To make the planned observations, analyze and interpret the data, confirm or revise theoretical models. This usually leads to follow-up questions or hypotheses, which require new or improved instrumentation to form the next cycle of research, development, and observations and data analysis. OSS issues annual calls for proposals in all space science research disciplines. Typical award durations are 5 - 10 years. Mission Operations and Data Analysis Programs are the best opportunity for new entrants to be selected for funding.
Astrophysics has substantial data analysis programs with annual, fully open proposal solicitations.
OSS is systematically adding similar DA programs to planetary and other space science missions, even for missions, which were selected in PI Mode . For example, OSS will attach new DA lines to all current or new missions, which could benefit from an open DA program. Proposers design this prime phase so that all observations can be completed that are required to meet the mission s science objectives. Missions are never planned to be operated in perpetuity, but for a carefully planned finite length of time. Still, more than half of the OSS missions currently operating have been extended significantly beyond their prime phase for scientific reasons.