Audit critical of B-2 refurbish

A recently released audit criticized NASA for spending $352 million to refurbish a Mississippi test stand for Space Launch System tests when it would have cost less to revamp stands in Alabama and California. The alternate stands are at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., and Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala. The audit said it would have cost $251 million to refurbish the Huntsville stand and $319 million for the Edwards stand. The audit said NASA chose B-2 because of risks associated with the other stands. In the case of Edwards, NASA was concerned over transportation risks, and with Huntsville it was concerned over noise issues. NASA responded to the audit by admitting it didn't follow its own rules and agreements, but "is confident it made the right decision." The audit from NASA Inspector General Paul Martin was released Wednesday. (Source: GCAC, 01/10/14; background al.com, audit)