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Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board

The Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board brings engineering and other related expertise together to address aerospace issues of national importance.

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News and Updates

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
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Description

The Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board (ASEB) was established in 1967 “to focus talents and energies of the engineering community on significant aerospace policies and programs." In undertaking its responsibility, the ASEB addresses issues such as:

  • research and development aspects of the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen);
  • NASA’s aeronautics research program;
  • national aeronautics R&D policy and its implementation;
  • space policy and programs, with a focus on human spaceflight and space operations;
  • commercial space activities; and
  • other aerospace engineering topics.
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Contributors

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Staff

T Arul Mozhi

Lead

Andrea Rebholz

Tanja Pilzak

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