Audit of NASA’s Deep Space Network

Date Issued

Wednesday, July 12, 2023

Submitting OIG

National Aeronautics and Space Administration OIG

Other Participating OIGs

National Aeronautics and Space Administration OIG

Agencies Reviewed/Investigated

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Report Number

IG-23-016

Report Description

NASA’s Deep Space Network transmits scientific and communications data between dozens of spacecraft and Earth. However, the network is oversubscribed with demand exceeding supply by 40 percent at times. While NASA is upgrading this critical infrastructure, the effort is costing more and taking longer than planned—challenges that could intensify as more “big data” missions like Artemis come online.

Report Type

Audit

Agency Wide

Yes

Number of Recommendations

Questioned Costs

Funds for Better Use

Open Recommendations

This report has 4 open recommendations.

Recommendation Number	Significant Recommendation	Recommended Questioned Costs	Recommended Funds for Better Use
1	No	$0	$0
Explore more efficient options for DSN scheduling, such as maintaining a list of DSN users by priority that is updated in real-time and accessible to all users.
2	No	$0	$0
Ensure completion of the DAEP's remaining antennas and transmitters and finalize requirements for the LEGS project.
3	No	$0	$0
Finalize international agreements, obtain appropriate clearances for installing the remaining 80 kW transmitters, and establish mechanisms to allow for greater oversight of DAEP project sites.
4	No	$0	$0
Explore options for utilizing commercial and international partners networks to offload excess demand from the DSN and to serve as backups in the event of network overages or outages.