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Federal Research: Status of DOE's Superconducting Super Collider

RCED-91-116 Published: Apr 15, 1991. Publicly Released: Apr 15, 1991.
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Highlights

Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the status of the Department of Energy's (DOE) Superconducting Super Collider (SSC), focusing on the: (1) stability of DOE and SSC laboratory project management; (2) uncertainties related to the SSC site geology; (3) uncertainties and risks associated with magnet development and production; and (4) Texas' proposed contribution to the project's costs.

Recommendations

Matter for Congressional Consideration

Matter Status Comments
In deliberating the fiscal year 1992 funding for SSC, Congress may wish to consider limiting the risk to the federal government by making the funding of tunnel construction contingent on the successful completion of the above-ground string test of collider dipole magnets.
Closed – Not Implemented
Congress put no constraints on the FY 1992 budget for SSC. Therefore, no further action can be taken.

Recommendations for Executive Action

Agency Affected Recommendation Status
Department of Energy The Secretary of Energy should provide the SSC program greater management stability by expeditiously following through on its plans to appoint a permanent program manager the direct the Office of the SSC.
Closed – Implemented
When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.

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Topics

Energy researchstate relationsGovernment facility constructionLaboratoriesNuclear physicsResearch and development costsResearch and development facilitiesResearch program managementSite selectionConstruction