Skip to main content
Standing Committee

Space Studies Board (SSB)

The Space Studies Board brings space science and applications and other related expertise together to address space science and space policy issues of national importance.

In progress

News and Updates

Explore exciting breakthroughs in space science with The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine at Space Science Week 2026 on March 23-27

Update

Each year, Space Science Week brings together leaders across the space science disciplines to explore the latest developments and discuss the future of the field. This year will feature a plenary session with updates from leaders at NASA and an array of international space agencies, a joint session about leveraging AI for space science research, and a public lecture with singer Jewel on the intersection of art and science.

Mar 10, 2026
Partial solar eclipse above the curvature of the Earth in the foreground.

New Interactive:  A Science Strategy for the Human Exploration of Mars

Update

When astronauts set foot on Mars, it will mark a new era of discovery shaped by decades of research, engineering, and imagination. A new interactive overview of our report A Science Strategy for the Human Exploration of Mars offers a high-level outline of options for future human-led campaigns and how these missions can advance the highest-priority science objectives, from searching for signs of life to understanding how planets evolve and preparing for sustained human exploration.

Apr 15, 2026
cover art for A Science Strategy for the Human Exploration of Mars
Open until June 7, 2026, 11:59 PM ET
Call for Experts
We invite you to submit suggestions for experts to participate in this activity.

Description

The Space Studies Board (SSB) was established in 1958 to serve as the focus of the interests and responsibilities in space research for the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. The SSB provides an independent, authoritative forum for discussions on all aspects of space science and applications. It convenes members of the domestic and international research community, the federal government, industry, and the interested public to address important topics in space sciences and policy. The SSB also serves as the U.S. National Representative for the Committee for the International Council for Science Committee on Space Research (COSPAR).

Work with Us
Looking for independent, nonpartisan guidance from the nation’s top subject-matter experts? We stand ready to help potential sponsors across a variety of sectors shape research and policy agendas, regulation, investments, operations, state and local initiatives, and more.
Keck building

Contributors

Committee

Chair

Vice Chair

Member

Member

Member

Member

Member

Member

Member

Member

Member

Member

Member

Member

Member

Member

Member

Member

Member

Staff

T Arul Mozhi

Lead

Andrea Rebholz

Tanja Pilzak

Subscribe to Emails from the National Academies
Stay up to date on activities, publications, and events by subscribing to email updates.