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Astrophysicists have found what is likely the very first pair of sibling supernova remnants. One is the well-known Jellyfish Nebula, and the other was long thought to be hidden in the bright glare from the Jellyfish. The pair are connected by a bright filament of gas.

A cave in Belize contains teeth from dozens of important Maya people buried elsewhere, which may attest to a ritual intended to ensure their passage to the underworld

A cave in Belize contains teeth from dozens of important Maya people buried elsewhere, which may attest to a ritual intended to ensure their passage to the underworld

Raising children appears to keep the brain young, potentially acting as a buffer against cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s

Raising children appears to keep the brain young, potentially acting as a buffer against cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s

Not much is known about Starfall, SpaceX's new delivery system, but an assessment published in May revealed its intended purpose

Not much is known about Starfall, SpaceX's new delivery system, but an assessment published in May revealed its intended purpose

2 min read

2026 ALA Hyperwall Schedule

American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference, June 25-29, 2026

Join NASA in the Exhibit Hall (Booth #2243) for Hyperwall Storytelling by NASA experts. Full Hyperwall Agenda below.

FRIDAY, JUNE 26

• 5:45 PM ——Roman Space Telescope Quiz! —— Peter Sooy
• 6:00 PM ——NASA’s Next Flagship is Launching Soon! Share in the Excitement with Roman Community Events —— Martha Irene Saladino
• 6:15 PM ——Open Science Resources for Libraries ——Amanda Adams
• 6:30 PM ——Launching NASA Earth Science Exhibits in Libraries Across America ——Eleanor Stokes
• 6:45 PM ——NASA Citizen Science Projects——Sarah Kirn

SATURDAY, JUNE 27

• 10:00 AM——Heliophysics Jeopardy!——Erin Mahoney
• 10:15 AM——NASA’s Next Flagship is Launching Soon! Share in the Excitement with Roman Community Events——Martha Irene Saladino
• 10:30 AM——Nancy Grace Roman: The Person——Courtney Lee
• 10:45 AM——Cosmic Canvas: Exploring the Process of Science Through Art and Astronomy——Tim Rhue
• 12:30 PM——Roman Space Telescope Quiz! —— Peter Sooy
• 1:00 PM——“Our Friend Orion” Children’s Book Reading——Lane Polak
• 2:30 PM——Heliophysics Jeopardy!——Erin Mahoney
• 3:00 PM——”The Adventure of Echo the Bat” Book Reading——Ginger Butcher
• 3:30 PM——Bring a NASA Solar System Ambassador to YOUR Library!——Danielle Diamond
• 3:45 PM——Journey Through the Heliosphere: The Sun-Earth System in Color——Christine Milotte

SUNDAY, JUNE 28

• 10:00 AM——Webb Space Telescope Quiz!——Peter Sooy
• 10:15 AM——Journey Through the Heliosphere: The Sun-Earth System in Color——Christine Milottet
• 10:30 AM——Science Explorer (SciX) Demo——Daniel Chivvis
• 10:45 AM——NASA Data and Open Science Quiz!——Adam Farragut
• 12:30 PM——Heliophysics Jeopardy!——Erin Mahoney
• 1:00 PM——“There and Back with EGS” Children’s Book Reading——Lane Polak
• 2:30 PM——Real NASA Research Projects Open to Everyone——Sarah Kirn
• 3:00 PM——Cosmic Canvas: Exploring the Process of Science Through Art and Astronomy——Tim Rhue
• 3:30 PM——NASA’s Next Flagship is Launching Soon! Share in the Excitement with Roman Community Events—— Martha Irene Saladino
• 3:45 PM——Journey Through the Heliosphere: The Sun-Earth System in Color——Milotte

MONDAY, JUNE 29

• 9:45 AM——Webb Space Telescope Quiz!——Peter Sooy
• 10:00 AM——“Hooray for SLS” Children’s——Lane Polak
• 10:30 AM——Bring a NASA Solar System Ambassador to YOUR Library!——Mark Benson

2 min read

2026 ALA Hyperwall Schedule

American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference, June 25-29, 2026

Join NASA in the Exhibit Hall (Booth #2243) for Hyperwall Storytelling by NASA experts. Full Hyperwall Agenda below.

FRIDAY, JUNE 26

• 5:45 PM ——Roman Space Telescope Quiz! —— Peter Sooy
• 6:00 PM ——NASA’s Next Flagship is Launching Soon! Share in the Excitement with Roman Community Events —— Martha Irene Saladino
• 6:15 PM ——Open Science Resources for Libraries ——Amanda Adams
• 6:30 PM ——Launching NASA Earth Science Exhibits in Libraries Across America ——Eleanor Stokes
• 6:45 PM ——NASA Citizen Science Projects——Sarah Kirn

SATURDAY, JUNE 27

• 10:00 AM——Heliophysics Jeopardy!——Erin Mahoney
• 10:15 AM——NASA’s Next Flagship is Launching Soon! Share in the Excitement with Roman Community Events——Martha Irene Saladino
• 10:30 AM——Nancy Grace Roman: The Person——Courtney Lee
• 10:45 AM——Cosmic Canvas: Exploring the Process of Science Through Art and Astronomy——Tim Rhue
• 12:30 PM——Roman Space Telescope Quiz! —— Peter Sooy
• 1:00 PM——“Our Friend Orion” Children’s Book Reading——Lane Polak
• 2:30 PM——Heliophysics Jeopardy!——Erin Mahoney
• 3:00 PM——”The Adventure of Echo the Bat” Book Reading——Ginger Butcher
• 3:30 PM——Bring a NASA Solar System Ambassador to YOUR Library!——Danielle Diamond
• 3:45 PM——Journey Through the Heliosphere: The Sun-Earth System in Color——Christine Milotte

SUNDAY, JUNE 28

• 10:00 AM——Webb Space Telescope Quiz!——Peter Sooy
• 10:15 AM——Journey Through the Heliosphere: The Sun-Earth System in Color——Christine Milottet
• 10:30 AM——Science Explorer (SciX) Demo——Daniel Chivvis
• 10:45 AM——NASA Data and Open Science Quiz!——Adam Farragut
• 12:30 PM——Heliophysics Jeopardy!——Erin Mahoney
• 1:00 PM——“There and Back with EGS” Children’s Book Reading——Lane Polak
• 2:30 PM——Real NASA Research Projects Open to Everyone——Sarah Kirn
• 3:00 PM——Cosmic Canvas: Exploring the Process of Science Through Art and Astronomy——Tim Rhue
• 3:30 PM——NASA’s Next Flagship is Launching Soon! Share in the Excitement with Roman Community Events—— Martha Irene Saladino
• 3:45 PM——Journey Through the Heliosphere: The Sun-Earth System in Color——Milotte

MONDAY, JUNE 29

• 9:45 AM——Webb Space Telescope Quiz!——Peter Sooy
• 10:00 AM——“Hooray for SLS” Children’s——Lane Polak
• 10:30 AM——Bring a NASA Solar System Ambassador to YOUR Library!——Mark Benson

3 Min Read This is How NASA Flight Tests New Technology An F-15 aircraft flies above the world’s largest compass rose above NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, on Monday, April 20, 2026. NASA’s Crossflow Attenuated Natural Laminar Flow (CATNLF) test article is attached to the bottom of the F-15. The project aims to lower fuel costs for future commercial aircraft by testing a scale-model wing designed to improve laminar flow. Credits: NASA/Jim Ross

Flight tests are a big part of how NASA turns breakthrough ideas into reality. From flying humans faster than the speed of sound to proving designs that helped shape the space shuttle, flight testing transforms bold concepts into safer, more efficient technologies that benefit the public.

