The NASA Experience in Aeronautical R&D: Three Case Studies with Analysis
Abstract
Recent policy studies have failed to provide adequate guidance for planning and evaluating the nation's program of aeronautical research and development (R&D). In particular, the government's use of experimental systems to bridge the gap between laboratory research and operational systems remains controversial. This thesis used retrospective examinations of NASA's work in aircraft noise reduction, powered-lift technology, and hypersonic flight technology to analyze the impact and effectiveness of such programs under four general circumstances that may justify government involvement in a market-driven economy. It concludes that the NASA proof-of-concept program has had mixed results, with technical goals more successfully accomplished than policy goals. The public benefits of the successes, however, far outweigh the costs of the disappointments. The thesis concludes that such demonstration programs in aeronautical R&D should continue, with a series of analytical and institutional changes to couple them more closely with policy goals.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA211486
Entities
People
- John S. Langford Iii
Organizations
- Institute for Defense Analyses