Letter Report for the Committee on Prospective Benefits of DOE's Energy Efficiency and Fossil Energy R&D Programs (BEES)

Released 12/20/05

In 2002, Congress directed DOE to request the NRC to develop a methodology for assessing prospective economic, environmental, and energy security benefits of its conservation and fossil energy R&D programs. The first phase of this project—development of the methodology—began in December 2003 and resulted in the report, Prospective Evaluation of Applied Energy Research and Development at DOE (Phase one): A First Look Forward. Phase two is designed to develop the methodology more completely and apply it to several DOE R&D programs. As part of this effort, the NRC held a workshop to obtain feedback on its proposed methodology and the DOE programs that had been selected for review. This letter report presents a discussion of the principal comments made during the workshop, the case studies intended to be performed during phase two, and changes in the process and methodology since phase one’s completion.

Letter Report on Revised Methodology for Estimating Energy R&D Benefits (BEES)

Released 12/20/05

In 2002, Congress directed DOE to request the NRC to develop a methodology for assessing prospective economic, environmental, and energy security benefits of its conservation and fossil energy R&D programs. The first phase of this project—development of the methodology—began in December 2003 and resulted in the report, Prospective Evaluation of Applied Energy Research and Development at DOE (Phase one): A First Look Forward. Phase two is designed to develop the methodology more completely and apply it to several DOE R&D programs. As part of this effort, the NRC held a workshop to obtain feedback on its proposed methodology and the DOE programs that had been selected for review. This letter report presents a discussion of the principal comments made during the workshop, the case studies intended to be performed during phase two, and changes in the process and methodology since phase one’s completion. 

Network Science (BAST)

Released 12/7/05

The military is currently attempting to develop itself into a force capable of network-centric operations. While this effort has highlighted the military’s dependence on interacting networks, it has also shown that there is a huge gap between what we need to know about networks and our fundamental knowledge about network behavior. This gap makes the military vision of NCO problematic. To help address this problem, the Army asked the NRC to find out whether identifying and funding a new field of “network science” could help close this gap. This report presents an examination of networks and the military, an analysis of the promise, content, and challenges of network science, and an assessment of approaches to creating value from network science.

Basic Research in Information Science and Technology for Air Force Needs (BMSA)

Released 12/15/05

The U.S. Air Force is developing new force capabilities appropriate to an emerging array of threats. It is clear that advances in information science and technology (IS&T) are essential for most of these new capabilities. As a consequence, the Air Force is finding it necessary to refocus its IS&T basic research program to provide stronger support for reaching these goals. To assist this effort, the AFOSR asked the NRC for a study to create a vision and plan for the IS&T-related programs within the Office’s Mathematics and Space Science Directorate. This report provides an assessment of basic research needs for Air Force systems and communications, software, information management and integration, and human interactions with IS&T systems. The report also offers a set of priorities for basic IS&T research, and an analysis of funding mechanisms its support.

Catalyzing Inquiry at the Interface of Computing and Biology (CSTB)

Released 12/5/05

Advances in computer science and technology and in biology over the last several years have opened up the possibility for computing to help answer fundamental questions in biology and for biology to help with new approaches to computing. Making the most of the research opportunities at the interface of computing and biology requires the active participation of people from both fields. While past attempts have been made in this direction, circumstances today appear to be much more favorable for progress. To help take advantage of these opportunities, this study was requested of the NRC by the National Science Foundation, the Department of Defense, the National Institutes of Health, and the Department of Energy. The report provides the basis for establishing cross-disciplinary collaboration between biology and computing including an analysis of potential impediments and strategies for overcoming them. The report also presents a wealth of examples that should encourage students in the biological sciences to look for ways to enable them to be more effective users of computing in their studies.

Managing Construction and Infrastructure in the 21st Century Bureau of Reclamation (BICE)

Released 12/5/05

In the more than 100 years since its formation, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation of the Department of Interior (DOI), through its construction program, has brought water, electric power, and recreation facilities to millions of people in the Western United States. With major water and power systems in place, the Bureau’s attention has now turned to operation, maintenance, repair, and modernization of those facilities in an environmentally and economically sound manner. To help with this effort, DOI asked the NRC to advise the Bureau on “appropriate organizational, management, and resource configurations to meet its construction, maintenance, and infrastructure requirements for its missions of the 21st century.” This report presents an assessment of the requirements facing the Bureau in the 21st century, an analysis of good practices and techniques for addressing those challenges, and a review of workforce and human resource needs. The report also provides alternative scenarios that describe possible future organizations for infrastructure management.

Linkages: Manufacturing Trends in Electronics Interconnection Technology (BMED)

Released 11/29/05

Over the past two decades, the Department of Defense has been moving toward commercial-military integration for manufacturing, while at the same time, the printed circuit board industry has been moving steadily offshore. Today, many lack a clear understanding of the importance of high-quality, trustworthy printed circuit boards (PrCBs) for properly functioning weapons and other defense systems and components. To help develop this understanding, DOD requested the NRC to identify and assess the key issues affecting PrCBs for military use. This report presents an assessment of how to ensure DOD's access to reliable printed circuits; an assessment of its vulnerability to the global printed circuit supply chain; and suggestions about ways to secure the design and manufacture of printed circuits. In addition, this report offers recommendations to help DOD preserve existing systems’ capabilities, improve the military’s access to currently available PrCBs, and ensure access to future PrCB technology.

Extending the Effective Lifetimes of Earth Observing Research Missions (SSB)

Released 11/15/05

While NASA Earth Science missions are planned on the basis of a specified lifetime, often they are able to function beyond the end of that period. Until recently NASA had no formal mechanism for determining whether those missions should be extended or whether the resources necessary for the extension should be applied to new missions. In August 2004, when NASA merged Earth and space sciences, the agency began using the Science Review process to make those extension determinations. NASA had asked the NRC to assess extension review processes, and after the merger, this study focused on the Science Review process. This report presents an assessment of that process and provides recommendations for adapting it to Earth Science missions.

Review of NASA Plans for the International Space Station (SSB)

Released 11/28/05

In January 2004, President Bush announced a new space policy directed at human and robotic exploration of space. In June 2004, the President’s Commission on Implementation of United States Space Exploration Policy issued a report recommending among other things that NASA ask the National Research Council (NRC) to reevaluate space science priorities to take advantage of the exploration vision. Congress also directed the NRC to conduct a thorough review of the science NASA is proposing to undertake within the initiative. In February 2005, the NRC released Science in NASA’s Vision for Space Exploration, the first report of the two studies undertaken to carry out these requests. The second report focuses on NASA’s plan for the ISS. This report provides broad advice on programmatic issues that NASA is likely to face as it attempts to develop an updated ISS utilization plan. It also presents an assessment of potentially important research and testbed activities that may have to be performed on the ISS to help ensure success of some exploration objectives.

An Assessment of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Measurement and Standards Laboratory: FY2004-2005 (NIST)

Released 11/07/95

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Measurements and Standards Laboratories (MSL) provide technical leadership for the nation’s measurement and standards infrastructure and assure the availability of essential reference data and measurement capabilities. At NIST’s request the National Research Council (NRC) carries out a biennial assessment of the seven MSL. The assessment focuses on each laboratory’s technical quality and merit; and effectiveness. It also examines the relevance of the NIST programs and how well laboratory facilities, equipment, and personnel are able to fulfill the MSL mission. This report presents an overall assessment of the MSL followed by detailed assessments of each of the seven laboratories.

Controlling the Quantum World of Atoms, Molecules, and Photons: An Interim Report (BPA)

Released 11/15/05

As part of its Physics 2010 decadal survey, the NRC has undertaken a study of opportunities in atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) science and technology over roughly the next decade. This study has been requested by the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation. They asked the NRC to assess the state of AMO science, emphasizing recent accomplishments and identifying new and compelling scientific questions. A final report on this study is expected in the summer 2006. This interim report provides a preview of the final document. It presents a summary of the key opportunities in forefront AMO science and in closely related technologies, and a discussion of some of the broad-scale conclusions of the final report. The interim report also describes how AMO science supports national R&D priorities.

Interim Design Assessment for the Blue Grass Chemical Agent Destruction Pilot Plant (BAST)

Released 11/14/05

Because of concerns about incineration, the Department of Defense plans to use alternative means to destroy the chemical agent stockpiles at the Pueblo and Blue Grass facilities. The DOD contracted with Bechtel Parsons to design and operate pilot plants for this purpose. As part of the NRC efforts to assist the DOD with its chemical demilitarization efforts, the Department requested a review and assessment of the Bechtel designs for both plants. An earlier report presented an assessment of the Pueblo design. This report provides a review of the Blue Grass Chemical Agent Destruction Pilot Plant based on review of data and information about the initial design and some intermediate design data. Among other topics, the report presents technical risk assessment issues, an analysis of delivery and disassembly operations and of agent destruction core processes, and an examination of waste treatment.

Bioastronautics Roadmap: A Risk Reduction Strategy for Human Exploration of Space (IOM, SSB, ASEB)

Released 10/11/05

NASA’s Bioastronautics Roadmap (BR) is used to identify and assess the risks of crew exposure to the hazardous environments of space for three Design Reference Missions: a one-year mission to the International Space Station, a month-long stay on the Lunar surface, and a 30-month round-trip journey to Mars. In 2003, NASA asked the NRC to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the BR and identify the unique challenges for accomplishing its goals. The report presents an assessment of the content, process, and context of the BR. Included are analyses of human factors and technology, risk assessment, roadmap currency, organization, and prioritization among other issues. Recommendations are presented that need to be followed if the BR is to achieve its goals.

Asking the Right Questions about Electronic Voting (CSTB)

Released 9/13/05

High profile problems in recent elections have resulted in calls to accelerate the use of information technology in the voting process to help avoid such problems in the future. Such an approach, however, is not straightforward as is suggested by an emotional public debate that has arisen about electronic voting. While election officials believe electronic voting systems offer the promise of conducting and administering elections more effectively and at lower cost, a number of concerns have been raised about security and other aspects of these systems. To help address these points, the National Science Foundation asked the NRC to examine electronic voting issues. This report provides an extensive list of questions that must be addressed by election officials, policy makers, and the public about the use of electronic information technology in the election administration. In addition, the report provides a number of conclusions to help set the questions in perspective.

Summary of a Workshop on Using Information Technology to Enhance Disaster Management (CSTB)

Released 9/30/05

The aftermath of the recent hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico has dramatically heightened awareness of the role of effective communications in managing such disasters. The NRC is in the process of studying this issue for FEMA as a result of language that appeared in the E-government Act of 2002. The study is examining the use of information technology (IT) to enhance preparedness, response, and consequence management of natural and human caused disasters. As the first phase of this study, a workshop was held to provide an information base from the perspective of federal, state, and local officials. This report provides a summary of that workshop focusing on the critical and evolving role of and research directions for IT in disaster management; and on collaboration, coordination, and interoperability issues.

Review of (AFOSR) Mechanics Research Proposals and Review of Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) Materials Research Proposals (NMAB)

Released 9/28/05

These two letter reports provide technical evaluations of research proposals submitted to the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) in the areas of mechanics and materials. They are part of a project to provide these evaluations in the areas of materials, solid and structural mechanics, fluid mechanics, and propulsion. Each research proposal was reviewed by at least four reviewers, typically two panel members and two outside reviewers. For each report, a panel met to examine and discuss all review comments to define a consensus assessment for each proposal.

FORCEnet Implementation Strategy (NSB)

Released 9/26/05

FORCEnet is the Department of Navy’s approach for enhancing its capability to perform network-centric operations. In 2002, the concept was introduced by the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) who incorporated it into the Navy’s Sea Power 21. A NRC study, Network-Centric Naval Forces, was instrumental in the establishment of FORCEnet. Nevertheless, an accepted definition of FORCEnet is still lacking. To help resolve this issue, the CNO asked the NRC to advise it on the adequacy of the definition first announced by the CNO and on actions required to implement FORCEnet. This report provides an illustration of a FORCEnet vision of networked operations, characteristics required to achieve this vision, and challenges facing implementation. It also presents analyses of these challenges and recommendations for an implementation strategy.

Review of Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) Fluids Research Proposals (ASEB)

Released 08/11/05

This letter report provides technical evaluations of research proposals submitted to the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) in the area of fluids. It is part of a project to provide these evaluations in the areas of combustion and diagnostics, and space power and propulsion. Each research proposal was reviewed by at least four reviewers, typically two panel members and two outside reviewers. A panel met to examine and discuss all review comments to define a consensus assessment for each proposal.

Going to Extreme: Meeting the Emerging Demand for Durable Polymer Matrix Composites (NMAB)

Released 08/12/05

Advanced polymer matrix composites (PMC) have many advantages such as light weight and high specific strength that make them useful for many aerospace applications. Enormous uncertainty exists, however, in predicting long-term changes in properties of PMCs under extreme environmental conditions, which has limited their use. To help address this issue, the Department of Defense requested a study from the NRC to identify the barriers and limitations to the use of PMCs in extreme environments. The study was to focus on issues surrounding methodologies for predicting long-term performance. This report provides a review of the challenges facing application of PMCs in extreme environments, the current understanding of PMC properties and behavior, an analysis of the importance of data in developing effective models, and recommendations for improving long-term predictive methodologies.

Technology Pathways: Assessing the Integrated Plan for a Next Generation Air Transportation System (ASEB)

Released 08/22/05

In 2003, Congress directed the Secretary of Transportation to establish the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NGATS) Joint Planning and Development Office (JDPO) to plan the development of an air transportation system capable of meeting potential air traffic demand for 2025. All federal agencies involved in aviation participate in the JDPO providing the opportunity overcome many of the major barriers to developing an effective NGATS. To assist this process, the NRC was asked to examine the first NGATS Integrated Plan prepared by JPDO and submitted to Congress in 2004. This report provides a review of the vision and goals, the operational concepts, and the R&D roadmap developed by the plan; an analysis of the JDPO integrated product teams created to carry out the planning; and an assessment of the implementation process.

Monitoring at Chemical Agent Disposal Facilities (BAST)

Released 08/29/05

Under the direction of the U.S. Army’s Chemical Materials Agency (CMA) and mandated by Congress, the nation is destroying its chemical weapons stockpile. Over the past several years, the Army has requested several studies from the NRC to assist with the stockpile destruction. This study was requested to advise the CMA about the status of analytical instrumentation technology and systems suitable for monitoring airborne chemical warfare agents at chemical weapons disposal and storage facilities. The report presents an assessment of current monitoring systems used for airborne agent detection at CMA facilities and of the applicability and availability of innovative new technologies. It also provides a review of how new regulatory requirements would affect the CMA’s current agent monitoring procedures, and whether new measurement technologies are available and could be effectively incorporated into the CMA’s overall chemical agent monitoring strategies.

Priorities in Space Science Enabled by Nuclear Power and Propulsion (SSB, ASEB)

Released 08/30/95

In 2003, NASA began an R&D effort to develop nuclear power and propulsion systems for solar system exploration. This activity, renamed Project Prometheus in 2004, was initiated because of the inherent limitations in photovoltaic and chemical propulsion systems in reaching many solar system objectives. To help determine appropriate missions for a nuclear power and propulsion capability, NASA asked the NRC for an independent assessment of potentially highly meritorious missions that may be enabled if space nuclear systems became operational. This report provides a series of space science objectives and missions that could be so enabled in the period beyond 2015 in the areas of astronomy and astrophysics, solar system exploration, and solar and space physics. It is based on but does not reprioritize the findings of previous NRC decadal surveys in those three areas.

Review of Goals and Plans for NASA’s Space and Earth Sciences (SSB)

Released 08/04/05

Both the President’s commission on how to implement the President’s space exploration initiative and Congress asked the NRC undertake an assessment and review of the science proposed to be carried out under the initiative. An initial response to that request was the NRC February 2005 report, Science in NASA’s Vision for Space Exploration. While that report’s preparation, NASA created capabilities and strategy roadmapping efforts which became the object of the next phase of the NRC review. The new NASA administrator modified that NASA activity resulting in changes in the NRC review effort. This report provides a review of six science strategy roadmaps: robotic and human exploration of Mars; solar system exploration; universe exploration; search for earth-like planets; earth science and applications from space; and sun-earth system connection. In addition, an assessment of cross-cutting and integration issues is presented.

Globalization of Materials R&D: Time for a National Strategy (NMAB)

Released 08/02/05

Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) R&D is spreading globally at an accelerating rate. As a result, the relative U.S. position in a number of MSE subfields is in a state of flux. To understand better this trend and its implications for the U.S. economy and national security, the Department of Defense (DOD) asked the NRC to assess the status and impacts of the global spread of MSE R&D. This report presents a discussion of drivers affecting U.S. companies’ decisions about location of MSE R&D, an analysis of impacts on the U.S. economy and national security, and recommendations to ensure continued U.S. access to critical MSE R&D.

