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Information Technology Update
May 09, 2008 10:50:05 AM | Shana Dale
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This week at the Operations Management Council (OMC) meeting, a significant portion was dedicated to the work we are doing to improve information technology (IT). In 2007, the Strategic Management Council, approved strategic initiatives to: 1) clarify the role of the Chief Information Officer (CIO) as stated in NPD 1000.3 and define core IT services that shall be provided by the CIO; 2) realign the NASA IT organization to reflect the role of the CIO and better connect with customers; 3) create a governance structure and processes to engage key stakeholders, inform IT investment decisions, and apply project management discipline to IT projects; 4) increase visibility into IT budgeting and spending through management controls and fund base IT services through a combination of Corporate and Center Management and Operations funding; 5) improve integration, security, and efficiency of IT by consolidating infrastructure and management control; and 6) assign ownership of application portfolios and create a CIO-facilitated process to drive application standardization and efficiencies.
With nearly $1.9 billion in annual IT spending, it’s critical that these initiatives succeed to ensure that IT enables the mission, is integrated, secures our information and systems, and helps improve efficiency. Each NASA Center has submitted an implementation plan for improving IT management based on the SMC decisions. Although this degree of change may be difficult for those involved, the status quo is not an option for the agency.
For instance, in the OMC meeting, Jerry Davis, the Deputy CIO for IT Security reported that for March 2008 alone, there were over one billion scans of NASA systems by external entities. These would-be hackers are scanning for vulnerabilities in NASA systems that they can quickly exploit. Because of the ever-increasing threats, NASA’s new IT Strategy and Investment Board recently approved an investment to establish a central Security Operations Center (SOC) for the agency, which I strongly support. The SOC’s initial operations will begin at the start of calendar 2009, and will provide improved agency-wide capabilities to prevent, detect, and respond to security incidents in a more rapid fashion.
Another initiative underway to improve security is the implementation of Mission Focus Review (MFR) 137, which calls for increased use of the Outsourcing Desktop Initiative for NASA (ODIN) contract to provide laptops and desktops. While originally intended to reduce costs, the main value of this change will be improved patch management and maintenance of core configurations required by the Federal government. For example, the implementation of smart cards to access NASA systems will be much smoother on ODIN-managed equipment. I recognize that this might be a difficult change for some NASA workers, but it is an important initiative that we must continue to implement.
These initiatives represent only a few of the many activities being pursued by NASA’s CIO community. The goals include increased security, enhanced integration, and cost savings.
I am very encouraged at the steps underway and the progress made in transforming the NASA IT environment and capabilities. Leadership at every level will be required to manage and bring about the changes we are undertaking. These changes will take time to complete and will be difficult; however, they are important and necessary in order for the agency to pursue and achieve our missions.
I would like to thank Jonathan Pettus, CIO, for his contribution to this week’s blog. - Permalink Comments
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The Budget Process
May 02, 2008 04:55:31 PM | Shana Dale
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This year’s budget process is different from what we normally do but is very similar to the budget submittal for FY 2002 as a new Administration came into office. NASA, like most federal agencies, will develop two budget requests this year. The first is the normal 5-year budget developed during our Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) cycle. The second budget is developed under a set of rules established by the Budget Enforcement Act of 1990, as documented in OMB Circular A-11.
With only two weeks between the Presidential Inauguration and the due date for submitting the President’s budget to Congress, there is insufficient time to develop and deliver a budget request. Thus, the federal government has developed a process for managing the budget delivery in years with a change in Administration (such as what happened eight years ago). The memo from OMB Director Jim Nussle explaining the process for developing this budget (download pdf) Each Agency is asked to develop a “current services budget”. This budget is simply the current appropriation (FY 2009 if enacted, else the equivalent of a full-year continuing resolution), with no changes to subsequent years other than inflation.
The PPBE process is well under way and although it is not required to be delivered to OMB, it is necessary to develop the PPBE budget as this provides the updated details for execution in FY 2009, as well as the integrated 5-year baseline for understanding the second budget. This year, no budget reviews will be conducted with OMB directors, and there will be no formal passback process.
We will work with OMB on issues that may arise with ongoing programs due to the difference between the PPBE baseline and the current services baseline. This will help OMB form position papers that will be presented to the new Administration’s transition team. The current services budget also becomes the starting baseline for NASA’s discussions with the incoming transition team that will typically start in November, as soon as the election is clearly settled. Understanding how this baseline differs from the PPBE baseline, and understanding the options for resolving any issues will be important in preparing for the incoming team.
Finally, an updated budget will be developed by the new Administration for submittal to Congress in April, which will then become the new Administration’s initial 5-year plan for NASA. This will likely draw heavily on the details developed during PPBE, as well as any strategic decisions made by the new team. So as we work through the current PPBE cycle, we must recognize that any PPBE proposals for changes in strategy or overguides will be compared to the current services budget and not the PPBE cycle when we begin discussion with OMB in September and the transition team in November.
