As the NASA Center of Excellence for Launch and Payload Processing Systems and launching space missions, the John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is placing increasing emphasis on advanced technology development. KSC’s dual mission includes spaceport and range technologies as well as space launch operations. To focus our technology development efforts, we have created a Spaceport Technology Center initiative with a portfolio of technology developments that will assist us in improving Space Transportation System safety, reducing the cost of access to space, and enabling greater commercial success of our space launch industry. Our technology development activities encompass the efforts of the entire KSC team, consisting of Government and contractor personnel working in partnership with academic institutions and commercial industry.This KSC Research and Technology 2002 Annual Report demonstrates these contributions to the KSC mission.

Dr. Dave Bartine, KSC Chief Technologist, (321) 867-7069, is responsible for publication of this report and should be contacted for any desired information regarding the Spaceport Technology Center initiative.