Deep space 4/Champollion, 2/sup nd/ generation cheaper, better, faster

This paper summarizes actual key lessons learned that worked well on the Mars Pathfinder project under the constraints of cheaper, better, faster (CBF) and how these experiences are being carried forward into the New Millennium Program's Deep Space 4/Champollion mission. These lessons and practices will be discussed specifically in the context of the new business environment of the 21/sup st/ century. The Deep Space 4/Champollion mission is designed to test advanced technologies for landing on and analyzing in-situ small bodies in the solar system. Deep Space 4r/Champollion will be launched in 2003 and, in early 2006, will rendezvous with the periodic Comet Tempel 1. This mission is one of the most complex missions ever attempted by NASA and will need to rely heavily on the experience of Mars Pathfinder to succeed in the environment of CBF. Key Pathfinder success factors discussed include: talent, trust, commitment, mission success criteria, hands-on leadership, organization structure, and risk management. A concept of Cheaper, Better, Less Heroic will be discussed and contrasted to Cheaper, Better, Faster. Major issues confronting 2/sup nd/ generation missions are discussed including interdependence, project size, and is cheaper, better, faster relative (and when is it relevant).