I would like to thank David Schurr, NASA Comptroller, for his contribution to this week’s blog.
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INKSNA,Miami,and More
Apr 25, 2008 04:56:16 PM | Shana Dale
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INKSNA
Briefings with congressional staff continue after the Administration cleared language to amend the Iran, North Korea and Syria Nonproliferation Act (P.L. 109-112). Portions of that law adopted in 2005, prohibit “extraordinary payments” both “in cash” and “in kind” from the U.S. Government to the Russian Government, Roscosmos, and entities under Roscosmos' authority for the International Space Station (ISS). In 2005, Congress provided an exception for ISS purchases and barters through December 31, 2011.
The U.S. will have no U.S. crew transport or rescue capability after the Shuttle retires in 2010, until a new U.S. vehicle is operational (NASA's Orion or future U.S. commercial crew transport and rescue capability). Until then, we will continue to need to be able to acquire use of Soyuz vehicles. In addition, there are certain limited goods and services where Russia offers unique capabilities, such as sustaining engineering support that we will continue to need to purchase from Russia. The lead-time for contract negotiations and subsequent production is very significant, over three years, thus the need for Congress to pass this amendment as soon as possible this year.
Miami Future Forum
On Friday, April 18, I was in Miami, FL and gave the keynote speech at the fourth Future Forum which was held at the University of Miami. Go to www.nasa.gov for a copy of my "Remarks at the Miami Future Forum" speech.
Picture of Dale, Shalala, and Crist. NASA photo.
The University of Miami was an excellent venue to speak to the mix of community and business leaders, educators and students. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the University of Miami for making this possible and to Mr. Sergio Gonzalez, Vice President for University Advancement and External Affairs, University of Miami, who helped make this dynamic event happen.
The Honorable Donna E. Shalala, President of the University of Miami, spoke as well and she said, “We are grateful for the opportunity to connect space exploration, entrepreneurship and education, as one of the selected sites to host a NASA Future Forum in celebration of the agency's 50th anniversary.”
It is great for the non-traditional communities we have been focusing on to hear what we are doing and where we are going. Carl Walz, Director, Advanced Capabilities Division for the Exploration Systems Mission Directorate, spoke on Constellation and STS-122 Commander Stephen Frick narrated a video from his February Shuttle mission and also participated on the Inspiration Panel.
All in all, this event is one more example of how we are trying to reach out to nontraditional audiences to talk about fifty years of achievement; excite them about future missions; explain how NASA inspires kids to go into STEM; discuss how innovations from America's space program strengthens U.S. economic competitiveness and that this is all done with a funding level that is six-tenths of one percent of the federal budget.
Florida Governor Crist, announced a partnership between Space Florida and SPACEHAB of Webster, Texas. They plan to use the ISS and the Space Life Sciences Lab at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to carry out space-based biomedical and biotech research. This announcement exemplified why we're holding Future Forums in cities such as Miami. It allows us to talk directly to the public about the diverse ways America's long-term space exploration goals lead to economic growth, scientific discoveries and technological advancements for people here on Earth, and in their own communities.
Barrignton Irving at the Miami Future Forum. NASA photo
Finally, it was an honor to have Barrington Irving, the first African-American and youngest person to fly solo around the world, gave a presentation at the Future Forum. His talk his flight and the incredible work he is doing now to inspire young people was outstanding.
The San Jose Future Forum on May 14 should be great too. We're currently discussing how we can do the Future Forum as a mixed reality event. So, as I am doing the Future Forum in person, my avatar will hopefully be doing the same in Second Life. It should be interesting and I'm looking forward to it.
NASA Lecture Series
On Monday, April 21, I attended the NASA Lecture Series, another venue to celebrate NASA's 50th anniversary. World-renowned physicist Stephen Hawking, Ph.D., delivered a wonderful lecture on the importance of human space exploration now and for the next few hundred years. For a copy of more information on this event visit www.nasa.gov. It was a special honor for me to meet Stephen Hawking and his delightful daughter, Lucy.
Left to right: Lucy Hawking, Dr. Stephen Hawking, Shana Dales. NASA photo
Lucy (Photo of Lucy speaking) spoke for a few minutes on the book she co-authored with her father, entitled George's Secret Key to the Universe. The book is meant to inspire children to pursue their interest in space and science. Another theme that Dr. Hawking mentioned - humorously, I might add -- was one that Mike Griffin and I have spoken about on several occasions, the Space Economy.
Dr. Hawking emphasized the point that no one alive in the late 1400s could have imagined all of the wonderful things, “like a Big Mac or a KFC,” that our society would have a few hundred years later as a result of the discovery of the New World. While fast-food restaurants were clearly a tongue-in-cheek reference, it nevertheless illustrated his point about unforeseen advancements stemming from human endeavors.
