NASA 2018 Strategic PlanNational Aeronautics and Space AdministrationNASA_c906b3d9-ae37-499a-b098-c1cb53412da3Robert M. Lightfoot, Jr.Acting AdministratorTO DISCOVER AND EXPAND KNOWLEDGE FOR THE BENEFIT OF HUMANITY. _5afc3624-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b74LEAD AN INNOVATIVE AND SUSTAINABLE PROGRAM OF EXPLORATION WITH COMMERCIAL AND INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS TO ENABLE HUMAN EXPANSION ACROSS THE SOLAR SYSTEM AND BRING NEW KNOWLEDGE AND OPPORTUNITIES BACK TO EARTH. SUPPORT GROWTH OF THE NATION’S ECONOMY IN SPACE AND AERONAUTICS, INCREASE UNDERSTANDING OF THE UNIVERSE AND OUR PLACE IN IT, WORK WITH INDUSTRY TO IMPROVE AMERICA’S AEROSPACE TECHNOLOGIES, AND ADVANCE AMERICAN LEADERSHIP. _5afc3764-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b74DiscoveryEXPAND HUMAN KNOWLEDGE THROUGH NEW SCIENTIFIC DISCOVERIES._5afc3804-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b741NASA ProgramsContributing Programs (or Projects)Cosmic OriginsJames Webb Space TelescopeExoplanet ExplorationPhysics of the CosmosMars ExplorationOuter PlanetsAstrophysics ResearchAstrophysics ExplorerNew FrontiersDiscoveryPlanetary DefensePlanetary ResearchHeliophysics ExplorerHeliophysics ResearchLiving With a StarSolar Terrestrial ProbesEarth Systematic MissionsEarth System Science PathfinderEarth Science ResearchEarth Science Multi-Mission Operations Applied SciencesEarth Science TechnologyPlanetary TechnologySuborbital Research[budget reported as part of other programs]NASA's enduring purpose is scientific discovery and exploration for the benefit of the United States and humanity. For almost 60 years, NASA's discoveries have been inspiring the world, rewriting textbooks, and transforming knowledge of humanity, the planet, the solar system, and the universe. NASA's missions have not only changed what we know, but also how we think as a society -- truly civilization-scale science. NASA’s missions and sponsored research provide access to the farthest reaches of space and time and deliver essential information about our home planet, directly improving life here on Earth. Together, scientific discovery and human exploration improve and safeguard life on Earth. For example, Earth science research improves our weather forecasts and predictions of catastrophic events. Medical treatments have resulted from NASA studies on the effects of flight and low-gravity on the human body. Furthermore, NASA’s technology developments contribute to economic stability and growth. Scientific research is also opening the pathway for exploration and robotic-human partnerships. NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (Webb) is poised to be the premier observatory of the next decade -- unlocking the mysteries of the universe for humankind. The International Space Station (ISS) is an orbital outpost for humanity. It is a blueprint for global cooperation and scientific advancement, a catalyst for growing new commercial marketplaces in space, and a test bed for demonstrating new technologies. It extends where humankind lives and is the springboard for NASA's next great leaps in human space exploration, including future missions to the Moon and beyond. Finally, NASA acts as a champion of free and open access to scientific data. The Agency's work incorporates and builds upon the work of others in a spirit of global engagement and diplomacy. As more nations seek to use space for scientific investigation, the body of knowledge grows for the benefit of all.Sun, Earth, Solar System & UniverseUnderstand the Sun, Earth, Solar System, and Universe._5afc38a4-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b741.1Science Mission Directorate (SMD)Lead Office, with support from the Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD) Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD) Conduct scientific studies of the Earth and Sun from space, return data and samples from other bodies in the solar system, peer out into the vast reaches of the universe, and play a catalyzing role in lunar robotic exploration by supporting innovative approaches to advancing science. These efforts are guided by National priorities and recommendations from the National Academies' decadal surveys and implemented through a balanced portfolio of programs. -- Objective Overview -- The success criteria for SMD are progress in answering fundamental science questions, implementing the decadal survey priorities, and responding to direction from the Executive Branch and Congress. The most recent versions of the decadal surveys for SMD can be found at: * Planetary Science * Solar and Space Physics * Earth Science and Applications * Astronomy and Astrophysics There are three core contexts of NASA’s first strategic objective:SpaceflightUnderstand Responses of Physical and Biological Systems to Spaceflight. _5afc393a-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b741.2Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD)Lead OfficeInternational Space Station ResearchContributing Programs (or Projects)Conduct a robust program of space-based research to advance technologies that enable space exploration, and to pioneer uses of the space environment to benefit life on Earth. -- Objective Overview -- The space flight environment stresses physical and biological systems in many ways, including microgravity and space radiation. Understanding the responses of physical and