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
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Latest about NASA
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Dwarf planet Ceres may have once been suitable for life, new study suggests
Even if life never took hold on Ceres, the discovery could help broaden the range of environments that could potentially be habitable.
Mars quiz: How well do you know the Red Planet?
This quiz will challenge your knowledge of Mars' features, missions, and mysteries.
NASA's Artemis Program: Live updates
NASA's Artemis 2 mission is returning astronauts to the moon for the first time since 1972. See live mission updates here.
James Webb Space Telescope takes 1st look at interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS with unexpected results
The James Webb Space Telescope has joined the study of the interstellar invader 3I/ATLAS, uncovering secrets that could reveal more about the planetary system in which it formed.
'Alien auroras' on Jupiter reveal a new kind of plasma wave, scientists say
Scientists using NASA's Juno spacecraft have discovered a new plasma wave in Jupiter's auroras, offering fresh insight into space weather and magnetism.
Venus quiz: How much do you know about this hottie?
This quiz will test your knowledge of Venus' wild weather, strange geology, and mythological roots.
