Federal Project Grant Award Summary

The University of Central Florida Board of Trustees, through its Office of Research Division, received a $459,310 project grant award from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) under the Science program (CFDA 43.001), with an award date of March 16, 2026, and a performance period extending through March 15, 2029. The award supports the execution of a balanced science program aligned with discipline-specific guidance from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine, as well as administration priorities and congressional direction. As a key research partner, UCF will conduct scientific investigations utilizing NASA's space observatories, spacecraft missions, and research facilities to advance knowledge across multiple scientific domains including astrophysics, Earth science, planetary science, and heliophysics.

The primary deliverables under this award are expected to include theoretical modeling, data analysis, laboratory experiments, field studies, and peer-reviewed scientific publications and presentations. UCF's Office of Research will leverage its established infrastructure, technical expertise, and demonstrated capability in space technology development, Earth science applications, and STEM workforce development to meet the performance requirements at the primary location in Alafaya, Florida. The award builds on UCF's extensive history of competitive research success through NASA and represents continued federal investment in the university's mission to conduct cutting-edge scientific research and train the next generation of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics professionals.