If you’re interested in space, you’ve probably heard of NASA. As an independent agency of the U.S. government, NASA is in charge of space research and air and space science. Contractors build the hardware that NASA needs to conduct these important missions, and they partner with national and international organizations to complete their projects. But what exactly is NASA? And what does it do? Read on for an explanation of the organization’s mission and how it works.
NASA is a U.S. government agency
NASA is a U.S. government agency that oversees the nation’s aeronautics and space programs. This agency is responsible for the United States’ civil space program, which aims to send people to the moon and return safely. It also funds space research to help scientists understand the solar system. Although NASA is the largest government agency in the world, it doesn’t get the credit it deserves.
The agency has made tremendous advances in space exploration since the first moonwalk and is a key player in the construction of the International Space Station. The agency has experienced some tragic setbacks, including the 1986 Challenger and the 2003 Columbia space shuttle disasters that killed the astronauts on board. It is important to acknowledge the agency’s accomplishments and the role they played in the country’s technological advancements.
It is responsible for science and technology related to air and space
NASA is the United States government agency responsible for research and development of vehicles and other activities related to air and space exploration. Founded in 1958, the agency was primarily responsible for the civilian space program and aerospace research. Later, NASA took control of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, operated by the California Institute of Technology. Together, they formed NASA-JPL, or NASA-JPL. Currently, NASA manages the Launch Services Program, which oversees uncrewed NASA launches.
NASA’s activities are widespread and diverse. Its science and technology projects have impacted nearly every industry. For example, NOAA operates satellites for a variety of missions, including weather forecasting. Meanwhile, the Department of Defense and intelligence agencies support missions using satellites. Private commercial space programs include satellite launches, Earth observation, and communications satellites. It is also responsible for developing the Space Station.
It relies on contractors to build its hardware
In order to support its mission of scientific research and technology development, NASA relies heavily on the work of U.S. contractors. Under federal acquisition laws, NASA routinely contracts for large, complex items that require cutting-edge technology. However, a contractor’s success depends on their ability to satisfy their needs at a cost that is affordable for the taxpayer. This is where performance-based contracting comes in.
While NASA has traditionally built most of its hardware in-house, it also relies on contractors to build components and spacecraft for its mission. Historically, it has hired contractors to manufacture components and hardware for its missions. In addition, NASA has hired contractors to build spacecraft to test, validate, and operate the spacecraft. In some cases, a contractor will design and build the spacecraft and launch it, while a government-run firm will provide the rocket and the hardware.
It works with other national and international organizations
In order to accomplish its missions, NASA often collaborates with other national and international organizations. In the field of space science, for instance, NASA works with partners to conduct mission-specific research and development. For example, NASA is part of the International Solar-Terrestrial Physics Science Initiative, a collaboration between NASA, ESA, and Japan’s space agency. NASA is also a partner in the joint mission Ulysses, which studies the Sun. ESA and NASA also operate the International Gamma-Ray Astrophysics Laboratory.
Today, NASA is responsible for a range of projects spanning the Earth, the Moon, and space exploration. Its budget is determined by the goals of U.S. presidents and Congress. These partnerships have the potential to benefit the entire international community. Despite the increasing number of challenges faced by NASA, the agency has achieved a long-term track record of success. Here are just a few of the major missions that the agency is currently involved with: