Radio Frequency Identification Technologies: A Workshop Summary (CSTB)

Released 12/29/04

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology is gaining rapid acceptance as a means to track a wide array of manufactured objects. Currently, RFID technologies have shown promise in transportation (e.g., smart fare cards) and commerce (e.g., inventory control) for a variety of uses and are likely to find many new applications in both military and civilian areas if and when current technical issues are resolved. There are a number of policy concerns (e.g., privacy), however, that will become more crucial as the technology spreads. This report presents a summary of a workshop, held by the NRC at the request of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, to explore many of the key technical and policy issues. Several important themes that are likely to govern expansion of RFID technology emerged from the workshop and are discussed.

The Owner's Role in Project Risk Management (BICE)

Released 12/22/04

Effective risk management is essential for the success of large projects built and operated by the Department of Energy (DOE), particularly for the one-of-a-kind projects that characterize much of its mission. To enhance DOE's efforts in this area, the department asked the NRC to prepare a summary of the most effective risk management practices used by leading owner organizations. This report presents the results of that study. The report provides DOE's project managers with a basic understanding of both the project owner's risk management role and effective oversight of those risk management activities delegated to contractors. It presents a discussion of the steps in the risk management process, the elements of a proactive approach, and tools that can be used for risk management of one-of-a-kind projects.

Assessment of Defense Basic Research (AFSTB)

Released 12/14/04

The Department of Defense (DOD) supports basic research to advance fundamental knowledge in fields important to national defense. Over the past six years, however, several groups have raised concern about whether the nature of DOD-funded basic research is changing. The concerns include these: Funds are being spent for research that does not fall under DOD's definition of basic research; reporting requirements have become cumbersome and onerous; and basic research is handled differently by the three services. To explore these concerns, the Congress directed DOD to request a study from the National Research Council (NRC) as to determine if the programs in the DOD basic research portfolio are consistent with the DOD definition of basic research and with the characteristics associated with fundamental research. This report presents that assessment. It notes that the current basic research portfolio is largely consistent with the definition, but argues that the definition should change to include use-directed basic research. The report also has other findings and recommendations to improve the efficacy of the DOD-funded basic research.

Assessment of Options for Extending the Life of the Hubble Space Telescope (SSB, ASEB)

Released 12/08/04

The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) has operated continuously since 1990. During that time, four space shuttle-based service missions were launched, three of which added major observational capabilities. A fifth - SM-4 - was intended to replace key telescope systems and install two new instruments. The loss of the space shuttle Columbia, however, resulted in a decision by NASA not to pursue the SM-4 mission leading to a likely end of Hubble's useful life in 2007-2008. This situation resulted in an unprecedented outcry from scientists and the public. As a result, NASA began to explore and develop a robotic servicing mission; and Congress directed NASA to request a study from the National Research Council (NRC) of the robotic and shuttle servicing options for extending the life of Hubble. This report presents an assessment of those two options. It provides an examination of the contributions made by Hubble and those likely as the result of a servicing mission, and a comparative analysis of the potential risk of the two options for servicing Hubble. The study concludes that the Shuttle option would be the most effective one for prolonging Hubble's productive life.

Methodology for Estimating Prospective Benefits of Energy Efficiency and Fossil Energy R&D-Letter Report (BEES)

Released 11/22/04

Since its inception in 1977, the Department of Energy has invested substantial sums in energy efficiency and fossil energy R&D. To monitor its effectiveness, the agency and Congress have, over the years, pursued evaluation of these R&D programs that focuses on its cost and benefits. Such evaluation, however, is difficult and must incorporate the full range of public benefits as well as what might happen if that R&D had not been funded by the federal government. To help address these challenges, and at the direction of Congress, DOE asked the NRC to develop a methodology for evaluating the prospective benefits of its fossil energy and energy efficiency R&D programs. Such methodology can be used to evaluate program management and funding decisions on an ongoing basis. This letter report provides an overview of the studies approach and how it differs from retrospective studies of this R&D previously carried out by the NRC. A final report is expected to be completed in February 2005.

Getting up to Speed: The Future of Supercomputing (CSTB)

Released 11/08/04

Supercomputers play a significant and growing role in a variety of areas important to the nation. They are used to address challenging science and technology problems. In recent years, however, progress in supercomputing in the United States has slowed. The development of the Earth Simulator supercomputer by Japan that the United States could lose its competitive advantage and, more importantly, the national competence needed to achieve national goals. In the wake of this development, the Department of Energy asked the NRC to assess the state of U.S. supercomputing capabilities and relevant R&D. Subsequently, the Senate directed DOE in S. Rpt. 107-220 to ask the NRC to evaluate the Advanced Simulation and Computing program of the National Nuclear Security Administration at DOE in light of the development of the Earth Simulator. This report provides an assessment of the current status of supercomputing in the United States including a review of current demand and technology, infrastructure and institutions, and international activities. The report also presents a number of recommendations to enable the United States to meet current and future needs for capability supercomputers.

