Skip to main content
  • Click to open or close the program search boxShow Me Programs
    • Show me the programs that are
      performing Go
    • Show me the programs that are
      not performing Go
ExpectMore.govExpectMore.gov home pageEXPECT FEDERAL PROGRAMS TO PERFORM WELL, AND BETTER EVERY YEAR.
Program Assessment

Program

View Assessment Details

Space Shuttle

The purpose of the Space Shuttle Program is to operate and maintain NASA's three Space Shuttles. The Shuttles are reusable space launch vehicles that play a key role in the assembly and operation of the International Space Station.

Rating

What This Rating Means

PERFORMING
Adequate

This rating describes a program that needs to set more ambitious goals, achieve better results, improve accountability or strengthen its management practices.
  • NASA successfully flew the Space Shuttle in July 2005, but the Shuttle has not flown since due to safety concerns. NASA is working to return the Shuttle to flight as early as May 2006.
  • The cost of the Space Shuttle program rose more than expected during the program's effort to return the Shuttle to flight. This was partly due to problems the program's management had in collecting timely and credible information from the program and its partners.

Improvement Plan

About Improvement Plans

We are taking the following actions to improve the performance of the program:

  • Returning the Shuttle safely to flight and continuing to use it to support the International Space Station.
  • Retiring the Shuttle by 2010, following completion of its role in assembling the International Space Station.
  • Taking steps to improve programmatic and financial management and to better measure and improve the program's performance.

Learn More

The content on ExpectMore.gov is developed by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget and Federal agencies.