The Space Science and Astrobiology Division at NASA Ames Research Center provides unique interdisciplinary scientific expertise and capabilities that advance human understanding of the Molecular Evolution in the Galaxy, 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 are focused to enhance and enable the science and exploration goals of NASA and the scientific community.

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

• 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.