Similarly, we cannot comprehend even a small percentage of what miraculous developments and discoveries that will inevitably be spawned by the exploration of our solar system and beyond.
Dr. Stephen Hawking giving his NASA Lecture Series speech. NASA photo.
Dr. Hawking, widely known as one of the most brilliant and forward-looking scientists of our time, is an emphatic and eloquent proponent of exploration - perhaps the single most important human trait that has propelled our society forward throughout history. His knowledge of the universe and our place in it gives him a special sense of what it means for human beings to always keep wondering about the unknown, to always keep pushing the boundaries of the next frontier, and to always keep discovering new things to make life better for future generations.
The profound message of Dr. Hawking's lecture is particularly inspiring to those of us at NASA, who are charged with boldly going where no human has gone before.
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Art Center Designs and Yuri's Night
Apr 18, 2008 02:08:22 PM | Shana Dale
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The Art Center College of Design
On Thursday, April 10, I, along with several other NASA officials, was on hand to view presentations designed and developed by students attending the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. About a year ago, NASA partnered with the Art Center to hit a target generation known as Millennials (those born after 1982 — and my senior year in high school). The Art Center is in a unique position to offer ideas and strategies on communicating with and engaging the Millennials.
NASA employees know what the acronym NASA stands for and NASA has far-reaching brand recognition, right? How many of you would be surprised that while most people recognize the acronym and know that it is associated with "space," some people actually have no specific knowledge about this Agency's missions, achievements or contributions? When you consider the Millennial generation in particular, you realize that NASA is not even on their radar screen. This realization and our commitment to inspire and engage the next generation motivated us to work with the Art Center to design two projects for NASA.
The first project, Mission: Millennial, focused on designing ways for NASA to more effectively communicate its missions, goals and benefits to young adults. The second, NASA Lunar Rover Project, focused on designing the optimal human lunar rover. In addition to the functionality of the designs, it was also meant to inspire those to want to go for a ride.
Mission: Millennial project teams with the names NASAtastics, NASAnauts and RedRocks, used a variety of mediums, such as nostalgia, retro cool approaches, redesigned websites with Facebook components and gaming, to project how NASA should look and feel to the Millennial generation. More importantly, the students shared how much they learned about the impact that NASA has had on their everyday life and how much the Agency has contributed to advancing technology. I even learned when to reach for my "stunnas" (note to my older generation: stunnas are a particular type of sunglasses).
NASA Lunar Rover Project: Individual students produced some amazing designs for the lunar rover. With names like ALEX (Advanced Lunar Explorer), Moonstream, NASA THESEUS, Hotwheels, and T.O.A.D. (To Observe Analyze and Defend), these vehicles proposed a wide range of solutions to the issues astronauts will face on the Moon. While the complexity of the designs showed the extensive research and time invested by the Art Center students, the functionality and sleekness made you want to suit up and drive. It was quite exciting to be surrounded by the enthusiasm of the student design teams.
.jpg "Rover model")
.jpg "MEXR rover model")
Yuri's Night, Bay Area 2008
On Saturday night, April 12, I was at the Yuri's Night celebration at Ames Research Center. This is the second year for this celebration on-site at Ames. It recognizes the anniversary of Yuri Gagarin's first spaceflight on April 12, 1961. He flew one orbit, at the age of 27, to become the first human to orbit the Earth. Celebrations also were held at Johnson Space Center and Goddard Space Flight Center, not to mention the other parties around the globe on this historic date. To open the festivities, Center Director Dr. Pete Worden appeared in a Soviet general's uniform in recognition of Yuri's homeland. Pete and I cut the ceremonial ribbon.
I wanted to attend as I had heard that it is very popular with Millennials. There was an air show, displays, bands, live performances, and interesting costumes. This did not have a traditional NASA-feel to it and that's one reason it appeals to a younger crowd. As I was walking around, I was imagining this event (with this crowd) at HQ or most of the other centers — but I couldn't get my head around that thought. I suppose you'd need to experience it to know what I mean. I didn't stay very late, but from all that I saw, it looked like a very successful event and made Ames accessible, in a fun way, to the surrounding community. Pete makes it possible so my hat is off to him.
.jpg "Rover model")
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Space Economy
Apr 11, 2008 12:48:31 AM | Shana Dale
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You may have heard Mike Griffin or me mention the Space Economy in our speeches and wondered what it is and why we are talking about it.
First, let's start with the competitive context in which NASA now finds itself. When NASA was created almost fifty years ago, it was under the competitive context of the Space Race and Cold War. That threat no longer exists. Today, we find ourselves in a new competitive landscape that centers on the global economy. In this global environment, innovation and competitiveness become keys to economic growth and an improved quality of life.
