Issues and insights of PRA methodology in nuclear and space applications

This paper presents some important issues and technical insights on the scope, conceptual framework, and essential elements of nuclear power plant probabilistic risk assessments (PRAs) and that of the PRAs in general applications of the aerospace industry, such as the space shuttle PRA being conducted by NASA. Discussions are focused on various lessons learned in nuclear power plant PRA applications and their potential applicability to the PRAs in the aerospace and launch vehicle systems. Based on insights gained from PRA projects for nuclear power plants and from the current space shuttle PRA effort, the paper explores the commonalities and the differences between the conduct of the different PRAs and the key issues and risk insights derived from extensive modeling practices in both industries of nuclear and space.