NASA Science
NASA Science seeks to discover the secrets of the universe, search for life elsewhere, and protect and improve life on Earth and in space.
spherex Launch Feb. 28
punch launch feb. 28
35 years of observations
Featured Missions
Our mission milestones showcase the breadth and depth of NASA science.
SPHEREx
Launching no earlier than February 28, 2025, SPHEREx will collect data on more than 450 million galaxies along with more than 100 million stars in the Milky Way
PUNCH
Launching no earlier than Feb. 28, 2025, PUNCH is a constellation of four satellites in low Earth orbit that will make 3D observations of the entire inner heliosphere to learn how the Sun’s corona becomes the solar wind.
GeoXO
GeoXO will advance observations of Earth’s weather, atmosphere and ocean for short-term forecasts and warnings and long-term planning for the effects of our changing planet.
How Long Does it Take to Get to the Moon… Mars… Jupiter?
How long does it take to get to the Moon? Mars? Jupiter? The answer is: it depends — and speed is only one factor. Travel times also depend on distance, fuel, physics and clever trajectory planning. From quick trips to the Moon to years-long voyages to the outer planets, every mission follows a unique path. Watch as a NASA scientist breaks down what it really takes to travel through space.
We Asked a NASA Expert: Episode 51Nicky Notes
To the NASA Science Community –
As the nation’s leader in Earth and space science, NASA Science operates within the broader context of the federal government and its priorities. As part of the Executive Branch, we are always responsive to the direction set by the Administration, including executive orders and policy guidance that relate to our programs and activities.
Webb Reveals Rapid-Fire Light Show From Milky Way’s Central Black Hole
The supermassive black hole at the center of the Milky Way appears to be having a party, complete with a…
Read the Story
February Image from our 2025 NASA Science Calendar
Learn about February's amazing image. Explore related topics, activities, games, and download desktop wallpaper.
Start Exploring
Earth
Your home. Our mission.
And the one planet that NASA studies more than any other.
How we Look at Earth
Earth Observatory
Images, stories, and discoveries about the environment. Where every day is Earth Day.
Earth Science Data
Free and open access to an immense archive of Earth science data empowers users to better understand and protect our home planet.
Science in Action
NASA’s projects advance what’s possible here on Earth.
Earth Information Center
See how the planet is changing in ways that affect the lives and livelihoods of individuals across the globe.
Climate Change
From the unique vantage point in space, NASA collects critical long-term observations of our changing planet.
An Ocean in Bloom
From the far reaches of space, NASA scientists aim to expand their knowledge of how our ocean, atmosphere, and ecosystems interact with one another.
World of Change
Earth is constantly changing. World of Change documents how our planet’s land, oceans, and atmosphere are changing over time.
Explore our changing planet
Earth is our home, shared with millions of species. Rapid changes like rising temperatures and more frequent extreme weather are transforming our planet. For over 50 years, observations from space and ground have monitored these changes, guiding critical decisions in areas like agriculture and air quality. By understanding how our actions affect Earth's systems, we can help mitigate these impacts. Discover more about how you can make a difference in safeguarding our planet.
Visit the Earth Information Center
By the Numbers
Science is interconnected; no important question stands alone. The Science Mission Directorate (SMD) is an organization where discoveries in one scientific discipline have a direct route to other areas of study. This flow is something extremely valuable and is rare in the scientific world.
Learn More about Science by the Numbers
Dive Deeper
SMD Community Town Hall Meetings
View upcoming and past community town hall meetings.
NASA Science Strategy
Our science strategy articulates a forward-thinking vision and presents a comprehensive, cohesive and long-term roadmap for all NASA activities.
People of NASA Science
Meet the individuals who are instrumental in enabling the realization of NASA Science’s extraordinary mission.
NASA Science Careers
Discover career opportunities at NASA Science, where innovation, growth and collaboration shape the future of scientific exploration.
