Universities Space Research Association

Universities Space Research Association is an independent U.S. nonprofit research corporation that advances space-related science, technology, and engineering through research, facility operations, education, and project management. Founded in 1969 under the auspices of the National Academy of Sciences at the request of the U.S. government, USRA works with a large network of member universities and federal sponsors. Its activities span fields such as astronomy and astrophysics, heliophysics, lunar and planetary science, Earth sciences, aeronautics, computer science, low-gravity sciences, and space technology. The organization operates scientific institutes and programs, supports major federal research missions, and provides workforce development and STEM education initiatives. Although it has some work touching biomedicine and space health, it is not primarily a life sciences, biotech, pharma, or healthcare company.