Review of the Research Program of the FreedomCar and Fuel Partnership: First Report (BEES)

Released 08/02/05

The FreedomCAR and Fuel Partnership is a collaborative effort among the Department of Energy (DOE), the U.S. Council for Automotive Research (USCAR), and five major energy companies to manage research that will enable the vision of “a clean and sustainable transportation energy future.” It envisions a transition from more efficient internal combustion engines (ICEs), to advanced ICE hybrid electric vehicles, to enabling a private-sector decision by 2015 on hydrogen-fueled vehicle development. This report, which builds on an earlier NRC report, The Hydrogen Economy: Opportunities, Costs, Barriers, and R&D Needs, presents an evaluation of the Partnership’s research efforts on hydrogen-fueled transportation systems, and provides findings and recommendations about technical directions, strategies, funding, and management.

Review of Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) Propulsion Proposals - Letter Report (ASEB)

Released 08/01/05

This letter report provides technical evaluations of research proposals submitted to the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) in the area of propulsion. It is part of a project to provide these evaluations in the areas of combustion and diagnostics, and space power and propulsion. Each research proposal was reviewed by at least four reviewers, typically two panel members and two outside reviewers. A panel met to examine and discuss all review comments to define a consensus assessment for each proposal.

Preventing the Forward Contamination of Mars (SSB)

Released 07/26/05

Recent spacecraft and robotic probes to Mars have yielded data that are changing our understanding significantly about the possibility of existing or past life on that planet. Coupled with advances in biology and life-detection techniques, these developments place increasing importance on the need to protect Mars from contamination by Earth-borne organisms. To help with this effort, NASA requested that the NRC examine existing planetary protection measures for Mars and recommend changes and further research to improve such measures. This report discusses policies, requirements, and techniques to protect Mars from organisms originating on Earth that could interfere with scientific investigations. It provides recommendations on cleanliness and biological burden levels of Mars-bound spacecraft, methods to reach those levels, and research to reduce uncertainties in preventing forward contamination of Mars.

Naval Analytical Capabilities (NSB)

Released 7/13/05

In the current national security environment, the United States must be prepared to deal with a large number of diverse threats under complex and uncertain circumstances. Current U.S. defense strategy calls for the capability to deal with the full spectrum of threats within available resources. This strategy has led to an emphasis on capabilities-based planning (CBP) by DOD and the Services. To assist with its efforts, the Department of the Navy asked that the NRC to hold a workshop to assess the Navy’s analytical capabilities and its CBP practices. This report presents a discussion of the key elements of CBP and analysis, a review of the Navy’s analytical methods and processes, an assessment of Navy participation in DOD-wide CBP, and an examination of potential future efforts.

Measuring Performance and Benchmarking Project Management at the Department of Energy (BICE)

Released-6/30/05

In 1997, Congress, in the conference report, H.R. 105-271, to the FY1998 Energy and Water Development Appropriation Bill, directed the NRC to carry out a series of assessments of project management at the Department of Energy (DOE). The final report in that series noted that DOE lacked an objective set of measures for assessing project management quality. The department set up a committee to develop performance measures and benchmarking procedures and asked the NRC for assistance in this effort. This report presents information and guidance for use as a first step toward development of a viable methodology to suit DOE’s needs. It provides a number of possible performance measures, an analysis of the benchmarking process, and a description ways to implement the measures and benchmarking process.

Comments on the Matter of Service Rules and Procedures to Govern the Use of Aeronautical Mobil Satellite Service Earth Stations in Frequency Bands Allocated to the Fixed Satellite Service (BPA)

Released 6/30/05

Allocation of frequency spectrum for commercial use by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) can have a significant effect on scientific research such as radio astronomy. This report is one in a series from the NRC that examines the needs for radio frequency requirements and interference protection for scientific and engineering research, coordinates the views of the U.S. scientists, and acts as a channel for representing the interests of U.S. scientists in the work of the inter-union commission on frequency allocations for radio astronomy and space science (IUCAF) of the International Council of Scientific Unions. The report presents an assessment of FCC proposals to protect critical radio astronomy service frequency bands from interference by Aeronautical Mobile Satellite Service operations.

Building an Electronic Records Archive at the National Archives and Records Administration: Recommendations for a Long-Term Strategy (CSTB)

Released 6/20/05

The federal government generates and increasingly saves a large and growing fraction of its records in electronic form. In 1998, the National Archives and Record Administration (NARA) launched it Electronic Archives (ERA) program to create a system to preserve and provide access to federal electronic records. To assist in this project, NARA asked the NRC to conduct a two-phase study to provide advice as it develops the ERA program. The first two reports (phase one) provided recommendations on design, engineering, and related issues facing the program. This report (phase two) focuses on longer term, more strategic issues including technology trends that will shape the ERA system, archival processes of the ERA, and future evolution of the system. It also provides an assessment of technical and design issues associated with record integrity and authenticity.

Mathematics and 21st Century Biology (BMSA)

Released 6/20/05

The exponentially increasing amounts of biological data along with comparable advances in computing power are making possible the construction of quantitative, predictive biological systems’ models. To assist this development, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) asked the NRC to recommend mathematical research activities to enable more effective use of the large amounts of genomic and the structural and functional genomic information now being created. This report provides a broad, scientifically based view of the opportunities lying at the mathematical science and biology interface. It presents a review of past successes, an examination of opportunities at the various levels of biological systems, an analysis of cross-cutting themes, and recommendations to advance the mathematics-biology connection applicable to all relevant research funding agencies.

