Budget and Timeline - Risk Assessment (page 1 of 2)
Definitions of Assessment Levels:
- Very Low – This component/subsystem is based on
technology that has a proven track record and is not expected to fail under
even unusual circumstances. The
component/subsystem has been subjected to thorough analysis and rigorous
laboratory testing in order to ensure operability in the desired environment.
- Low – This component/subsystem is based on technology
that has been tested in laboratory environments but may not yet have been used
in previous missions. Failure is expected to be unlikely, and deployable
technology is foreseeable in the near future.
- Moderate – This component/subsystem has been used in
laboratory testing but may not be ready for operation. Failure to produce a
viable technology in time for launch poses low threat to the mission, as
alternative technologies that may meet reduced mission requirements can be met.
- High – This component/subsystem may be somewhat
experimental but has been subjected to laboratory testing and demonstrated
promising, but not yet sufficient results to be considered for operation.
- Very High – This component/subsystem is highly
experimental and has not been lab tested or used in any prior missions.
Components and subsystems may be based on sound theoretical operation, but have
not been demonstrated. These technologies are not suitable for operation.
