MPS Astronomical Sciences Research Programs (MPS Astro)

NSF Posted 26-522

Description

The U.S. National Science Foundation Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences (NSF MPS) supports multiple research programs in the astronomical sciences. NSF MPS funds foundational astronomical sciences research and instrumentation focused on exploring space and advancing fundamental understanding of the universe. The programs covered by this funding opportunity are: Astronomical Sciences Core Research Astronomical Sciences Technology & Instrumentation Astronomical Sciences Innovations Research supported by these programs is essential for ongoing discovery in a range of fields. The programs provide a strong scientific foundation for America's capabilities in multiple areas: predicting solar storms, discovering potentially habitable planets in other solar systems, understanding the physical workings of extreme astrophysical objects like black holes, and more. NSF MPS is particularly interested in intellectually ambitious and potentially transformative foundational research. Proposals need not promise a near-term product, deployment, or commercial outcome, nor need they address later-stage development to be competitive.
Actions
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Funding Details
Award Floor
Not specified
Award Ceiling
Not specified
Total Estimated Funding
$100,000,000.00
Expected Awards
Not specified
Key Dates
Posted
August 13, 2026
Closes
August 14, 2026
Archive Date
August 15, 2026
Agency Information
Agency Name
U.S. National Science Foundation
Agency Code
NSF
Funding Instrument
Other