Overview
The Arizona Space Grant Consortium (AZSGC) makes an effort to highlight our programs' alignment with current NASA Mission Directorates (MDs). All AZSGC-funded projects are required to align with one or more NASA MDs. Please review the information below to find out more about the NASA MDs before choosing which MD(s) and research priority area(s) your project most closely aligns with. For examples of research questions and projects within each MD, visit the websites listed below.
Aeronautics Mission Directorate
Results achieved by NASA’s aeronautical innovators through the years directly benefit today’s air transportation system, the aviation industry, and the passengers and businesses who rely on those advances in flight every day. As a result, every U.S. commercial aircraft and U.S. air traffic control tower uses NASA-developed technology to improve efficiency and maintain safety.
Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate (ESDMD)
The Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate manages human exploration system development for lunar orbital, lunar surface, and Mars exploration. Artemis missions will open a new era of scientific discovery and economic opportunity on the Moon while validating operations and systems and preparing for human missions to Mars. Programs in the directorate include the Space Launch System rocket, Orion spacecraft, supporting ground systems, human landing systems, spacesuits, and Gateway.
Space Operations Mission Directorate (SOMD)
The Space Operations Mission Directorate maintains a continuous human presence in space for the benefit of people on Earth. The programs within the directorate are the heart of NASA’s space exploration efforts, enabling Artemis, commercial space, science, and other agency missions through communication, launch services, research capabilities, and crew support.
Science Mission Directorate (SMD)
The Science Mission Directorate is an organization where discoveries in one scientific discipline have a direct route to other areas of study. This flow is something extremely valuable and is rare in the scientific world. From exoplanet research to better understanding Earth’s climate to understanding the influence of the sun on our planet and the solar system, the directorate’s work is interdisciplinary and collaborative.
Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD)
Technology drives exploration and the space economy. NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate aims to transform future missions while ensuring American leadership in aerospace. The directorate develops, demonstrates, and transfers new space technologies that benefit NASA, commercial, and other government missions.