biological systems to these stressors is necessary for designing and executing longer, more distant human space flight missions. Living and working in space requires learning how living systems, from microbes and plants to complex organisms like humans, are influenced by the space environment. The same holds true for physical systems and processes such as fluid flow and combustion. These stressors can also be used as experimental tools to enable scientific discovery with applications here on Earth. The ISS, conceived and constructed to be a laboratory in space, provides opportunities to understand the role of gravity in biological and physical systems. This strategic objective reflects NASA's commitment to make full and effective use of the ISS through the end of its current phase of operations, to close key gaps in the knowledge needed to build future exploration systems, and to realize the value of the space environment as a tool for science and technology. Guidance for research includes several studies by the National Academies over the past two decades: * Recapturing a Future for Space Exploration: Life and Physical Sciences Research for a New Era (2011) * Review of NASA Plans for the International Space Station (2006) * Assessment of Directions in Microgravity and Physical Sciences Research at NASA (2003) * Microgravity Research in Support of Technologies for the Human Exploration and Development of Space and Planetary Bodies (2000) * A Strategy for Research in Space Biology and Medicine in the New Century (1998)ExplorationEXTEND HUMAN PRESENCE DEEPER INTO SPACE AND TO THE MOON FOR SUSTAINABLE LONG-TERM EXPLORATION AND UTILIZATION._5afc39da-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b742America is a Nation of explorers. In everything we do -- science, technology, commerce, the arts, sports -- we strive to reach higher, farther, deeper, or faster than ever before in order to create a better future for the generations to come. NASA is pushing the same boundaries in space. Orbiting Earth aboard the International Space Station (ISS) right now, astronauts are preparing for space missions that will push the frontiers of human experience outward into the solar system. NASA is also laying the foundation for America to sustain a constant commercial, human presence in low Earth orbit. From there, we will turn our attention back toward our celestial neighbors. We will return American astronauts to cis-lunar space and the Moon to build the foundation we need to send Americans to Mars and beyond. Cislunar space will be a stepping-stone, a training ground, a venue to strengthen our commercial and international partnerships as we refocus America’s space program. NASA is testing technologies and techniques needed to keep humans safe, healthy, and productive on these future deep space missions. Ranging from environmental control and life support, to advanced propulsion and automated rendezvous and docking, these capabilities will be robust, affordable, sustainable, and adaptable to a variety of destinations. NASA will pursue a sustainable cadence of compelling missions in preparation for the first crewed missions to deep space. These include the first test flight of the Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion crew vehicle near the Moon and the first crewed flight of this transportation system, designed for missions beyond low Earth orbit. At the same time, to support a broader strategy to explore and utilize the Moon and its surface, NASA is establishing a Lunar Orbital Platform - Gateway in cis-lunar space, to include a power and propulsion element by 2022, and habitation, airlock, and the required logistics capabilities soon after. In addition, to help pave the way for human exploration, NASA is planning to develop a series of robotic lunar missions to the surface of the Moon. The United States will seek international partnership on a shared exploration agenda and spearhead the next phase of human space exploration. NASA will promote permanent human presence in space in a way that enables the 21st century space economy to thrive. It will take the best of NASA, the U.S. private sector, academic talent, and the capabilities of international partners to accomplish these bold missions. Low Earth OrbitLay the Foundation for America to Maintain a Constant Human Presence in Low Earth Orbit Enabled by a Commercial Market._5afc3a70-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b742.1Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD)Lead OfficeInternational Space Station Systems Operations and MaintenanceContributing Program (or Project)Human Space Flight OperationsContributing Program (or Project)Enable space-based low Earth orbit economy by transitioning ISS operations and maintenance to commercial and international partners, while continuing to leverage ISS for research, technology development, and to extend human presence in space. -- Objective Overview -- NASA is using our resources to extend human presence in the solar system and to foster an emerging and robust commercial space market. The continuous operation of a research and technology demonstration platform in space is critical to achieving NASA's and the Nation's goals in science, technology, and human space flight. The ISS is an experimental testing ground and is currently the world’s only microgravity laboratory of its kind, enabling the discovery and development of advanced