The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is the central federal agency associated with U.S. space exploration.
NASA conducts its work in four principal organizations, called mission directorates:
- Aeronautics pioneers and proves new flight technologies that improve our ability to explore space while also having practical applications on Earth.
- Exploration Systems develops new capabilities for affordable and sustainable human and robotic exploration.
- Science explores the Earth, moon, the other planets in our solar system, and beyond - charting the best routes of discovery while reaping the benefits of Earth and space exploration for society.
- Space Operations provides key enabling technologies for much of the rest of NASA through the space shuttle, international space station, and flight support.
NASA's vision for future space exploration includes safely returning the space shuttle to flight, completing the International Space Station, returning astronauts to the moon, continuing exploration of Mars and the Solar System, to name a few.
Though the leader, NASA is not the only federal agency involved with U.S. space exploration. Others include the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and National Science Foundation (NSF).
This space exploration effort also relies heavily on the technological expertise and products of hundreds of U.S. businesses.
Two sites have information on space. We highlight the sites and the content we think you'll find useful as you explore your career options in this area of aerospace.
For a quick overview of what each site below offers, click the link.
Sources: U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and Aerospace Industries Association (AIA).
|