NASA Space Technology Roadmaps and Priorities

NASA's Office of the Chief Technologist (OCT) has begun to rebuild the advanced space technology program in the agency with plans laid out in 14 draft technology roadmaps. It has been years since NASA has had a vigorous, broad-based program in advanced space technology development and its technology base has been largely depleted. However, success in executing future NASA space missions will depend on advanced technology developments that should already be underway. Reaching out to involve the external technical community, the National Research Council (NRC) considered the 14 draft technology roadmaps prepared by OCT and ranked the top technical challenges and highest priority technologies that NASA should emphasize in the next 5 years. This report provides specific guidance and recommendations on how the effectiveness of the technology development program managed by OCT can be enhanced in the face of scarce resources. Table of Contents Front Matter Summary 1 Introduction 2 Top Technical Challenges and High-Priority Technologies by Roadmap 3 Integrated Ranking of Top Technical Challenges and High-Priority Technologies 4 Observations and General Themes Appendixes Appendix A: Statement of Task Appendix B: Revised Technology Area Breakdown Structure Appendix C: Acronyms Appendix D: TA01 Launch Propulsion Systems Appendix E: TA02 In-Space Propulsion Technologies Appendix F: TA03 Space Power and Energy Storage Appendix G: TA04 Robotics, Tele-Robotics, and Autonomous Systems Appendix H: TA05 Communication and Navigation Appendix I: TA06 Human Health, Life Support, and Habitation Systems Appendix J: TA07 Human Exploration Destination Systems Appendix K: TA08 Science Instruments, Observatories, and Sensor Systems Appendix L: TA09 Entry, Descent, and Landing Systems Appendix M: TA10 Nanotechnology Appendix N: TA11 Modeling, Simulation, and Information Technology and Processing Appendix O: TA12 Materials, Structures, Mechanical Systems, and Manufacturing Appendix P: TA13 Ground and Launch Systems Processing Appendix Q: TA14 Thermal Management Systems Appendix R: Steering Committee, Panel, and Staff Biographical Information