A Management Model for International Participation in Space Exploration Missions

This paper proposes an engineering management model for NASA’s future space exploration missions based on past experiences working with the International Partners of the International Space Station. The authors have over 25 years of combined experience working with the European Space Agency, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Canadian Space Agency, Italian Space Agency, Russian Space Agency and their respective contractors in the design, manufacturing, verification and integration of their elements electric power system into the United States on-orbit segment. The perspective presented is one from a specific sub-system integration role and is offered so that the lessons learned from solving issues of technical and cultural nature may be taken into account during the formulation of international partnerships. Descriptions of the types of unique problems encountered relative to interactions between international partnerships are reviewed. Solutions to the problems are offered, taking into consideration the technical implications. Through the process of investigating each solution, the important and significant issues associated with working with international engineers and managers are outlined. Potential solutions are then characterized by proposing a set of specific methodologies to jointly develop spacecraft configurations that benefits all international participants, maximizes mission success and vehicle interoperability while minimizing cost. I. Introduction e are now in the partnership formulation period of time for the upcoming space exploration activities known now as the beginning of the Journey. Therefore, it is appropriate to present a technical perspective for consideration of the various committees which will guide the creation of future international partnerships. The authors’ technical viewpoints are based on experiences while working on the electrical power system for the International Space Station (ISS) and with some of the International Partners (IPs). We hope to provide insight to the organizations responsible for the overall program planning which, perhaps unknowingly, have profound effects on the design, cost and operation of potential spacecraft even at these early stages. This paper does not intend to address the establishment of accords and the political framework for international cooperation needed for future missions. The recent American Institute for Aeronautics and Astronautics’ 7 th Workshop on International Space Cooperation held May 3‐6, 2004 and others have addressed the continuing discussion on international cooperation at the top level. The authors have gained valuable experience working on the day-to-day level with the IP agencies and engineers. The obvious language and cultural differences have provided tremendous educational opportunities. Understanding other management structures, design processes, manufacture methods and verification approaches has broadened our appreciation for the accomplishments already made in building the ISS and increases our appreciation of the complexities necessary to achieve joint interplanetary travel.