Execute a balanced science program based on discipline-specific guidance from the national academies of sciences, engineering, and medicine, administration priorities, and direction from congress.…

The Smithsonian Institution, operating through its Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) division in Cambridge, Massachusetts, received a $723,441 research grant from a civilian federal agency effective January 1, 2025, with completion targeted for December 31, 2027. This award carries no set-aside designation and supports a balanced science program aligned with National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine guidance, administration priorities, and congressional direction. The grant enables SAO to serve as a key partner in federal exploration initiatives, with emphasis on scientific research related to the Moon, lunar orbit, Mars, and beyond, while also advancing discovery in emerging cross-disciplinary fields that bridge traditional science domains.

The funded work encompasses a directorate-wide, user-focused approach to applied programs including Earth science applications, space weather research, planetary defense, and space situational awareness. SAO's involvement leverages its established capabilities in advanced astrophysical research, instrumentation development, and technical support, complementing broader federal agency objectives in space science and exploration. As a non-profit research organization and trust instrumentality of the U.S. government, SAO maintains a track record of collaborative partnerships with academic institutions and federal agencies such as NASA and the National Science Foundation, positioning it to effectively execute the multidisciplinary research objectives outlined in this award.

Execute a balanced science program based on discipline-specific guidance from the national academies of sciences, engineering, and medicine, administration priorities, and direction from congress. Participate as a key partner and enabler in the agency s exploration initiative, focusing on scientific research of, on, and from the moon, lunar orbit, mars, and beyond. Advance discovery in emerging fields by identifying and exploiting cross-disciplinary opportunities between traditional science disciplines develop a directorate-wide, target-user focused approach to applied programs, including earth science applications, space weather, planetary defense, and space situational awareness.