robotics, materials, communications, medicine, agriculture, and environmental science. Results of research projects on the ISS will continue to yield benefits in areas such as human health, telemedicine, physical science, Earth observations, space science, and education programs that inspire future scientists, engineers, and space explorers. The Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS) is the sole manager of the ISS National Laboratory and is working to maximize use of the ISS for research in space, which by law represents 50 percent of the resources of the U.S. portion of the ISS. Furthermore, human exploration activities on ISS will leverage the station as a test bed to demonstrate key exploration capabilities and operations and enable the move to deep space. Directly supporting the ISS until 2025 allows us to maximize its potential and maintain American leadership in space, while at the same time allowing us to foster the emerging U.S. low Earth orbit commercial space industry. After 2025, the U.S. will cease directly funding the ISS, but will continue to conduct research, technology development, and other activities in low Earth orbit in conjunction with our commercial and international partners. NASA will be a reliable customer for commercial goods and services that support and enhance NASA missions and requirements both in low Earth orbit and in deep space. Critical to this objective is the selection, training, readiness, and health of crewmembers. All aspects of astronaut crew health are managed as part of this objective, including implementation of a comprehensive health care program for astronauts, and the prevention and mitigation of negative long-term health consequences of space flight. Through these efforts NASA will maintain healthy, well-trained astronaut corps of sufficient size to meet all planned mission needs. NASA’s vision for low Earth orbit in the future is a self-sustaining space-based marketplace that provides economic benefits to the Nation and societal benefits to all people. The vision is one where NASA is one of many customers of privately-owned human-tended or permanently-crewed platforms and transportation capabilities that enable a variety of activities in low Earth orbit. Those platforms and capabilities will be sustained primarily by commercial revenue rather than relying on NASA and the U.S. Government for their main source of revenue. In this vision, NASA will maximize its resources toward missions beyond low Earth orbit, while still having the ability to utilize low Earth orbit for its ongoing needs. Deep SpaceConduct Exploration in Deep Space, Including to the Surface of the Moon. _5afc3b2e-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b742.2Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD)Lead OfficeOrionContributing Program (or Project)Exploration Ground SystemsContributing Program (or Project)Space Launch SystemContributing Program (or Project)Human Research ProgramContributing Program (or Project)Lunar Orbital Platform - GatewayContributing Program (or Project)Advanced Cis-lunar and Surface CapabilitiesContributing Program (or Project)Exploration Advanced SystemsContributing Program (or Project)International Space StationContributing Program (or Project)Lunar Discovery and Exploration ProgramContributing Program (or Project)Extend human presence into cis-lunar space and the lunar surface, with capabilities that allow for sustained operations in deep space and the lunar surface. -- Objective Overview -- Over the next decades, NASA intends to extend U.S. leadership and to eliminate barriers of human exploration of space, and to do so in a way that enhances U.S. economic competitiveness. NASA is taking a phased approach to expanding human exploration, starting with exploration science and technology research aboard the ISS, extending to crewed missions around and eventually to the surface of the Moon, and eventually to the vicinity and surface of Mars. To support this approach, NASA is developing the capability to transport humans to and from deep space, enabling the exploration of our solar system using innovative, advanced technologies and partnerships. NASA is currently developing unique new systems for transporting people and cargo beyond low Earth orbit, including commercial cargo systems, the Orion crew capsule, the SLS heavy-lift launch vehicle, and supporting ground facilities. NASA is also defining other elements that would be needed to support missions on or around the Moon, and to Mars and beyond. Precursor robotic missions that investigate candidate destinations and provide vital information for human explorers will lay the groundwork for deep space exploration. Sending astronauts into space involves a multitude of complicated systems, but perhaps the most complex system is the human system. The Human Research Program (HRP) is responsible for understanding and mitigating the highest risks to astronaut health and performance to ensure that crews remain healthy and productive during long-duration missions beyond low Earth orbit. HRP leverages the talents of researchers within NASA and across U.S. academia to implement a detailed plan for risk reduction, with much of this work taking place aboard the ISS. As NASA prepares to conduct crewed missions in cis-lunar space, on the Moon, and eventually at other locations including Mars, HRP biomedical research and technological development