Review of the Science Requirements for the Terrestrial Planet Finder-Letter Report (SSB, BPA)

Released 10/27/04

The NRC, in its 2000 report, Astronomy and Astrophysics in the New Millennium, ranked the Terrestrial Planet Finder (TFP) project third among major NASA missions and sixth overall in its research priority recommendations to NASA for the coming decade. In January 2004, NASA asked the NRC for an updated assessment of the TPF mission. In April 2004, NASA also announced its intention to proceed with both coronagrahic and interferometric planet finder missions (TPF-C and TPC-I) on an accelerated schedule. This letter report presents the findings of that updated assessment in light of NASA's announcement. In it, the NRC concludes that the mission's goals are consistent with the 2000 report, but raises two primary concerns. First, the current schedule for TPF-C does not leave enough time for vital precursor missions, and second, proceeding with the TPF-C now would disrupt the scientific balance of NASA's space science portfolio.

Intelligent Sustainment and Renewal of Department of Energy Facilities and Infrastructure (BICE)

Released 10/25/04

A significant portion of the facilities and infrastructure (F&I) of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is more than 60 years old and has deteriorated to a point that threatens the ability of DOE to accomplish its missions. This problem has been of great concern to Congress for some time and in 2001, it directed DOE to contract with the NRC to evaluate steps being taken to improve facility and infrastructure management at the department. This report presents the results of that evaluation. It provides a review of current infrastructure management practices and organization at DOE; a discussion of challenges and opportunities for DOE's infrastructure management; and an analysis of key performance measures for infrastructure management including an example application of an integrated facility management system.

Systems Integration for Project Constellation (ASEB)

Released 10/21/04

With the announcement of the Vision for U.S. Space Exploration, NASA has formed a new Exploration Systems Enterprise charged with development of systems to be used in the exploration of the moon, Mars, and other destinations. A key component of that enterprise is Project Constellation which is responsible for all of the systems necessary for human exploration. It is essential that those systems be integrated effectively for the mission to succeed. To assist with this objective, NASA asked the NRC to assess the relative merits of seven approaches for systems integration. This letter report presents this assessment. It provides a list of 21 criteria for judging the capability of each of the approaches to succeed in this complex integration task, and ratings of how well each can fulfill those criteria.

Statistical Analysis of Massive Data Streams (BMSA)

Released 10/20/04

Massive data streams-large quantities of data that arrive continuously-are becoming increasingly commonplace in many areas of science and technology. Consequently development of analytical methods for such streams is of growing importance. To address this issue, the National Security Agency asked the NRC to hold a workshop to explore methods for analysis of streams of data so as to stimulate progress in the field. This report presents the results of that workshop. It provides presentations that focused on five different research areas where massive data streams are present: atmospheric and meteorological data; high-energy physics; integrated data systems; network traffic; and mining commercial data streams. The goals of the report are to improve communication among researchers in the field and to increase relevant statistical science activity.

Review of Proposals for NASA's Intelligent Propulsion Systems Foundation Technology (IPSFT) Program (ASEB)

Released 10/14/04

NASA requested the NRC to review technical proposals received by NASA for the Intelligent Propulsion Systems Foundation Technology sub-project (IPSFT). 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 adaptive control applications for gas turbine engines for commercial subsonic and supersonic aircraft. 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.

Summary of a Workshop on Software Certification and Dependability (CSTB)

Released 10/11/04

Certification of critical software systems (e.g., for safety and security) is important to help ensure their dependability. Today, certification relies as much on evaluation of the software development process as it does on the system's properties. While the latter are preferable, the complexity of these systems usually makes them extremely difficult to evaluate. To explore these and related issues, the National Coordination Office for Information technology Research and Development asked the NRC to undertake a study to assess the current state of certification in dependable systems. The study is in two phases: the first to frame the problem and the second to assess it. This report presents a summary of a workshop held as part of the first phase. The report presents a summary of workshop participants' presentations and subsequent discussion. It covers, among other things, the strengths and limitations of process; new challenges and opportunities; experience to date; organization context; and cost-effectiveness of software engineering techniques. A consensus report will be issued upon completion of the second phase.

The Role of Experimentation in Building Future Naval Forces (NSB)

Released 10/11/04

The Department of Defense is in the process of transforming the nation's armed forces to meet the military challenges of the 21st century. Currently, the opportunity exists to carry out experiments at individual and joint service levels to facilitate this transformation. Experimentation, which involves a spectrum of activities including analyses, war games, modeling and simulation, small focused experiments, and large field events among other things, provides the means to enhance naval and joint force development. To assist the Navy in this effort, the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) asked the NRC to conduct a study to examine the role of experimentation in building future naval forces to operate in the joint environment. This report presents that assessment. It provides an overview of the current situation, and offers a number of recommendations for improving Navy experimentation efforts and their contributions to future Naval forces.

Meeting the Energy Needs of Future Warriors (BAST)

Released 10/10/04

The central characteristic of the evolution of the combat soldier in recent years is an increasingly sophisticated array of sensing, communications, and related electronics for use in battlefield situations. The most critical factor for maintaining this evolution will be the development of power supply systems capable of operating those electronics effectively for missions up to 72 hours long. To address the challenge, it is important that new approaches be sought on how to integrate and power these electronics. To assist in addressing this problem, the Army requested the National Research Council to review the state of the art and to recommend technologies that will support the rapid development of effective power systems for the future warrior. This report presents the results of that review. It provides an assessment of various technology options for different power level requirements, power system design, and soldier energy sinks. The report also describes future design concepts, focusing on low-power systems. Recommendations for technology development and system design are presented.

