NASA models and simulations (M&S)
Simulated SLS Block 1 Ascent Flowfield Ames Research Center

Simulated SLS Block 1 Ascent Flowfield Ames Research Center

Thermal Model of James Webb Space Telescope Goddard Space Flight Center

Thermal Model of James Webb Space Telescope Goddard Space Flight Center

Simulated Space Environments Johnson Space Center

Simulated Space Environments Johnson Space Center

Space Launch Systems & Orion Pad 39B Kennedy Space Center

Space Launch Systems & Orion Pad 39B Kennedy Space Center

Acoustic Pressure Contours from a Gulfstream Aircraft Landing Langley Research Center

Acoustic Pressure Contours from a Gulfstream Aircraft Landing Langley Research Center

Welcome

Welcome to the NASA models and simulations (M&S) external collaboration website.
The purpose of this website is:

  • To communicate and promote NASA’s general best practices in the development and use of M&S.
  • To extend an invitation to collaborate on these and other best practices that help substantiate credibility in M&S results or experiences.
  • To encourage and support informal discussion (nothing binding) in the spirit of academic freedom.

The primary goal of any model or simulation is to produce (or enable) a credible result or user/customer experience, which is the central theme of the NASA Standard for Models and Simulations, NASA-STD-7009. Supporting M&S Results Credibility requires some amount of discipline throughout the Real World System and M&S Life Cycles, from conception through development, release, and use.

The three general phases of the M&S Life Cycle are indicated below.  Key aspects (features) supporting credibility are contained therein.

NASA models and simulations (M&S)
M&S Planning
The primary aspects of M&S Planning are:
  • Understanding the M&S life Cycle in the context of the Real World System Life Cycle
  • Understanding the M&S Criticality (in application or use)
  • Articulating the M&S Intended Use
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M&S Development
Beginning with the understanding and framework provided from planning, M&S development consists of:
  • Finalizing the M&S requirements
  • Designing the M&S, which is to be formally reviewed (conceptually validated)
  • Implementing the M&S
  • Testing (verifying & validating) the M&S
  • Releasing the M&S, along with a set of documented permissible uses and a user’s guide
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M&S Use
After an M&S is released, M&S Use consists of:
  • Understanding the M&S life Cycle in the context of the Real World System Life Cycle
  • Understanding the M&S Criticality (in application or use)
  • Articulating the M&S Intended Use
Learn More