Management of the Astronaut Corps

To determine whether the size and recruitment efforts for the astronaut corps are based on valid mission requirements, reflect supportable space flight rates, and adequately account for the transition from flying the Space Shuttle to flying the Crew Exploration Vehicle.

Human Space Flight Transition Plan

To evaluate the effectiveness of the Agency’s implementation of the Human Space Flight Transition Plan, we will examine whether (1) NASA is meeting the Plan’s milestones and metrics and (2) the incurred transition costs are consistent with estimates.

SAFETY

Audit of NASA's Management of Ares I Human-Rating Requirements

To evaluate the management of the human-rating requirements for the Ares I Project, we will determine whether NASA adequately developed the human-rating requirements and incorporated them into the program and project plans.

Safety and Mission Assurance Audits

To determine the effectiveness of the Safety and Mission Assurance audit program, we will evaluate whether (1) those audits provide objective and constructive assessments of Center safety practices and (2) adequate followup is conducted on the corrective actions taken in response to audit findings and recommendations.

Crew Exploration Vehicle Safety and Human Rating Requirements

To evaluate the effectiveness of NASA’s process for generating safety and human rating requirements for the Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) project, we will review the Constellation Program’s incorporation of Agency requirements in the design of the CEV.

ACQUISITION AND CONTRACTING

Expendable Launch Vehicles

To determine whether NASA’s Launch Services Program provides reliable, cost-effective, and timely processing for Expendable Launch Vehicle (ELV) missions, we will review the acquisition strategy and program cost for those missions and evaluate whether contractors are meeting requirements at the cost and timeframes established by the contract.

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

Exchange and Morale Support Activities

To evaluate whether the Agency is providing adequate oversight of its exchange and morale support activities. In addition, we will assess compliance with applicable Federal regulations and NASA policies and procedures.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SECURITY

Integrated Enterprise Management Program - Aircraft Management Module Controls

To determine whether the Aircraft Management Module provides adequate assurance that aircraft operations data is safe and secure.

Internet Protocol Version 6 Transition and Security Controls of the NASA Integrated Services Network Backbone

To determine whether NASA appropriately transitioned the NASA Integrated Services Network Backbone to Internet Protocol Version 6 and implemented adequate IT security controls to safeguard and protect the network from unauthorized access, in accordance with OMB.

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