Review of the Draft 2014 Science Mission Directorate Science Plan

NASA's Science Mission Directorate (SMD) is engaged in the final stages of a comprehensive, agency-wide effort to develop a new strategic plan at a time when its budget is under considerable stress.

SMD's Science Plan serves to provide more detail on its four traditional science disciplines - astronomy and astrophysics, solar and space physics (also called heliophysics), planetary science, and Earth remote sensing and related activities - than is possible in the agency-wide Strategic Plan. Review of the Draft 2014 Science Mission Directorate Science Plan comments on the responsiveness of SMD's Science Plan to the National Research Council's guidance on key science issues and opportunities in recent NRC decadal reports.

This study focuses on attention to interdisciplinary aspects and overall scientific balance; identification and exposition of important opportunities for partnerships as well as education and public outreach; and integration of technology development with the science program.

The report provides detailed findings and recommendations relating to the draft Science Plan. Table of ContentsFront MatterSummary1 Introduction2 Responsiveness to NRC Guidance3 Interdisciplinary Aspects4 Opportunities for Partnerships5 Education and Public Outreach6 Integration of Technology Development with the Science Program7 Alignment With the SMD Strategic Planning Process8 Readability and Clarity of Presentation9 ConclusionsA--Letter of RequestB--Factual Errors and Other Minor IssuesC--Summary of Prior NRC Reviews of NASA Science And Earth SciencePlans