Solar and Space Physics Decadal Survey

The Solar and Space Physics Decadal Survey is a publication of the National Research Council produced for NASA, as well as other US government agencies such as NOAA and the National Science Foundation. It is produced with the purpose of identifying a recommended scientific strategy in the field of heliophysics for the following decade. Agencies such as NASA utilize the decadal survey in order to prioritize funding for specific missions or scientific research projects.

As of 2024, two decadal surveys have been published. The first, "The Sun to the Earth — and Beyond: A Decadal Research Strategy in Solar and Space Physics" was published in 2003 for the period 2003-2012. The second, "Solar and Space Physics: A Science for a Technological Society" was released in 2013 for the period 2013-2022. A third decadal survey, covering the period 2024-2033, is currently in production and is planned to be released in summer 2024.

2003-2012, The Sun to the Earth — and Beyond
"The Sun to the Earth — and Beyond: A Decadal Research Strategy in Solar and Space Physics" was released in 2003. The committee was chaired by Louis J. Lanzerotti of Lucent Technologies. The highest priority recommendation named in the report was the Solar Probe mission, intended to explore the explore the inner regions around the Sun. It also recommended the development of the Magnetospheric Multiscale Mission and of a Jupiter Polar Orbiter.

2013-2022, A Science for a Technological Society
"Solar and Space Physics: A Science for a Technological Society" was released in August 2012. The committee was chaired by Daniel N. Baker of the University of Colorado. It laid out four key science goals: establishing the origins of solar activity, gaining a deeper understanding of Earth's magnetic field, exploring the Sun's interactions with the solar system and interstellar medium, and characterizing the fundamental processes of the heliosphere. The top priorities recommended to NASA were the restoration of the Medium-Class Explorers program, continuation of the Living With a Star and Solar Terrestrial Probes programs, and continued development of the Solar Probe Plus mission.