Contributions to Space Exploration: Global Objectives, Plans and Capabilities
- Paper number
IAC-07-E3.4.05
- Author
Ms. Lyn Wigbels, American Astronautical Society (AAS), United States
- Coauthor
Mr. Ian Pryke, George Mason University, United States
- Coauthor
Mr. Vincent Boles, United States
- Year
2007
- Abstract
While the U.S. Vision and its implementation is currently the most visible manifestation of space exploration, many other nations have programs and plans encompassing various aspects of exploration. In late 2006/early 2007, the American Astronautical Society (AAS) and the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), in conjunction with George Mason University (GMU), carried out a series of coordinated events concerning global space exploration objectives, plans and industrial capabilities. The events focused on the comprehensive range of plans, encompassing Moon and Mars programs and other missions and precursor research that contribute to space exploration overall. National space exploration objectives, plans and industrial capabilities were presented by a number of space agencies and commercial companies at a public seminar on November 1-2, 2006. Following the seminar, a data synthesis working group (AAS, AIAA and GMU) performed an independent assessment of the overall space exploration endeavor, and developed a model of a single integrated database of space exploration activities worldwide. An invitation-only workshop was held January 30 – February 1, 2007, to validate the synthesis activity through the performance of a “Proof of Concept exercise of the database in terms of its overall structure and mode of use. Approximately 35 invited invitees participated, including many speakers from the seminar and other experts from government, industry, academia and space associations. They addressed the value and utility of the database to both government agencies and the private sector within the overall context of global space exploration, including its use in the identification of gaps and in dealing with overlaps and strategic redundancies. An evaluation of what a Global Reference Architecture should look like and the role the database could play in its development was also undertaken. Workshop participants discussed the role the database could play in the future and the manner in which it should evolve to fulfill this role. The participants also discussed related public/private partnership topics. This paper will present the single integrated database and the major conclusions of the initiative including: acknowledgement of the utility of the database to both the government and the private sector; demonstration of how the database can be used to understand the overarching space exploration picture and for developing strategies, including partnerships; ideas on how an overall database involving both government and private sector elements should be constructed; necessity of stakeholder ownership of future development and utilization of the database; and attributes of a global reference architecture and its interaction with the database. A written report containing the single integrated database and initiative findings will be provided to space agencies and industry. This paper will summarize these and other activities undertaken pursuant to the initiative.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-07-E3.4.05.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.