NASA, 13 Space Agencies Release Exploration Strategy Framework

May 31, 2007

Melissa Mathews/Michael Braukus
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-1272/1979

RELEASE: 07-126

NASA, 13 SPACE AGENCIES RELEASE EXPLORATION STRATEGY FRAMEWORK

WASHINGTON - NASA and 13 space agencies from around the world are
releasing the latest product of their Global Exploration Strategy
discussions. The document, "The Global Exploration Strategy: The
Framework for Coordination," reflects a shared vision of space
exploration focused on solar system destinations where humans may
someday live and work.

The framework document allows for the establishment of a voluntary,
non-binding mechanism by which space agencies can exchange
information on their respective space exploration plans. This
coordination mechanism will play a key role in helping to identify
gaps, overlaps and synergies in the space exploration plans of
participating agencies.

The framework document is an important step in an evolving process
toward a comprehensive global approach to space exploration. Although
the document is non-binding, its contents are consistent with ongoing
bilateral and multilateral discussions that NASA intends to lead to
cooperative agreements for specific projects. In addition to NASA,
representatives from agencies in Australia, Canada, China, the
European Space Agency, France, Germany, Great Britain, India, Italy,
Japan, Russia, the Republic of Korea and Ukraine participated in the
Global Exploration Strategy discussions. Many participants are
meeting this week in Spineto, Italy, to discuss the development of
the coordination mechanism and other issues.

The framework document is available at:

http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/178109main_ges_framework.pdf

To learn more about NASA's future space exploration plans, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/exploration

-end-

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