MPS Astronomical Sciences Research Programs (MPS Astro)

The Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences at the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF MPS) has launched the Astronomical Sciences Research Programs (MPS Astro) solicitation (NSF 26-522). This program consolidates funding streams across three main areas: Astronomical Sciences Core Research, Astronomical Sciences Technology & Instrumentation, and Astronomical Sciences Innovations. It aims to support early-stage, foundational research that advances human understanding of the universe, ranging from solar storm prediction and exoplanet discovery to deep-space phenomena like black holes. Funding prioritizes intellectually ambitious, high-risk, and paradigm-shifting inquiries that build fundamental knowledge rather than short-term commercial products. Interdisciplinary research and projects leveraging emerging computational tools—such as artificial intelligence, advanced computing, and automated observational methods—are highly encouraged. Proposals may request up to five years of support depending on the project scope, and early-career researchers are strongly encouraged to apply.