FAS | Intelligence | Agencies | DOD |||| Search | Join FAS

JASON Defense Advisory Panel Reports

JASON typically performs most of its work during an annual summer study, and has conducted studies under contract to the Department of Defense (frequently DARPA and the U.S. Navy), the Department of Energy, the U.S. Intelligence Community, and the FBI. Approximately half of the resulting JASON reports are unclassified.

A selection of recent JASON studies is offered below.

• Human Performance, JSR-07-625, March 2008
The tasking for this study was to evaluate the potential for adversaries to exploit advances in Human Performance Modification, and thus create a threat to national security. In making this assessment, we were asked to evaluate long-term scenarios. We have thus considered the present state of the art in pharmaceutical intervention in cognition and in brain-computer interfaces, and considered how possible future developments might proceed and be used by adversaries.
• Wind Farms and Radar, JSR-08-125, January 2008
JASON was asked by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to review the current status of the conflict between the ever-growing number of wind-turbine farms and air-security radars that are located within some tens of miles of a turbine farm.
• Navy Ship Underwater Shock Prediction and Testing Capability Study, JSR-07-200, October 2007
Underwater mines have long been a major threat to ships. The most probable threats are non-contact explosions, where a high pressure wave is launched towards the ship. JASON was asked by the Navy to examine the potential role of Modeling and Simulation (M&S) for certifying ship hardness.
• Reliable Replacement Warhead Executive Summary, JSR-07-336E, September 7, 2007
NNSA asked JASON to conduct a technical review of the Reliable Replacement Warhead (RRW), with a focus on the LLNL/Sandia design.
• Pit Lifetime, JSR-06-3335, January 11, 2007
JASON reviewed the nearly-completed assessment of primary-stage "pit" lifetimes due to plutonium aging for nuclear weapon systems in the enduring U.S. stockpile.
• DAHRT, JSR-06-330, October 23, 2006
JASON has been tasked by the NNSA with a review of progress on the second axis of the DARHT facility at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). DARHT 2 was declared complete in 2003 but, in subsequent testing, failed to achieve its design goals.
• Engineering Microorganisms for Energy Production, JSR-05-300, June 23, 2006
JASON was asked by the Office of Biological and Environmental Research of the Department of Energy to assess the possibilities for using microorganisms to produce fuels as a metabolic product, in particular hydrogen or ethanol. We were asked to consider the prospects for achieving such biogenic fuel production in principle and in practice; and what the requirements and fundamental limitations are for achieving viability.
• Reducing DoD Fossil-Fuel Dependence, JSR-06-135, September 2006
In light of an increasing U.S. dependence on foreign oil, as well as rising fuel costs for the U.S. and the DoD, and implications with regard to national security and national defense, JASON was charged in 2006 by the DDR&E to assessing pathways to reduce DoD's dependence on fossil fuels.
• Quantifications of Margins and Uncertainties, JSR-04-330, March 23, 2005
Quantification of Margins and Uncertainties is a formalism for dealing with the reliability of complex technical systems, and the confidence which can be placed in estimates of that reliability. We are specifically concerned with its application to the performance and safety of the nuclear stockpile, because the test moratorium precludes direct experimental verification.
• NIF Ignition, JSR-05-340, June 29, 2005
JASON was asked by the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) to assess the plan and prospects for achieving inertial confinement fusion (ICF) ignition at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) by 2010, including the use of beryllium targets.
• Tactical Infrasound, JSR-03-520, May 2005 (1.4 MB PDF file)
JASON was asked to assist the U.S. Army’s National Ground Intelligence (NGIC) in finding ways to enhance the effectiveness of infrasound monitoring. In addition, we were also tasked with determining whether infrasound monitoring was likely to provide information of value in other intelligence venues.
• High Performance Biocomputation, JSR-04-300, March 2005 (1.9 MB)
A study commissioned by the Department of Energy to explore the opportunities and challenges presented by applying advanced computational power and methodology to problems in the biological sciences.
• Sensors to Support the Soldier, JSR-04-210, February 2005 (1.6 MB)
The JASON study focused on the following topic areas: squad-level communications; location, navigation, and maps; sensing through walls; countering snipers; and uses for UAVs.
• Horizontal Integration: Broader Access Models for Realizing Information Dominance, JSR-04-132, December 2004
A new, transaction-based approach to the problem of maintaining information security in a warfighting environment.
• Active Sonar Waveform, JSR-03-200, June 2004 (2.1 MB)
JASON was tasked to study the recent spate of whale-beaching events which have been linked to sonar exercises. The initial goal of the study was to use the current level of understanding of these events to recommend modifications of the sonar waveform as a mitigation strategy. As we learned about the subject, however, it became clear to us that this is at present an impossible task; we just do not know enough about the damage mechanism and the chain of causation for an engineering solution to the problem.
• The Computational Challenges of Medical Imaging, JSR-03-300, February 2004 (2.1 MB)
