coronal Explorer 

TRL Technology Readiness Level 

TRMM Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission 

TSDIS TRMM Science Data and Information System 

TT&C Tracking Telemetry and Command (flight) 

T-TSAFE Terminal-Tactical Separation Assured Flight Environment 

TWINS Two Wide–angle Imaging Neutral–atom Spectrometers 

U.S. United States 

U.S.C. United States Code 

UA Utility Annex 

UAS Unmanned Aircraft Systems 

UAV Unmanned Aerial Vehicle 

REF -21 
REFERENCE

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

UCLA University of California at Los Angeles 

UHF Ultra High Frequency 

ULA United Launch Alliance 

URC University Research Centers 

USA United Space Alliance 

USAF United States Air Force 

USAID U.S. Agency for International Development 

USDA United States Department of Agriculture 

USE Upper Stage Engine 

USGCRP U.S. Global Change Research Program 

USGS United States Geological Survey 

USOS U.S. On-orbit Segment (ISS) 

USPI U.S. Participating Investigators (Explorer) 

USRA Universities Space Research Association 

UV Ultraviolet 

UVS UV Spectrometer 

VAB Vehicle Assembly Building 

VAFB Vandenberg Air Force Base 

VAO Virtual Astronomical Observatory 

VCL Vegetation Canopy Lidar 

VGA Venus Gravity Assist 

VIIRS Visible-Infrared Imager Radiometer Suite (NPOESS Preparatory Project 

instrument) 

VLRS Vehicle-Level Reasoning System 

V&V Verification and Validation 

WFC Wide Field Camera 

WFF Wallops Flight Facility (NASA, managed by GSFC) 

WFIRST Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope 

WISE Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer 

WMAP Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe 

WSC White Sands Complex 

WSTF White Sands Test Facility, (NASA, managed by JSC) 

XCVR Transceiver 

XMM X-ray Multi-mirror Mission (Newton Observatory) 

WMS Web Mapping Service 

XPI X-ray Polarimeter Instrument 

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