NASA is the space agency run by the United States to oversee American space exploration, research and technology. NASA, or the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, was founded in 1958 as a civilian agency for U.S. space exploration. Prior to 1958, the agency's progenitor was known as the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics. NASA develops, builds and launches missions to study the Earth, moon and sun, as well as the entire solar system and beyond. The agency has its headquarters in Washington D.C., with major centers in Florida (the Kennedy Space Center for launches) and Houston (the Johnson Space Center, home of the astronaut corps). Other centers are spread across the country for scientific research, test flights and spacecraft manufacturing. NASA's current chief is Administrator Jim Bridenstine, who is leading the agency's mission of returning astronauts to the moon and sending them on to Mars. See the latest NASA news.
Related Topics: Apollo Program, China Space Program, Incredible Space Tech, International Space Station, Interstellar Travel
Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: community@space.com.
Latest about NASA
Documentary director redefines astronaut Eileen Collins as the 'Spacewoman' (interview)
The dictionary defines "spacewoman" as simply "a woman astronaut." In the case of its latest usage, though, the term carries more meaning. "Spacewoman" is a new film about Eileen Collins.
The ISS has been leaking for 5 years. NASA and Russia disagree on how to fix it
Crew-8 commander Matthew Dominick says NASA is carefully making decisions for astronaut safety while the ISS deals with a leak, and spacesuit issues, related to aging hardware.
A guide to the Canadian Space Agency: Key missions, achievements, and future plans
Reference Discover everything you need to know about the Canadian Space Agency, including its missions, achievements, and role in space exploration.
Donald Trump's approach to US space policy could throw up some surprises, especially with Elon Musk on board
What can be expected of a second Trump administration on space policy? In short, a mixture of continuity and change.
Did NASA's Viking landers accidentally kill life on Mars? Why one scientist thinks so
Dirk Schulze-Makuch is a scientist who thinks NASA's Viking landers could have inadvertently destroyed the life they were searching for. In this Q&A, we ask why.
Space pictures! See our space image of the day
Space.com's image of the day rounds up the most awe-inspiring space photos right here, with a new image everyday.
Artemis 2's Orion capsule goes into altitude chamber to prep for 2025 moon mission (photo)
Today, an altitude chamber. Next year, the moon.
Former Virgin Galactic CEO George Whitesides wins seat in US Congress
Former Virgin Galactic CEO and NASA Chief of Staff George Whitesides won his race to represent California's 27th district in the U.S. Congress.
NASA dealing with aging ISS and spacewalk hardware: 'None of our spacesuits are spring chickens'
Crew-8 commander Matthew Dominick says NASA is carefully making decisions for astronaut safety while the ISS deals with a leak, and spacesuit issues, related to aging hardware.
