NASA recently shared its response to the findings and recommendations from an Independent Review Team (IRT) commissioned to evaluate the operations of the International Space Station (ISS) U.S. National Laboratory and its managing entity, the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS). In its response to the IRT’s report, NASA laid out action items, including the identification of an ISS National Lab program executive at NASA Headquarters to serve as the primary liaison to CASIS. Earlier this week, NASA announced that Dr. Alex MacDonald, the agency’s chief economist, will serve in that role. CASIS appreciates the efforts of the IRT and looks forward to working with Dr. MacDonald to maximize use of the ISS for research breakthroughs that improve life on Earth and that strengthen the foundation for a robust low Earth orbit economy.
“We recognize that modifications in the current model of the ISS National Lab are necessary for continued success and maximization of the return on investment for the American people,” said CASIS Chief Operating Officer and NASA Liaison Ken Shields. “The entire CASIS management team and staff welcome the opportunity to work with Dr. MacDonald, NASA, and other stakeholders in swiftly implementing many important changes to how the ISS National Lab will operate moving forward.”
The CASIS board of directors, management, and staff are committed to utilizing the ISS National Lab to its fullest capacity, and the team is honored to work with each of our partners to expand U.S. leadership in commercial space, foster scientific discovery and technological innovation, and inspire the next generation of leaders and explorers. The CASIS team looks forward to sharing our progress with you in the future
About the International Space Station (ISS) U.S. National Laboratory: In 2005, Congress designated the U.S. portion of the ISS as the nation’s newest national laboratory to optimize its use for improving quality of life on Earth, promoting collaboration among diverse users, and advancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. This unique laboratory environment is available for use by non-NASA U.S. government agencies, academic institutions, and the private sector. The ISS National Lab manages access to the permanent microgravity research environment, a powerful vantage point in low Earth orbit, and the extreme and varied conditions of space.
