230 



QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FOR THE RECORD 



Mr. Kenneth S. Pedersen 



You mention In your testimony how NASA takes Into account technology trans- 

 fer considerations In Its selection, definition and Implementation of Joint 

 projects so that we do not Jeopardize either our national security Inter- 

 ests or the competitive position of U.S. Industry. Do similar restrictions 

 apply when, for example, we collaborate with the European Space Agency? 



The process of selecting, defining and implementing all of our joint pro- 

 jects Includes careful attention to the technology transfer consideration. 



What roles do nongovernmental organizations, such as professional societies 

 or various National Academies play In the development, implementation, and 

 funding of NASA's International space programs? Should they or can they do 

 more? 



NASA has no separate approach or budgetary line item for its International 

 programs; rather, foreign scientists and engineers may participate in NASA- 

 funded programs. As a result, non-governmental organizations play essenti- 

 ally the same role whether or not a program has international involvement. 

 NASA's international programs are Identified first on the basis of scien- 

 tific and technical value and are reviewed by advisory committees such as 

 the Space Science Board of the National Academy of Sciences. In addition, 

 non-governmental organizations assist In planning for future international 

 programs by providing a forum for discussions of potential scientific 

 goals. For example, the National Academy of Sciences summer study on fu- 

 ture space activities at Woods Hole last year and again this year involves 

 scientific expertise from abroad so that the International dimension is 

 fully explored. Professional societies and associations, such as the Amer- 

 ican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, also provide for a scienti- 

 fic, technical and even philosophical discussions of international issues 

 among representatives of government, industry and academla from around the 

 world. All of these are helpful to NASA In formulating its program plans 

 and that is the most appropriate role for non-governmental organizations. 

 As far as development, implementation and funding are concerned, non-gov- 

 ernmental organizations are organizations are involved in recommending 

 priorities and levels of funding. In summary, we believe the activities of 

 non-governmental organizations are at an appropriate level and do not need 

 to be Increased. 