Utilization of Operational Environmental Satellite Data: Ensuring Readiness for 2010 and Beyond (SSB, ASEB)

Released 10/07/04

The system of satellites in place to provide environmental data-data to monitor events such as forest fires and floods; to make weather predictions; and to assess crops, transportation impacts, fisheries, land-use patterns, sea temperature, and soil moisture, among other things- serves a wide and growing array of users. In the coming years as the next generation of operational environmental satellites in put in orbit, the will be a large expansion in data availability. To ensure that these data serve effectively this broad user community, a new vision for the future of operational environmental satellite data utilization is needed. To help develop approaches for handling this potential data overload, NASA, with technical support from NOAA, asked the NRC to conduct an end-to-end review of issues about the utilization of operational environmental satellite data for 2010 and beyond. This report presents the result of that review. It focuses on ensuring the value of environmental satellite data for addressing specific user needs, distribution of such data, and data access and utilization.

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

Released 10/05/04

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.

Computer Science: Reflections on the Field; Reflections from the Field (CSTB)

Released 10/04/04

The widespread presence of computers and related information technology in has helped obscure the nature of computer science research making that situation possible. Those outside the field tend to see computer science as a support tool and not as a major area of research. To help correct these perceptions, the National Science Foundation asked the NRC to conduct a study that would improve understanding of computer science research among the scientists, policymakers, and the general public and describe what the future might hold. This report presents the result of that study. The report is in two parts: the first is a description by the study committee of the key ideas lying at the core of computer science, and the second is a collection of essays describing aspects of computer science research and some of its results from the perspectives of the essays' authors.

Solar and Space Physics and Its Role in Space Exploration (SSB)

Released 10/2/04

In February 2004, the President announced a new goal for NASA; to use humans and robots together to explore the Moon, Mars, and beyond. In response to this initiative, NASA has adopted new exploration goals that depend, in part, on solar physics research. These actions raised questions about how the research agenda recommended by the NRC in its 2002 report, The Sun to the Earth and Beyond, which did not reflect the new exploration goals, would be affected. As a result, NASA requested the NRC to review the role solar and space physics should play in support of the new goals. This report presents the results of that review. It considers solar and space physics both as aspects of scientific exploration and in support of enabling future exploration of the solar system. The report provides a series of recommendations about NASA's Sun-Earth Connections program to enable it to meet both of those goals.

Comments on the FCC Notice for Proposed Rulemaking on Unlicensed Operation in the TV Broadcast Bands (ET Docket No. 04-186) and Additional Spectrum for Unlicensed Devices Below 900 MHz and in the 3 GHz Band (ET Docket No. 02-380) (BPA)

Released 09/07/04

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 prohibit transmissions of unlicensed devices on TV Channels 37 and Channels 52-69.

Accelerating Technology Transition: Bridging the Valley of Death for Materials and Processes in Defense Systems (NMAB, BMED)

Released 08/24/04

Accelerating the transition of new technologies into systems and products will be crucial to the Department of Defenses development of a lighter, more flexible fighting force. Current long transition times-ten years or more is now typical-are attributed to the complexity of the process. To help meet these challenges, the Department of Defense asked the National Research Council to examine lessons learned from rapid technology applications by integrated design and manufacturing groups. This report presents the results of that study, which was based on a workshop held to explore these successful cases. Three key areas emerged: creating a culture for innovation and rapid technology transition; methodologies and approaches; and enabling tools and databases.

Exploration of the Outer Heliosphere and the Local Interstellar Medium: A Workshop Report (SSB)

Released 08/23/04

A recent NRC report, The Sun to the Earth-and Beyond: A Decadal Research Strategy for Solar and Space Physics, and an internal NASA roadmap for its Sun-Earth Connection theme, left open a discussion of exploration of the outer heliosphere - the region near the boundary of the heliosphere and the local interstellar medium. To fill this gap, NASA asked the NRC to hold a workshop to investigate more completely the challenges and opportunities for space missions to explore this region. This report presents a review of that workshop. Four strategic directions were identified and are discussed - making use of existing assets, primarily Voyager and Ulysses; developing new outer heliosphere missions, using both in situ studies and remote observations; continuing support of theory and modeling; and preparing for Interstellar probe, including development of new propulsion technology.

Army Science and Technology for Homeland Security: Report 2-C4ISR (BAST)

Released 08/19/04

Shortly after the events of September 11, 2001, the U.S. Army asked the National Research Council (NRC) for a series of reports on how science and technology could assist the Army meet its Homeland defense obligations. The first report, Science and Technology for Army Homeland Security-Report 1, presented a survey of a road range of technologies and recommended applying Future Force technologies to homeland security wherever possible. In particular, the report noted that the Army should play a major role in providing emergency command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities and that the technology and architecture needed for homeland security C4ISR was compatible with that of the Army's Future Force. This second report focuses on C4ISR and how it can facilitate the Army's efforts to assist the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and emergency responders meet a catastrophic event.

