Notice of Availability of a Draft NOAA/NESDIS Commercial Space Activities Assessment Process

On January 8, 2016, NOAA released the NOAA Commercial Space Policy. Consistent with that policy, the Draft National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS) Commercial Space Activities Assessment Process identifies the NESDIS process for engagement with the commercial sector by which NESDIS will assess and pursue commercial opportunities to support NOAA's space-based observational information requirements. In order to ensure consideration of a broad range of ideas for optimal methods of engaging with the commercial sector, NESDIS seeks comments on the Draft NESDIS Commercial Space Activities Assessment Process. Through http:// www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=NOAA-NESDIS-2015-0132, the public can view the Draft NESDIS Commercial Space Activities Assessment Process, submit ideas, review submissions from other parties, and make comments. All comments are welcome. In particular, NOAA would like comments on the following areas: What contractual or other mechanisms could NOAA use to work with commercial sector data providers beyond traditional acquisition approaches? What steps should NOAA take to consider the long-term viability of a commercial data provider prior to an operational data purchase? What are the key aspects of demonstration projects that allow the commercial sector to gain necessary insights? What are the key aspects of demonstration projects that would allow NOAA to perform the necessary data validation for the continued success of NOAA's public safety mission?