NASA’s Management of Its Radioisotope Power Systems Program

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Date Issued

Monday, March 20, 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-23-010

Report Description

NASA is developing advanced nuclear power system technologies, generally plutonium-238-based radioisotope power systems, to expand solar system exploration where conventional solar or chemical powered space flight is less effective. In this audit, we evaluated NASA’s management of the plutonium-238 it uses to power deep space satellite missions, nuclear power technology development, and the Program’s effectiveness in supporting NASA science missions.

Report Type

Audit

Location

NASA HQ, DC
United States

Glenn Research Center, OH
United States

Langley Research Center, VA
United States

Jet Propulsion Laboratory, CA
United States

Number of Recommendations

Questioned Costs

Funds for Better Use

Open Recommendations

This report has 9 open recommendations.

Recommendation Number	Significant Recommendation	Recommended Questioned Costs	Recommended Funds for Better Use
1	No	$0	$0
Create an RPS resource allocation and technology development strategic plan that includes an evaluation and mitigation of risks for each project through its completion and provide a communication plan to stakeholders and mission managers.
2	No	$0	$0
Conduct high quality, frequent, and routine self-assessment TRAs by project management beginning after the initial implementation of a technology development project as a basis for TRL assessment and risk management discussions.
3	No	$0	$0
Per Title 51 and NPR 7120.5F, recalculate the life-cycle costs for Next-Gen RTG and DRPS projects to include funding NASA provides to DOE.
4	No	$0	$0
Institute an EVM process for Next-Gen RTG and DRPS projects that conforms with NASA policy, FAR requirements, and industry best practices.
5	No	$0	$0
For Next-Gen RTG and DRPS development efforts that transition to a space flight project, execute a JCL analysis at the proper phases in accordance with NPR 7120.5F.
6	No	$0	$0
In coordination with DOE, develop a means for the RPS Program to obtain high-fidelity Pu-238 and fueled clad current and future inventory information.
7	No	$0	$0
Develop a means to quantify risk of future Pu-238 and fueled clad availability that can be communicated to NASA mission managers and incorporated into mission development proposals and plans.
8	No	$0	$0
Leverage the RPS Program’s existing business processes with its element structure to monitor fission technology development for SMD feasibility and educate stakeholders on the possibilities and differences.
9	No	$0	$0
Reevaluate the need and if appropriate reauthorize the organizational position of the Nuclear Power and Propulsion System Capability Leadership Team through the appropriate Mission Directorate and provide the Team responsibility for monitoring and advocating strategic nuclear power coordination across NASA.