Chief Veterinary Officer
NASA is committed to humane and responsible use of live vertebrates and higher order cephalopods in Agency-supported research, testing, teaching, and hardware development activities.
NASA Animal Research Principles and Policies
NASA Policy Directive (NPD) 8910.1 Care and Use of Animals
This directive establishes policy for the care and use of vertebrate animals and higher order cephalopods (hereinafter, animals), recognizing NASA’s responsibility for the stewardship of the animals and to the scientific community and society, in adherence with the ethical principles of respect for life, societal benefit, and nonmaleficence.
NASA Procedural Requirements (NPR) 8910.1 Care and Use of Animals
This directive describes the responsibilities and implementing requirements for the use of animals in research, testing, teaching, and hardware development activities funded or sponsored by NASA or conducted in NASA facilities, aircraft, or spacecraft, including commercial facilities, aircraft, and spacecraft that are funded or sponsored by NASA or use NASA resources.
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The Sundowner Report (1996)
When the use of animals is required, the Agency and all members of the animal care and use program comply with applicable Federal, state, and local animal welfare laws and regulations, policies, and guidelines, and ensure adherence to the NASA Principles for the Ethical Care and Use of Animals, as described in the Sundowner Report (1996).
Read MoreAnimal Welfare Act
The Animal Welfare Act (AWA) was signed into law on August 24, 1966. It is the only Federal law in the United States that regulates the treatment of animals in research, teaching, testing, exhibition, transport, and by dealers. The Act is enforced by USDA, APHIS, Animal Care.
Learn More about Animal Welfare Act
Animal Research Policy Regulations
NASA also follows animal research policy regulations set by external Federal Agencies.
National Institutes of Health’s Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare – PHS Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals
Health Research Extension Act of 1985
Animal Welfare – Standards: 9 CFR part 3 Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, 8th Edition
Submit an Animal Welfare Concern via Email
Animals used in NASA-supported research or training receive humane and responsible care and use in accordance with federal animal welfare laws, regulations, policies, and guidelines. Any person who witnesses or suspects the misuse of animals, inadequate animal care, or other noncompliance is encouraged to report their concern(s) to the Chief Veterinary Officer and the Office of Research Assurance.
Click to Email (hq-oora@mail.nasa.gov)
Report an Animal Welfare Concern Anonymously
ANONYMOUS concerns may be submitted through the Office of Research Assurance
via telephone at 281-244-1800
You are protected by federal law from retaliation when you report a concern via email and telephone.
NO adverse action will be taken against you.