are enabling the Agency to safely send humans into deep space for longer durations. NASA is increasing its capabilities for safely surviving in deep space for long durations to enable permanent, long-term human presence throughout the solar system. This deep space exploration can generate new knowledge and other new applications by scientists and entrepreneurs here on Earth. DevelopmentADDRESS NATIONAL CHALLENGES AND CATALYZE ECONOMIC GROWTH._5afc3bd8-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b743Originally tied to keeping the Nation secure and advancing U.S. leadership in aeronautics, communications satellites, and Earth remote sensing, NASA's mandate is broader today. The challenges NASA addresses relate to gathering climate change data; supplying technological solutions for terrestrial problems; advancing the state of Research and Development (R&D) in aeronautics and other fields; developing commercial and human space launch and transportation capabilities; understanding cosmic phenomena as wide-ranging as space weather, asteroids, and exoplanets; and improving the Nation's innovation capacity. NASA drives economic development and growth; the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 calls out this important theme, and the Agency generally invests more than 80 percent of its funds in U.S. industry and academia to carry out its missions of scientific discovery and exploration. In doing so, NASA engages and inspires young people to become scientists, technologists, engineers, and mathematicians. This ensures that the Nation's vast intellectual and industrial base -- shared by many other Government agencies, including the departments of Defense, Commerce, Transportation, and Interior -- has a continuous supply of bright minds and skilled hands. NASA enhances a core strategic advantage of the United States: the ability to attract partners and work with talent globally. Because of NASA's role in the international community, the Agency can help National security leaders manage global risks. Technology drives NASA's future human and robotic exploration missions. As its technology efforts mature, NASA transfers appropriate technologies to industry and commercializes them to benefit a wide range of users. This ensures that the American people realize the full economic value and societal benefit of NASA's work. NASA also provides funding for fundamental technology research with broader benefit to the U.S. innovation system. The aerospace sector is considered to be a rough gauge of a Nation's competitiveness, and the United States leads the world in this arena. NASA aeronautics research encompasses an ever-broadening array of technologies to make airplanes safer, quieter, and friendlier to the environment, and air travel more efficient. Today, NASA technology is found aboard every U.S. aircraft and inside every air traffic control facility in the country. This infusion can be attributed to one of the most productive public-private partnerships in U.S. history, as NASA continues to team with industry, academia, and other Government agencies. Transformational demonstrations NASA plans in the next eight years will advance U.S. leadership for the next century of flight, and could bring about the return of overland supersonic flight; new airliners that consume half the fuel of today's models; safe, expanded use of unmanned aircraft systems, or drones, for economic and societal benefit; and safe, semi-autonomous small aircraft for personal "on-demand" transportation. Attracting students to enter science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields is vitally important, and NASA's missions help to inspire the next generation. In 2015, public interest in NASA's mission to Pluto created an internet sensation, with more than 10 million views on the mission page, and 42 percent of all U.S. Government website traffic going to NASA during the historic flyby. NASA similarly inspired millions during Scott Kelly's year-long stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS), the first flight test of the Orion spacecraft for human exploration, the Mars rover landings, and many other significant missions. One of NASA’s core missions is to ensure that our scientific and technological advances reach the widest possible audience to inspire the current and next generation of explorers.Exploration CapabilitiesDevelop and Transfer Revolutionary Technologies to Enable Exploration Capabilities for NASA and the Nation._5afc3c78-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b743.1Exploration Research & Technology (ER&T)Lead OfficeEarly Stage Innovation and PartnershipsContributing Program (or Project)Technology MaturationContributing Program (or Project)Technology DemonstrationContributing Program (or Project)Human Research ProgramContributing Program (or Project)Small Business Innovation ResearchContributing Program (or Project)Small Business Technology Transfer Contributing Program (or Project)Advance revolutionary technologies for NASA and the Nation, involving commercial space products, specifically for utilization of near-Earth space; efficient transportation through space; access to planetary surfaces; enabling human space exploration; next generation science missions; and growth and utilization of the U.S. industrial and academic base. -- Objective Overview -- Through the decades, NASA’s technology development and transfer have enabled