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Space Exploration

Space exploration expands human understanding of the universe. The National Academies study mission design, life support, and technology that enable sustainable exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond. 

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Following the Success of Artemis II, Scientists Will Shape What Comes Next for Lunar Exploration

Feature Story

NASA plans to launch more lunar missions after the success of Artemis II, signaling a renewed era for lunar exploration and science — and raising questions about what comes next. A National Academies study currently underway will identify key nonpolar landing sites for future crewed lunar missions and what science goals could be achieved.

Apr 13, 2026
jsc2026e022316 (April 11, 2026) - NASA’s Artemis II crew, NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, commander; Victor Glover, pilot; Christina Koch, mission specialist; and CSA (Canadian Space Agency) astronaut Jeremy Hansen, shared brief remarks with friends, family, and colleagues after they landed at Ellington Airport near NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston on Saturday, April 11, 2026, after a nearly 10-day journey around the Moon and back to Earth. Credit: NASA/Bill Stafford

Search for Life Should Be Top Science Priority for First Human Landing on Mars, Says New Report

News Release

When astronauts set foot on Mars, it will be one of humanity’s greatest milestones, marking the start of a new era of discovery on another planet. A new National Academies report identifies the highest priority science objectives for the first human missions to Mars and says searching for evidence of existing or past life on the planet should be the top priority.

Dec 9, 2025
cover art for A Science Strategy for the Human Exploration of Mars

From Neutrinos to Narratives: An Interview with Katrina Miller

Feature Story

As a science reporter for the New York Times, Katrina Miller writes about the universe and how the pursuit of understanding it impacts society. Miller was a 2023 award winner of the National Academies’ Eric and Wendy Schmidt Awards for Excellence in Science Communications.

Oct 2, 2025
Katrina Miller at the Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile

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U.S. National Committee for Theoretical and Applied Mechanics (USNC/TAM)

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Committee on Earth Resources

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Committee on Applied and Theoretical Statistics

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Aeronautics, Space, and Astronomy Program Area

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Eagle Nebula (M16 - Messier 16) SHO Palette

Center for Advancing Science and Technology (CAST)

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Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board (ASEB)

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U.S. National Committee for Geodesy and Geophysics (USNC/IUGG)

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Committee on Radio Frequencies (CORF)

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Food Forum

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Space Weather Roundtable

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