“Flight tests are a way to safely and effectively prove new technology, which helps certification authorities certify equipment,” said Wayne Ringelberg, chief pilot at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. “It helps industry iterate and make systems better, and it promotes research in areas where new ideas can be developed.”

For nearly 80 years, teams at NASA Armstrong have used flight testing in the Southern California desert to push the limits of aerodynamics and advance aviation. Thanks to that work, NASA-developed innovations are aboard every U.S. commercial aircraft and inside every control tower today.

“The space side of NASA uses flight test, too. Every mission, like Artemis II, is never routine,” Ringelberg said. “Everything we’re doing when flying a test mission is something new or different.”

NASA test pilots Jim Less, left, and Nils Larson walk away from a hangar at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, on Thursday, Feb. 4, 2026. The pilots support the agency’s Crossflow Attenuated Natural Laminar Flow (CATNLF) project, which aims to lower fuel costs for future commercial aircraft by testing a scale-model wing designed to improve laminar flow.NASA/Christopher LC Clark

Every NASA test flight — whether it’s studying new software, hardware, or the revolutionary technology of an experimental X-plane — relies on engineers, researchers, pilots, maintenance crew, control room operators, and many others working together.

“Experienced operators and engineers evaluate how things work in flight,” Ringelberg said. “Most new technologies are designed to work in a lab or can be tested in a wind tunnel or other facility, but you never really know how they’ll perform until you fly them.”

Preflight tests often include computer analysis, simulation, wind tunnel testing, and ground tests focused on an aircraft’s ability to withstand the forces of flight and the environments through which it may fly. After hardware or software is deemed safe to fly, researchers turn the mission over to the flight test team.

To support testing, NASA Armstrong maintains an aircraft fleet modified to create space for new hardware or instruments, as well as the ability to integrate new software. These aircraft are flying laboratories, and pilots are trained to accomplish experimental missions.

An F-15 research aircraft sits on the ramp at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. NASA pilots Jim Less, front seat, and Carrie Worth prepare for the flight. The agency’s Crossflow Attenuated Natural Laminar Flow (CATNLF) test article is attached to the bottom of the F-15. The project aims to lower fuel costs for future commercial aircraft by testing a scale-model wing designed to improve laminar flow.NASA/Carla Escamilla

For example, flight testing recently helped NASA gather critical data on laminar flow, or the smooth flow of air, over a wing. The work could lower fuel costs for future airliners. Computer modeling, wind tunnel tests, and other methods helped advance the research, but to find out even more about how the wing concept could reduce drag for future airliners, NASA used a scale model in actual flight.

NASA researchers strapped the Crossflow Attenuated Natural Laminar Flow (CATNLF) model wing to the belly of one of NASA Armstrong’s F-15s. The arrangement allowed them to collect all the information they would need without doing the extensive, costly modifications required to install a full-scale wing on an aircraft.

After a flight series is complete, engineers and researchers analyze the data. Did the instrument work as designed? Did the experimental aircraft perform safely at a high altitude? Did the software operate as planned? Each test raises its own set of questions to evaluate.

NASA continues working with academia, the Department of War, and industry partners to advance U.S. aviation through flight test and bring new benefits to the flying public.

Share

Details Last Updated Jun 22, 2026 EditorDede DiniusContactTeresa Whitingteresa.whiting@nasa.gov Related Terms

• Armstrong Flight Research Center
• Aeronautics
• Flight Innovation
• NASA Aircraft
• Supersonic Flight

Explore More 9 min read ARMD Research Solicitations (Updated June 23) Article 11 hours ago 3 min read NASA’s Experimental Fabrication Branch Fuels Aircraft Innovation Article 1 day ago 5 min read NASA, USGS Scientists Go Rock Hounding in California’s High Desert Article 2 weeks ago Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASA

Missions

Humans in Space

Climate Change

Solar System

3 Min Read This is How NASA Flight Tests New Technology An F-15 aircraft flies above the world’s largest compass rose above NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, on Monday, April 20, 2026. NASA’s Crossflow Attenuated Natural Laminar Flow (CATNLF) test article is attached to the bottom of the F-15. The project aims to lower fuel costs for future commercial aircraft by testing a scale-model wing designed to improve laminar flow. Credits: NASA/Jim Ross

Flight tests are a big part of how NASA turns breakthrough ideas into reality. From flying humans faster than the speed of sound to proving designs that helped shape the space shuttle, flight testing transforms bold concepts into safer, more efficient technologies that benefit the public.

“Flight tests are a way to safely and effectively prove new technology, which helps certification authorities certify equipment,” said Wayne Ringelberg, chief pilot at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. “It helps industry iterate and make systems better, and it promotes research in areas where new ideas can be developed.”

For nearly 80 years, teams at NASA Armstrong have used flight testing in the Southern California desert to push the limits of aerodynamics and advance aviation. Thanks to that work, NASA-developed innovations are aboard every U.S. commercial aircraft and inside every control tower today.

“The space side of NASA uses flight test, too. Every mission, like Artemis II, is never routine,” Ringelberg said. “Everything we’re doing when flying a test mission is something new or different.”

NASA test pilots Jim Less, left, and Nils Larson walk away from a hangar at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, on Thursday, Feb. 4, 2026. The pilots support the agency’s Crossflow Attenuated Natural Laminar Flow (CATNLF) project, which aims to lower fuel costs for future commercial aircraft by testing a scale-model wing designed to improve laminar flow.NASA/Christopher LC Clark

Every NASA test flight — whether it’s studying new software, hardware, or the revolutionary technology of an experimental X-plane — relies on engineers, researchers, pilots, maintenance crew, control room operators, and many others working together.

“Experienced operators and engineers evaluate how things work in flight,” Ringelberg said. “Most new technologies are designed to work in a lab or can be tested in a wind tunnel or other facility, but you never really know how they’ll perform until you fly them.”

Preflight tests often include computer analysis, simulation, wind tunnel testing, and ground tests focused on an aircraft’s ability to withstand the forces of flight and the environments through which it may fly. After hardware or software is deemed safe to fly, researchers turn the mission over to the flight test team.

To support testing, NASA Armstrong maintains an aircraft fleet modified to create space for new hardware or instruments, as well as the ability to integrate new software. These aircraft are flying laboratories, and pilots are trained to accomplish experimental missions.

An F-15 research aircraft sits on the ramp at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. NASA pilots Jim Less, front seat, and Carrie Worth prepare for the flight. The agency’s Crossflow Attenuated Natural Laminar Flow (CATNLF) test article is attached to the bottom of the F-15. The project aims to lower fuel costs for future commercial aircraft by testing a scale-model wing designed to improve laminar flow.NASA/Carla Escamilla

For example, flight testing recently helped NASA gather critical data on laminar flow, or the smooth flow of air, over a wing. The work could lower fuel costs for future airliners. Computer modeling, wind tunnel tests, and other methods helped advance the research, but to find out even more about how the wing concept could reduce drag for future airliners, NASA used a scale model in actual flight.

