NASA, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, is an agency of the United States government that is responsible for the nation's civilian space program and for aeronautics and aerospace research. NASA conducts research in a wide range of areas, including space exploration, Earth science, astrophysics, and aeronautics. NASA's mission is to explore space, study the Earth, and advance scientific knowledge for the benefit of all humankind. NASA's research is carried out by a team of engineers, scientists, and researchers who work together to push the boundaries of human knowledge and technology.