Because of NASA's uniquely challenging mission, our scientists and engineers are constantly pushing the technological envelope and the limits of knowledge — this leads to advances that not only break boundaries in space but on Earth as well. These advances in science, technology, manufacturing, services, materials and other fields and products have contributed to economic growth, broadened our knowledge of our world and the universe, and improved the quality of our lives in countless ways.
The Space Economy provides a platform to discuss the full range of benefits and relevance that NASA provides in new and compelling ways. With this discussion, we will be better able to define and understand the critical role that NASA plays as a key driver of innovation and competitiveness for the Nation.
Based on expert internal and external advice, we are defining the Space Economy as "the full range of activities and resources that create and provide value and benefits to human beings in the course of exploring, understanding, and utilizing space."
Examples of these activities include:
- Infrastructure — Space operations, suppliers, contractors
- Applications — Global Positioning System (GPS), weather, climate, defense, imagery
- Transactions — Finance, medicine, communications
- Commerce — Tourism, services, logistical support
Through the Space Economy, we demonstrate that space is ubiquitous in our daily lives and enhances our well-being. It provides a broad context that captures the myriad benefits and services that are enabled by space-based activities and resources such as telemedicine, long-distance learning, GPS, satellite radio/DirecTV, bank card transactions, and many others that touch and improve our lives every day. It also enables a dialogue on the role of space to innovation in potentially transformative fields such as quantum computing, artificial intelligence, robotics, nanotechnology and hydrogen fuel cells.
We have seen an explosion in space investment from emerging economic powers such as India and China. The most visible expression of technical leadership is through a robust and successful space program. The nations at the top of that technical pyramid are positioned to successfully compete in the global economy. We must not be complacent in this new race for technical leadership and cede our hard-won leadership position. The Space Economy will provide a vital means of measuring, understanding and expressing the significance of this new paradigm, our position in it and the relevance of our Nation's space program to our global economic leadership.
NASA is undertaking efforts to better understand the Space Economy and how NASA's work contributes to such activities as well as leverages from those activities in the conduct of NASA's missions. We are participating in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)1. OECD is also conducting case studies that examine specific economic and societal areas that benefit from space-based resources and technologies.
We also are looking at other means of defining and understanding the implications of space exploration on our society and economy. I believe it will become an important issue area for policymakers and analysts interested in the vital strategic interests supported by NASA's capabilities. I’ll provide updates as our work progresses.
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1Global Forum on Space Economics that is conducting analysis of the Space Economy, including a recent publication of the report, "Space Economy at a Glance."
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Workforce Transition and Aerospace Discussions
Apr 04, 2008 03:34:20 PM | Shana Dale
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Workforce Transition
On Monday, 31 March, we submitted a now required bi-annual report to Congress regarding NASA's workforce transition plan. Here you will find links to the report and other workforce related documents that you will find useful. Please note these are considered living documents and will be revised and updated in the coming years as decisions are made.
When the decision to retire the Space Shuttle was made and to move forward with the next generation of human space flight in 2006, this was the first time in roughly 35 years that a major change was made to U.S. civil space policy.
Foremost on everyone's mind was "what about the workforce?" and I can assure you this challenge is, and has been, receiving our utmost attention. It is critical that we retain our skilled workforce through retirement and transition because a safe Shuttle flyout, completion of the International Space Station assembly, and the successful development of our new Constellation vehicles depends on it. Our second Shuttle workforce survey, done in 2007, revealed that 65% of employees indicated they will stay through the end of the program. That is an excellent percentage and we hope to keep these individuals; they are highly skilled and we need them. During the six-year gap between Apollo and Space Shuttle we lost a great number of aerospace experts. We do not want that to happen during this transition, and we are continually strategizing, planning, and communicating to ensure that we are successful.
An important message I want to convey is the commitment that Mike Griffin and I share to keep the lines of communications open. We will use whatever means necessary (i.e., the website, NASA TV, town hall meetings) to keep the workforce informed. Rumors, gossip, and innuendo will happen, but hopefully we will be able to get the facts out quickly.
The transition workforce team is comprised of individuals from the Space Operations Mission Directorate, Exploration Systems Mission Directorate, Office of Human Capital, and the Centers' Human Capital and Program Offices. However, there are a lot of other offices and personnel involved as well. My thanks to all of you who are diligently working this issue.
Other Activities This Week
On Tuesday, April 1, Mike and I met with CEOs from over twenty aerospace companies to have an informal discussion about issues of mutual interest. It was a good exchange and last year we held a similar roundtable, so we hope to make this an annual tradition.
Also on Tuesday evening, the STS-122 crew was honored on Capitol Hill with a reception sponsored by the aerospace community. It was a huge turnout with 18 Members of Congress in attendance. These receptions are good opportunities to discuss the space program.
On Thursday, April 3, Mike Griffin testified on the FY2009 budget request before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies. And that evening, I attended the National Air and Space Museum Trophy Awards dinner to honor the Stardust Comet Sample Return Mission Team.
