Braun: Launch, Risk Tolerance Key Factors in Space Science Mission Costs

Braun: Launch, Risk Tolerance Key Factors in Space Science Mission Costs

As NASA’s space science program faces an uncertain funding future, the director of one of the country’s top space science laboratories cites lower launch costs, higher risk tolerance for robotic missions, and technological advancements as factors that could help the balance sheet. But keeping a steady cadence of competed missions in the Discovery and New Frontiers series is critical for the planetary science ecosystem. Robert “Bobby” Braun, head…