On the role and potential of computational technologies in medical imaging.
• Requirements for ASCI, JSR-03-330, October 2003 (4.5 MB)
This is the report of the 2003 JASON summer study on the technical requirements for advanced scientific computing and modeling to support the Advanced Simulation and Computing (ASCI) Program of Department of Energy's and National Nuclear Security Administration's Science-based Stockpile Stewardship Program.
• Portable Energy for the Dismounted Soldier, JSR-02-135, June 2003 (4.9 MB)
Focuses primarily on fuel cells for portable electrical energy production.
• Turbulent Boundary Layer Drag Reduction, JSR-01-135, May 2003 (1.9 MB)
Explores turbulent boundary-layer drag reduction, needed for transoceanic transport at high speeds.
• High Power Lasers, JSR-02-224, April 2003 (5.3 MB)
In Summer 2002, JASON undertook a study for the National Nuclear Security Administration of the prospective scientific value of high energy petawatt lasers to the NNSA's Stockpile Stewardship Program .
• Biodetection Architectures, JSR-02-330, February 2003 (1.9 MB)
JASON considered the essential components and operation of an effective strategy for homeland biodefense based on technologies that are currently available or likely to become available within the next five years. It is not realistic to undertake a nationwide, blanket deployment of biosensors.
• Opportunities at the Intersection of Nanoscience, Biology and Computation, JSR-02-300, November 2002 (5.0 MB)
Research capabilities in nanoscience, molecular biology and computation have advanced to the point where it is possible to define research activities in which the development of nano-bio systems will support major DOE science goals.
• Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Program, JSR-01-315, April 2002 (2.8 MB)
In 2001, JASON was charged by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Health and Environmental Sciences, to review the DOE Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) program.
• Non-GPS Methods of Geolocation, JSR-00-105, January 2002 (780 KB)
JASON was asked to conduct a brainstorming session on the problem of precision (at GPS-like accuracy) geolocation of ground elements by means other than use of GPS satellite transmissions in the usual way.
• Biofutures, JSR-00-130, June 2001 (2.6 MB)
The goal of this 2000 JASON summer study on Biofutures was to explore prospects for computer modeling of cellular biochemical networks and to ask more generally about the role of modeling in biology.
• Spintronics, JSR-99-115, February 2001 (1.4 MB)
• Advantage of Base-Line Redundancy in Sparse Apertures, JSR-2000-551, September 2000 (345 KB)
  A general argument is presented to explain the dependence of observation-time T on sparseness f in observations with sparse apertures.
• Space Infrastructure for 2020, JSR-99-125, September 2000 (1.8 MB)
This report summarizes JASON's 1999 summer study on new approaches to the infrastructure needed for building, launching, powering and servicing earth- orbiting satellites that could be applied to military missions.
• Imaging Infrared Detectors II, JSR-97-500, June 2000 (2.6 MB)
• Molecular Electronics: Interfacing the Nano- and Micro-Worlds, JSR-99-120, May 2000 (1.4 MB)
• Power Sources for Ultra Low Power Electronics, JSR-98-130, June 2000 (1.1 MB)
DARPA asked JASON to examine the issue of power sources for low power electronics with a specific emphasis on the properties of nuclear batteries and integrated power sources combining power and electronics.
• 100 LBS TO Low Earth Orbit (LEO): Small-Payload Launch Options, JSR-98-140, January 2000 (1.5 MB)
This report examines the options for launching small payloads to Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Various launch options are considered, including single and multi-stage, ground and air launched rockets, as well as the potential advantages of an intermediate air breathing boost stage.
• Data Mining and the Human Genome, JSR-99-310, January 2000 (1.6 MB)
As genomics research moves from an era of data acquisition to one of both acquisition and interpretation, new methods are required for organizing and prioritizing the data. Powerful data mining techniques have been developed in other fields that, with appropriate modification, could be applied to the biological sciences.
• Primary Performance Margins, JSR-99-305, December 1999 (unclassified introduction)
• System-Level Flight Tests, JSR-98-310, December 1999 (940 KB)
System-level flight tests are an important part of the overall effort by the United States to maintain confidence in the reliability, safety, and performance of its nuclear deterrent forces.
• Remanufacture (of Nuclear Weapons), JSR-99-300, October 1999
The reconstitution of DOE remanufacturing takes place within the commitment to Science-Based Stockpile Stewardship (SBSS), and in an environment of the CTBT. The purpose of remanufacture is to maintain a safe and reliable stockpile of nuclear devices, together with their non-nuclear components that constitute a nuclear warhead.
• Army Battlefield Communications, JSR-96-605, September 1999 (3.2 MB)
The Study Group was asked to access future COTS technologies as to their applicability to Army battlefield communications at the brigade and below levels and to identify research and development efforts needed in implementing the mandate.
• Characterization of Underground Facilities, JSR-97-155, April 1999 (3.0 MB)
JASON undertook a study at DARPA's request to look for new opportunities for progress in the detection and characterization of UGFs. Part of our charge was to identify the most promising technology areas for investment, emphasizing standoff and covert sensor techniques.
• Nondestructive Evaluation and Self-Monitoring Materials, JSR-98-145, April 1999 (2.0 MB)
