Division Overview

The Space Science and Astrobiology Division at NASA Ames Research Center (ARC) provides unique interdisciplinary scientific expertise and capabilities that advance human understanding of the Molecular Evolution of Galaxies, the Evolution and Formation of Planetary Systems and our Understanding of the Origin and Evolution of Life in the Universe. Our core science capabilities in theoretical, observational, experimental, and instrument development work enable NASA missions and are focused to enhance and enable the science and exploration goals of NASA and the scientific community.

A bright white center is encircled with pinks, purples and yellow colors with a black background dotted with white and blue stars.

The Division’s scientific breadth and expertise provide the Agency with a unique interdisciplinary workforce utilizing multidisciplinary teams of astronomers, astrophysicists, chemists, microbiologists, physicists, and planetary scientists and are organized into three core science areas:

This image features the Cassiopeia A supernova, an expanding ball of matter and energy ejected from an exploding star. Here, rings of neon blue and brilliant white emit veins of polished gold. The rings and their arching veins encircle a place of relative calm at the center of the supernova remnant. This hole at the center of the circle, and the three-dimensionality conveyed by the rings and their arching veins, give this image of Cassiopeia A the look of a giant, crackling, electric blue donut. X-rays detected by Chandra show debris from the destroyed star and the blast wave from the explosion.

Astrophysics

Researchers study the physical and chemical properties of astronomical objects and phenomena by observing their radiation at optical, infrared and ultraviolet wavelengths.

Planetary Systems

Researchers develop new, fundamental knowledge about the origins of stars and planetary systems, their evolution and formation, their environment, and astrobiology.

Exobiology

Researchers study the history, distribution, and chemistry of biogenic elements in the solar system; prebiotic chemical evolution and the origin of life; and the history of Earth’s early biosphere as recorded in microorganisms and ancient rocks.