important space science and exploration missions, contributed to other U.S. Government agencies’ needs, cultivated commercial aerospace enterprises, and helped foster a technology-based U.S. economy. Rising Above the Gathering Storm, Revisited, a report by the National Academies, addresses the link between technology development efforts and the economy, noting that various studies indicate a strong link between economic growth and technological innovation in recent decades. Over the next 10 years—through investments within the Exploration Research & Technology (ER&T) funding account—the Agency will advance revolutionary capabilities for both NASA mission challenges and National needs, and also address the market challenges associated with providing state-of-the-art commercial space products and services. More specifically, technology investments within the ER&T funding account will focus on the following thrusts. * Accelerating large-scale industrialization of space * Enabling efficient and safe transportation into and through space * Increasing access to planetary surfaces * Enabling humans to live and work in space and on planetary surfaces * Expanding capabilities through robotic exploration and discovery * Growing and utilizing the U.S. industrial and academic base To support these strategic investment area thrusts, NASA will primarily invest in the following Exploration Campaign key focus areas: Advanced environmental control and life support systems & in-situ resource utilization; Power and propulsion technology; Advanced materials; Communications, navigation and avionics; Entry, descent, and landing; Autonomous operations; In-space manufacturing and on-orbit assembly; and Research to enable humans to safely and effectively operate in various space environments. In addition, ER&T contributes to growing the U.S. industrial and academic base to continue the Nation’s economic leadership. AviationTransform Aviation Through Revolutionary Technology Research, Development, and Transfer._5afc3d18-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b743.2Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate (ARMD)Lead OfficeTransformative Aero ConceptsContributing Program (or Project)Integrated Aviation SystemsContributing Program (or Project)Airspace Operations and SafetyContributing Program (or Project)Advanced Air VehiclesContributing Program (or Project)Maintain and advance U.S. global leadership in aviation through application of new concepts and technologies pioneered by NASA and developed in partnership with U.S. industry that lead to transformative improvements in mobility, efficiency, and safety. -- Objective Overview -- As a primary mechanism for physically connecting cities and countries across the world, air transportation is an integral part of today’s U.S. and global economies. Aviation enables U.S. enterprises to operate on a global scale, providing safe and high-speed transport of people and goods. It accounts for more than $1.6 trillion of U.S. economic activity each year and generates a positive trade balance -- $82.5 billion in 2015. The aviation industry also supports more than 11.8 million direct and indirect jobs in the United States, including more than one million high-quality manufacturing jobs. Aviation comprises more than five percent of the total U.S. gross domestic product. Nearly every product created and purchased today has been touched by aviation in some way. Globally, the aviation system is growing rapidly with the potential for more than five times as many passengers and 10 times the cargo in 2050 as today. Since its establishment, NASA has continually advanced America’s aviation system to improve humanity’s quality of life and productivity on Earth. NASA contributes unique innovations to aviation through research activities. These innovations serve as key enablers for the role of U.S. commercial aviation in sustaining American commerce and safe, environmentally sustainable mobility, and hence the Nation’s economic well-being. NASA's role is to explore early stage concepts and ideas, develop new technologies and operational procedures through foundational research, and demonstrate the potential of promising new vehicles, operations, and safety technology in relevant environments. The Agency is focused on appropriate cutting-edge research and technologies to overcome a wide range of aeronautics technical challenges for the Nation’s and the world’s current and future air transportation systems. Inspiration & EngagementInspire and Engage the Public in Aeronautics, Space, and Science. _5afc3db8-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b743.3The PublicMission Support DirectorateLead OfficeOffice of Communications (OCOM)Lead OfficeOffice of the Chief ScientistContributing Program (or Project)Office of Diversity and Equal OpportunityInspire, engage, educate, and employ the next generation of explorers through NASA-unique Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics learning opportunities. -- Objective Overview -- NASA has a long history of engaging the public and students in its mission through educational and outreach activities and programs. NASA’s endeavors in education and public outreach began early on, driven by the language in Section 203 (a) (3) of the Space Act, "to provide for the widest practicable and appropriate dissemination of information concerning its activities and the results thereof, and