Next week the Operations Management Council meeting will be dedicated to financial issues. After that, I hit the road again for meetings on the West Coast, then off to the Strategic Management Council at Stennis Space Center, followed by the next Future Forum, which will be held in Miami. I will keep you updated with notes from the road.
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St. Louis Future Forum and STS-123 Landing
Mar 28, 2008 05:32:13 PM | Shana Dale
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St. Louis Future Forum
There were several issues to deal with this week. Earlier this week, there were some issues with the Mars program. Today, Friday, March 28, was the first day back in the office from my road trip, so back-to-back meetings including one on workforce transition from Shuttle to Constellation (more on that next week). I will highlight some of the external events of the week, because that’s the extent of what I feel I can discuss.
On Tuesday, March 25, I spoke at the St. Louis Future Forum which was held in the beautiful St. Louis Science Center. This was the third Future Forum held as part of NASA's 50th year long anniversary celebration. As I have said in previous blogs, the intent of the Future Forum is to reach out to communities that may not be as knowledgeable about the space program as those of us that live it every day.
If you read my speeches, you know I spend a great deal of time talking about the space economy and the tangible benefits we all receive from the space program. At the Future Forums, the makeup of the audience ranges from undergraduates to business owners, as well as the general public. It is a varied group and yet they are truly interested in learning more about what we do on a daily basis and are very surprised to learn how NASA impacts their lives.
Carl Walz and I did an informal press conference with Doug King, the Director of the St. Louis Science Center. Camera crews from the local stations, Fox TV2 and KSDK (NBC) were on hand to tape us. After that, Jon Grayson with radio station KMOX. And before we hit the airport, we sat with the editorial board of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Namely the reporters and editors asked similar questions such as how are we able to accomplish so much within such a constrained budget; what is planned for the next generation of human spaceflight, what are some of the challenges, and why did you come to St. Louis?
The timing of the St. Louis Future Forum was perfect. Numerous individuals came up to me to talk about their hometown hero, STS-123 Mission Specialist Robert Behnken. When I told them I was on my way to the Kennedy Space Center to watch the landing of Endeavour with him on board, they were thrilled. Robert is a native son of the St. Louis area and they are extremely proud of him.
STS-123 Landing
This was my first opportunity to view a landing as NASA's Deputy Administrator. The STS-123 crew accomplished so much in the time they were in orbit and this mission is the longest to date. What an incredible accomplishment. STS-123 was another building mission to the International Space Station (ISS) where the crew delivered and attached the Kibo Module and Dextre.
Initially, I sat with Mike Griffin on-console in the Launch Control Center (LCC) and listened to the communications between the LCC, Mission Control Center, the Shuttle Training Aircraft and the crew of Endeavour as discussions were held on the weather. The crew was told to do a wave off of the first landing opportunity due to cloud cover in the area. After de-orbit burn, we went to the landing strip to wait.
Several of us talked about this remarkable night because not only was Endeavour about to land, but we were able to view the Jules Verne Automated Transfer Vehicle and shortly thereafter, the ISS flying overhead within minutes of each other. The ISS becomes larger and easier to see with the naked eye as it grows with our components, as well as those of our international partners.
About two minutes before we were able to see the orbiter come into view, there were two sonic booms in quick succession and then Endeavour appeared to glide through the brightness of the xenon lights at the head of the runway. Then once again, she was back on terra firma. This was the 16th night landing at KSC, the 22nd night landing in the Space Shuttle program, and the 68th landing at KSC. Once again, it was an amazing achievement in our human spaceflight program. On March 11, we wished the Endeavour and her crew Godspeed and on March 26, we welcomed her home.
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Launch of STS-123
Mar 14, 2008 12:00:00 AM | Shana Dale
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I participated in a number of events surrounding the launch of the Space Shuttle Endeavor (STS-123), the 25th Space Shuttle assembly mission to the International Space Station (ISS). In a spectacular night launch that lit up the coast of Florida surrounding Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Space Shuttle Endeavor lifted off very early on Tuesday morning. I gave the remarks at the pre-launch briefing and they can be found at the NASA home page.
Prior to the launch, I visited the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital in Tampa, Florida. I have met some of our rehabilitating soldiers and veterans at previous launches and these young people, with their amazingly positive attitudes, have had a great impact on me.
Visit to Veterans’ Hospital
In the last year, KSC has opened their hearts and facilities to soldiers, Marines, and their family members, as well as the staff of the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital in Tampa, Florida, by inviting them to be their special guests and view the Space Shuttle launches from the OSB II building at KSC. On Monday, Mr. James (Jim) Hattaway, Associate Center Director for KSC; JuliAnna Potter, my Special Advisor; Tim Kopra, a flight engineer scheduled for the STS-127 mission in April 2009; and I took the opportunity to tour this hospital to meet with some of the soldiers and staff.
