Skip to main content
Program Centers
Oversight Unit

Aeronautics, Space, and Astronomy Program Area

This program area serves as an authoritative forum for space science policy and applies engineering expertise to aerospace challenges. Our work sets research priorities and guides policy in aeronautics, aviation safety, human spaceflight, astronomy, and space sciences.

Work with us
Eagle Nebula (M16 - Messier 16) SHO Palette

In progress

News and Updates

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

Making Sense of Space Weather: Q&A with Physicist Robyn Millan

Feature Story

What is space weather, what causes it, and how does it affect humans? Physicist Robyn Millan, who co-chaired a recent National Academies decadal report on solar and space physics, answered questions about space weather and how scientists can improve their ability to forecast it.

Feb 4, 2025
Aurora Borealis over Reykjavik, Iceland

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