1. Visions and Voyages: The Planetary Decadal Survey
17 Nov 2017

2. History
Before 2003, NASA received individual reports from scientists to guide their mission selection
These covered broad areas, but did not prioritize between them
Now NASA receives a report every 10 years that sets the proposed comprehensive scientific strategy
The National Academies rely on the community of scientists to write these reports
Their recommendations are the most likely missions to be undertaken, if the Congress and administration provide the funds

3. 2013 recommendations: Small, Medium and Large Missions
2 Flagship missions: MAX-C and Jupiter-Europa Orbiter
New Frontiers 4 and 5
Continued Discovery missions
Research and Analysis
New Technology

21. Summary
Every 10 years, the National Academies gives NASA advice on the progress and priorities in planetary science, astrophysics, earth sciences and heliophysics
After 5 years, the academies give a ‘mid-term review’, now in progress
NASA generally follows the plan, but adjusts for budget, new discoveries, congressional input: this involves starting ‘flagship’ missions; plus evaluating and selecting ‘competed’ missions for ‘Discovery’ and ‘New Frontiers’
Problems: Plan is too costly; Focus on Mars puts other activities at a lower priority