NASA researchers strapped the Crossflow Attenuated Natural Laminar Flow (CATNLF) model wing to the belly of one of NASA Armstrong’s F-15s. The arrangement allowed them to collect all the information they would need without doing the extensive, costly modifications required to install a full-scale wing on an aircraft.

After a flight series is complete, engineers and researchers analyze the data. Did the instrument work as designed? Did the experimental aircraft perform safely at a high altitude? Did the software operate as planned? Each test raises its own set of questions to evaluate.

NASA continues working with academia, the Department of War, and industry partners to advance U.S. aviation through flight test and bring new benefits to the flying public.

Share

Details Last Updated Jun 22, 2026 EditorDede DiniusContactTeresa Whitingteresa.whiting@nasa.gov Related Terms

• Armstrong Flight Research Center
• Aeronautics
• Flight Innovation
• NASA Aircraft
• Supersonic Flight

Explore More 9 min read ARMD Research Solicitations (Updated June 23) Article 5 hours ago 3 min read NASA’s Experimental Fabrication Branch Fuels Aircraft Innovation Article 1 day ago 5 min read NASA, USGS Scientists Go Rock Hounding in California’s High Desert Article 2 weeks ago Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASA

Missions

Humans in Space

Climate Change

Solar System

The Moon's rocky, uneven, and otherworldly surface features are highlighted by the terminator – the difference between light and darkness.

The Moon’s rocky, uneven, and otherworldly surface features are highlighted by the terminator – the difference between light and darkness.NASA

The Moon appears half-illuminated in this photo captured by the Artemis II crew on flight day 6. The terminator – the difference between light and darkness – provides a stark contrast and even greater perspective of the Moon’s rocky, uneven, and otherworldly surface features. The near side, which is what we can see from Earth, appears in the dark gray regions at the top of this image.

Revisit imagery from the Artemis II mission.

Image credit: NASA

The Moon’s rocky, uneven, and otherworldly surface features are highlighted by the terminator – the difference between light and darkness.NASA

The Moon appears half-illuminated in this photo captured by the Artemis II crew on flight day 6. The terminator – the difference between light and darkness – provides a stark contrast and even greater perspective of the Moon’s rocky, uneven, and otherworldly surface features. The near side, which is what we can see from Earth, appears in the dark gray regions at the top of this image.

Revisit imagery from the Artemis II mission.

Image credit: NASA

9 min read

Preparations for Next Moonwalk Simulations Underway (and Underwater) NASA / Lillian Gipson/Getty Images

THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED ON JUNE 23, 2026

This Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate (ARMD) solicitations page compiles the opportunities to collaborate with NASA’s aeronautical innovators and/or contribute to their research to enable new and improved air transportation systems.

Most opportunities to participate in research are officially announced through the Web-based NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System, better known as NSPIRES. You are encouraged to visit the NSPIRES web site, create an account, and sign up for automated email announcements.

Other types of collaborative opportunities, such as those involving Requests for Information or academic research contests, also are included on this page.

This ARMD Solicitations page has four major sections:

• Quick list of open solicitations with key dates listed.
• Current open solicitations with more details and helpful links.
• Closed solicitations in case it is helpful to see other examples of the kind of research opportunities NASA Aeronautics makes available.
• Summary of NASA’s Research Opportunities in Aeronautics (ROA) NASA Research Announcement (NRA) selection process.

Upcoming Key Dates

August 3, 2026
Deadline for proposals on Open Fan Flight Demonstrations NRA

Currently Open Solicitations NASA Research Announcement – Development Plan for Open Fan Flight Demonstration – OPEN

As part of NASA’s Advanced Air Vehicles Program, the Subsonic Vehicle Technologies and Tools project endeavors to advance knowledge, technologies, and concepts that enable accelerated introduction of radical aircraft and engine technologies across a range of vehicle classes.

This is achieved through partnerships with industry to ensure that these technologies are applicable to planned products to increase the chances of inclusion in future aircraft systems.

This research announcement solicits proposals for providing an open fan flight demonstration plan with optional accompanying risk reduction activities. The flight demonstration plan will inform the project of the scope of a possible future flight demonstration and provide insight into the roadmap, risk reduction areas, and areas of potential investment.

See the full research announcement text on SAM.gov.

Proposals Due: August 3, 2026, by 5:00 PM EDT

The Project F.I.R.E. team receives their “Future Game-Changer” award during the 2024 Gateways to Blue Skies forum held at NASA’s Ames Research Center in California. Gateways to Blue Skies is one of several Aeronautics Innovation Challenges open to the academic community.NASA / Brandon Torres Aeronautics Innovation Challenges – OPEN

NASA’s nationwide team of aeronautical innovators are committed to giving students of all ages opportunities to solve some of the biggest technical challenges facing the aviation community today. Through NASA-sponsored challenges and competitions, students representing multiple disciplines will put their skills to work by designing and building solutions to real-world problems.

See the Complete List of Challenges Currently Closed Solicitations NASA’s X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft lifts off for its first flight Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025, from U.S. Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale, California. The aircraft’s first flight marks the start of flight testing for NASA’s Quesst mission, the result of years of design, integration, and ground testing and begins a new chapter in NASA’s aeronautics research legacy.NASA/Lori Losey NASA ARMD Aeronautics Flight Accelerator – CLOSED

NASA’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate is seeking information from U.S. industry, academia, and government organizations regarding potential partnerships for research, development, and flight testing under the Aeronautics Flight Accelerator initiative. NASA is requesting input on technologies, concepts, and flight test campaigns suitable for cost shared maturation leading to flight within the next three years. Areas of interest span subsonic (including vertical lift), supersonic, and hypersonic flight technologies.

THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL. NO PROPOSALS SHOULD BE SUBMITTED.

RFI Release Date: April 7, 2026
Responses Were Due: May 7, 2026, 1:00PM Pacific Daylight Time (PDT)

For more detailed information, see the RFI listing on SAM.gov.

High school students visit the Glenn Research Center Manufacturing Facility and learn about careers in the STEM manufacturing field.NASA/Marvin Smith FY26 NASA Aerospace Skilled Technical Workforce Hubs (NAS_Hub) – CLOSED

This opportunity seeks proposals to establish state or regionally focused Skilled Technical Workforce Hubs (NAS_Hubs) that will serve as strategic centers for developing and sustaining a skilled technical workforce aligned with aerospace industry and NASA mission needs. The NAS_Hub Notice of Funding Opportunity has been released and may be found in NASA’s Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES) on the NAS_Hub landing page.

Key Dates

• Pre-Proposal Webinar: February 18, 2026, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. ET
• Office Hours Session: March 3, 2026, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. ET
• Proposal Deadline: March 23, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET
• Anticipated Award Notification: June 2026

About the Opportunity

The rapid expansion of the space economy and renewed national priorities in human space exploration have created an urgent demand for a robust skilled technical workforce—individuals in critical science- and engineering-based roles who do not require a bachelor’s degree. To address nationwide shortages and ensure U.S. competitiveness in aerospace and defense, NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement is launching the NASA Aerospace Skilled Technical Workforce Hubs (NAS_Hub) initiative.

