NASA Awarded $23 Million to Science Outreach Groups

The agency selected 24 organizations to host hands-on research projects across all 50 U.S. states through 2029.

Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Space

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a telescope, representing NASA's scientific outreach funding for community research projects. — NASA awarded $23 million to 24 organizations across the U.S. to host hands-on science research projects through 2029. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should the government prioritize funding for public-facing science research programs?

NASA has awarded $23 million to 24 different organizations to expand the agency's Science Activation portfolio. The initiative aims to provide hands-on research opportunities in fields including astrophysics and Earth science to communities across the United States.

Why it matters

By funding community-led research, NASA seeks to broaden public access to scientific methodology and data analysis. The program is designed to integrate underserved groups into professional-grade scientific workflows.

The program reached 119 million people in 2024, with 97% of participants based in the United States. Projects utilize advanced toolsets including machine learning, artificial intelligence, and robotic telescopes.

The players

NASA Science Mission Directorate

The agency division overseeing national space science research, satellite missions, and public-facing education initiatives.

The details

Selected organizations leverage technical skills like coding, geospatial analytics, and sensor operation to engage participants in authentic scientific research. Activities are categorized into five themes: Astrophysics, Biological and Physical Sciences, Earth Science, Heliophysics, and Planetary Science. Participants gain access to professional research equipment, including robotic telescopes, to observe and analyze complex astronomical events.

The program reached 119 million people throughout 2024.
The official funding announcement occurred on October 2, 2026.
The Dark Skies to Deep Time project will focus on the 2029 asteroid Apophis close approach.

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The Tech Race

This selection round follows the rigorous standards established by the ROSES-25 solicitation for scientific outreach. The initiative now shifts focus toward preparing specialized research pipelines for high-profile future events like the 2029 Apophis approach.

Residents across all 50 states can access professional-grade experiments and data analysis tools provided through these local organizational partnerships. Participants will utilize technologies like AI-driven sensors and robotic telescopes for hands-on involvement in active research projects.

The takeaway

This funding round underscores an effort to turn broad public interest into active, data-driven participation in scientific inquiry. Readers should watch for localized research opportunities as these 24 organizations begin their multi-year deployment across the country.

What happens next

The Dark Skies to Deep Time project will coordinate community-led scientific observations and activities leading up to the 2029 close approach of the asteroid Apophis.