Central Washington University received a $454,688 grant award from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Shared Services Center, effective July 16, 2025, with an ultimate completion date of July 15, 2028. The grant supports the execution of a balanced science program aligned with guidance from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, administration priorities, and congressional direction. The university will serve as a key partner in NASA's exploration initiative, conducting scientific research focused on the Moon, lunar orbit, Mars, and beyond, while advancing discovery in emerging fields through cross-disciplinary opportunities between traditional science disciplines.
The award carries no set-aside designation and will be performed at CWU's location in Ellensburg, Washington. Under this grant, the university will develop a directorate-wide, target-user focused approach to applied programs encompassing Earth science applications, space weather, planetary defense, and space situational awareness. This award builds on CWU's established track record as a premier institution for STEM education and scientific research, complementing its substantial $8.781 million cooperative agreement with NASA for the Northwest Earth and Space Science Pathways program, which provides STEM opportunities and outreach to underserved communities across the Pacific Northwest.