Midsize Facilities: The Infrastructure for Materials Research (BPA)

Released 6/20/05

Most of the instruments now used for materials research are too complex and expensive for individual investigators to own, operate, and maintain them. Consequently, they have become increasingly consolidated into multi-user, small to midsized research facilities, located at many sites around the country. The proliferation of these facilities, however, has drawn calls for a careful assessment of best principles for their operation. With support from the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation, the NRC carried out a study to characterize and discuss ways to optimize investments in materials research facility infrastructure with attention to midsize facilities. This report provides an assessment of the nature and importance of mid-sized facilities, their capabilities, challenges they face, current investment, and optimizing their effectiveness.

Sea Basing: Ensuring Joint Force Access from the Sea (NSB)

Released 06/016/05

The availability of land bases from which to launch and maintain military, diplomatic, and humanitarian relief operations is becoming increasingly uncertain because of physical or political constraints. The ability to operate from a sea base, therefore, is likely to become more and more important. The Defense Science Board recently concluded that Sea Basing will be a critical future joint military capability and that DOD should proceed to develop such capability. Following the DSB report, the Navy requested that the NRC convene a workshop to assess the science and technology base, both inside and outside the Navy, for developing Sea Basing and to identify R&D for supporting future concepts. This report of the workshop includes an examination of Sea Basing operational concepts; ship and aircraft technology available to make Sea Basing work; and issues involved in creating the sea base as a joint system of systems.

2003-2004 Assessment of the Army Research Laboratory (ARLTAB)

Released 06/15/05

n 1995, the Army Research Laboratory (ARL) asked the NRC to perform an annual review of the scientific and technical quality of the lab. In particular, ARL requested findings and recommendations about the quality and appropriateness of the R&D for each of the lab’s technical areas. In 1999, the review was changed to biennial. The current report is the third in that series and presents an assessment of the quality of work being performed by the Lab. It also gives an assessment of ARL’s response to the 2001-2002 review, a discussion of how well ARL personnel connects with similar work in other organizations, and an analysis of specific opportunities for and challenges facing the lab.

Review and Assessment of the Bechtel National, Inc.-Parsons Infrastructure and Technology Group, Inc., Joint Venture Proposal for the Design and Operation of the Blue Grass Chemical Agent Destruction Pilot Plant at Richmond, KY-Letter Report (BAST)

Released 06/13/05

The DOD has contracted with Bechtel National, Inc.-Parsons Infrastructure and Technology Group, Inc. to design and operate a pilot plant for the destruction of chemical agent at the Blue Grass chemical weapons storage facilities. As part of the NRC efforts to assist the DOD with its chemical demilitarization efforts, the Department requested a review and assessment of the Bechtel-Parsons proposal. This letter report presents the review of the proposal for the Blue Grass Chemical Agent Destruction Pilot Plant (BGCAPP). It also presents an assessment of alternative configurations developed by the study committee. Several factors, including technical feasibility, public acceptance, equipment availability, and safety, were used to evaluate the life-cycle cost and schedule implications of the alternatives for the BGCAPP. These assessments are primarily the result of the consensus judgments of the committee based in the substantial project management experience of its members.

The Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA): Implications of a Potential Descope (BPA)

Released 06/10/05

The 1991 NRC decadal survey for astronomy and astrophysics included a project called the Millimeter Array (MMA). This instrument would be an array of millimeter-wavelength telescopes intended to capture images of star-forming regions and distant star-burst galaxies. With the addition of contributions form Europe, the MMA evolved into the Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA), a proposed array of 64, 12-meter antennas. The project is now part of the NSF Major Research Equipment and Facilities budget request. Increased costs, however, have forced the NSF to reconsider the number of antennas. To help with that review, NSF asked the NRC to assess the scientific consequences of reducing the number of active antennas from 60 to either 50 or 40. This report presents an assessment of the effect of downsizing on technical performance specifications, performance degradation, and the ability to perform transformational science, and of the minimum number of antennas needed.

Autonomous Vehicles in Support of Naval Operations (NSB)

Released 05/15/05

Recent naval operations have consistently demonstrated the utility of autonomous vehicles (AV) for a wide range of missions. In addition, the growing need to defend foreign and homeland ports against a variety of threats point out the potential value of expanded us of such vehicles. This step, however, will require the solution to a host of operational and technical challenges. To help with this effort, the Chief of Naval Operations asked the NRC to review the experience with and status of autonomous vehicles in support of naval operations, and technical challenges to and plans for development of these concepts. This report presents an assessment of naval vision about AV operations and applications; capabilities and potential of aerial, surface, and undersea vehicles; and integrating autonomy into network-centric operations.

Impact of Revised Airborne Exposure Limits on Non-Stockpile Chemical Material Program Activities (BAST)

Released 05/03/2005

The U.S. Army’s Non-Stockpile Chemical Materiel program is responsible for dismantling former chemical agent production facilities and destroying recovered chemical materiel. In response to congressional requirements, the Center for Disease Control (CDC), in 2003, recommended new airborne exposure limits (AELs) to protect workforce and public health during operations to destroy this materiel. To assist in meeting these recommended limits, the U.S. Army asked the NRC for a review of its implementation plans for destruction of production facilities at the Newport Chemical Depot and the operation of two types of mobile destruction systems. This report presents the results of that review. It provides recommendations on analytical methods, on airborne containment monitoring, on operational procedures, on the applicability of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, and on involvement of workers and the public in implementation of the new AELs.

