Staffing Implications of Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System and Remote Sensing Activities

A review was requested of the staffing implications caused by introducing the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) on the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Goddard Space Flight Center. TDRSS will markedly change Goddard's operating mode using satellites for tracking and data acquisition suppport of low, earth-orbiting spacecraft. This support function is now conducted by a worldwide network of ground tracking stations which will be closed or transferred to other NASA organizations. NASA decided to consolidate and restructure its contracts with industry for operating the space tracking and data system and to transfer to industry certain work currently performed by civil service employees.