Science and Robotic Exploration Missions

Space science and exploration continue to drive innovation, foster international collaboration, and expand our understanding of the universe. As we advance toward an off-world future, it is essential to harness emerging technologies and capabilities to deepen our knowledge of the solar system and beyond.  This includes high-priority scientific questions, as outlined in decadal surveys and community roadmaps, and examines the systems and technologies needed to enable long-duration missions.

ASCEND explores the research, technologies, and mission concepts advancing space science and robotic exploration, including:

• Analog missions and simulation environments
• Astronomy, astrophysics, and heliophysics
• Earth science
• Microgravity and partial-gravity science
• Mission architecture and planning
• Planetary science
• Robotics, mobility, and surface operations
• Space resources exploration
• Space weather
• And much more

Join the scientists, engineers, program managers, researchers and many more turning ambitious questions into real missions.