to enhance public understanding of, and participation in, the Nation's space program in accordance with the NASA Strategic Plan." NASA's education and outreach functions aim to inspire and engage the public and students, each playing a critical role in increasing public knowledge of NASA’s work and fostering an understanding and appreciation of the value of STEM, and enhancing opportunities to teach and learn. By augmenting NASA's public engagement and communicating NASA’s work and value, the Agency contributes to our Nation's science literacy. NASA is committed to inspiring an informed society; enabling the public to embrace and understand NASA’s work and value, today and tomorrow; engaging the public in science, technology, discovery, and exploration; equipping our employees to serve as ambassadors to the public, and providing unique STEM opportunities for diverse stakeholders. This strategic objective includes proactive efforts to diversify the STEM pipeline to NASA internships and employment. NASA works to ensure grant recipient institutions are in compliance with civil rights/equal opportunity laws in accordance with criteria from NASA Form 1206, Assurance of Civil Rights Compliance. Equal opportunity compliance and technical assistance can help to identify and report diversity and inclusion best practices among institutions receiving NASA funds that can, in turn, help increase the number of underrepresented and underserved groups in STEM fields available to apply for NASA opportunities.EnablementOPTIMIZE CAPABILITIES AND OPERATIONS._5afc4056-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b744NASA is proud to be the U.S. agency charged with exploring the unknown in space and driving new advances in aerospace science and technology on behalf of the American public. Reaching for the stars requires dedicated, knowledgeable people and cutting-edge facilities and capabilities to provide the tools and support necessary to carry out our ambitious tasks. NASA strives to accomplish our mission with the utmost care — recognizing that we are stewards of taxpayer dollars, critical human capital, and one-of-a-kind facilities. NASA maintains a large and diverse set of technical capabilities and assets to support our missions, other Federal agencies’ work, and the private sector to test, validate, and optimize innovations. The Agency understands that a skilled, valued, and diverse workforce is central to creating and maintaining the capabilities to explore the solar system and beyond and for understanding our home planet. NASA will continue to maintain and ensure the availability and safety of critical capabilities and facilities necessary for advancing our space-, air-, and Earth-based activities. This hybrid goal includes both strategic objectives and management focused objectives. NASA has a renewed focus on its essential and distinctive technical capabilities. As a result, the Agency has adopted a new operating model that strengthens its management of the engineering and systems capabilities that are fundamental to every mission and strategic goal. This model provides for proactive, strategic management of these capabilities and allows NASA to optimize the allocation of technical specialties to its Centers, to select key areas for future investments, and to identify and transition those capabilities that are no longer needed or are better obtained from emerging National commercial sources. Recognizing the growth of technologies and innovations increasing outside the Agency, NASA is instituting a robust partnership and acquisition strategy focused on leveraging and collaborating with the private sector and academia in order to benefit from their innovations. NASA's role in global engagement extends directly from the Space Act in areas such as data-sharing agreements and joint science and technology flight projects. More than two-thirds of NASA's science missions have foreign partners. NASA’s domestic and international collaborations are often pathfinders for other forms of cooperation, in part by demonstrating standards of best practices for civil and commercial space activities such as orbital debris mitigation, data sharing, openness, operational coordination, and flight safety. NASA plays a key role in setting global polices for aviation safety and access and specific standards and norms for space operations. NASA is most successful when it leads through example and practice, attracting partners who realize the benefits of shared values. Such principles include a shared understanding of the responsible use of space, free and open data policies, and the broad benefits of fundamental public Research and Development (R&D). U.S. leadership in space is due in part to NASA's ability to inspire and create access to complex challenges. The Agency continues to retain and serve as a unique National resource of engineers, scientists, business and international specialists, and technologies. NASA provides the Nation with tools for leadership and inspiration in aerospace science and technology. This goal enables all of NASA's space-, air-, and Earth-based research and innovation activities, producing the best return on the Nation's investment.PartnershipsEngage in Partnership Strategies._5afc4150-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b744.1Mission Support Directorate (MSD)Lead OfficeOffice of ProcurementContributing Program (or Project)Partnerships