Space agency

NASA

NASA is the United States civil space and aeronautics agency. Operating since 1958, it conducts scientific research, human and robotic spaceflight, and aerospace technology development.

Active Verified 2026-10-02

Type: Image · real photograph Provider: ESA/Hubble Author: ESA/Hubble Credit: NASA, ESA, STScI, I. Goovaerts, M. Rafelski, A. Koekemoer (STScI). Image Processing: A. Pagan (STScI) · CC BY 4.0 Licence: CC BY 4.0 Colour treatment: original

Overview

NASA is the United States civil agency for space and aeronautics. It began operations on 1 October 1958. Its work includes studying Earth, the Sun, the Solar System and the wider universe through scientific missions and research. It also conducts human and robotic spaceflight and develops aerospace technology with domestic and international partners.

The agency operates through headquarters, field centres and facilities across the United States. This organization places its activities within a civil framework for research, spaceflight and aerospace technology development. The stated scope brings together scientific investigation with flight capabilities and technical development. This profile does not identify individual missions, research findings, specific programmes, budgets, or the distinct responsibilities of particular centres and facilities.

Essential data

Key fact: United States civil space and aeronautics agency, operating since 1 October 1958.
Key fact: Studies Earth, the Sun, the Solar System and the wider universe through missions and research.
Key fact: Conducts human and robotic spaceflight and develops aerospace technology with partners.
Key fact: Operates through headquarters, field centres and facilities across the United States.