NASA Procedures and Guidelines
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NPR 8621.1 Eff. Date: June 02, 2000 Cancellation Date: February 11, 2004	NASA Procedures and Guidelines for Mishap Reporting, Investigating, and Recordkeeping
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TO: (Distribution. See Attachment A.)

FROM: (Appointing Official)

SUBJECT: Appointment of (Mission Failure Mishap or Mishap) Investigation Board for (Title)

This memorandum establishes the (title) Investigation Board and sets forth its responsibilities and membership.

1. Introduction/Background
(Briefly explain the mission and the failure/mishap being investigated.)
2. Establishment
1. The (title) Investigation Board is hereby established in the public interest to gather information, conduct necessary analyses, and determine the facts of the (mission failure or mishap). The board will determine the cause(s) of the (mission failure mishap or mishap). The board will also recommend preventative measures and actions to preclude recurrence of a similar mishap.
2. The chairperson of the board will report to the (Appointing Official or designee).

3. Authorities and Responsibilities
1. The Board will:
1. Obtain and analyze whatever evidence, facts, and opinions it considers relevant. The board will use reports of studies, findings, recommendations, and other actions by NASA officials and contractors. The board may conduct inquiries, hearings, tests, and other actions it deems appropriate. The board may take and receive statements from witnesses.
2. Impound property, equipment, and records as necessary.
3. Determine the actual cause(s) or if unable, determine probable cause(s) of the (title) (mission failure mishap or mishap), and document and prioritize their findings in terms of (a) the dominant root cause(s) of the mishap, (b) contributing root cause(s), and (c) significant observation(s).
4. Develop recommendations for preventive or other appropriate actions.
5. Provide a final written report to (Appointing Official) by (date) and in the format specified in NPG 8621.1.
6. Provide a proposed lessons learned summary and a proposed corrective action implementation plan.
7. Perform any other duties that may be requested by the (Appointing Official or designee).
2. The chairperson will:
1. Conduct board activities in accordance with the provisions of this letter, NPD 8621.1, NPG 8621.1, and any other instructions that the (Appointing Official or designee) may issue.
2. Establish and document, as necessary, rules and procedures for the organization and operation of the board (including any subgroups).
3. Establish and document the format and content of verbal or written reports to and by the board.
4. Designate any representatives, consultants, experts, liaison officers, or other individuals who may be required to support the activities of the board and define the duties and responsibilities of those persons.
5. Establish and announce a target date for submitting a final report and keep all concerned NASA officials informed of the board's plans, progress, and findings.
6. Designate another member of the board to act as chairperson in his/her absence.

4. Membership
The chairperson, members of the board, ex officio representative, and supporting staff.
5. Meetings

The chairperson will arrange for meetings and for all necessary records and/or minutes of meetings.

6. Administrative and other support
1. The Director of (Center) will arrange for office space and other facilities and services that may be requested by the chairperson or designee.
2. All elements of NASA will cooperate fully with the board and provide any records, data, and other administrative or technical support and services that may be requested.
3. All activity physically affecting the hardware will cease (date, time, or milestone), unless specifically directed by the board chairperson.

7. Duration

The (Appointing Official) will dismiss the board when it has fulfilled its responsibilities.

8. Cancellation

This appointment letter is automatically cancelled 1 year from effective date of publication, unless otherwise specifically extended by the establishing authority.

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Attachment A

Members and Supporting Staff (insert title) Investigation Board

DISTRIBUTION:
NODIS