Earth Observing System: NASA's EOSDIS Development Approach Is Risky
IMTEC-92-24
Published: Feb 25, 1992. Publicly Released: Feb 25, 1992.
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Highlights
Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) development of the Earth Observing System Data and Information System (EOSDIS), focusing on: (1) EOSDIS use of prototyping to reduce system development costs and risks; (2) the extent to which EOSDIS may require technologies that are beyond the current state of the art; and (3) development strategy weaknesses that could prevent researchers from gaining access to and making optimal use of valuable and costly data.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| National Aeronautics and Space Administration | Given the significant technological risks inherent in the EOSDIS concept, the Administrator, NASA, should not award the planned EOSDIS Core System contract until specific plans have been developed and resources identified for: (1) prototyping the full range of critical system elements; and (2) guiding and accelerating research into key advanced technologies that will be essential for the system's ultimate success. |
Closed – Not Implemented
NASA does not believe that the EOSDIS contract should be delayed. NASA states that it will develop specific plans for prototyping once the contract is awarded.
|
| National Aeronautics and Space Administration | NASA should work to maximize cooperation with other federal agencies and earth science programs having data system experience in global change-related issues. |
Closed – Implemented
NASA has agreed to reexamine its activities and, if necessary, improve relationships with other federal agencies doing global change research. NASA is working with other agencies, especially NOAA, regarding global change-related data systems.
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Topics
Aerospace researchArchivesComputer networksComputer prototypesEarth resources satellitesEarth sciences data systemsEarth sciences researchInformation systemsSystems designScientists