ASU NewSpace Initiative
ASU's Space Technology and Science “NewSpace” Initiative is one of the 12 strategic initiatives and institutes in ASU Knowledge Enterprise that focuses on leading the integration of academia with the commercial space sector using ASU’s core strengths in space exploration research, engineering and education.
ASU has more than 250 researchers who have experience in space science, technology, exploration and other relevant areas. This is a group that is growing and expanding to support the emerging commercial space sector and NASA’s technology maturation and science goals.
ASU and NewSpace support collaboration with the commercial space sector and academia by partnering together for funding opportunities. Our rich heritage with NASA and Department of Defense funding success enables us to integrate teaming opportunities quickly and effectively. Successfully funded projects such as the LunaH-Map mission and NASA’s Flight Opportunities Program and Early Career Faculty awards are part of our growing portfolio.
ASU is also home to the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera and the Center for Meteorite Studies and a key participant in NASA’s Mars Odyssey orbiter, Opportunity, Curiosity and Perseverance rover missions to Mars. In addition, ASU takes an active role in the fast-growing field of small satellites, harsh environment electronics, robotics and satellite communications.
ASU NewSpace is led by professors Jim Bell and Craig Hardgove, research scientist Jim Rice and program manager Scott Smas in ASU's School of Earth and Space Exploration.