Capturing the Full Power of Biomaterials for Military Medicine: Report of a Workshop (BMED, NMAB)

Released 08/17/04

Recent results in biomaterials R&D suggest that there are exceptional opportunities for these emerging materials in military medicine. To facilitate this possibility, the National Research Council convened a workshop at the request of the Department of Defense to help create a technology development roadmap to enhance military R&D into biomaterials technology. The workshop focused primarily on identifying useful near- and mid-term applications of biomaterials including wound care, tissue engineering, drug delivery, and physiological sensors and diagnostics. This report presents a summary of the workshop. It provides a review of biomaterials and their importance to military medicine, the roadmap, and a discussion of ways to enable biomaterials development. Several important outcomes of successful capture of potential benefits of these materials are also discussed.

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

Released 08/11/04

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.

Assessment of Options for Extending the Life of the Hubble Space Telescope-Interim Letter Report (SSB, ASEB)

Released 07/14/04

Following the loss of the Space Shuttle Columbia and subsequent to the report of the board created to investigate the accident, NASA, citing safety reasons, decided to limit shuttle flights to International Space Station missions and to investigate other options for extending Hubble's life. Congressional concern over this decision prompted it to ask for an independent assessment. In response the chair of the investigative board called for a study of the risks and benefits of using the shuttle for the servicing mission, and NASA subsequently asked the NRC for this study. This letter report presents preliminary findings and recommendations of that study. It urges NASA to commit to the servicing mission, notes that a proposed robotic mission would be quite complex and require significant development, and states that NASA should not preclude a shuttle servicing mission at this time. A final report will be released this fall.

Retooling Manufacturing: Bridging Design, Materials, and Production (BMED, NMAB)

Released 07/13/04

As the Department of Defense continues development of the future warrior system, the difficulty of moving rapidly from design to manufacturing for complex technologies is becoming a major concern. In particular, there are communication gaps between design and manufacturing that hinder rapid development of new products important for these future military developments. To help address those concerns, DOD asked the NRC to develop a framework for "bridging" these gaps through data management, modeling, and simulation. This report presents the results of this study. It provides a framework for virtual design and manufacturing and an assessment of the necessary tools; an analysis of the economic dimensions; an examination of barriers to virtual design and manufacturing in the DOD acquisition process; and a series of recommendations and research needs.

Letter Report: Lessons Learned from Workshop on Novel Approaches to Carbon Management (BEES)

Released 07/06/04

One approach to the problem of carbon dioxide buildup in the Earth's atmosphere is to develop novel ways to sequester CO2 before it enters the atmosphere or to accelerate its removal once it has. In order to determine whether this approach was feasible and practical, DOE asked the NRC help foster the identification of such novel concepts. A three-step project was launched to meet that request: a workshop on novel approaches; an evaluation of proposals in response to a DOE solicitation for developing such concepts; and an assessment of the process including lessons learned. The NRC delivered reports on the first two steps in April and September 2003, and this letter report presents the results of the last step of the project. The report presents an assessment of the workshop, the solicitation process, and the NRC role. In addition, recommendations are provided for improving the process for subsequent DOE carbon management initiatives

Science-Based Assessment: Accelerating Product Development of Combination Medical Devices (NMAB)

Released 07/02/04

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established testing centers for assessment of three categories of medical products; devices, biologics, and drugs. Increasingly, however, medical products are appearing that are combinations of more than one of those categories. The FDA is just beginning to develop procedures for evaluating such combination products, which pose new challenges for assessing efficacy and safety. The Roundtable on Biomedical Engineering Materials and Applications (BEMA) is an NRC activity that brings together relevant parties to discuss R&D, applications, and regulation of biomedical materials and devices. In 2003, BEMA held a workshop to discuss science-based assessment for evaluation of combination products. This report and accompanying CD present abstracts and viewgraphs of the talks given at that workshop. The workshop focused on three specific types of combination products: orthopedic repair using morphogenetic protein, drug-eluting stents, and cell-matrix cartilage implants. In addition, context-setting discussions of science-based assessment and experimental design were presented at the workshop.

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

Released 07/01/04

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.

Naval Forces' Defense Capabilities against Chemical and Biological Warfare Threats (NSB)

Released 06/28/04

U.S. naval forces must be prepared to respond to a broad array of threats. Of increasing importance are those from chemical and biological warfare (CW and BW). To help review its current state of preparedness, the Chief of Naval Operations asked the National Research Council (NRC) to assess the U.S. Navy's defense capabilities against CW and BW threats. In particular to what extent are they being developed to enable naval forces to sense and analyze quickly the presence of chemical and biological agents, withstand or avoid exposure to such agents, deal with contamination under a broad spectrum of operational conditions, and over what period will these capabilities be realized. This report presents the results of that assessment. It provides an overview of the potential threats, and an evaluation of the Navy's operations, non-medical programs, and medical countermeasures designed to confront those threats. The report also presents a series of general and specific findings and recommendations based on these assessments.

