Findings and Recommendations 



analyses, remote sensing, and data analysis. These systems will be essential in 

 realizing the potential of scientific returns from missions involving Earth ob- 

 servation and exploration of Mars, the outer planets, Titan, comets, asteroids, 

 and the Moon. 



• NASA should initiate the Microwave Observing Project (Search for Extraterres- 

 trial Intelligence) now, before radiofrequency interference makes it exceedingly 

 difficult or impossible to conduct the research from Earth. 



• NASA should pursue vigorous programs of ground-based research, remote 

 observations, and instrument development for use on missions to assess evi- 

 dence bearing on the possible origin of life on Mars and the nature of chemical 

 evolution on other solar system bodies. Knowledge gained in this program will 

 provide the scientific basis for future manned exploration of the planets. 



• NASA should develop the technology of robotic round trip, sample selection 

 and analysis, and sample return for exploration of the surface of Mars, aster- 

 oids, and comets. This effort should include precautions to avoid the spread of 

 contamination within the solar system. 



• NASA should significantly enhance the ground- and space-based research 

 capabilities and infrastructure (funding, personnel, and facilities) for planetary 

 biology in order to maintain the Agency's leadership role in planetary research, 

 implement the science strategies recommended by the NASA and NAS advi- 

 sory committees, and optimize the scientific return of future missions. 



Flight Programs 



The findings and recommendations given earlier in section 2, as well as those 

 presented in the discussions of section 3, identify the need for a series of flight 

 experiments designed specifically for life sciences research. The findings and 

 recommendations listed below make a similar point. The purpose of this repetition 

 is to emphasize the importance of increased flight opportunities for life sciences 

 experimentation, which is the primary research requirement identified in this 

 report. 



Findings 



• NASA has plans for advanced missions that will require long-duration space 

 flight. Such missions include extended space travel in low Earth orbit on the 

 Space Station and may ultimately involve missions requiring extended interplane- 

 tary travel, such as lunar colonies and voyages to Mars. Action is needed if NASA 

 plans to validate extended stay times for Space Station crews and to preserve its 

 options for piloted Mars missions. 



— The Agency's Life Sciences programs will play a central role in validating stay 

 times and in certifying crews for its advanced missions. 



— Life sciences research will need to develop countermeasures to factors that may 

 limit mission success, including physiological deconditioning, radiation haz- 

 ards, and issues related to crew psychology and crew-machine interactions. 



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