OfficeContributing Program (or Project)Office of International and Interagency RelationsContributing Program (or Project)Office of Small Business ProgramsContributing Program (or Project)Support cooperative, reimbursable, and funded initiatives through domestic and international partnerships. -- Objective Overview -- NASA identifies, establishes, and maintains a diverse set of domestic and international partnerships to enable collaborations of mutual benefit to NASA and other Government agencies, U.S. industry, academia, nonprofit organizations, state and local governments, and international entities that contribute to the Agency’s strategic objectives and develop capabilities to achieve NASA’s Mission. NASA partners with other Federal departments and agencies, the U.S. private sector, non-profit organizations, universities, and foreign space agencies to coordinate, develop, and implement mutually beneficial cooperative space working groups, programs, projects, missions, and ground-based research activities that support NASA’s 2018 Strategic Plan. NASA also engages with Executive Branch offices on space policy and other interagency matters to ensure that the U.S. civil space program supports and enhances the broader policies and priorities of the U.S. Government and the Administration. These partnerships are instrumental in supporting the strategic goals and strategic objectives in NASA's 2018 Strategic Plan. Such partnerships provide access to unique capabilities and expertise, increase mission flight opportunities, and enhance the scientific return of the Agency's missions. Space Access & ServicesEnable Space Access and Services._5afc4222-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b744.2Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD)Lead OfficeLaunch ServicesContributing Program (or Project)Crew and CargoContributing Program (or Project)Commercial CrewContributing Program (or Project)Rocket Propulsion TestContributing Program (or Project)Space Communications and NavigationContributing Program (or Project)Strategic Capabilities Asset Program(and Space Environments Testing Management Office) Contributing Program (or Project)Support the communication, launch service, rocket propulsion testing, and strategic capabilities needs of NASA's programs. -- Objective Overview -- NASA uses private and government capabilities to deliver people, payloads, and data to and from space. Two examples of such capabilities are the Commercial Crew Program (CCP) and the Launch Services Program (LSP). These programs implement strategic investment decisions to sustain and enable U.S. commercial industry and to provide transportation of crew, cargo, and key scientific payloads to their destinations in space. The Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) program manages and directs the ground-based facilities and services provided by the Deep Space Network (DSN), Near Earth Network, and Space Network. SCaN supports three reliable communications networks with data transmissions between space missions and Earth and provides navigation services to spacecraft in orbit. NASA’s other technical capabilities in the Rocket Propulsion Testing (RPT) Program, Strategic Capabilities Assets Program (SCAP), and Space Environments Testing Management Office (SETMO) support commercial industries by providing specialized facilities to test and evaluate items to mitigate risk and optimize engineering designs. All of these capabilities are critical to enabling space missions that allow NASA and its partners to discover new science, explore the solar system, and develop transformative technologies and research that will drive the National economy. Safety & SuccessAssure Safety and Mission Success._5afc42e0-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b744.3Office of the Chief Engineer (OCE)Lead Office / Technical AuthorityOffice of the Chief Health and Medical Officer (OCHMO)Lead Office / Technical AuthorityOffice of Safety and Mission Assurance (OSMA)Lead Office / Technical AuthorityNASA Safety CenterContributing Program (or Project)Independent Verification and Validation Program (IV&V)Contributing Program (or Project)NASA Engineering and Safety CenterContributing Program (or Project)Assure effective management of NASA programs and operations to complete the mission safely and successfully. -- Objective Overview -- Safety and Mission Success (SMS) programs include programs that provide technical excellence, mission assurance, and technical authority. The elements of SMS reflect the recommendations outlined in many studies and by advisory boards and panels. These programs directly support NASA’s core values and serve to improve the likelihood for NASA’s programs, projects, and operations to achieve mission success while protecting the health and safety of NASA’s workforce. SMS programs protect the health and safety of the NASA workforce and improve the likelihood that NASA’s programs, projects, and operations are completed safely and successfully. They contribute to the Agency's SMS by establishing applicable safety, engineering, and health policy directives and procedural requirements. Furthermore, SMS programs assure that directives and requirements are appropriately implemented, and perform independent technical analysis of safety and mission critical software products. SMS programs develop policy and procedural requirements and provide assessments and recommendations to the Administrator, mission directorates, Center directors, and program managers who are ultimately responsible for the SMS of all NASA activities. 