Connect

Stay connected with NASA's human exploration activities in and beyond low Earth orbit.

Why We Explore

Why Do We Explore?

From the time of our birth, humans have felt a primordial urge to explore -- to blaze new trails, map new lands, and answer profound questions about ourselves and our universe.

› View Site

Library

Speeches, Reports and Committees

Find reports, briefings and materials from Human Exploration and Operations committees, conferences and forums.

› View Site

Education and Outreach

NASA's Exploration Experience exhibit trailer

Informing and educating the public about NASA's plans for a new era in space exploration. Find educational materials, visit traveling exhibits, request a NASA speaker and more.

› View Site

About

Human Exploration and Operations (HEO) Mission Directorate

Leadership and management of NASA space operations related to human exploration in and beyond low Earth orbit.

› View Site

Orion Crew Access Arm Reaches for New, Heritage ...

Kennedy Space Center Ground Systems Development and Operations engineers are combining heritage technology and new innovations to design the crew ...

› Read More

Orion Spacecraft Makes Virginia Air & Space Center Home

Virginia Air & Space Center will receive a full-scale test version of NASA's Orion spacecraft to become part of the center's permanent collection.

› Read More

SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket is in position for a wet dress rehearsal at Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

SpaceX, NASA Target Oct. 7 Launch For Resupply Mission ...

The first contracted cargo resupply flight to the International Space Station under NASA's Commercial Resupply Services (CRS) contract is scheduled ...

› Read More

The main screen of the Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator, or HIAD, app. (Credit: NASA)

NASA App Features Spacecraft For Returning Cargo

Want to try your hand at landing an inflatable spacecraft? All you need is a smart phone, a computer or a tablet.

› Read More

Landing Pads Designed for Extraterrestrial Missions

NASA scientists and engineers are studying the challenges and hazards involved in landing on extraterrestrial destinations such as the moon or Mars.

› Read More

News Releases

NASA Selects Space Launch System Advanced Development Proposals

09.21.12 - NASA has selected 26 proposals from academia and industry for advanced development activities for the nation's next heavy lift rocket, the Space Launch System (SLS).
NASA Dawn Spacecraft Sees Hydrated Minerals on Giant Asteroid

09.20.12 - NASA's Dawn spacecraft has revealed the giant asteroid Vesta has its own version of ring around the collar.