Activity

Review of NASA's Bioastronautics Critical Path Roadmap (BCPR)

Type:

Consensus Study

Topic(s):

Biomedical and Health Research, Public Health, Select Populations and Health Disparities

Board(s):

Board on Health Sciences Policy

Activity Description

In response to a request from NASA, the Institute of Medicine (IOM), in collaboration with the National Academies' Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences (DEPS), conducted a review of NASA's Bioastronautics Critical Path Roadmap (BCPR).

The study focused on the content and processes currently used for communication, assessment, management, and implementation of the roadmap with respect to bioastronautics research for the missions contemplated in the President’s exploration initiative: extended human expeditions to the moon beginning between 2015-2020 and later human missions to Mars.

Results of the study included:

1. a comprehensive assessment and report of the strengths and weaknesses of the content and processes of the Bioastronautics Critical Path Roadmap as applied to the missions laid out in the President’s exploration initiative; and
2. identification of unique challenges for accomplishing its goals and objectives.