Visions and Voyages: The Planetary Decadal Survey 17 April 2018

April 2018 Update VP Mike Spence spoke in Colorado Springs yesterday Europa Clipper latest: Which launch vehicle?

History Before 2003, NASA received individual reports from scientists to guide their mission selection These covered broad areas, but did not prioritize between them Now NASA receives a report every 10 years that sets the proposed comprehensive scientific strategy The National Academies rely on the community of scientists to write these reports Their recommendations are the most likely missions to be undertaken, if the Congress and administration provide the funds

2013 recommendations: Small, Medium and Large Missions 2 Flagship missions: MAX-C and Jupiter-Europa Orbiter New Frontiers 4 and 5 Continued Discovery missions Research and Analysis New Technology

Summary Every 10 years, the National Academies gives NASA advice on the progress and priorities in planetary science, astrophysics, earth sciences and heliophysics After 5 years, the academies give a ‘mid-term review’, now in progress NASA generally follows the plan, but adjusts for budget, new discoveries, congressional input: this involves starting ‘flagship’ missions; plus evaluating and selecting ‘competed’ missions for ‘Discovery’ and ‘New Frontiers’ Problems: Plan is too costly; Focus on Mars puts other activities at a lower priority