Olivier de Weck
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
The Advanced Space Technology Roadmapping Architecture (ASTRA) project will develop and deploy a state-of-the-art methodology for space technology valuation and technology portfolio construction using both integrated modeling and simulation and rigorous Markowitz portfolio theory. ASTRA builds on the Commercial Space Technology Roadmaps (2016-2018) and will organically integrate with the new NASA technology taxonomy (TX01-TX17), the mission-driven NASA technology roadmaps as well as the TechPort database . The ASTRA methodology consists of four steps, each with its own guiding question: (1) Where are we today ?, (2) Where could we go ? (3) Where should we go?, and (4) Where are we really going? This culminates in Technology Investment Portfolio Valuation, Optimization and Selection. ASTRA enables prioritization of mission-specific and general technology investments in a rational way. This includes the identification of optimal timing and opportunities for synergy. ASTRA will be demonstrated and applied to the entire NASA technology portfolio over a period of 3 years using 5 case studies: Artemis, Mars Sample Return (MSR), Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope (formerly WFIRST), Earth Observation and Cross-Cutting Technologies. ASTRA will also support the annual NASA technology budgeting and prioritization process.