Looking up at the night sky with a large radio telescope dish in the corner and the milky way glowing pink in a blue-black sky.

Division of Astronomical Sciences (MPS/AST)

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Division of Astronomical Sciences (MPS/AST)

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The U.S. National Science Foundation Division of Astronomical Sciences supports leading-edge research in ground-based astronomy and works to ensure the continued scientific excellence of the U.S. astronomical community. The division provides access to world-class research facilities, supports the development of new instrumentation and next-generation facilities and promotes broad understanding of the value and impact of the astronomical sciences.

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AST updates

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Upcoming events

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Astronomy and Astrophysics Advisory Committee (January 2025)

Advisory group meetings
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Astronomy and Astrophysics Advisory Committee (January 2025)

Advisory group meetings
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AST news

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Featured funding

Program

Astronomy and Astrophysics Research Grants (AAG)

Next Required Due Date: November 17, 2025
Supports observational, theoretical, laboratory and archival data research in astronomy and astrophysics.
Posted August 3, 2022
Program

Advanced Technologies and Instrumentation for the Astronomical Sciences (ATI)

Next Required Due Date: November 17, 2025
Supports advanced technology development, concept feasibility studies, and specialized instrumentation to enable observations for ground-based astronomy that are difficult or impossible to obtain with existing means.
Posted August 17, 2022
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