Effects of Nuclear Earth-Penetrator And Other Weapons (DEPS)

Released 04/28/2005

Underground facilities are used extensively by many nations to conceal and protect strategic military functions and weapons’ stockpiles. Because of their depth and hardened status, however, many of these strategic hard and deeply buried targets could only be put at risk by conventional or nuclear earth penetrating weapons (EPW). Recently, an engineering feasibility study, the robust nuclear earth penetrator program, was started by DOE and DOD to determine if a more effective EPW could be designed using major components of existing nuclear weapons. This activity has created some controversy about, among other things, the level of collateral damage that would ensue if such a weapon were used. To help clarify this issue, the Congress, in P.L. 107-314, directed the Secretary of Defense to request from the NRC a study of the anticipated health and environmental effects of nuclear earth-penetrators and other weapons and the effect of both conventional and nuclear weapons against the storage of biological and chemical weapons. This report provides the results of those analyses. Based on detailed numerical calculations, the report presents a series of findings comparing the effectiveness and expected collateral damage of nuclear EPW and surface nuclear weapons under a variety of conditions.

Earth Science and Applications from Space: Urgent Needs and Opportunities to Serve the Nation (SSB)

The Earth is a dynamic planet whose changes and variations affect our communications, energy, health, food, housing, and transportation infrastructure. Understanding these changes requires a range of observations acquired from a variety of land-, sea-, air-, and space-based platforms. To assist NASA, NOAA, and the USGS develop these tools, the NRC was asked by these agencies to carry out a decadal strategy survey of Earth science and applications from space In particular, the study is to develop the key scientific questions on which to focus Earth and environmental observations in the period 2005-2015, and a prioritized list of space programs, missions, and supporting activities to address these questions This interim report outlines a key element of the study—the rationale for tying Earth observations to societal need—and identifies urgent near-term actions needed to achieve this goal. A final report, due in late 2006, will provide the list of recommended space missions, programs, and supporting.

Amendment of the Commission’s Rules to Facilitate the Use of Cellular Telephones and Other Wireless Devices Aboard Airborne Aircraft - Letter Report (BPA-CORF)

Released 04/26/05

Allocation of frequency spectrum for commercial use by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) can have a significant effect on scientific research such as radio astronomy. This report is one in a series from the NRC’s Committee on Radio Frequencies (CORF) that examines the needs for radio frequency requirements and interference protection for scientific and engineering research, coordinates the views of the U.S. scientists, and acts as a channel for representing the interests of U.S. scientists in the work of the inter-union commission on frequency allocations for radio astronomy and space science (IUCAF) of the International Council of Scientific Unions. This report presents CORF’s assessment of an FCC proposal to require the use of picocells and to modify emissions masking of cell phones that would be used aboard aircraft. Such actions could reduce the possibility and severity of harmful emissions.

Nanotechnology for the Intelligence Community (NMAB)

Released 04/21/2005

The emergence of nanotechnology as a major science and technology research topic has sparked substantial interest by the intelligence community. In particular the community is interested both in the potential for nanotechnology to assist intelligence operations and threats it could create. To explore these questions, the Intelligence Technology Innovation Center asked the National Research Council to conduct a number of activities to illustrate the potential for nanotechnology to address key intelligence community needs. In 2004, workshop reports were issued on power systems and on positioning and sensing technologies. The final report provides an assessment of a wide range of additional technologies. The report also presents a series of findings and recommendations about areas of opportunities for the intelligence community and strategies for exploiting these opportunities.

High-Performance Structural Fibers for Advanced Polymer Matrix Composites (NMAB)

Military use of advanced polymer matrix composites (PMC)—consisting of a resin matrix reinforced by high-performance carbon or organic fibers—while extensive, accounts for less that 10 percent of the domestic market. Nevertheless, advanced composites are expected to play a greater role in future military systems, and DOD will continue to require access to reliable sources of affordable, high-performance fibers including commercial materials and manufacturing processes. As a result of these forecasts, DOD requested the NRC to assess the challenges and opportunities associated with advanced PMCs with emphasis on high-performance fibers. This report provides an assessment of fiber technology and industries, a discussion of R&D opportunities for DOD, and recommendations about accelerating technology transition, reducing costs, and improving understanding of design methodology and promising technologies.

Review of Proposals for NASA’s Low Emissions Alternative Power Program - Letter Report (ASEB)

Released 04/12/05

NASA requested the NRC to review technical proposals received by NASA for the Low Emissions Alternative Power Program. A technical panel was used to evaluate proposed low technology readiness level (TRL) work in foundation technologies and rate them based on the adjectival ratings in the research solicitation announcement. These foundation technologies will address power and propulsion applications for breakthrough applications for aircraft development. This letter report presents a discussion of the NRC process for reviewing the proposals, the members of the reviewing panel, and a summary of the ratings by proposal number.

Avoiding Surprise In An Era Of Global Technology Advances (DEPS)

Released 05/05/2005

The global spread of science and technology expertise and the growing commercial access to advanced technologies with possible military application are creating potentially serious threats to the technological superiority underpinning U.S. military strength. Key to dealing with this situation is the ability of the U.S. intelligence community to be able to provide adequate and effective warning of evolving, critical technologies. To assist in performing this task, the Technology Warning Division of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) asked the National Research Council (NRC) to undertake a study examining technology warning issues. This report provides the first part of that study. It presents an assessment of critical, evolving technologies; postulates ways potential adversaries could disrupt these technologies; and provides indicators for the intelligence community to determine if such methods are under development. The intention of this report is to establish the foundation for a long-term relationship with the technology warning community to support the examination of technology warning issues.

