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.…

Colorado State University's Sponsored Programs Division received a $1.21 million grant award from the National Science Foundation on December 2, 2024, with a completion deadline of December 1, 2027. The award funds research execution aligned with the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine guidance and supports NSF's broader scientific priorities. Key objectives include serving as a partner in the agency's exploration initiative with focus on scientific research related to the Moon, lunar orbit, Mars, and beyond; advancing discovery through cross-disciplinary opportunities across traditional science fields; and developing applied programs addressing Earth science applications, space weather, planetary defense, and space situational awareness. The contract utilizes standard competitive procedures with no set-aside designations and is performed at CSU's Fort Collins, Colorado location.

This award represents a continuation of Colorado State University's significant engagement with the National Science Foundation and other federal agencies in supporting critical research missions. As a prominent Land Grant research institution, CSU brings established expertise in complex scientific research, data analysis, and technical project execution. The university's track record includes substantial NSF funding for climate science, interdisciplinary research initiatives, and workforce development programs, positioning it as a capable executor of integrated science programs requiring coordination across multiple disciplines. This grant supports NSF's mission to promote scientific discovery while contributing to the nation's broader exploration and space science objectives.

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.