1. The NASA Virtual Research Insititute :
These innovative organizations are designed to be responsive to changing needs and to link NASA with the academic science community.
Institutes are virtual, distributed networks of scientists, managed and directed by NASA.
The NASA Astrobiology Institute pioneered in cross-disciplinary science in the new field of astrobiology, the study of life in the universe.
The NASA Lunar Science Institute supports NASA science and planning for future human exploration of the Moon.
2. Near Earth Asteroids: Risks & Opportunities :
Small Earth-approaching asteroids are stepping stones on the human exploration path to Mars. But they also pose a risk of catastrophic impacts with Earth. Either way, they are an important part of our cosmic neighborhood.