Through this notice NASA seeks lead organizations to establish hubs that:

• Collaborate with aerospace employers to align education and training with industry-defined workforce needs.
• Partner with community colleges and high school Career and Technical Education programs to deliver hands-on, industry-aligned learning experiences.
• Coordinate with state or regional workforce development system.
• Build clear and sustainable employment pathways into high-demand aerospace technical careers.

NAS_Hubs will serve as focal points for aligning education, workforce, industry, and government partners to accelerate workforce readiness over a three-year period of performance.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include:

• State, county, city, township, special district, and tribal governments
• Public and private institutions of higher education
• Nonprofit organizations
• For-profit organizations and small businesses

Proposals must include partnerships with, at a minimum:

• Three aerospace industry collaborators supporting NASA’s work
• Community college career and technical education program
• High school career and technical education program
• State or regional workforce development system
• NASA Center or other NASA facility

Award Information

• Maximum Annual Award: $500,000
• Maximum Total Award: $1,500,000 over three years
• Cost Sharing: Not required

How to Apply

Proposals must be submitted electronically via NSPIRES. Registration in NSPIRES and an active SAM.gov registration are required.

Pre-Proposal Webinar and Technical Assistance

NASA will host an interactive pre-proposal webinar for the NAS_Hub opportunity on Feb. 18, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. ET. This session will provide an in-depth overview of this funding opportunity, including program goals, eligibility requirements, proposal preparation guidance, and submission tips. Proposers will also have the opportunity to receive technical assistance and clarification from NASA staff. Prior to attending a webinar, proposers are strongly encouraged to review the full NAS_Hub notice and to check the NAS_Hub landing page in NSPIRES regularly for updates and additional guidance.

Please note that registration is required for the webinar. Connection details will be provided upon completion of registration. Webinar dates, times, registration links, and connection information will be posted on the NAS_Hub landing page in NSPIRES, which also will feature recordings and presentation materials from the webinar after the event for those unable to attend.

Office Hours Session

March 3, 2026, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. ET

Last opportunity for questions prior to the proposal deadline. Join the office hours session here.

Contact Information

For technical assistance with NSPIRES
NSPIRES Help Desk available Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM ET
(202) 479-9376
nspires-help@nasaprs.com 

Program Contact

Maria Arredondo
Next Gen STEM Program Manager
NASA Office of STEM Engagement
Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters

Email: NAS_Hub@nasaprs.com

Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations RFI – CLOSED

View the full ACERO RFI announcement here.

NASA’s Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) project used this request for information to identify technologies that addressed current challenges facing the wildland firefighting community. NASA was seeking information on data collection, airborne connectivity and communications solutions, unmanned aircraft systems traffic management, aircraft operations and autonomy, and more. This would support development of a partnership strategy for future collaborative demonstrations.

Interested parties were requested to respond to this notice with an information package submitted via https://nari.arc.nasa.gov/acero-rfi no later than 4 pm ET, October 15, 2023. Submissions were accepted only from U.S. companies.

Advanced Air Mobility Mission RFI – CLOSED

View the full AAM RFI announcement here.

This request for information is being used to gather market research for NASA to make informed decisions regarding potential partnership strategies and future research to enable Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). NASA is seeking information from public, private, and academic organizations to determine technical needs and community interests that may lead to future solicitations regarding AAM research and development.

This particular RFI is just one avenue of multiple planned opportunities for formal feedback on or participation in NASA’s AAM Mission-related efforts to develop these requirements and help enable AAM. 

The respond by date for this RFI closed on Feb. 1, 2025, at 6 p.m. EST.

ROA-2025 NRA Amendment 1 – CLOSED

Advanced Air Vehicles Program Fellowship Opportunities

(View the full ROA-2025 NRA Amendment 1 text here.)

This announcement solicits proposals from accredited U.S. institutions for research training grants to begin the academic year. This Notice of Funding Opportunity is designed to support independently conceived research projects by highly qualified graduate students in disciplines needed to help advance NASA’s mission, thus affording these students the opportunity to directly contribute to advancements in STEM-related areas of study. These opportunities are focused on innovation and the generation of measurable research results that contribute to NASA’s current and future science and technology goals.

Research proposals are sought to address the key challenges summarized in the Elements section at the end of the Amendment 1 document, and which reference NASA’s Hypersonic Technology project.

Reflecting the Fiscal Year 2026 budget changes, the Transformational Tools & Technologies project opportunities originally described in this announcement were cancelled. Proposals citing this project will not be evaluated.

Notices of Intent are not required.

A budget breakdown for each proposal is required, detailing the allocation of the award funds by year. The budget document may adhere to any format or template provided by the applicant’s institution. Two pre-proposal teleconferences for potential proposers will be held and meeting links will be posted on NSPIRES.

Proposals were due by 5 p.m. EDT on June 11, 2025.

NASA Research Opportunities in Aeronautics

Competition for NRA awards is open to both academia and industry.

The current open solicitations for ARMD Research Opportunities are ROA-2024 and ROA-2025.

Here is some general information to know about the NRA process.

• NRA solicitations are released by NASA Headquarters through the Web-based NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES).
• All NRA technical work is defined and managed by project teams within these four programs: Advanced Air Vehicles Program, Airspace Operations and Safety Program, Integrated Aviation Systems Program, and Transformative Aeronautics Concepts Program.
• NRA awards originate from NASA’s Langley Research Center in Virginia, Ames Research Center in California, Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, and Armstrong Flight Research Center in California.
• Competition for NRA awards is full and open.
• Participation is open to all categories of organizations, including educational institutions, industry, and nonprofits.
• Any updates or amendments to an NRA is posted on the appropriate NSPIRES web pages as noted in the Amendments detailed below.
• ARMD sends notifications of NRA updates through the NSPIRES email system. In order to receive these email notifications, you must be a Registered User of NSPIRES. However, note that NASA is not responsible for inadvertently failing to provide notification of a future NRA. Parties are responsible for regularly checking the NSPIRES website for updated NRAs.

Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASA

Missions

Artemis

Aeronautics STEM

Explore NASA’s History

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Details Last Updated Jun 23, 2026 EditorJim BankeContactJim Bankejim.banke@nasa.gov Related Terms

• Aeronautics
• Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate
• For Colleges & Universities
• Learning Resources
• Research and Technology Mission Directorate

Video: 00:03:38

English: Paxi and the European Space Agency

Did you know that space affects your life every single day? Join Paxi to discover all the ways the European Space Agency (ESA) makes life on Earth better every day and explores space, from the satellites above your head to missions looking deep into the universe. Paxi also shares ways you can be a part of Europe's space team.

Greek: Ο Πάξι και ο Ευρωπαϊκός Οργανισμός Διαστήματος

Γνωρίζατε ότι το διάστημα επηρεάζει τη ζωή σας κάθε μέρα; Γίνετε μέλος του Paxi για να ανακαλύψετε όλους τους τρόπους με τους οποίους ο Ευρωπαϊκός Οργανισμός Διαστήματος (ESA) βελτιώνει την καθημερινή ζωή στη Γη και εξερευνά το διάστημα, από τους δορυφόρους πάνω από το κεφάλι σας μέχρι τις αποστολές που κοιτάζουν βαθιά στο σύμπαν. Ο Paxi μοιράζεται επίσης τρόπους με τους οποίους μπορείτε να γίνετε μέλος της διαστημικής ομάδας της Ευρώπης.

