Space scientists are encouraged to pool their data and results and to work closely with theorists and modelers. Scientists working in related fields and with ground-based observations and the results of laboratory investigations are also invited to participate. The result of these activities are expected to help identifying the scientific requirements of future space science projects. Basic modes of operation ISSI organizes study projects on specific scientific themes selected in consultation with the Science Committee members and other advisers from the relevant segment of the scientific community. The main tools used in carrying out projects are Workshops and Working Groups, or a flexible combination of the two.
Participation is by invitation only.
In addition, ISSI supports research projects proposed and executed by International Teams, made up of from two to twenty scientists of different laboratories, nationalities and expertise, meeting at ISSI from a few weeks to a few months. ISSI further hosts Senior and Junior Visiting Scientists who carry out scientific work in consultation with, or under the supervision of, the ISSI staff. ISSI Scientific Report series, printed by the ESA Publications Division. Individual papers in international scientific journals. The Board of Trustees , made up of the founders, the scientific directors of the four space agencies of the IACG, and leading scientists from the international community, exercises high-level supervision, controls the Institute resources, appoints the Directors and the members of the Science Committee.