ROSES 2016: Rapid Response and Novel Research in Earth Science | Apply Online

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - ROSES 2016: Rapid Response and Novel Research in Earth Science (NNH16ZDA001N)

1) What is this funding opportunity?

ROSES 2016: Rapid Response and Novel Research in Earth Science (NNH16ZDA001N) is part of NASA's annual ROSES (Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Sciences) solicitation managed by the Science Mission Directorate (SMD). It supports research and technology work that advances NASA space and Earth science goals.

2) What kinds of work does NASA want to fund under this opportunity?

The scope is intentionally broad and can include both basic and applied research. NASA highlights work that supports NASA science missions, improves use of NASA data, and enables new measurements, methods, and mission concepts. Projects can range from rapid analysis of existing datasets to multi-year efforts to develop instruments, mission-ready techniques, advanced modeling capabilities, or data systems.

3) Is the scope limited to Earth science only?

No. While it emphasizes Earth science (including rapid response and novel research in Earth science), the described scope also includes theory, modeling, and analysis of SMD science data across Earth science and other SMD-aligned domains.

4) What research approaches are included in the scope?

NASA indicates the scope covers theory, modeling, and analysis of SMD science data, as well as development work such as experimental techniques for future missions, early-stage concepts for future SMD missions, and advanced technologies that can be infused into NASA projects.

5) Does NASA support projects using specific types of observation platforms?

Yes. NASA calls out work using or supporting observations from multiple platforms, including aircraft campaigns, scientific balloons, sounding rockets, the International Space Station (ISS), CubeSats, and suborbital reusable launch vehicles.

6) Are field campaigns and Earth surface observations allowed?

Yes. On the Earth science side, the solicitation explicitly includes Earth surface observations and field campaigns when they help NASA interpret mission data or validate satellite-derived products.

7) Is laboratory and sample analysis work eligible?

Yes, when it directly supports NASA science. NASA notes that laboratory and sample analysis can be supported under ROSES when the work is tied to NASA science objectives.

8) Can proposals involve extraterrestrial samples returned by spacecraft?

Yes. NASA specifically mentions techniques and laboratory analysis for extraterrestrial samples returned by spacecraft, when that work supports NASA science.

9) Can proposals involve terrestrial samples?

Yes. NASA describes support for terrestrial samples used to ground-truth or verify remote observations from NASA Earth system missions.

10) What does NASA mean by "atomic and composition parameters" in this context?

NASA indicates that ROSES may support determination of atomic and composition parameters needed to interpret space-based measurements and returned samples, helping turn raw measurements into scientifically meaningful quantities.

11) Does the opportunity support Earth system models and applied information systems?

Yes. NASA calls out development of integrated Earth system models and systems that translate Earth science research outputs into societal applications, including applied information systems that make NASA data and results more usable for decision-making and public benefit.

12) How much funding is available per project?

Funding levels vary widely depending on the ROSES program element and type of work. NASA notes that smaller efforts may be under $100,000 per year, while larger projects (such as specialized science hardware or extensive development) can exceed $1 million per year.

13) How large are the budgets for individual ROSES program elements?

NASA indicates program element budgets can range from under $1 million to several million dollars. Depending on budgets, proposal quality, and priorities, an element may result in anywhere from a handful to several dozen awards.

14) What funding mechanisms can NASA use for awards?

NASA states that awards may be issued through multiple mechanisms, including grants, cooperative agreements, contracts, and inter- or intra-agency transfers. The mechanism used depends on the nature of the work, the type of organization proposing, and any program-specific requirements.

15) How long are awards expected to last?

Most awards are expected to run for about three years. Some program elements may allow shorter timelines, and others may permit periods up to five years.

16) Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility is broad. NASA indicates that organizations of essentially every type may apply, including domestic and foreign entities, government and private organizations, for-profit companies, and nonprofits.

17) Are teaming arrangements or partnerships allowed?

Yes. NASA notes there is no restriction on teaming arrangements.

18) Can non-U.S. organizations participate?

Yes, but NASA notes an important policy expectation: when non-U.S. organizations are involved, the collaboration is expected to be on a no-exchange-of-funds basis. In general, NASA will not transfer funding to the non-U.S. partner even if they contribute to the work.

19) How do we submit a proposal?

Proposals must be submitted electronically by an authorized organizational official. NASA allows submission through either NSPIRES (NASA's proposal system) or Grants.gov.

20) Is NSPIRES registration required even if submitting through Grants.gov?

Yes. NASA states that all organizations planning to submit must be registered in NSPIRES. Organizations submitting through Grants.gov must be registered in both NSPIRES and Grants.gov.

21) Do principal investigators and co-investigators need to register anywhere?

Yes. NASA requires that all principal investigators and other participants (including co-investigators) be registered in NSPIRES, regardless of whether the proposal is submitted via NSPIRES or Grants.gov.

22) Why does NASA recommend starting the registration process early?

NASA advises starting early because registrations and system familiarization can take time, and applicants should be prepared well ahead of any due date.

23) Where are the actual research topics, requirements, and deadlines defined?

They are organized as individual "program elements" within ROSES. NASA notes that these are described in the solicitation appendices, and program names and due dates are compiled in tables within the NRA.

24) What is the overall closing date, and how do element deadlines relate to it?

The overall opportunity listing shows a closing date of March 31, 2017. However, applicants must follow the due date for the specific program element they are targeting, since element deadlines can differ.

25) Can ROSES 2016 change after it is released?

Yes. NASA notes that new program elements and amendments may be issued through February 2017, and applicants are encouraged to monitor for updates.

26) How can applicants keep track of amendments and new elements?

NASA encourages applicants to monitor NSPIRES or subscribe to updates to stay informed about changes, additions, and amendments.

27) Where can applicants get help or ask questions?

NASA points to a ROSES-2016 FAQ page, lists program officers for each element, and provides a central contact for general policies and procedures through SMD research leadership at sara@nasa.gov (attention to Max Bernstein).