The earth sciences help us understand the complex, dynamic system that makes up and sustains life on Earth. Enhancing our knowledge of the interaction of the Earth's biosphere, atmosphere, lithosphere, and cryosphere through research and technology development will lead to a more thorough scientific understanding of this complex system and its response to natural or human-induced changes, and to improve the prediction of climate, weather, and natural hazards.

Two of USRA's research and technology development entities focus on Earth science:

• The Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI), located in proximity to NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.
• The USRA Huntsville Program Office, which provides administrative and programmatic support to the National Space Science and Technology Center (NSSTC) at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) in Huntsville, Alabama.