I asked Jim to share some of his thoughts after the tour on Monday. He was impressed by the quality of care provided to these men and women and we actually heard this sentiment echoed by numerous patients. He also noted that the members of the hospital staff care deeply about their patients and are also passionate about providing the appropriate medical and emotional support needed for these brave young men and women. Jim also indicated that although the men and women we visited were physically wounded, there was not a single complaint. Rather, it was a focus on rehabilitation, recovery, and continued service to country.
Jim said it made him proud to be an American and it actually made him focus his thoughts on the reality of the freedom we all enjoy, and, unfortunately, sometimes take for granted; however, this freedom is not free, but is paid for by the sacrifices of those who serve in our military. We can never adequately repay the young men and women or their families for their pain, suffering, and sacrifice, and as a nation, we owe them a great debt. I heartily agree.
For the patients we visited, the highlight was getting to meet Tim Kopra. He had a wonderful touch with everyone he met and took pictures with most of the patients and staff. Everyone loves to meet an astronaut and I am very thankful that he could be there with us. Due to the pre-dawn liftoff of STS-123, these soldiers were unable to attend, but I look forward to seeing some of them in May for STS-124.
International Contributions to the Space Shuttle Launch
Several senior officials from the Governments of Japan and Canada attended the launch, including the President of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Dr. Keiji Tachikawa; the Canadian Minister of Industry, the Honorable Mr. Jim Prentice; and the Canadian Space Agency President, Mr. Guy Bujold.
This mission is carrying the Japanese Logistics Module, the first of three components that make up the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM), called Kibo, which means “Hope” in Japanese. It is also carrying the Canadian Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator, known as “Dextre.” The assembly of these two elements to the ISS, right on the heels of the European Space Agency’s Columbus module, which was launched to the ISS in February, is an exciting step toward the 2010 completion of what is becoming a truly “international” Space Station. Adding to the ISS partnership’s excitement, just two days earlier, the European Space Agency successfully launched the maiden voyage of their Automated Transfer Vehicle, called Jules Verne, to the ISS from their launch site in French Guiana. This unique cargo vehicle will carry both pressurized and unpressurized cargo to the ISS.
Kibo is Japan’s first laboratory in space. It was built by JAXA and when fully assembled, will significantly enhance the Space Station’s research capabilities. Participating on the crew for this mission is JAXA astronaut Takao Doi, who will be one of the first crew members to enter the logistics module in the next few days. The next JEM elements, the Pressurized Module and the Robotic Arm, are scheduled to launch on Space Shuttle Discovery (STS-124) on May 25, and the final element, the Exposed Facility, is scheduled to launch on STS-127 in April 2009.
The Canadian Space Agency’s Dextre robotic system is a two-armed manipulator designed to supplement another key robotic contribution by Canada to the ISS, Canadarm2, by performing fine maintenance tasks that normally would be accomplished by spacewalking astronauts.
Backdropped by Earth's horizon and the blackness of space, the logistics module for the Japanese Kibo laboratory in Space Shuttle Endeavour's payload bay, vertical stabilizer and orbital maneuvering system (OMS) pods are featured in this image photographed by a STS-123 crewmember. (Photo credit: NASA)
Space Shuttle Endeavour approaches the International Space Station during STS-123 rendezvous and docking operations. Docking occurred at 10:49 p.m. (CDT) on March 12, 2008. The Canadian-built Dextre robotic system and the logistics module for the Japanese Kibo laboratory are visible in Endeavour's cargo bay. (Photo credit: NASA) 
On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay is ready for closure of the doors for launch. Seen at the bottom is the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory, the Experiment Logistics Module Pressurized Section, or ELM-PS. At the top is the orbiter docking system. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the ELM-PS and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. (Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis) Another view of space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay as it is readied for closure of the doors for launch on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A. (Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis) 
During their first full day in space, STS-123 crewmembers aboard the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Endeavour recorded and downlinked pictures of its cargo bay where the logistics module for the Japanese Kibo laboratory awaits being added to the growing International Space Station. (Photo credit: NASA)
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Hearing Summaries and Budget Resolution Status
Mar 07, 2008 12:00:00 AM | Shana Dale
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FY 2009 Budget Update
After the rollout of the President's FY 2009 budget request for NASA on February 4, 2008, the Congressional budget process began and is now in full swing, with hearings in several of our oversight committees and subcommittees complete, and the House and Senate Budget Committees completing action on the budget resolution.
Hearings after budget release typically are held by House and Senate Authorization (policy) committees and House and Senate appropriations (funding) Committees.
