Introduction to What We Do

We continue to expand the frontiers of space astronomy.

We have four strategic goals in accordance with this vision. First, to excel in the science operations of NASA's current and future astrophysics flagship missions, and in doing so, to envision, define, and operate new missions that offer cutting-edge research opportunities for the entire astronomical community. Second, to advance state-of-the-art astronomical research, archives, and tools for scientific discovery that are crucial in the era of increasingly large and complex astronomical datasets. Third, to make the world's astronomical information accessible to all, thereby inspiring and engaging others to participate in understanding, enjoying, and sharing the wonders of the universe. And fourth, to promote an inclusive, equitable workplace and cultivate a diverse, engaged workforce.

What We Do

Operate Space Telescopes

Illustration of Hubble Space Telescope

Hubble Space Telescope Launched April 24, 1990

We are the science operations center for the Hubble Space Telescope. Our work spans the lifecycle of a scientific proposal for Hubble observations, which we have performed since its launch in 1990.

Hubble Space Telescope Launched April 24, 1990

We are the science operations center for the Hubble Space Telescope. Our work spans the lifecycle of a scientific proposal for Hubble observations, which we have performed since its launch in 1990. We help turn great science ideas into great science, highlight the results, and distribute the data acquired for others to use. Our work includes running the peer-reviewed science program selection, planning and scheduling of the telescope, characterizing the performance of the instruments, maintaining and enhancing the archive of data, and making the data freely available to the world.

HST for the Public HST for the Scientific Community

Illustration of the James Webb Telescope

James Webb Space Telescope Launched December 25, 2021

As the flight and science operations center for the James Webb Space Telescope, we will enable the astronomical community to transform ideas into scientific discoveries.

James Webb Space Telescope Launched December 25, 2021

As the science operations center for the James Webb Space Telescope, STScI develops and maintains software for the observatory as well as for astronomers using JWST. Leading up to launch, we helped test its instruments and prepared the scientific community to use the observatory. Since launch, we have operated the observatory and maintained its systems and its orbit. During science operations, we solicit proposals to use the telescope, schedule observations, provide calibrated scientific data, and curate a data archive that is open to astronomers and the public.

Learn more about STScI and JWST

JWST for the Public JWST for the Scientific Community

Illustration of the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope

Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope Planning for Observatory Launch in Late 2026

STScI is the Science Operations Centers for the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope.

Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope Planning for Observatory Launch in Late 2026

STScI is the science operations center for the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope. This mission will revolutionize our understanding of dark energy, extra-solar planets, and many topics in general astrophysics by combining dedicated surveys, as well as guest observer and guest investigator programs. STScI will schedule and archive all Roman Space Telescope observations, and will calibrate and produce pipeline-reduced data products for the Wide Field Instrument (WFI). The Roman Project is currently planning for observatory launch in late 2026.

Roman for the Scientific Community

Enable Scientific Discovery

MAST logo with composite image shows a ghostly "ring" of dark matter in the galaxy cluster Cl 0024+17 in the background

Barbara A. Mikulski Archive for Space Telescopes

We build advanced systems for our high value astronomical data holdings to maximize the scientific impact of world-class telescopes.

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Fomalhaut System

Research at STScI

We perform cutting-edge astronomical research.

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Image of hands typing on a laptop

Software Development

We provide the expertise to develop, maintain, and operate the systems used to conduct science missions.

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Make Astronomy Accessible

We focus on meeting the needs of the general public and science communicators by connecting to three user communities: news media, online audiences, and venues offering in-person interactions.

Explore

Children at the STScI/JHU Physics Fair