Review of US Air Force-supported Astronomical Research-Letter Report (BPA)

Released 06/30/04

The USAF operates a 3.67-meter optical/near-infrared telescope in Hawaii for observational purposes. It has many features that make it a desirable scientific instrument including being the largest optical telescope in the world equipped with adaptive optics. The Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) has made available a portion of the telescope's viewing time for scientific observations funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). To evaluate the effectiveness of the AFOSR/NSF program to date, the AFOSR asked the NRC to assess the quality of that scientific research, the scientific productivity of the program, and how well the research is taking advantage of the unique features of the facility. This letter report presents the results of that evaluation. The study concluded that the program should be continued, and the report presents a number of recommendations to improve the quality of that research.

Summary of the Sensing and Positioning Technology Workshop on Nanotechnology for the Intelligence Community (NMAB)

Released 06/21/04

The second activity performed by the NRC for the Intelligence Technology Innovation Center was a workshop to explore how nanotechnology might enable advances in sensing and locating technology. Participants at this workshop focused on tagging, sensing, and tracking applications of interest to the intelligence community. This report presents a summary of that workshop. In includes an overview of security technologies, and discussions of systems, natural chemical/biological tags, passive chemical/biological tags, and radio/radar/optical tags.

New Directions in Manufacturing: Report of a Workshop (BMED)

Released 06/08/04

The processes and techniques of manufacturing have changed substantially over the decades and that evolution continues today. In order to examine the potential impacts of these changes, the Department of Commerce asked the NRC to design a workshop to focus on issues central to the changing nature of manufacturing. The workshop brought together a number of experts to present papers about and to discuss the current state of manufacturing in the United States and the challenges it faces. This report presents the results of that workshop. Key challenges that emerged from the workshop and that are discussed include understanding manufacturing trends; manufacturing globalization; information technology opportunities; maintaining innovation; strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises; workforce education; and rising infrastructure costs.

Letter Report to the FBI (CSTB)

Released 06/08/04

This letter report presents a review of actions taken by the FBI that address many of the concerns discussed in the NRC report, A Review of the FBI's Trilogy Information Technology Modernization Program. That report was released in early May. After its release, the FBI noted that it had taken such steps and requested the NRC to review them in light of the recommendations and findings of the first report. In addition, Rep. Frank Wolf, chairman of the House Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriations, asked the NRC to undertake this follow-up study. The letter report presents the NRC assessment of those steps, noting where progress is apparent in addressing earlier concerns and where additional efforts are needed.

Stepping-Stones to the Future of Space Exploration: A Workshop Report (ASEB)

Released 05/27/04

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 first workshop, which is the topic of this report, focused on policy issues about the development and demonstration of space technologies. Four policy topics-selected by the project steering committee as the foci of this first workshop-are discussed in the report: the rationale for human and robotic space exploration; technology as a driver for capability transformation; risk mitigation and perception; and international cooperation and competition.

Maintaining High Scientific Quality at Los Alamos and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories (DEPS)

Released 05/17/04

In recent years, there has been concern about security and operations management at Los Alamos and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories (LANL and LLNL). As a result, Congress directed the Department of Energy (DOE) to hold open competitions for the management and operations (M&O) contracts for both LANL and LLNL. The quality of the scientific programs, however, did not appear to be a factor in that action, and the DOE's National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) wanted to ensure that the contract competitions preserve the high-quality science and engineering currently being performed at the labs. It asked the NRC to recommend how best the NNSA can create meaningful qualification and selection discriminators to help ensure world-class scientific quality is maintained in programs and activities at LANL and LLNL. This report presents those recommendations along with other important factors that should be considered in developing the request for proposals for the upcoming contract competition.

Opportunities to Improve Airport Passenger Screening with Mass Spectrometry (NMAB)

Released 05/10/04

Protection of the traveling public from terrorist threats involving explosives is a major goal of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). For 20 years, the TSA (and the Federal Aviation Administration before it) have been investing in technologies to meet that goal. To support that activity, the TSA has asked the NRC to assess a variety of technological opportunities for offering such protection. The NRC is approaching this assignment by issuing a series of reports on chosen technology applications. This is the first of that series and presents an assessment of mass spectrometry for enhanced trace detection (ETD) of chemicals contained in explosives. The report describes limitations of trace detection in general and the current technologies in particular. It then presents a discussion of the potential for mass spectrometry to improve EDT including challenges faced by such a system, recommendations for starting a program to take advantage of mass spectrometry, and recommendations for a phased implementation plan.

University Research Centers of Excellence for Homeland Security (DEPS)

Released 05/10/04

In establishing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Administration and Congress determined that science and technology should play a key role in the nation's efforts to counter terrorism. Congress included an S&T directorate prominently in the DHS. Within that directorate, is the Office of University Programs, which is responsible for sponsoring a number of homeland security centers of excellence in the nation's universities. These centers are to work on a spectrum of short- and long-range R&D and carry out crosscutting, multidisciplinary work on a variety of threats. To assist it in planning for these centers, TSA asked the NRC to hold a workshop to generate a broad range of ideas to draw on to help define the centers. This report presents the results of that workshop including the major ideas that emerged from the discussions.

