In recent years, the objectives of our nation's space program have grown increasingly sophisticated and ambitious. Future missions will focus on exploration at greater distances from Earth and extended stays in space. To ensure that these goals are achieved, NASA's astronauts must be able to perform at peak productivity under even the most daunting conditions. The Human Research Program is dedicated to discovering the best methods and technologies to support safe, productive human space travel.

From the challenges of providing appetizing food and optimal nutrition to managing the environmental risks posed by radiation and lunar dust, HRP scientists and engineers work to predict, assess, and solve the problems that humans encounter in space. Planned future missions will dramatically increase the scope of the challenges and demands that face NASA's astronauts. The HRP is working to improve astronauts' ability to collect data, solve problems, respond to emergencies, and remain healthy during and after extended space travel.

Part of HRP's mission is to educate the public about the challenges of human space travel. As you navigate this site, you can learn more about the research and technology that supports and facilitates the work of the men and women who navigate the outer reaches of space.