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 Governance and Strategic Management Handbook. SMS programs enable risk-informed decision making by providing independent assessments of the technical challenges, independent technical analysis of safety and mission critical software products, and risks encountered by programs and projects. SMS practices verify that all pertinent policy and procedures have been followed or appropriate waivers have been obtained. The programs also participate in key decision point milestones and the Agency's Baseline Performance Reviews.Human CapitalManage Human Capital._5afc4394-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b744.4Mission Support Directorate (MSD)Lead OfficeOffice of Human Capital Management (OHCM)Lead OfficeOffice of Human Capital ManagementContributing Program (or Project)Office of Diversity and Equal OpportunityContributing Program (or Project)Center Management and OperationsContributing Program (or Project)Cultivate a diverse and innovative workforce with the right balance of skills and experience to provide an inclusive work environment in which employees that possess varying perspectives, education levels, life experiences, and backgrounds can work together and remain fully engaged in our mission. -- Objective Overview -- Mission success is highly dependent on a skilled, technical workforce. Through this management objective, NASA will attract, select, develop, deploy and retain competitive talent. NASA will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of human capital service delivery in order to operate more like a business, taking on leaner postures through identification of efficiencies. As one of the leading employers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professionals, NASA seeks to optimize the Agency’s technical solutions through a workforce reflective of diverse ideas, life experiences, and backgrounds. Complementary to a diverse workforce is a work environment characterized by the key principles of equal opportunity: equity, fairness, and career advancement (e.g., access to growth opportunities and mentoring).Enterprise ProtectionEnsure Enterprise Protection._5afc443e-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b744.5Principal Advisor for Enterprise ProtectionLead OfficeOffice of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO)Lead OfficeEnterprise Protection ProgramContributing Program (or Project)Agency Information Technology ServicesContributing Program (or Project)Office of Protective ServicesContributing Program (or Project)Office of Strategic InfrastructureContributing Program (or Project)Increase the resiliency of NASA's enterprise systems by assessing risks and implementing comprehensive, economical, and actionable solutions. -- Objective Overview -- Enterprise systems include NASA's mission programs and projects, information systems, and supporting institutional infrastructure. These systems are at risk of having disrupted, degraded, or denied environments due to natural, accidental, and malicious threats. This threat climate prompts the need for comprehensive risk assessments and risk-based safeguards for NASA's capabilities, technologies, and intellectual property. Insight, coordination, and action across the Agency will reduce the likelihood and consequences of enterprise protection risk. NASA shares responsibility across its missions and mission support organizations to safeguard against these threats by operationalizing effective, innovative, and economical protections. The Agency's protection approach focuses on understanding, communicating, controlling, and, as appropriate, accepting these risks to the achievement of the Agency's objectives. This approach aligns with and supports the Agency's overarching enterprise risk management framework as well as Federal laws and policies for requirements such as cybersecurity. The Agency will balance its protections with appropriate openness and transparency to promote accessibility and citizen engagement in NASA's missions.InfrastructureSustain Infrastructure Capabilities and Operations. _5afc44e8-2607-11e8-90db-ad3bc2e01b744.6Mission Support Directorate (MSD)Lead OfficeCenter Management and OperationsContributing Program (or Project)Office of Strategic InfrastructureContributing Program (or Project)Enable NASA's Mission by providing the facilities, tools, and services required to efficiently manage, operate and sustain the infrastructure necessary to meet mission objectives. -- Objective Overview -- Through this management objective, NASA is integrating and optimizing operations across Centers and Mission Support areas to reduce costs and revitalize the capabilities required to enable NASA's portfolio of missions. To address challenges associated with aging infrastructure, NASA is aggressively managing its facility portfolio to consolidate and modernize into fewer, more efficient, and sustainable facilities. Through a systematic assessment of service areas, NASA is consolidating and improving operations to balance risks across services and activities to provide a safe and reliable infrastructure.2018-02-022022-09-302018-03-12https://www.nasa.gov/sites/default/files/atoms/files/nasa_2018_strategic_plan.pdfOwenAmburOwen.Ambur@verizon.net