Plasma Physics of the Local Cosmos (SSB)

Released 05/07/04

Solar and space physics is the study of solar system phenomena that occur in the plasma state. Examples include sunspots, the solar wind, planetary magnetospheres, radiation belts, and the aurora. While each is a distinct phenomenon, there are commonalities among them. To help define and systematize these universal aspects of the field of space physics, the National Research Council was asked by NASA's Office of Space Science to provide a scientific assessment and strategy for the study of magnetized plasmas in the solar system. This report presents that assessment. It covers a number of important research goals for solar and space physics. The report is complementary to the NRC report, The Sun to the Earth-and Beyond: A Decadal Research Strategy for Solar and Space Physics, which presents priorities and strategies for future program activities.

Summary of a Forum on Spectrum Management Policy Reform (CSTB)

Released 05/04/04

In 2003, the Department of Commerce's Spectrum Policy Initiative was established with the objective of promoting a more efficient and beneficial use of the spectrum. As part of that Initiative, a series of public forums about spectrum management policy was held. The Computer Science and Telecommunications Board was asked to organize one of these forums, a public forum to gather the views of a variety of government and private sector stakeholders about the impact of spectrum policy on their activities. This report presents a summary of those views. Among those included are those representing national defense, homeland security, aviation, science, public safety, amateur radio, cellular voice and data, and terrestrial broadcast uses of the spectrum. Although prepared by the NRC, the report does not present NRC findings or recommendations. A broader study of spectrum policy, including findings and recommendations, will be issued in early 2005.

Investments in Federal Facilities: Asset Management Strategies for the 21st Century (BICE)

Released 05/03/04

Facilities now owned by the Federal Government are valued at over $300 billion. It also spends over $25 billion per year for acquisition, renovation, and upkeep. Despite the size of these sums, there is a growing litany of problems with federal facilities that continues to put a drain on the federal budget and compromise the effectiveness of federal services. To examine ways to address these problems, the sponsoring agencies of the Federal Facilities Council (FFC) asked the National Research Council (NRC) to develop guidelines for making improved decisions about investment in and renewal, maintenance, and replacement of federal facilities. This report provides the result of that assessment It presents a review of both public and private practices used to support such decision making and identifies appropriate objectives, practices, and performance measures. The report presents a series of recommendations designed to assist federal agencies and departments improve management of and investment decision making for their facilities.

Comments to the FCC on Broadband Over Powerline Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ET Docket No. 03-104) (BPA)

Released 05/03/04

Comments to the FCC on Cognitive Radio Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ET Docket No. 03-108) (BPA)

Released 05/03/04

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. These reports are two in a series from the NRC 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. In the first report, CORF expresses its support of measures proposed by the FCC to protect existing users of the spectrum from emissions that might be present from broadband transmission over electric powerlines. In the second report, CORF argues that the basic vision behind cognitive radio-designed to seek unused portion of the spectrum for broadcasting-ignores the existence of passive spectrum users such as radio astronomy. Therefore, CORF argues that the FCC must retain measures to protect such users.

The FBI's Trilogy Information Technology Modernization Program (CSTB)

Released 05/11/04

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is in the process of developing a modern information technology (IT) system-the Trilogy program- that is designed to provide a high-speed network, modern workstations and software, and an application-the Virtual Case File (VCF)-to enhance the ability of agents to organize, access, and analyze information. Implementation of this system has encountered substantial difficulties, however, and has been the subject of much investigation and congressional concern. To help address these problems, the FBI asked the National Research Council (NRC) to undertake a quick review of the program and the progress that has been made to date. This report presents that review. The current status of four major aspects of the program-the enterprise architecture, system design, program management, and human resources-are discussed, and recommendations are presented to address the problems.

Response to National Telecommunication and Information Administration Spectrum Policy Review (BPA-CORF)

Released 04/02/04

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. This report presents the response of the National Academies to a Notice of Inquiry of the National Telecommunication and Information Administration about a number of issues including passive scientific use of the spectrum.

The Mathematical Sciences' Role in Homeland Security (BSMA)

Released 04/15/04

Mathematical sciences play a key role in many important areas of Homeland Security including data mining and image analysis and voice recognition for intelligence analysis, encryption and decryption for intelligence gathering and computer security, detection and epidemiology of bioterriost attacks to determine their scope, and data fusion to analyze information coming from simultaneously from several sources. This report (in a CD format) presents the results of a workshop focusing on mathematical methods and techniques for addressing these areas. The goal of the workshop is to help mathematical scientists and policy makers understand the connections between mathematical sciences research and these homeland security applications.

Evaluation of the National Aerospace Initiative (AFSTB)

Released 04/26/04

The National Aerospace Initiative (NAI) was conceived as a joint effort between the Department of Defense (DOD) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to sustain the aerospace leadership of the United States through the acceleration of selected aerospace technologies: hypersonic flight, access to space, and space technologies. The Air Force became concerned about the NAI's possible consequences on Air Force programs and budget if NAI program decisions differed from Air Force priorities. To examine this issue, it asked the NRC for an independent review of the NAI. This report presents the results of that assessment. It focuses on three questions asked by the Air Force: is NAI technically feasible in the time frame laid out; is it financially feasible over that period; and is it operationally relevant.

