MPS Astronomical Sciences

The U.S. National Science Foundation Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences (NSF MPS) is the primary federal funder of America's ground-based exploration of space through astronomical sciences. This support enables discovery and understanding of objects and phenomena within the solar system, the Milky Way galaxy and other galaxies, and the entire universe. Astronomical sciences investigate the unknown vastness of space and everything it contains. Breakthroughs in astronomical sciences have revealed the accelerating expansion of the universe, planets in other solar systems, the nature of black holes and the existence of dark matter. NSF MPS funds astronomical sciences research, instrumentation and education. Research supported by these programs is essential for ongoing discovery and innovation in a range of fields. The programs also provide a strong scientific foundation for America's capabilities in multiple areas like predicting solar storms and discovering potentially habitable planets in other solar systems. MPS programs also prioritize training and workforce development by supporting students and early-career scientists. These opportunities allow more people to get involved with cutting-edge research and become part of America's STEM workforce. The U.S. National Science Foundation Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences (NSF MPS) advances human understanding of the fundamental nature of the universe at all scales, from the smallest quantum effects inside atoms to the forces that drive the movement and structure of galaxies. NSF MPS harnesses the collective power of the mathematical and physical science communities to achieve the fundamental breakthroughs required for innovations that strengthen America's economic competitiveness, security and quality of life. In addition to supporting breakthrough scientific research, MPS is continuously working to expand and strengthen the science, technology, engineering and mathematics workforce of the future. MPS does this by supporting a broad range of training and mentorship opportunities for students and early-career researchers across the U.S.