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The Systems Analysis and Concepts Directorate is located at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, VA and supports the future of aeronautics, exploration, space operations, and science.

We solve problems associated with aeronautics, exploration, and science by analyzing advanced aerospace system concepts for NASA decision makers and programs.

We design future concepts and analyze them in an operational context to determine systems level outcomes.

More about SACD’s Capabilities

Directorate Objectives

Mission, Concept, and Trade Analysis Studying and designing how the project's mission should function and be carried out
Life Cycle and Uncertainty Analysis Evaluating the impacts that design decisions have on a system and how it affects the system's life cycle
Technology Assessment and Portfolio Analysis Studying and designing how a project's mission should function and be carried out with regards to technology
Risk Analysis Identifying the likelihood and consequence of a potential future event

We do this by performing system analysis and working with other NASA centers, along with industry, academia, Department of Defense and other government agencies.

Together, we’re able to collaborate on programs and projects like On-Demand Mobility, Asteroid Robotic Redirect Mission, and the Space Launch System.

Branches

Aeronautics Systems Analysis

Space Mission Analysis Exploration

Space Mission Analysis Science and Technology

Vehicle Analysis

SACD Recognition

NASA Langley’s capability in Systems Analysis, Systems Engineering and Systems Architecture is essential in NASA’s journey to Mars.

Greg Williams

Deputy Associate Administrator for Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate

Robert Lightfoot

Former Acting NASA Administrator