Comments on the Matter of Establishment of an Interference Temperature Metric to Quantify and Manage Interference and to Expand Available Unlicensed Operation in Certain Fixed, Mobile and Satellite Frequency Bands (BPA)

Released 04/04/04

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 establish a metric to manage interference in a more precise manner.

Letter Report of the Committee on Smaller Facilities (BPA)

Released 03/29/04

The Committee on Smaller Facilities is review the current state of small and mid-sized facilities for materials research in the United States at the request of NSF and DOE. Such facilities play a major role in materials research, but they are widely considered to be less than optimally developed or used. To address this concern, the NRC was asked to assess these facilities to help determine ways to use them more effectively. This letter report presents key topics that the committee will explore in depth to carry out this assessment. In particular, the study will assess the characteristics of successful smaller facilities and challenges they face. Recommendations will be provided to enhance the effectiveness of such facilities in performing materials research.

Steps to Facilitate Principal-Investigator-Led Earth Science Missions (SSB)

Released 03/22/04

Principal-investigator (PI) Earth science missions are small, focused science projects involving relatively small spacecraft. The selected PI is responsible for the scientific and programmatic success of the entire project. A particular objective of PI-led missions has been to help develop university-based research capacity. Such missions, however, pose significant challenges that are beyond the capabilities of most universities to manage. To help NASA's Office of Earth Science determine how best to address these, the NRC carried out an assessment of key issues relevant to the success of university-based PI-led Earth observation missions. This report presents the result of that study. In particular, the report provides an analysis of opportunities to enhance such missions and recommendations about whether and, if so, how they should be used to build university-based research capabilities.

Comments on IB Docket No. 02-10 Procedures to Govern the Use of Satellite Earth Stations on Board Vessels in Bands Shared With Terrestrial Fixed Service (BPA)

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. This report presents the response of the National Academies to the proposed rulemaking governing the use of satellite earth stations on board vessels in designated frequency bands. The proposed rulemaking would require protection of portion of one of those bands because of its use for radio astronomy. This measure is supported by CORF in the report.

Preliminary Assessment of DOE Facility Management and Infrastructure Renewal-Interim Letter Report (BICE)

Released 03/05/04

The report that accompanied the House-approved Energy and Water Development Appropriations for FY2003 (H.Rept. 107-112) directed the National Research Council to evaluate the steps being taken by DOE to improve its facility and infrastructure management. Specifically, the NRC was to assess DOE's facilities and infrastructure management practices; identify or develop "best practice" tools for DOE property management; develop guidelines for deciding when to repair, renovate, or replace facilities; and define performance metrics. This interim letter report presents the NRC's preliminary assessment of DOE facility management policies and procedures and its current renewal activities. Seven broad-based attributes that characterize the quality of an organization's facility management policies and practices were applied by the study committee in developing this assessment.

Army Explosive Destruction Units Offer Better Alternatives for Disposal of Pine Bluff Arsenal Non-stockpile Munitions (BAST)

Released 03/08/04

The U.S. Army is in the process of destroying its chemical weapons stockpile and related, non-stockpile chemical materiel. At the request of the Army, the National Research Council (NRC) has published a number of studies over the last 16 years providing scientific and technical advice on that disposal effort. For this study, the NRC was asked to assess the design of the facility at the Pine Bluff (Arkansas) Arsenal intended to dispose of a large amount of non-stockpile materiel, including 1250 recovered old chemical weapons. This is the first of a series of studies directed at reviewing and assessing the Product Manager for Non-Stockpile Chemical Materiel initiatives for destruction of this materiel. The report provides the results of the Pine Bluff assessment. It includes a description of the Pine Bluff facility; a discussion of worker and public safety; management issues; regulatory, permitting, and public involvement; and the role of alternative destruction technologies currently residing at the facility.

Comments on IB Docket No. 02-10: Procedures to Govern the Use of Satellite Earth Stations on Board Vessels in Bands Shared With Terrestrial Fixed Service (BPA)

Released 03/03/04

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. This report presents the response of the National Academies to the proposed rulemaking.

Progress in Improving Project Management at the Department of Energy: 2003 Assessment (BICE)

Released 02/20/04

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). This report, the 2003 Assessment, is the final one in that series. It presents an examination of DOE's progress in improving program management over the past three years including the Department's response to the recommendations of the previous assessments in this series. In addition to assessing DOE's progress, the report also describes opportunities for further improvement and gives a prognosis for future developments.

2003 Assessment of the Office of Naval Research's Marine Corps Science and Technology Program (NSB)

Released 01/23/04

The Office of Naval Research (ONR) funds research across a broad range of scientific and engineering disciplines in support of the Navy and Marine Corps. To ensure that its investments are serving those ends and are of high quality, ONR requires each of its departments to undergo annual review. Since 1999, the Naval Expeditionary Warfare Department of ONR has requested that the NRC conduct these reviews. This report presents the results of the second review of the Marine Corps Science and Technology program. The first review was conducted in 2000. The 2003 assessment examines the overall Marine Corps S&T program, the littoral combat future naval capability, the core thrusts of the program, and basic research activities.