On February 13, 2008, the House Science and Technology Committee (authorization) held a hearing regarding NASA's FY 2009 budget request. Mike Griffin testified on behalf of the agency. Members expressed bipartisan support for NASA's exploration goals, but also expressed concern that a number of programs appeared to be either unfunded or underfunded, including: Constellation systems, Shuttle transition and retirement, future needs for the Deep Space Network, Space Station logistics and utilization post-2011, and aeronautics research. Several Members praised the agency's decision to propose new science missions, but expressed concern that funding for the new missions was simply being moved within science from other project lines.
Several Members expressed concern with the gap between retirement of the Shuttle and the Initial Operational Capability (IOC) of Orion in 2015, and questioned whether NASA could extend the Shuttle program beyond 2010 and/or accelerate Orion/Ares development, and failing these options, whether the agency would be reliant on purchasing Russian services. (Even with acceleration of Orion/Ares, IOC would be in 2013. Given Shuttle retirement in 2010, crew access to ISS is needed between then and Orion/Ares.)
Other areas of Congressional interest included: China's emerging prowess in the space arena; options for flying the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS) to Station; plans for further data release from the National Aviation Operational Monitoring Service project; options for flying the Total Solar Irradiance Suite; increased support for the Near-Earth Object project and the Arecibo radio telescope; and, gaining a better understanding of heat shield development problems experienced by the Mars Science Laboratory.
On February 27, 2008, the Senate Subcommittee on Space, Aeronautics and Related Sciences (authorization) held a hearing regarding NASA's FY 2009 budget request. Mike Griffin testified on behalf of the agency. Chairman Bill Nelson (D-FL) dispensed with opening statements, but before questions began, commended Mike on his public service, adding that it was a "difficult job." The Chairman also recognized the crew of STS-120 at the beginning of the hearing, before their departure for meetings with other Members of Congress. Chairman Nelson and Ranking Member David Vitter (R-LA) participated for the entire hearing; Full Committee Vice-Chairman Ted Stevens (R-AK) departed after a few questions.
Member questions covered the breadth of NASA activities, but primarily focused on: status of Shuttle transition and potential workforce impacts at the Centers, especially Kennedy Space Center and Michoud Assembly Facility; options for minimizing the gap between Shuttle retirement and Initial Operational Capability (IOC) for Orion and Ares; plans for addressing dependence on Russia for transportation to the Space Station post-2011, and after the Iran North Korea Syria Nonproliferation Act exemption expires; options for accelerating Option D (human transport capability) under the Commercial Orbital Transportation Services agreements; and scenarios for altering the Shuttle manifest to accommodate flying AMS to the Space Station.
On March 5 and 6, the House Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies (appropriations) held hearings regarding NASA's FY 2009 budget request. Mike Griffin testified on behalf of the agency, accompanied by the Associate Administrators for Exploration Systems, Space Operations, Science, and Aeronautics Research (Rick Gilbrech, Bill Gerstenmaier, Alan Stern, and Jaiwon Shin). Opening statements from Subcommittee Members, as well as their lines of questioning, focused heavily on the adequacy of NASA's overall budget given the totality of planned activities, status of missions within the Science Mission Directorate and plans to address the priorities outlined in the Decadal Surveys.
Subcommittee Members were also interested in issues that had been subject to Government Accountability Office (GAO) review, such as, Orion/Ares program status, Shuttle transition and the Commercial Orbital Transportation System (COTS). Discussion also revolved around NASA's fiscal shortfall due to the FY 2007 Continuing Resolution (CR, P.L. 110-5), and the significant impact this shortfall has had on the schedule for Orion/Ares IOC.
On March 5, 2008, the House and Senate Budget Committees met separately to begin markup of their respective Budget Resolutions for FY 2009. In the early hours of March 6, the House Budget Committee reported out its budget resolution, as amended, with 22 yeas and 16 nays. The House Budget Committee-passed resolution does not contain specific funding assumptions for NASA. Also on March 6, the Senate Budget Committee reported out its budget resolution, as amended, with 12 yeas and 10 nays. The Senate Budget Committee Chairman's Mark reflects the following language regarding NASA:
"The Chairman's Mark funds NASA at $18.7B, $1.0B above the President's 2009 request. This level of funding reflects the ongoing need to reimburse NASA for the catastrophic loss of the Space Shuttle Columbia as well as the costs of investigating the Columbia tragedy. For the Agency, this represents an increase of $1.2B, or 6.8 percent above the 2008 level adjusted for inflation."
The Chairman's Mark includes additional language highlighting the importance of "our nation's space program," and the "strategic importance" of uninterrupted access to space and the need to minimize "the five-year gap" in U.S. human spaceflight. According to Committee staff, both the House and Senate are expected to begin Floor consideration of their respective budget resolutions the week of March 10. Please note the Budget Resolution is not yet enacted, and the funding recommendations within the resolution are not binding on the Appropriations Committees.
On April 3, 2008, Administrator Griffin is scheduled to testify before the Senate Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies (appropriations).
