Rivalry within an agency can preclude cost savings by focusing on competition rather than priorities. Clear objectives and priorities with associated rationale are essential to reducing mission costs. An integrated team approach that involves scientists, spacecraft designers, and operations personnel pro- motes realizable mission requirements and potential cost savings. Affordable space science is achievable if the program manager has the authority over decisions, such as choice of launch vehicle, make or buy, contracting for services, and participating in joint programs with other agencies. Revisions in the Federal Acquisition Regulations to fa- cilitate multiyear funding are highly desirable.
Risks ought to be stated clearly, and risk mitigation plans ought to be identified early.
Continued s Risk-informed decisions continued Inclusion of advanced technology Risk assessments should examine not only technical risks but also programmatic risks. The cost savings achieved by launching a small space- craft on a less expensive launch vehicle may be offset by the cost of technology miniaturization and packaging. Some important studies cannot be performed by small spacecraft because physical limits mandate the use of a large instrument. Economies of scale may be achieved with large spacecraft. Utilizing standardized mechanical and electronic archi- tectures at the interface level as opposed to the spacecraft bus level can reduce costs substantially without overly constraining design options.