NASA: International Training and Integration Office Improving Interaction and Cooperation with the International Partners

Abstract

Abstract : As the trend towards globalization continues, international cooperation in space has become increasingly prevalent. Globalization has presented a new age of growth and shared prosperity through a more efficient allocation of resources making international cooperation more important now than ever before. As the capabilities of space-faring nations converge, the number of space capable nations increases, and space science projects become larger and more complex, international cooperation in space will be essential to the future of space exploration. According to Peter Smith with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) International Relations Division, More than 1,200 agreements with over 130 countries and international organizations have been negotiated by NASA in the past 30 years. The benefits of such cooperation have been monetary (more than $ 12 billion contributed or pledged), strategic (access to foreign expertise and facilities) and, of course, political. The downsides, however, include management complexity, technical and programmatic risk and, of course, political risks (Smith, 1999, page 1). International cooperation in space has significant advantages, but it can also present new problems and potential conflicts, many of which arise from cultural differences. NASA must be aware of these issues and have a means to limit or prevent these problems and conflicts from occurring so that it can be more successful in achieving its goals and objectives.