NASA Research Funding Opportunities 2026
NASA continues to support groundbreaking scientific discoveries through its annual research funding programs. The NASA Research Funding Opportunities 2026 provide grants and funding for universities, research institutions, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and eligible international partners working on innovative projects in space and Earth sciences. Whether you are an experienced researcher or an early-career scientist, these opportunities can help turn innovative ideas into impactful scientific research.
One of NASA’s largest funding programs is the Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Science (ROSES) initiative. The current ROSES-25 solicitation remains open through August 2026, while NASA is expected to release ROSES-26 in July 2026. Each solicitation includes numerous funding opportunities covering a wide range of scientific disciplines, making the NASA Research Funding Opportunities 2026 among the most significant research funding programs available.
At a Glance
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | NASA |
| Program | Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Science (ROSES) |
| Opportunity Type | Research Grants |
| Eligible Applicants | Universities, Research Institutes, Government Agencies, Nonprofits, and Eligible International Organizations |
| Research Areas | Earth Science, Planetary Science, Astrophysics, Heliophysics, Space Biology, and More |
| Funding | Varies by Program |
| Expected ROSES-26 Release | July 2026 |
About NASA Research Funding Opportunities 2026
The NASA Research Funding Opportunities 2026 are designed to advance scientific knowledge and technological innovation. NASA funds research that improves our understanding of Earth, the Solar System, space exploration, climate science, astronomy, and aerospace technology. Funding is awarded through competitive proposals reviewed by experts based on scientific merit, innovation, and potential impact.
Researchers from eligible institutions can submit proposals addressing scientific challenges that align with NASA’s mission. Funding amounts vary depending on the program and project scope, with awards supporting research activities, equipment, personnel, and collaboration.
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ROSES-25 and ROSES-26
The Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Science (ROSES) program is NASA’s primary annual research solicitation. ROSES-25 was released in July 2025 and will remain active through August 2026. NASA anticipates releasing ROSES-26 in July 2026, introducing new opportunities and updated research priorities.
Researchers are encouraged to monitor announcements, amendments, and proposal deadlines throughout the year. Since different programs have different closing dates, applicants should carefully review each solicitation before applying.
Research Areas Supported
The NASA Research Funding Opportunities 2026 support a broad range of scientific disciplines, including:
- Earth Science
- Planetary Science
- Astrophysics
- Heliophysics
- Space Biology
- Climate Science
- Astronomy
- Remote Sensing
- Space Technology
- Artificial Intelligence for Space Research
- Atmospheric Science
- Ocean Science
These funding opportunities encourage interdisciplinary research that contributes to NASA’s scientific goals and benefits society.
Additional Funding Announcements
Beyond ROSES, NASA has announced several additional opportunities during 2026.
The Astrophysics Small Explorer (SMEX) 2026 program invites proposals for innovative space missions. Key milestones include the Notice of Intent deadline in July 2026 and proposal submissions in September 2026.
NASA has also introduced the Earth Venture Orbital (EVO) initiative, which focuses on Principal Investigator-led missions using commercial capabilities to accelerate Earth science research in Low Earth Orbit.
Other announcements include partnership opportunities involving the CYGNSS and Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 missions, as well as Requests for Information supporting future Earth science collaborations.
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Who Can Apply?
Eligibility depends on each funding announcement, but applicants commonly include:
- Universities and colleges
- Research institutions
- Government agencies
- Nonprofit organizations
- NASA research centers
- International institutions where permitted
Applicants should carefully review the eligibility requirements outlined in each solicitation before preparing a proposal.
Benefits of NASA Research Funding
Successful applicants may receive several advantages, including:
- Competitive research funding
- Access to NASA scientific resources
- Opportunities for international collaboration
- Participation in major scientific missions
- Career development and recognition
- Support for innovative technologies
- Collaboration with leading researchers
- Opportunities to publish impactful research
These benefits make the NASA Research Funding Opportunities 2026 highly competitive and attractive to researchers around the world.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should begin by reviewing the relevant NASA funding announcement. After confirming eligibility, prepare a proposal that follows all submission guidelines and addresses the scientific objectives of the program. Submit the proposal before the specified deadline and continue monitoring NASA announcements for any updates or amendments that may affect your application.
Because proposal requirements vary across programs, applicants are encouraged to read the full solicitation carefully before submitting their research plans.
Final Thoughts
The NASA Research Funding Opportunities 2026 offer outstanding opportunities for researchers seeking support for innovative scientific projects. With funding available across Earth science, planetary science, astrophysics, heliophysics, and many other disciplines, NASA continues to invest in research that expands knowledge and drives technological advancement. Whether you are applying through ROSES-25, preparing for ROSES-26, or exploring specialized programs such as SMEX or Earth Venture Orbital, staying informed and submitting a strong proposal can significantly improve your chances of success.
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