The Navy’s Needs in Space for Providing Future Capabilities (NSB)

The United States must operate successfully in space to help assure its security and economic well being. The Department of the Navy is a major user of space capabilities, although those capabilities are now primarily provided by DOD, the Air Force, and NOAA. Following a DOD assessment of national space security management in 2001, the Navy commissioned a Panel to Review Space to assess Navy space policy and strategy. As an extension of that review, the NRC was requested by the Navy to examine its needs in space for providing future operational and technical capabilities. This report presents a discussion of the strategic framework of future space needs, the roles and responsibilities for meeting those needs, an assessment of Navy support to space mission areas, and a proposed vision for fulfilling Naval forces space needs.

Decreasing Energy Intensity in Manufacturing: Assessing the Strategies and Future Directions of the Industrial Energy Technologies Program (BMED)

Released 03/14/2005

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has supported the Industrial Technologies Program (ITP) for more than a decade. This program supports R&D into energy efficiency technologies designed to decrease the energy intensity of the U.S. industrial sector. The focus in on seven energy-intensive industries—aluminum, chemicals, forest products, glass, metal casting, mining, and steel—known as the Industries of the Future (IOF). DOE asked the NRC for a review of this program including an evaluation of the ITP strategic plan, an evaluation of the technical quality of individual subprogram plans, and the prospective value of the multi-year program plan. This report presents the results of that review. It contains an assessment of the ITP strategy, of how effective it is being implemented, and the likelihood of achieving program goals. It also provides conclusions about the quality of the subprograms and recommendations about how to strengthen the subprograms and the overall program.

Signposts in Cyberspace: The Domain Name System and Internet Navigation (CSTB)

Released 03/31/2005

The Domain Name System (DNS) enables user-friendly alphanumeric names—domain names—to be assigned to Internet sites. Many of these names have gained economic, social, and political value, leading to conflicts over their ownership, especially names containing trademarked terms. Congress, in P.L. 105-305, directed the Department of Commerce to request the NRC to perform a study of these issues. When the study was initiated, steps were already underway to address the resolution of domain name conflicts, but the continued rapid expansion of the use of the Internet had raised a number of additional policy and technical issues. Furthermore, it became clear that the introduction of search engines and other tools for Internet navigation was affecting the DNS. Consequently, the study was expanded to include policy and technical issues related to the DNS in the context of Internet navigation. This report presents the NRC’s assessment of the current state and future prospects of the DNS and Internet navigation, and its conclusions and recommendations concerning key technical and policy issues.

Prospective Evaluation of Applied Energy Research and Development at DOE (Phase one): A First Look Forward (BEES)

In 2001, the National Research Council (NRC) completed a congressionally mandated assessment of the benefits and costs of DOE’s fossil energy and energy efficiency R&D programs, Energy Research at DOE: Was It Worth It? The Congress followed this retrospective study by directing DOE to request the NRC to develop a methodology for assessing prospective benefits. The first phase of this project—development of the methodology—began in December 2003. Phase two will make the methodology more robust and explore related issues, and subsequent phases will apply the methodology to review the prospective benefits of different DOE fossil energy and energy efficiency R&D programs. In developing this project, three considerations were particularly important. First, the study should adapt the work of the retrospective study. Second, the project should develop a methodology that provides a rigorous calculation of benefits and risks, and a practical and consistent process for its application. Third, the methodology should be transparent, should not require extensive resources for implementation, and should produce easily understood results. This report presents the results of phase one. It focuses on adaptation of the retrospective methodology to a prospective context.

The Astrophysical Context of Life (SSB)

Released 03/10/2005

In 1997, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) formed the National Astrobiology Institute to coordinate and fund research into the origins, distribution, and fate of life in the universe. A 2002 NRC study of that program, Life in the Universe: An Assessment of U.S. and International Programs in Astrobiology, raised a number of concerns about the Astrobiology program. In particular, it concluded that areas of astrophysics related to the astronomical environment in which life arose on earth were not well represented in the program. In response to that finding, the Space Studies Board requested the original study committee, the Committee on the Origins and Evolution of Life, to examine ways to augment and integrate astronomy and astrophysics into the Astrobiology program. This report presents the results of that study. It provides a review of the earlier report and related efforts, a detailed examination of the elements of the astrobiology program that would benefit from greater integration and augmentation of astronomy and astrophysics, and an assessment of ways to facilitate the integration of astronomy with other astrobiology disciplines.

Proceedings of the 25th Naval Hydrodynamics Symposium (NSB)

Released 03/22/2005

The Naval Hydrodynamics Symposium Series provides an international, unclassified forum for the scientific and technical exchange of naval hydrodynamics research developments of common interest to all the countries of the world. The Twenty-Fifth Symposium on Naval Hydrodynamics was held in St. John’s Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada from August 8-13, 2004. Seventy-six papers were presented in 14 topical areas. The areas covered in this meeting were selected because of recent scientific and technical advances and their importance to the overall field of naval hydrodynamics. The Proceedings, including all authored papers plus discussion questions and responses, are available on a compact disk.

Review and Assessment of the Bechtel National, Inc. Proposal for the Design and Operation of the Chemical Agent Destruction Pilot Plant at Pueblo, CO (BAST)

The DOD has contracted with Bechtel National, Inc. to design and operate pilot plants for the destruction of chemical agent at both the Pueblo and Blue Grass chemical weapons storage facilities. As part of the NRC efforts to assist the DOD with its chemical demilitarization efforts, the Department requested a review and assessment of the Bechtel proposals for both plants. This letter report presents the review of the proposal for the Pueblo Chemical Agent Destruction Pilot Plant (PCAPP). This letter report presents that assessment along with one of an alternative design suggested by Mitretek and of the desirability of technically viable alternatives developed by the NRC study committee. These assessments are primarily the result of the consensus judgments of the committee based in the substantial project management experience of its members. A second letter report will be issued on the Blue Grass Chemical Agent Destruction Pilot Plant design.