German: Paxi und die Europäische Weltraumorganisation

Wusstest du, dass der Weltraum dein Leben jeden einzelnen Tag beeinflusst? Begleite Paxi und entdecke, wie die Europäische Weltraumorganisation (ESA) das Leben auf der Erde jeden Tag verbessert und den Weltraum erforscht – von den Satelliten über deinem Kopf μέχρι hin zu Missionen, die tief ins Universum blicken. Paxi zeigt dir auch, wie du selbst Teil des europäischen Weltraumteams werden kannst.

Spanish: Paxi y la Agencia Espacial Europea

¿Sabías que el espacio afecta a tu vida todos los días? Únete a Paxi για descubrir todas las formas en que la Agencia Espacial Europea (ESA) mejora la vida en la Tierra cada día y explora el espacio, desde los satélites que vuelan sobre tu cabeza hasta las misiones que profundizan en el universo. Paxi también te cuenta cómo puedes formar parte del equipo espacial de Europa.

Dutch: Paxi en het Europees Ruimteagentschap

Wist je dat de ruimte elke dag invloed heeft op je leven? Ga met Paxi op ontdekkingstocht en zie hoe de Europese Ruimtevaartorganisatie (ESA) het leven op aarde elke dag beter maakt en de ruimte verkent, van de satellieten boven je hoofd tot missies die diep in het heelal kijken. Paxi laat je ook zien hoe jij deel kunt uitmaken van het Europese ruimteteam.

Nowegian: Paxi og Den europeiske romfartsorganisasjon

Visste du at verdensrommet påvirker livet ditt hver eneste dag? Bli med Paxi for å oppdage alle måtene den europeiske romfartsorganisasjonen (ESA) gjør livet på jorden bedre hver dag og utforsker verdensrommet, fra satellittene over hodet ditt til oppdrag som ser dypt inn i universet. Paxi deler også måter du kan bli en del av Europas romteam på.

Estonian: Paxi ja Euroopa Kosmoseagentuur

Kas teadsid, et kosmos mõjutab Sinu elu iga jumala päev? Liitu Paxiga, et avastada kõiki viise, kuidas Euroopa Kosmoseagentuur (ESA) muudab elu Maal iga päev paremaks ja uurib kosmost, alates Sinu pea kohal olevatest satelliitidest kuni missioonideni, mis vaatavad sügavale universumisse. Paxi jagab ka viise, kuidas Sina saad olla osa Euroopa kosmosemeeskonnast.

Portuguese: Paxi e a Agência Espacial Europeia

Sabias que o espaço afeta a tua vida todos os dias? Junta-te ao Paxi para descobrires todas as formas como a Agência Espacial Europeia (ESA) melhora a vida na Terra todos os dias e explora o espaço, desde os satélites acima da tua cabeça até às missões que olham bem fundo no universo. O Paxi também partilha formas de como podes fazer parte da equipa espacial da Europa.

Polish: Paxi i Europejska Agencja Kosmiczna

Czy wiesz, że kosmos ma wpływ na Twoje życie każdego dnia? Dołącz do Paxiego, aby odkryć, na jak wiele sposobów Europejska Agencja Kosmiczna (ESA) każdego dnia ulepsza życie na Ziemi i bada kosmos – od satelitów nad Twoją głową po misje zaglądające w głąb wszechświata. Paxi podpowie Ci również, jak możesz stać się częścią europejskiego zespołu kosmicznego.

Romanian: Paxi și Agenția Spațială Europeană

Știai că spațiul îți influențează viața în fiecare zi? Alătură-te lui Paxi pentru a descoperi toate modurile în care Agenția Spațială Europeană (ESA) face viața pe Pământ mai bună în fiecare zi și explorează spațiul, de la sateliții de deasupra capului tău până la misiunile care privesc adânc în univers. Paxi îți arată, de asemenea, cum poți face parte din echipa spațială a Europei.

Slovenian: Paxi in Evropska vesoljska agencija

Ali ste vedeli, da vesolje vsak dan vpliva na vaše življenje? Pridružite se Paxiju in odkrijte vse načine, kako Evropska vesoljska agencija (ESA) vsak dan izboljšuje življenje na Zemlji in raziskuje vesolje, od satelitov nad vašo glavo do misij, ki gledajo globoko v vesolje. Paxi deli tudi načine, kako lahko postanete del evropske vesoljske ekipe.

Hungarian: A Paxi és az Európai Űrügynökség

Tudtad, hogy az űr minden egyes nap hatással van az életedre? Tarts Paxival, és fedezd fel, mi mindennel teszi jobbá az Európai Űrügynökség (ESA) a földi életet nap mint nap, és hogyan kutatja a világűrt a fejed felett elhaladó műholdaktól kezdve egészen az univerzum mélyét fürkésző missziókig. Paxi azt is megmutatja, hogyan válhatsz te is Európa űrcsapatának tagjává.

Czech: Paxi a Evropská kosmická agentura

Věděli jste, že vesmír ovlivňuje váš život každý den? Připojte se k Paximu a zjistěte, jakými všemi způsoby Evropská vesmírná agentura (ESA) každodenně zlepšuje život na Zemi a zkoumá vesmír – od družic nad vašimi hlavami až po mise nahlížející hluboko do vesmíru. Paxi vám také ukáže, jak se můžete stát součástí evropského vesmírného týmu.

Finnish: Paxi ja Euroopan avaruusjärjestö

Tiesitkö, että avaruus vaikuttaa elämääsi joka ikinen päivä? Lähde Paxin mukaan ottamaan selvää kaikista niistä tavoista, joilla Euroopan avaruusjärjestö (ESA) parantaa elämää maapallolla päivittäin ja tutkii avaruutta – aina pääsi yläpuolella olevista satelliiteista aina maailmankaikkeuden syvyyksiin katsoviin tutkimusretkiin. Paxi kertoo myös, miten sinä voit tulla osaksi Euroopan avaruustiimiä.

Danish: Paxi og Den Europæiske Rumorganisation

Vidste du, at rummet påvirker dit liv hver eneste dag? Tag med Paxi for at opdage alle de måder, hvorpå Den Europæiske Rumorganisation (ESA) gør livet på Jorden bedre hver dag og udforsker rummet, lige fra satellitterne over dit hoved til missioner, der kigger dybt ind i universet. Paxi fortæller også, hvordan du kan blive en del af Europas rumteam.

Swedish: Paxi och den Europeiska rymdorganisationen

Visste du att rymden påverkar ditt liv varje dag? Följ med Paxi för att upptäcka alla sätt som Europeiska rymdorganisationen (ESA) gör livet på jorden bättre varje dag och utforskar rymden, från satelliterna ovanför ditt huvud till uppdrag som blickar djupt in i universum. Paxi berättar också hur du kan bli en del av Europas rymdteam.

