This report addresses the major performance and management challenges that have limited the effectiveness of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in carrying out its mission. It also addresses corrective actions that NASA has taken or initiated on these challenges, including the progress the agency has made in evaluating its field centers' procurement activities based on international quality standards and its own procurement surveys. Since 1990, we have identified a number of significant management problems at NASA. These problems are the results of serious deficiencies in financial management systems, continuing threats to the International Space Station Program that translate into higher program costs, and a lack of closure in the implementation of cooperative efforts with the Department of Defense regarding aerospace test facilities.

"Research problems are presented under the following twelve categories: (I) vehicle performance, (II) vehicle structures, (IIl) vehicle power plants, (IV) fire hazards, (V) environment, (VI) stability and control, (VII) air traffic control and communication, (VIII) collision avoidance, (IX) instrumentation, (X) medical and human factors, (XI) crashworthiness, and (XII) community relations. Specific recommendations of research studies needed in each of the categories are given first. In appendix A the research problem areas are reviewed and discussed."--P. [1].

National Aeronautics & Space Administration (Nasa) Background, Issues, Bibliography

Congress asked GAO to testify on the status of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) financial management reform efforts. NASA faces major financial management challenges that, if not addressed, will weaken its ability to manage its highly complex programs. NASA has been on GAO's high-risk list since 1990 because of its failure to effectively oversee its contracts, due in part to the agency's lack of accurate and reliable information on contract spending. GAO's statement focuses on (1) NASA's key financial management challenges, (2) how NASA's financial management challenges compare with other federal agencies, (3) GAO's assessment of NASA's progress toward implementing recommendations aimed at improving its financial management system, and (4) the steps NASA must take to reform its financial management organization. In its related report, released today, GAO recommends that NASA develop an integrated enterprise master schedule and milestones--including improvement activities and plans, dates for completion, performance measures, and clear accountability.