7. The case illustrates the phase-gate process. What are the phases and gates? Why do you think the program is managed in this way?

An example of program and project management at NASA is the hypothetical Mercury Exploration Program (MEP) for sending a series of three flyby space probes to the planet Mercury. All large space programs at NASA are divided into two phases, formulation and implementation, though details of the phases vary depending on the kind of program.41 Projects are also divided into phases, which also differ depending on the kind of project. The MEP consisted of several projects, including one for each of the three “Cosmic” space probes. These projects were divided into four phases: A, conceptualization; B, preliminary design; C, final design and fabrication; and D, launch and operation (Figure 18.7).
One of NASA’s long-range goals is to collect and analyze data about planets in the solar system.
The MEP was initiated when NASA scientists urged the director of Goddard Space Flight Center and director of Planetary Programs at NASA headquarters to approve a feasibility study for sending probes to Mercury to conduct geophysical measurements. The study, which initiated the formulation phase of MEP, would be directed at determining whether the program should be undertaken and, if so, determining the technical course of action and preparing a program plan.
A study team of NASA scientists and engineers was appointed by the Goddard director.