Vehicle Systems Panel Report on Status of NASA's Vehicle Systems Program-Letter Report (ASEB)

Released 01/20/04

In November 2003, ASEB released a report, An Assessment of NASA's Aeronautics Technology Programs. After the release, NASA requested the NRC to reconvene the Panel on Vehicle Systems Program, which had been established as part of the study infrastructure for the report. Specifically, NASA wanted an evaluation of the progress made by the Program in formulating and directing its activities over the past nine months (since March 2003). This letter report presents the findings of that review. In almost all cases, the recommendations contained in this letter report, amplify and reinforce those contained in the full report.

Advanced Energetic Materials (BMED)

Released 02/02/04

Advanced energetic materials-explosive fill and propellants-are a critical technology for national security. While several new promising concepts and formulations have emerged in recent years, the Department of Defense is concerned about the nation's ability to maintain and improve the knowledge base in this area. To assist in addressing these concerns, two offices within DOD asked the NRC to investigate and assess the scope and health of the U.S. R&D efforts in energetic materials. This report provides that assessment. It presents several findings about the current R&D effort and recommendations aimed at improving U.S. capabilities in developing new energetic materials technology.

Opportunities in High Magnetic Field Science: Letter Report (BPA)

Released 02/05/05

In recent years the field of high magnetic field science has become increasingly important to other disciplines, including biology. In 2002, the National Science Foundation concluded that there was a need for an assessment of the field in the United States to set the stage for future planning. Accordingly, it requested that the NRC assess the current state and future prospects for high-magnetic-field science and instrumentation in the United States. This letter report provides a status report of that study. The letter report offers a brief assessment of the current position of the United States in this field and lists a series of questions that will be addressed in the final report.

Effects of Degraded Agent and Munitions Anomalies on Chemical Stockpile Disposal Operations (BAST)

Released 01/28/04

The U.S. Army is in the process of destroying its entire stock of chemical weapons. To help with stockpile disposal, the Army's Chemical Stockpile Disposal Program (CSDP), in 1987, asked the National Research Council (NRC) for scientific and technical advice. This report is one in a series of such prepared by the NRC over the last 16 years in response to that request. It presents an examination of the effect of leaking munitions (leakers) and other anomalies in the stored stockpile on the operation of the chemical agent disposal facilities. The report presents a discussion of potential causes of these anomalies, leaker tracking and analysis issues, risk implications of anomalies, and recommendations for monitoring and containing these anomalies during the remaining life of the stockpile.

The Hydrogen Economy: Opportunities, Costs, Barriers, and R&D Needs (BEES)

Released 02/04/04

The announcement of a hydrogen fuel initiative in the President's 2003 State of the Union speech substantially increased interest in the potential for hydrogen to play a major role in the nation's long-term energy future. Prior to that event, DOE asked the National Research Council to examine key technical issues about the hydrogen economy to assist in the development of its hydrogen R&D program. Included in the assessment were the current state of technology; future cost estimates; CO2 emissions; distribution, storage, and end use considerations; and the DOE RD&D program. The report provides an assessment of hydrogen as a fuel in the nation's future energy economy and describes a number of important challenges that must be overcome if it is to make a major energy contribution. Topics covered include the hydrogen end-use technologies, transportation, hydrogen production technologies, and transition issues for hydrogen in vehicles.

Setting Priorities for Large Research Facility Projects Supported by the National Science Foundation (COSEPUP, BPA)

In 1995, the National Science Foundation (NSF) created a special account to fund large (several tens of millions of dollars) research facilities. Over the years, these facilities have come to represent an increasingly prominent part of the nation's R&D portfolio. Recently concern has intensified about the way NSF is selecting projects for this account. In 2003, six U.S. Senators including the chair and ranking member of the Senate Subcommittee on VA, HUD, and Independent Agencies Appropriations expressed these concerns in a letter to the NRC asking it to "review the current prioritization process and report to us on how it can be improved." This report presents a series of recommendations on how NSF can improve its priority setting process for large research facilities. While noting that NSF has improved this process, the report states that further strengthening is needed if NSF is to meet future demands for such projects.

Issues and Opportunities Regarding the U.S. Space Program (SSB, ASEB)

Released 01/14/04

Ever since the completion of the Apollo program, there has been a lack of consensus about the future of human spaceflight. The Columbia tragedy in February 2003 rekindled public debate about this question. In November 2003, the Space Studies Board and the Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board organized a workshop to explore aspects of the question, what should be the principal purpose, goals, and priorities of the U.S. civil space program? This report presents a factual summary of that workshop, which identified past lessons learned and guiding principles for the future of the civil space program. Seven broad themes emerged from the workshop, and these themes are highlighted in the report. The report also presents discussions of strategies for the human spaceflight program and guiding principles of and boundary conditions for a 21st century space policy.

Summary of the Power Systems Workshop on Nanotechnology for the Intelligence Community (NMAB)

Released 01/16/04

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. The first of these was a workshop to explore technology opportunities and challenges in power systems that could be addressed by nanotechnology. This report presents a summary of that workshop. It includes an overview of power technologies and discussions on nanoscale properties of energy storage materials, device experience, manufacturing and material handling considerations, and natural power.