Science in NASA’s Vision for Space Exploration (SSB)

In January 2004, President Bush announced a new space policy directed at human and robotic exploration of space. The National Academies released a report at the same time that independently addressed many of the issues contained in the new policy. In June, the President’s Commission on Implementation of United States Space Exploration Policy issued a report recommending that NASA ask the National Research Council (NRC) to reevaluate space science priorities to take advantage of the exploration vision. Congress also directed the NRC to conduct a thorough review of the science NASA is proposing to undertake within the initiative. This report provides an initial response to those requests. It presents guiding principles for selecting science missions that enhance and support the exploration program. The report also presents findings and recommendations to help guide NASA’s space exploration strategic planning activity. Separate NRC reviews will be carried out of strategic roadmaps that NASA is developing to implement the policy.

Interim Design Assessment for the Pueblo Chemical Agent Destruction Pilot Plant (BAST)

Released 01/24/2005

In 1996, Congress enacted directing the Department of Defense to assess and demonstrate technology alternatives to incineration for destruction of the chemical weapons stored at Pueblo Chemical and Blue Grass Army Depots. Since then, the National Research Council (NRC) has been carrying out evaluations of candidate technologies including reviews of engineering design studies and demonstration testing. Most recently, the NRC was asked by the Army to evaluate designs for pilot plants at Pueblo and Blue Grass. These pilot plants would use chemical neutralization for destroying the chemical agent and the energetics in the munitions stockpiles of these two depots. This report provides the interim assessment of the Pueblo Chemical Agent Destruction Pilot Plant (PCAPP) to permit adjustment of any significant problems as soon as possible. The report presents an analysis of the issues about the current PCAPP design and a series of findings and recommendations about ways to reduce concerns with involve the public more heavily in the process.

Review of Progress in Astronomy and Astrophysics toward the Decadal Vision: Letter Report (BPA)

Released 03/14/2005

In the past few years, programmatic changes at NASA, issues raised by the NRC report, Connecting Quarks with the Cosmos: Eleven Science Questions for the New Century(CQC), and scientific and technological advances combined to prompt consideration of a reexamination of the overall science strategy set forth in Astronomy and Astrophysics in the New Millennium (AANM). Discussions followed between the Board on Physics and Astronomy and NASA and NSF that resulted in a request by the two agencies to prepare a short report addressing the points leading up to calls for the reexamination. The report was also to assess progress towards the vision set forth in the AANM and CQC studies. This letter report presents the result of that study. It reviews the context that led up to the request and the most exciting advances in astronomy and astrophysics and key technological developments since the AAMN report was published, and it provides an outlook for fulfilling the decadal vision of the two previous studies.

Opportunities in High Magnetic Field Science (BPA)

Released 01/14/2005

High-field magnets—those that operate at the limits of the mechanical and/or electromagnetic properties of their structural materials—are used as research tools in a variety of scientific disciplines. The study of high magnetic fields themselves is also important in many areas such as astrophysics. Because of their importance in scientific research and the possibility of new breakthroughs, the National Science Foundation asked the National Research Council to assess the current state of and future prospects for high-field science and technology in the United States. This report presents the results of that assessment. It focuses on scientific and technological challenges and opportunities, and not on specific program activities. The report provides findings and recommendations about important research directions, the relative strength of U.S. efforts compared to other countries, and ways in which the program can operate more effectively.

Sensor Systems for Biological Agent Attacks: Protecting Buildings and Military Bases (BMED)

Released 01/13/2005

Over the last ten years, there has been growing concern about potential biological attacks on the nation’s population and its military facilities. It is now possible to detect such attacks quickly enough to permit treatment of potential victims prior to the onset of symptoms. The capability to “detect to warn”, that is in time to take action to minimize human exposure, however, is still lacking. To help achieve such a capability, the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) asked the National Research Council (NRC) to assess the development path for “detect to warn” sensors systems. This report presents the results of this assessment including analysis of scenarios for protecting facilities, sensor requirements, and detection technologies and systems. Findings and recommendations are provided for the most probable path to achieve a detect-to-warn capability and potential technological breakthroughs that could accelerate its attainment.

Government/Industry/Academic Relationships for Technology Development: A Workshop Report (ASEB)

Released 01/18/2005

NASA’s Human Exploration and Development of Space (HEDS) program within the Office of Space Flight has proposed a new framework for space technology and systems development—Advanced Systems, Technology, Research, and Analysis (ASTRA) for future space flight capabilities. To assist in the development of this framework, NASA asked the National Research Council to convene a series of workshops on technology policy issues concerning the relationship of the various stakeholders in advancing human and robotic exploration and development of space. The second workshop, which is the summarized in this report, focused on the interrelationship between government, industry, and academia in the development of technology. Examples from Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, the Department of Defense, and the National Science Foundation were covered in order to discuss best practices of such cooperative efforts as possible lessons for NASA’s space exploration activities.

Review of Physical Science Proposals to the 2005 Wright Centers of Innovation Competition of the State of Ohio (ASEB)

The NRC was asked by the State of Ohio to 1) review proposals to three Ohio grants programs for 2005: the Biomedical Research and Technology Transfer (BRTT) Partnership Awards, the Wright Center of Innovation, and Eminent Scholars; 2) to conduct one- and two-year progress reviews of recipients of previously-made awards; and 3) organize a planning workshop to examine how to evaluate the Ohio Third Frontier Program. This report provides the response to part one. It presents the NRC assessment of how well submitted proposals met the award programs' evaluation criteria and priorities, and identified proposals that appeared to have the greatest merit for the state of Ohio to consider for possible funding.