Research Topics List

JPL's charter is to conduct robotic space missions for NASA, to explore our own and neighboring planetary systems, understand the origin and evolution of the universe and make critical measurements to understand our home planet and help protect it.

We do this by developing integrated capabilities in engineering, science and technology, in a unique environment that strives for excellence in any of the three areas. To be successful in our ability to implement missions for NASA, we foster research in those areas of space-based science that establish our leadership in the science community and those technologies that allow the innovations that are crucial to maintaining our competitive edge.

Our science, technology and engineering research covers many areas of planetary, astrophysics and Earth science, both as basic research leading to new observations and mission concepts, as well as research based on the data acquired by JPL flight projects.

Our technology research covers areas ranging from robotic systems, a range of in-situ and remote sensing instruments, deep space communications and navigation, information systems, precision flying and planetary protection and survivability.




Earth Sciences
Earth scientists at JPL conduct research to characterize and understand the atmosphere, land, and oceans on our home planet to make better predictions of future changes.


Planetary Sciences
Planetary scientists work to improve our understanding of the planets, satellites and smaller bodies in the solar system.


Astrophysics & Space Sciences
Astrophysics and space science research efforts at JPL are charged with studying the physics and origins of our galaxy, and ultimately our universe.


Exploration & Observational Systems
JPL has continued to achieve its historical level of success by developing and applying increasingly advanced technologies to support mission science objectives.


Software & Computing Systems
JPL is dedicated to meeting best practice standards when developing mission software and computing systems to support the next generation of missions.


Source:scienceandtechnology.jpl.nasa.gov/research/ResearchTopics/