Italian: Paxi e l’Agenzia Spaziale Europea

Sapevi che lo spazio influenza la tua vita ogni singolo giorno? Unisciti a Paxi per scoprire tutti i modi in care l'Agenzia Spaziale Europea (ESA) rende migliore la vita sulla Terra ogni giorno ed esplora lo spazio, dai satelliti sopra la tua testa alle missioni che guardano nelle profondità dell'universo. Paxi ti spiega anche come puoi entrare a far parte del team spaziale europeo.

French: Paxi et l’Agence spatiale européenne 

Saviez-vous que l'espace influence votre vie de tous les jours ? Rejoignez Paxi pour découvrir comment l'Agence spatiale européenne (ESA) améliore le quotidien sur Terre et explore l'espace, des satellites au-dessus de votre tête aux missions qui sondent les profondeurs de l'univers. Paxi vous explique également comment faire partie de l'équipe spatiale européenne.

9 min read

Preparations for Next Moonwalk Simulations Underway (and Underwater) NASA / Lillian Gipson/Getty Images

THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED ON JUNE 23, 2026

This Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate (ARMD) solicitations page compiles the opportunities to collaborate with NASA’s aeronautical innovators and/or contribute to their research to enable new and improved air transportation systems.

Most opportunities to participate in research are officially announced through the Web-based NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System, better known as NSPIRES. You are encouraged to visit the NSPIRES web site, create an account, and sign up for automated email announcements.

Other types of collaborative opportunities, such as those involving Requests for Information or academic research contests, also are included on this page.

This ARMD Solicitations page has four major sections:

• Quick list of open solicitations with key dates listed.
• Current open solicitations with more details and helpful links.
• Closed solicitations in case it is helpful to see other examples of the kind of research opportunities NASA Aeronautics makes available.
• Summary of NASA’s Research Opportunities in Aeronautics (ROA) NASA Research Announcement (NRA) selection process.

Upcoming Key Dates

August 3, 2026
Deadline for proposals on Open Fan Flight Demonstrations NRA

Currently Open Solicitations NASA Research Announcement – Development Plan for Open Fan Flight Demonstration – OPEN

As part of NASA’s Advanced Air Vehicles Program, the Subsonic Vehicle Technologies and Tools project endeavors to advance knowledge, technologies, and concepts that enable accelerated introduction of radical aircraft and engine technologies across a range of vehicle classes.

This is achieved through partnerships with industry to ensure that these technologies are applicable to planned products to increase the chances of inclusion in future aircraft systems.

This research announcement solicits proposals for providing an open fan flight demonstration plan with optional accompanying risk reduction activities. The flight demonstration plan will inform the project of the scope of a possible future flight demonstration and provide insight into the roadmap, risk reduction areas, and areas of potential investment.

See the full research announcement text on SAM.gov.

Proposals Due: August 3, 2026, by 5:00 PM EDT

The Project F.I.R.E. team receives their “Future Game-Changer” award during the 2024 Gateways to Blue Skies forum held at NASA’s Ames Research Center in California. Gateways to Blue Skies is one of several Aeronautics Innovation Challenges open to the academic community.NASA / Brandon Torres Aeronautics Innovation Challenges – OPEN

NASA’s nationwide team of aeronautical innovators are committed to giving students of all ages opportunities to solve some of the biggest technical challenges facing the aviation community today. Through NASA-sponsored challenges and competitions, students representing multiple disciplines will put their skills to work by designing and building solutions to real-world problems.

See the Complete List of Challenges Currently Closed Solicitations NASA’s X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft lifts off for its first flight Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025, from U.S. Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale, California. The aircraft’s first flight marks the start of flight testing for NASA’s Quesst mission, the result of years of design, integration, and ground testing and begins a new chapter in NASA’s aeronautics research legacy.NASA/Lori Losey NASA ARMD Aeronautics Flight Accelerator – CLOSED

NASA’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate is seeking information from U.S. industry, academia, and government organizations regarding potential partnerships for research, development, and flight testing under the Aeronautics Flight Accelerator initiative. NASA is requesting input on technologies, concepts, and flight test campaigns suitable for cost shared maturation leading to flight within the next three years. Areas of interest span subsonic (including vertical lift), supersonic, and hypersonic flight technologies.

THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL. NO PROPOSALS SHOULD BE SUBMITTED.

RFI Release Date: April 7, 2026
Responses Were Due: May 7, 2026, 1:00PM Pacific Daylight Time (PDT)

For more detailed information, see the RFI listing on SAM.gov.

High school students visit the Glenn Research Center Manufacturing Facility and learn about careers in the STEM manufacturing field.NASA/Marvin Smith FY26 NASA Aerospace Skilled Technical Workforce Hubs (NAS_Hub) – CLOSED

This opportunity seeks proposals to establish state or regionally focused Skilled Technical Workforce Hubs (NAS_Hubs) that will serve as strategic centers for developing and sustaining a skilled technical workforce aligned with aerospace industry and NASA mission needs. The NAS_Hub Notice of Funding Opportunity has been released and may be found in NASA’s Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES) on the NAS_Hub landing page.

Key Dates

• Pre-Proposal Webinar: February 18, 2026, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. ET
• Office Hours Session: March 3, 2026, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. ET
• Proposal Deadline: March 23, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET
• Anticipated Award Notification: June 2026

About the Opportunity

The rapid expansion of the space economy and renewed national priorities in human space exploration have created an urgent demand for a robust skilled technical workforce—individuals in critical science- and engineering-based roles who do not require a bachelor’s degree. To address nationwide shortages and ensure U.S. competitiveness in aerospace and defense, NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement is launching the NASA Aerospace Skilled Technical Workforce Hubs (NAS_Hub) initiative.

Through this notice NASA seeks lead organizations to establish hubs that:

• Collaborate with aerospace employers to align education and training with industry-defined workforce needs.
• Partner with community colleges and high school Career and Technical Education programs to deliver hands-on, industry-aligned learning experiences.
• Coordinate with state or regional workforce development system.
• Build clear and sustainable employment pathways into high-demand aerospace technical careers.

NAS_Hubs will serve as focal points for aligning education, workforce, industry, and government partners to accelerate workforce readiness over a three-year period of performance.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include:

• State, county, city, township, special district, and tribal governments
• Public and private institutions of higher education
• Nonprofit organizations
• For-profit organizations and small businesses

Proposals must include partnerships with, at a minimum:

• Three aerospace industry collaborators supporting NASA’s work
• Community college career and technical education program
• High school career and technical education program
• State or regional workforce development system
• NASA Center or other NASA facility

Award Information

• Maximum Annual Award: $500,000
• Maximum Total Award: $1,500,000 over three years
• Cost Sharing: Not required

How to Apply

Proposals must be submitted electronically via NSPIRES. Registration in NSPIRES and an active SAM.gov registration are required.

Pre-Proposal Webinar and Technical Assistance

NASA will host an interactive pre-proposal webinar for the NAS_Hub opportunity on Feb. 18, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. ET. This session will provide an in-depth overview of this funding opportunity, including program goals, eligibility requirements, proposal preparation guidance, and submission tips. Proposers will also have the opportunity to receive technical assistance and clarification from NASA staff. Prior to attending a webinar, proposers are strongly encouraged to review the full NAS_Hub notice and to check the NAS_Hub landing page in NSPIRES regularly for updates and additional guidance.

