A meteorite from Mars. Microorganisms that could affect astronaut health. Student-built instruments collecting scientific data beneath the northern lights.
At the 91视频 College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (NSM), these pursuits span different scientific disciplines but reflect a shared commitment to discovery and a deeper understanding of our universe.
A new website, NSM in Space, brings those contributions into focus, showcasing how expertise across the college鈥檚 six departments advances space science and exploration, from understanding planetary environments to developing technologies and investigating challenges associated with human spaceflight.
The website also highlights the people behind those discoveries, including faculty advancing research and students gaining firsthand experience in scientific investigation.
鈥淥ur expanding presence in space draws on scientific expertise that extends across disciplines, and that鈥檚 a strength of NSM,鈥� said Gregory B. Dudley, dean of the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. 鈥淗ouston has such a rich history in space exploration, and I鈥檓 proud of the role our college has played in that story. What鈥檚 equally exciting is the work happening here today, as our faculty pursue new discoveries and our students gain firsthand experience in research that will help shape the future of space science and exploration.鈥�
A Legacy of Exploration
NSM鈥檚 place in Houston鈥檚 space story stretches back decades, with contributions that reflect both scientific achievements and the people behind space exploration.
In the 1990s, the 91视频-developed Wake Shield Facility carried scientific experiments into orbit aboard three space shuttle missions, demonstrating how research originating on a university campus could contribute to discovery beyond Earth.
That same decade, NSM alumnus Bernard Harris, who earned his bachelor鈥檚 degree in biology from UH in 1978, made history as the first African American to walk in space in 1995.
These milestones reflect a legacy that continues today, as NSM researchers and students contribute to scientific questions central to the next generation of space exploration.
鈥淗ouston has such a rich history in space exploration, and I鈥檓 proud of the role our college has played in that story. What鈥檚 equally exciting is the work happening here today, as our faculty pursue new discoveries and our students gain firsthand experience in research that will help shape the future of space science and exploration.鈥�
鈥� Gregory B. Dudley, dean
Advancing Discovery Today
Across NSM, researchers are investigating questions that span the scientific foundations of space exploration.
Earth and atmospheric scientists examine meteorites and planetary materials to better understand how planets formed and evolved. Biologists and biochemists study microorganisms that could affect astronaut health or survive in spacecraft environments. Computer scientists contribute technologies that could help astronauts train for missions to the moon and Mars.
Other research across the college contributes to understanding space weather, radiation, materials and the physical processes that shape our universe.
Together, these efforts expand scientific knowledge while contributing to technologies and approaches that could help address the challenges of future space exploration.
Preparing the Next Generation
For NSM students, space-related research offers opportunities to move beyond the classroom and participate directly in scientific discovery.
Whether developing scientific instruments, observing the night sky or conducting geological fieldwork, students apply their knowledge to real scientific questions while gaining valuable hands-on experience.
These opportunities help students build technical skills, develop confidence as emerging scientists and prepare for future research, graduate study and careers in STEM.
Looking Toward What鈥檚 Next
In a city synonymous with space exploration, NSM continues to contribute to the discoveries that will shape the future of space science. From understanding distant worlds to preparing the next generation of scientists, the college鈥檚 work reflects the vital role of fundamental science in advancing exploration beyond Earth.
As new questions emerge and the possibilities of space exploration expand, NSM鈥檚 community of discovery will continue pursuing answers.