• Electro Thermal Chemical Gun Technology Study, JSR-98-600, March 1999 (1.1 MB)
Electro Thermal Chemical (ETC) gun technology refers to the use of plasma devices in place of traditional chemical ignitors to initiate the burning of high energy propellants in a controlled manner.
• Small Unit Operations, JSR-97-142, June 1998 (6.3 MB)
DARPA requested a JASON summer study on Small Unit Operations (SUO), with emphasis on the SUO vision of total situational awareness for small ground units, remote commanders and remote weapons systems. The study focused on new technologies and concepts which might lead to a dramatic improvement in battlefield situational awareness.
• Signatures of Aging Revisited, JSR-98-320, March 1998
A follow-on to the JASON Summer Study on what is known about the aging of critical components in the nuclear weapons stockpile.
• Signatures of Aging, JSR-97-320, January 1998
In this study we review what is known about the aging of critical constituents, particularly the high explosives, polymers and metals in the enduring stockpile.
• Counterproliferation, JSR-94-140, January 1998 (3.3 MB)
This JASON report was prepared in response to a request from the Defense Counterproliferation Initiative to comment on key areas of their program and to suggest the application of new technologies to key problems in the area of counterproliferation.
• High Energy Density Explosives, JSR-97-110, October 1997 (880 KB)
A JASON summer study was performed to assess the status of ongoing research programs in the area of energetic materials.
• Human Genome Project, JSR-97-315, October 1997
• Small Scale Propulsion: Fly on the Wall, Cockroach in the Corner, Rat in the Basement, Bird in the Sky, JSR-97-135, September 1997 (1.2 MB)
This study concerns small vehicles on the battlefield, and in particular their propulsion. These vehicles may fly or travel on the ground by walking, rolling or hopping. Their purpose is to carry, generally covertly, a useful payload to a place inaccessible to man, or too dangerous for men, or in which a man or manned vehicle could not be covert.
• Subcritical Experiments, JSR-97-300, March 1997
The authors reviewed the first two sub-critical experiments (SCEs) planned at the time, called Holog and Rebound, to be performed underground at the Nevada Test Site (NTS).
• Quantum Computing, JSR-95-115, July 1996 (4.4 MB)
An overview and assessment of the rapidly developing field of quantum computing is presented as a result of the 1996 JASON Summer Study. Interest in this field is fueled by the recent discovery by P. Shor of an efficient quantum algorithm for finding the prime factors of large numbers.
• Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) Review, JSR-96-300, March 1996 (990 KB)
During its 1996 Winter Study JASON reviewed the DOE Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) Program. This included the National Ignition Facility (NIF) and proposed studies.
• DNA Computing, JSR-95-116, October 1995
This report examines the potential and limitations of DNA computing.
• Nuclear Testing: Summary and Conclusions, JSR-95-320, August 1995.
Examines the experimental and analytic bases for understanding the performance of each of the weapon types that are currently planned to remain in the U.S. enduring nuclear stockpile. Also examines whether continued underground tests at various nuclear yield thresholds would add significantly to confidence in the stockpile in the years ahead.
• Microsurveillance of the Urban Battlefield, JSR-95-125, February 1995 (4.7 MB)
It is widely agreed that urban military operations demand greater 'situational awareness' than now exists. Soldiers need mapping tools to tell them where they are, real time information on what's around the corner and behind walls as well as reliable data links to receive and send orders and intelligence. At the same time, commanders need accurate knowledge of 'what's happening' in the city as a whole.
• JASON Global Grid Study, JRS-92-100, July 1992 (5 MB)
An assessment of the emerging global communications grid.
• Small Satellites, JSR-91-330-10, August 3, 1991
How might DoD- and DOE-originated instrument concepts be used in the Global Change Research Program?
• Verification Technology: Unclassified Version, JSR-89-100A, October 1990 (5.7 MB)
This report examines several technology issues relating to verification of nuclear weapons treaties. These include: non-convertible design of cruise missiles, tags and seals, radiation detection and surveillance
• Neutrino Detection Primer, JSR-84-105, March 1988 (2 MB)
This report is intended to provide for non-expert readers a survey of natural and man-made neutrino sources and a critical review of various methods which have been proposed for their detection.
• Sonic Boom Report, JSR-78-09, November 1978 (6.6 MB)
Press reports of "East Coast Mystery Booms" have led to a number of studies of the propagation of shock waves (generated by the SST/Concorde) into the thermosphere [thanks to Todd Lemire for the document]
• JASON Laser Propulsion Study, JSR-77-12, Summer 1977 (5 MB)
Laser propulsion is an idea that may produce a revolution in space technology. [thanks to Todd Lemire]
• Internal Wave-Surface Wave Interactions Revisited, Paper P-853, March 1972
The interaction of internal waves and surface waves in water is explored in the regions where the effects of the interaction are small.
• Tactical Nuclear Weapons in Southeast Asia, March 1967
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the military consequences of a U.S. decision to use tactical nuclear weapons in Southeast Asia, under the assumption that the war remains theater-limited and that no strategic exchange occurs.

FAS | Intelligence | Agencies | DOD |||| Search | Join FAS