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.…

George Mason University has been awarded a $814,777 grant by a civilian federal agency's Shared Services Center to execute a balanced science program aligned with guidance from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, administration priorities, and congressional direction. The work, which extends through April 14, 2028, will position George Mason University as a key partner in the agency's exploration initiative, with particular emphasis on scientific research related to the Moon, lunar orbit, Mars, and beyond. The university will also advance discovery in emerging cross-disciplinary fields and develop a directorate-wide, target-user focused approach to applied programs including Earth science applications, space weather, planetary defense, and space situational awareness. This grant carries no set-aside designation and will be performed at the university's Fairfax, Virginia location.

This award reflects George Mason University's established position as a comprehensive research institution with demonstrated capabilities across multiple scientific and technological domains. The university maintains strong relationships with federal agencies through numerous grants and contracts spanning areas such as quantum computing, climate science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. As a large public research university and minority-serving institution, George Mason University leverages its multidisciplinary expertise and research infrastructure to address critical national priorities, with this grant supporting the agency's strategic focus on exploration science and emerging research opportunities.

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