The space sciences deal with some of the most profound questions in the universe: How did the universe begin? Is there extraterrestrial life? Will the Earth continue to sustain life as we know it?

Over its 40-year history, USRA has responded to questions such as these by providing a collaborative membership organization where universities and other research organizations may cooperate effectively with each other, with the United States government, and other entities to develop knowledge associated with space science and technology.

Below are just a few case studies representative of USRA's full range of space science capabilities.

Astronomy and Astrophysics

• Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA)

Biomedicine and Biotechnology

• Microwave Tissue Soldering for Emergency Wound Closure
• High Energy Radiation Research
• Flight Analogs Project

Information Technology

• Mars Exploration Rover (MER) Mission MAPGEN Software
• World Wind

Planetary Science

• Imaging Radars for Exploring the Lunar Poles

Space Exploration Technology

• Isotope Power for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)