So, the process is off to a fast start, and we at Headquarters will keep a close eye on developments on Capitol Hill and keep you informed along the way.
Thanks to Bill Bruner and his staff in the Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, for helping me get this information together.
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GRC Outreach and More on Future Forums
Feb 28, 2008 12:00:00 AM | Shana Dale
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This Week
I spoke to the 3rd Annual Space Exploration Conference in Denver on Tuesday. Given that I am so often in front of aerospace crowds these days, it was a unique opportunity to involve the aerospace community in what we've been doing in outreach, particularly the Future Forums, and what is planned for the Future. I also introduced the new feature on NASA's website, NASA Home and City, where you click on a particular item — on an airplane, at the grocery store, in the hospital, etc. — and see how it was derived from NASA technology or cooperation. It's a fun tool.
With the rollout of the FY2009 budget, Mike Griffin testified last week before the House Science & Technology Committee. Next week he testifies before House Appropriations and April 4 before Senate Appropriations.
Governor's Remarks from Columbus Future Forum
Ohio Governor Strickland's remarks at the Columbus Future Forum last week were fabulous [(read transcript (PDF)]. He said, "NASA's space exploration and research efforts have not only opened corners of the universe, they have improved life on this planet. NASA’s countless advances affect our daily lives and energize our economy. In materials, medicine, biology, fuel economy, aviation, information technology, and telecommunications NASA has sped our path to the future."
Washington Lt. Governor Owen's remarks at the Seattle Future Forum were similarly striking [read transcript (PDF), listen to speech (MP3)]. He said, "NASA, more than any government organization, has been the seed of inspiration and imagination for millions around the country and the world. The seeds that NASA has planted in its space programs have sowed nothing short of miracles and accomplishment, reaching far beyond the extraordinary technology that launched men and women into space time and again." You can see from both speeches that these leaders understand the importance of space to communities in their states. That is the goal of the Future Forums and these forums are proving to be very effective.
Introduction of John Hairston’s Posting
John Hairston, Director of External Relations at Glenn Research Center, participated in the Columbus Future Forum. Under John’s leadership, Glenn has been out in front in thinking of innovative means to reach out to local communities in Ohio. John’s posting on some of these planned and ongoing activities is below.
Glenn Outreach by John Hairston
Since listening to Shana Dale's keynote address about the space economy at the Columbus Future Forum, I've been thinking about how NASA's Glenn Research Center contributes to the space economy through outreach to government officials, businesses, educational institutions and the general public. As Glenn prepares to coordinate its 2007 Economic Impact study, we're reflecting on the many ways that our Center adds value to Ohio. I'd like to share with you a few of the unique outreach opportunities we're pursuing this year with four key audiences.
Government
Ohio is unique in the nation. It has a vast aerospace industry that is supported by an outstanding higher education system, but it lacks a state-wide aerospace strategy. To address this issue, Glenn is collaborating on the planning and execution of the first-ever Ohio Aerospace Day. The event will gather government, industry, academic and economic development institutions to increase awareness of Ohio's aerospace industry among key federal and state leaders and to exchange ideas on public policies and strategic partnerships.
Business
Ohio companies have always been involved in the space program — over 52 of them have supplied the space shuttle — and we expect them to continue to play a strong role in the Constellation Program. To make sure that happens, on May 16, 2008, Glenn will host area businesses for a series of workshops designed to introduce them to the U.S. Space Exploration Policy and help them identify potential roles for their companies.
This fiscal year, Glenn also entered into NASA's first inter-agency agreement with the U.S. Navy to help companies accelerate the commercialization of technologies funded by the Small Business Innovative Research Program. The companies will present their technologies in a NASA Showcase at the 8th Navy Opportunity Forum on June 2-4 in Crystal City, Virginia.
Education
Glenn's Education office has joined forces with the Cleveland Municipal School District to open a school that is like no other public school in the United States. At this science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) high school, students will participate in an integrated curriculum that fosters critical thinking, creativity and communication. Academics will emphasize how math, science and technology shape our world. The school is named MC2 STEM, and it will open in the fall of 2008. We're also collaborating with several educational organizations to provide classroom and online content for an Ohio Department of Education professional development plan for science teachers.
Public
The Office of Community and Media Relations engages the community both outside and within Glenn's gates. On the Third Saturday of every month, Glenn's Visitor Center staff invites the public to join them for a full day of presentations, exhibits and activities for the whole family. The Third Saturday events bring more than 9,000 guests to the Visitor Center every year.
Outside of Glenn's gates, Glenn's Speakers Bureau reaches more than 60,000 people a year and is comprised of scientists, engineers and other Glenn employees who educate the public on topics ranging from NASA careers to space exploration. This year, under the direction of Center Director, Dr. Woodrow Whitlow Jr., Glenn's senior management team is joining the Speakers Bureau.
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