2.4: Exploration Systems Mission Directorate and Open Government

Provide an overview of the Exploration Systems Mission Directorate and Open Government.

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Creating Technologies and Capabilities for the Expansion of Humanity into the Solar System http://www.nasa.gov/exploration -- Overview - NASA is entering a new era in human exploration that will leverage American ingenuity and propel the nation on a new journey of innovation and discovery. Groundbreaking new technologies will enable exploration of new worlds and increase our understanding of the Earth, our solar system and the universe beyond. Further collaborations on the International Space Station will increase NASA’s return on investment and provide an optimal test bed for space technology research and development. The President’s FY 2011 budget proposes canceling the Constellation Program and developing several new initiatives that will foster a sustainable human space exploration program. NASA doesn’t intend to embark on this new journey alone. Commercial and international partnerships will benefit from a collective spirit of discovery and adventure, and will reduce the cost of space exploration by employing new business practices and leveraging common goals. NASA also invites citizen stakeholders to participate and share in the excitement of space exploration through upcoming initiatives designed to educate as well as glean new, creative ideas from standard and unconventional contributors. Many of the activities within ESMD will continue. We have been at the forefront of conducting robotic exploration with the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter and the Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) and have performed human analogue research in simulated environments from the desert to the Antarctic to the ocean floor. We have conducted key technology demonstrations such as the Crew Escape System for launch vehicles to thermal protection systems for reentry capsules. The President’s FY 2011 budget proposes NASA will reconnoiter the solar system’s resources and test new technologies that will enable vast improvements in our exploration capabilities. Partnerships have always been a key element of long-term missions. Space exploration is a complex endeavor that requires the application and integration of a broad range of technical capabilities, expertise, and resources. We have adopted an open and inclusive approach to engaging international space agencies that perform space exploration activities. NASA has a long history of including interested parties that desire to discuss their objectives and plans. In 2007, we joined 13 other space agencies to establish a global exploration strategy and a supporting international coordination framework. The international coordination enabled by this framework includes the identification of common goals and objectives, the sharing of information regarding space exploration capabilities, the exchange of scientific data, the development of international standards, and the development of reference system architectures for exploration. The program of robotic precursor missions and technology demonstrations outlined in the President’s FY 2011 budget will provide great opportunity for increased collaboration as well as for infusing other Open Government principles into the new programs.

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