Simulation of range safety for the NASA space shuttle

Purpose - The main objective of this paper is to introduce the development of a decision-support environment for a complex problem: space range safety. Simulation modeling can provide a good environment to support range safety managers. Design/methodology/approach - The paper describes the different models and the processes to find the different knowledge sources. In addition, it investigates statistically the most important factors. This will help determine emergency management procedures and sources of variability. Findings - This case study provides guidance and an example to follow for other problems in aerospace (in particular new the analysis of new vehicles). There are important factors to consider in order to implement risk management in National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Research limitations/implications - There are several limitations; blast and debris effects need to be added. Practical implications - First, it provides a guide in order to persuade managers of the utilization of decision-support systems based on geographical information systems. Second, it shows that there is open source software (Calpuff in our environment) which can be used and integrated to make a more comprehensive environment. Validation is a big issue. In addition, simulation can help make decisions about future vehicles or events. Originality/value - This is the first implementation of a virtual range (there is not an integrated system similar to this one available). This will be valuable to other safety managers not only for space exploration but also environmentalists and homeland security managers