Phase A - In this phase, the instruments and systems for the mission are researched, designed and developed. The spacecraft and ground systems are also designed in order to find out if they will be able to meet the standards for the mission.

Phase B - In phase B, Southwest Research Institute will be evaluated to find out if NASA still wants to continue supporting the mission. The Project will prepare for an Initial Confirmation Review in 2006 and if NASA is satisfied, then the MMS mission will move into the Preliminary Design Phase.

Phase C - The designs and prototypes for the spacecraft, ground systems, ranging systems and instruments will be finalized so they can be made ready for launch.

Phase D - In Phase D all systems will be ready for launch and takeoff is scheduled for 2013.

Phase E - Phase E consist of the actual mission-taking place in space in the region of earth’s magnetosphere. While in space the MMS spacecraft will perform a 3-phase mission to complete its primary goals.

Phase 1

-During this phase, The four spacecraft will begin thier 3 month journey to the magnetospheric region of space. After reaching its destination it will conduct Dayside "reconnection" research and thirty "diffuision region" encounters. This phase will take five months to complete.

Phase 2

-In Phase II the spacecraft will conduct dawn and Nightime and Dawn flank "reconnection" and study ninety "diffuse region" encounters. This phase will take ten months to complete.

Phase 3

-In the last phase of the mission the spacecraft will conduct combined Dayside and Nightside reconnecton and fifty "diffuse region" encounters. This phase will take ten months to complete.