MPS Astronomical Sciences Research Programs (MPS Astro)
NSF MPS Astro funds ambitious research and technology development in astronomy to advance understanding of the universe, including solar storms, exoplanets, and astrophysical phenomena.
Funder: U.S. National Science Foundation
Due Dates: November 16, 2026 (full proposal target) | Anytime (proposals accepted) | September 25, 2076 (administrative closing date)
Funding Amounts: $100 million anticipated program funding; standard or continuing grants
Summary: Supports foundational astronomical sciences research, technology, instrumentation, and larger-scale projects that advance understanding of the universe.
Key Information: Unaffiliated individuals cannot submit proposals; proposals must explain their foundational contribution to astronomical sciences.
Description
The U.S. National Science Foundation’s Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences funds three programs through this solicitation: Astronomical Sciences Core Research, Astronomical Sciences Technology & Instrumentation, and Astronomical Sciences Innovations. Together, they support individual and collaborative research, observational and theoretical studies, laboratory and archival work, new instruments, and larger-scale facilities and capabilities.
NSF seeks foundational advances in astronomical sciences, including intellectually ambitious and potentially transformative work. Projects need not promise a near-term product, deployment, or commercial outcome. The programs support inquiry across subjects such as the solar system, exoplanets, galaxies, and extreme astrophysical objects.