Please note that registration is required for the webinar. Connection details will be provided upon completion of registration. Webinar dates, times, registration links, and connection information will be posted on the NAS_Hub landing page in NSPIRES, which also will feature recordings and presentation materials from the webinar after the event for those unable to attend.

Office Hours Session

March 3, 2026, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. ET

Last opportunity for questions prior to the proposal deadline. Join the office hours session here.

Contact Information

For technical assistance with NSPIRES
NSPIRES Help Desk available Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM ET
(202) 479-9376
nspires-help@nasaprs.com 

Program Contact

Maria Arredondo
Next Gen STEM Program Manager
NASA Office of STEM Engagement
Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters

Email: NAS_Hub@nasaprs.com

Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations RFI – CLOSED

View the full ACERO RFI announcement here.

NASA’s Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) project used this request for information to identify technologies that addressed current challenges facing the wildland firefighting community. NASA was seeking information on data collection, airborne connectivity and communications solutions, unmanned aircraft systems traffic management, aircraft operations and autonomy, and more. This would support development of a partnership strategy for future collaborative demonstrations.

Interested parties were requested to respond to this notice with an information package submitted via https://nari.arc.nasa.gov/acero-rfi no later than 4 pm ET, October 15, 2023. Submissions were accepted only from U.S. companies.

Advanced Air Mobility Mission RFI – CLOSED

View the full AAM RFI announcement here.

This request for information is being used to gather market research for NASA to make informed decisions regarding potential partnership strategies and future research to enable Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). NASA is seeking information from public, private, and academic organizations to determine technical needs and community interests that may lead to future solicitations regarding AAM research and development.

This particular RFI is just one avenue of multiple planned opportunities for formal feedback on or participation in NASA’s AAM Mission-related efforts to develop these requirements and help enable AAM. 

The respond by date for this RFI closed on Feb. 1, 2025, at 6 p.m. EST.

ROA-2025 NRA Amendment 1 – CLOSED

Advanced Air Vehicles Program Fellowship Opportunities

(View the full ROA-2025 NRA Amendment 1 text here.)

This announcement solicits proposals from accredited U.S. institutions for research training grants to begin the academic year. This Notice of Funding Opportunity is designed to support independently conceived research projects by highly qualified graduate students in disciplines needed to help advance NASA’s mission, thus affording these students the opportunity to directly contribute to advancements in STEM-related areas of study. These opportunities are focused on innovation and the generation of measurable research results that contribute to NASA’s current and future science and technology goals.

Research proposals are sought to address the key challenges summarized in the Elements section at the end of the Amendment 1 document, and which reference NASA’s Hypersonic Technology project.

Reflecting the Fiscal Year 2026 budget changes, the Transformational Tools & Technologies project opportunities originally described in this announcement were cancelled. Proposals citing this project will not be evaluated.

Notices of Intent are not required.

A budget breakdown for each proposal is required, detailing the allocation of the award funds by year. The budget document may adhere to any format or template provided by the applicant’s institution. Two pre-proposal teleconferences for potential proposers will be held and meeting links will be posted on NSPIRES.

Proposals were due by 5 p.m. EDT on June 11, 2025.

NASA Research Opportunities in Aeronautics

Competition for NRA awards is open to both academia and industry.

The current open solicitations for ARMD Research Opportunities are ROA-2024 and ROA-2025.

Here is some general information to know about the NRA process.

• NRA solicitations are released by NASA Headquarters through the Web-based NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES).
• All NRA technical work is defined and managed by project teams within these four programs: Advanced Air Vehicles Program, Airspace Operations and Safety Program, Integrated Aviation Systems Program, and Transformative Aeronautics Concepts Program.
• NRA awards originate from NASA’s Langley Research Center in Virginia, Ames Research Center in California, Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, and Armstrong Flight Research Center in California.
• Competition for NRA awards is full and open.
• Participation is open to all categories of organizations, including educational institutions, industry, and nonprofits.
• Any updates or amendments to an NRA is posted on the appropriate NSPIRES web pages as noted in the Amendments detailed below.
• ARMD sends notifications of NRA updates through the NSPIRES email system. In order to receive these email notifications, you must be a Registered User of NSPIRES. However, note that NASA is not responsible for inadvertently failing to provide notification of a future NRA. Parties are responsible for regularly checking the NSPIRES website for updated NRAs.

Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASA

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Share

Details Last Updated Jun 23, 2026 EditorJim BankeContactJim Bankejim.banke@nasa.gov Related Terms

• Aeronautics
• Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate
• For Colleges & Universities
• Learning Resources
• Research and Technology Mission Directorate

Exploding stars have left their radioactive mark on our planet. Now scientists have found more evidence of a particularly violent event in Earth’s more ancient past.

The post Exploding Stars Sprinkled Ancient Earth With Radioactive Iron and Plutonium appeared first on Sky & Telescope.

4 Min Read I Am Artemis: Jason Peterson NASA’s Jason Peterson is the range operations manager at NASA’s Stennis Space Center. For Artemis II, he supported the team responsible for delivering video and communication feeds for launch and splashdown. Credits: NASA/Danny Nowlin

Jason Peterson’s responsibilities for NASA’s Artemis II mission went beyond his usual role as the range operations manager at NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.

For Peterson, working at NASA is a surreal full-circle moment.

“I grew up in DeLisle, Mississippi, right down the road from NASA,” said Peterson. “You would hear NASA testing, the windows would shake, and you knew they were out there. Not in a million years would I have ever dreamed I would work with NASA.”

His career journey took a few turns before reaching the space agency.

“I got out of school, welded, went to college and then to the Air Force. The path to NASA really started to develop from there,” said Peterson.

Peterson spent 24 years in the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard, working in airfield and air-to-ground range operations, followed by a few years working as an aircraft dispatcher at Airbus Final Assembly Line.

Peterson credits his military experience with preparing him for the 12-to-16-hour workdays that helped bring the Artemis II test flight around the Moon and into view for audiences around the world.

He supported the team responsible for delivering video and communication feeds for the launch of NASA’s SLS (Space Launch System) rocket with the Artemis II crew aboard the Orion spacecraft, and then splashdown in the Pacific Ocean.

During the nearly 10-day mission, NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and CSA (Canadian Space Agency) astronaut Jeremy Hansen completed a record-setting lunar flyby, taking them 252,756 miles at their farthest distance from Earth.

Aboard the USS John P. Murtha, Peterson was the first on the ship to spot the capsule returning with the crew.

“The sonic boom was the moment it truly hit me. Even though I was tracking the capsule, it did not fully register until then. Chills went down my neck and back. You realize our astronauts are coming home. It was an incredible and emotional moment.”

JASON PETERSON

Range Operations Manager for NASA Stennis

Jason Peterson, NASA Stennis range operations manager, is shown with the Orion spacecraft aboard the USS John P. Murtha on April 13, 2026. Peterson was the first to spot the capsule returning with the Artemis II crew as he supported the team responsible for delivering video and communication feeds during splashdown operations. Credits: NASANASA

Peterson operated one of six cameras providing live coverage by using a high‑resolution, multi‑sensor system with thermal capabilities. Using the ship’s heading and Orion’s predicted trajectory, he located the capsule within minutes and began tracking it.

