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DHS and NASA Sign Technology Agreement

Release Date: 12/07/05 00:00:00

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: 202-282-8010
December 7, 2005

Under Secretary for Science and Technology Dr. Charles McQueary joined NASA's Assistant Administrator David Saleeba in signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today to collaborate and coordinate on appropriate research and development projects.  The agreement allows the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology directorate and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to share expertise and technologies to the benefit of both agencies and the public they serve.

“We are pleased to partner with an institution such as NASA with a long tradition of innovative, exceptional research,” said Under Secretary McQueary.  “When the same technologies that keep us one step ahead of terrorists can also support the diverse technical needs of NASA’s missions, we better serve the nation by sharing efforts.”  

The Memorandum of Understanding provides a mechanism for DHS and NASA to coordinate on the evaluation of existing technologies, acceleration of promising technologies, undertaking joint research and development, sharing resources and personnel, and working with the private sector and other public agencies in joint programs.  The agencies will share information, leverage U.S. government resources and assets, and promote best practices.  

"It's with great pride that NASA offers the talents of its world class researchers and engineers to assist DHS in its mission," said NASA's David Saleeba. "The people that have placed rovers on Mars, looked into deep space with telescopes, and plan human research installations on the moon now will have the opportunity to help protect the country."

Each project will be defined by an Implementing Agreement outlining specific terms.  Such agreements will provide for the use of facilities, personnel, and transfer of funds, as appropriate, and will be consistent with the laws and regulations that govern the activities of both agencies.

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This page was last reviewed/modified on 12/07/05 00:00:00.