Open source software development is different from conventional software development processes in that open source enables companies to develop open source software products quickly and and in a cost-effective manner.  To create a new level of openness and accountability in software development, NASA Open Government has launched a new website that promotes the agency’s open source software development. This website is the newest member of NASA’s Internet family.

The website has been created to offer a continuous-learning approach for everyone who wants to contribute ideas, solutions, and comments in the open source software development. Under the open source software development process, people can see and make improvements in software source code and it has revolutionized the way software is developed, improved and used.

NASA uses open source code to address project and mission needs, accelerate software development, the proper dissemination of information and maximize public awareness and impact of research.

“The site represents a natural extension of NASA’s efforts to inform, educate and include the public in our mission to pioneer the future in space exploration, scientific discovery and aeronautics research,” said Deborah Diaz, NASA’s Deputy chief information officer. “Citizen Involvement in our work is a critical component of our success.”

This website has been launched under the Open Source (News - Alert) Software Flagship Initiative. It offers information on existing projects, providing a forum for discussion, and guiding internal and external groups in open development, release and contribution.  

NASA’s Open Government Plan has been considered the best plan and NASA is honored to be among one of the several federal agencies recognized with two leading practices awards from the White House for achievement above and beyond the requirements in the “Participation and Collaboration” and “Flagship Initiatives” categories of the Open Government Directive.

“We released the site on Jan. 4 and since have received an overwhelming response from people interested in using our code,” said Nick Skytland, program manager of NASA’s Open Government Initiative. “Our goal is to provide the public direct and ongoing access to NASA technology.”

“We believe tomorrow’s space and science systems will be built in the open, and that code.nasa.gov will play a big part in getting us there,” said William Eshagh, NASA Open Government co-lead on the project at NASA’s Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, Calif.

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