Orion entered Earth’s atmosphere at about 400,000 feet above the planet’s surface, traveling nearly 35 times the speed of sound and about 1,956 statute miles from its splashdown point off the coast of California. Peterson tracked Orion from the release of the small parachutes that first slow and steady the capsule, through the main parachutes opening, and all the way to splashdown.

“You are fully locked in, keeping it centered, in focus, and steady,” said Peterson.

Peterson’s focus on the mission began weeks earlier at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

In the days leading to launch, Peterson worked with the team running full systems checks, staging communications gear, and preparing drones and fixed‑wing camera assets. He helped configure and operate the systems that ensured live video flowed from the launch pad, the crowds, and surrounding air and ground platforms.

On April 1, the launch day of Artemis II, the team unloaded and set up high‑resolution sensors, connection terminals, routers, monitors, fiber lines, and drone equipment. They flew drones to capture crowd scenes and aerial views before liftoff.

As the SLS rocket launched, Peterson’s full attention was on positioning the drone and maintaining the shot.

“There is not much time to step back and take in the moment, as you are concentrating on precision,” said Peterson.

As the mission got underway, Peterson and the team packed up, returned to the facility, and downloaded the day’s footage.

The Artemis II crew were more than halfway to the Moon as Peterson arrived in San Diego on April 4. In the days leading to splashdown, the team loaded and installed high‑fidelity cameras and supporting equipment, all to help the world witness a historic milestone when the Artemis II crew returned to Earth on April 10.

Next up will be Artemis III. NASA will launch four astronauts from NASA Kennedy aboard the Orion spacecraft on the SLS rocket. Building on the successful Artemis II crewed test flight in April, Artemis III will pave the way for future surface missions, with experts like Peterson helping every step of the way.

About the AuthorBo BlackCommunications Strategist

Share

Details Last Updated Jun 23, 2026 EditorCatherine Ragin Williams Related Terms

• Humans in Space
• Artemis
• Artemis 2
• I Am Artemis

Explore More 2 min read NASA Astronauts to Answer Questions from New Jersey Students Article 1 week ago 3 min read I Am Artemis: Elkin Norena Article 2 weeks ago 5 min read NASA’s Artemis II Moon Mission Research Continues on Earth

Results from Artemis II’s science investigations will help support safe human exploration of deep space…

Article 3 weeks ago Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASA

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4 Min Read I Am Artemis: Jason Peterson NASA’s Jason Peterson is the range operations manager at NASA’s Stennis Space Center. For Artemis II, he supported the team responsible for delivering video and communication feeds for launch and splashdown. Credits: NASA/Danny Nowlin

Jason Peterson’s responsibilities for NASA’s Artemis II mission went beyond his usual role as the range operations manager at NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.

For Peterson, working at NASA is a surreal full-circle moment.

“I grew up in DeLisle, Mississippi, right down the road from NASA,” said Peterson. “You would hear NASA testing, the windows would shake, and you knew they were out there. Not in a million years would I have ever dreamed I would work with NASA.”

His career journey took a few turns before reaching the space agency.

“I got out of school, welded, went to college and then to the Air Force. The path to NASA really started to develop from there,” said Peterson.

Peterson spent 24 years in the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard, working in airfield and air-to-ground range operations, followed by a few years working as an aircraft dispatcher at Airbus Final Assembly Line.

Peterson credits his military experience with preparing him for the 12-to-16-hour workdays that helped bring the Artemis II test flight around the Moon and into view for audiences around the world.

He supported the team responsible for delivering video and communication feeds for the launch of NASA’s SLS (Space Launch System) rocket with the Artemis II crew aboard the Orion spacecraft, and then splashdown in the Pacific Ocean.

During the nearly 10-day mission, NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and CSA (Canadian Space Agency) astronaut Jeremy Hansen completed a record-setting lunar flyby, taking them 252,756 miles at their farthest distance from Earth.

Aboard the USS John P. Murtha, Peterson was the first on the ship to spot the capsule returning with the crew.

“The sonic boom was the moment it truly hit me. Even though I was tracking the capsule, it did not fully register until then. Chills went down my neck and back. You realize our astronauts are coming home. It was an incredible and emotional moment.”

JASON PETERSON

Range Operations Manager for NASA Stennis

Jason Peterson, NASA Stennis range operations manager, is shown with the Orion spacecraft aboard the USS John P. Murtha on April 13, 2026. Peterson was the first to spot the capsule returning with the Artemis II crew as he supported the team responsible for delivering video and communication feeds during splashdown operations. Credits: NASANASA

Peterson operated one of six cameras providing live coverage by using a high‑resolution, multi‑sensor system with thermal capabilities. Using the ship’s heading and Orion’s predicted trajectory, he located the capsule within minutes and began tracking it.

Orion entered Earth’s atmosphere at about 400,000 feet above the planet’s surface, traveling nearly 35 times the speed of sound and about 1,956 statute miles from its splashdown point off the coast of California. Peterson tracked Orion from the release of the small parachutes that first slow and steady the capsule, through the main parachutes opening, and all the way to splashdown.

“You are fully locked in, keeping it centered, in focus, and steady,” said Peterson.

Peterson’s focus on the mission began weeks earlier at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

In the days leading to launch, Peterson worked with the team running full systems checks, staging communications gear, and preparing drones and fixed‑wing camera assets. He helped configure and operate the systems that ensured live video flowed from the launch pad, the crowds, and surrounding air and ground platforms.

On April 1, the launch day of Artemis II, the team unloaded and set up high‑resolution sensors, connection terminals, routers, monitors, fiber lines, and drone equipment. They flew drones to capture crowd scenes and aerial views before liftoff.

As the SLS rocket launched, Peterson’s full attention was on positioning the drone and maintaining the shot.

“There is not much time to step back and take in the moment, as you are concentrating on precision,” said Peterson.

As the mission got underway, Peterson and the team packed up, returned to the facility, and downloaded the day’s footage.

The Artemis II crew were more than halfway to the Moon as Peterson arrived in San Diego on April 4. In the days leading to splashdown, the team loaded and installed high‑fidelity cameras and supporting equipment, all to help the world witness a historic milestone when the Artemis II crew returned to Earth on April 10.

Next up will be Artemis III. NASA will launch four astronauts from NASA Kennedy aboard the Orion spacecraft on the SLS rocket. Building on the successful Artemis II crewed test flight in April, Artemis III will pave the way for future surface missions, with experts like Peterson helping every step of the way.

About the AuthorBo BlackCommunications Strategist

Share

Details Last Updated Jun 23, 2026 EditorCatherine Ragin Williams Related Terms

• Humans in Space
• Artemis
• Artemis 2
• I Am Artemis

Explore More 2 min read NASA Astronauts to Answer Questions from New Jersey Students Article 1 week ago 3 min read I Am Artemis: Elkin Norena Article 2 weeks ago 5 min read NASA’s Artemis II Moon Mission Research Continues on Earth

Results from Artemis II’s science investigations will help support safe human exploration of deep space…

Article 3 weeks ago Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASA

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