The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, or NASA, is a United States government agency devoted to the study of science and technology. Created in 1958 to counteract the Soviet's 1957 launch of the satellite, Sputnik, this agency oversees the exploration of space, as well as research in aeronautics. NASA's goal is to lead the United States in understanding and exploring space.
Mission Statement for NASA
To reach for new heights and reveal the unknown so that what we do and learn will benefit all humankind.
Many people know a little something about NASA’s work. However, most probably have no idea how many different things the agency does. Astronauts in orbit conduct scientific research, and satellites launched and maintained by NASA help scientists learn more about Earth's surface and atmosphere. In addition, space probes study the solar system and galaxies beyond, and new technologies developed by NASA improve air travel and other aspects of flight. NASA is even beginning a new program to send humans to explore Mars.
The agency shares what it learns through its website, in its visitors' centers, on social media, and professionally with the worldwide scientific community. The agency's findings can make life better for people all over the world as companies have used NASA discoveries to create new “spin-off” products.
NASA does much more than launch rockets and scientists into space, though. The agency has a tradition of investing in programs and activities that engage students, educators, and communities in the excitement and discovery of exploration. NASA's education office helps teachers prepare students who will become the engineers, scientists, astronauts, and other NASA workers of the future. The agency also helps teachers learn new ways to teach science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. A few years ago, NASA even began involving public school students in NASA missions to help them get excited about learning.
Use these questions to review the role that NASA plays within government and how the agency may affect your own life.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How has NASA helped to improve education for U.S. students? | NASA utilizes its research to educate students and get them interested in science. |
| How is NASA's research able to enhance our understanding of Earth? | Using the satellite images acquired by NASA over the years, scientists are able to see changes on Earth and predict future changes. |
| What are NASA's two primary functions? | space exploration and the study of the Earth and its atmosphere |
