About

It is managed by the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) under a contract with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). JPL is widely known as the leading center for the development and operation of robotic missions to explore the solar system and beyond. Established in the 1930s as a research laboratory for rocketry and propulsion, JPL played a key role in the development of early U. S. rocket technology during World War II. It gained prominence in the 1950s when it successfully launched the first U. S. satellite, Explorer 1, into orbit. Since then, JPL has been at the forefront of space exploration, responsible for the design, development, and operation of numerous missions, including the highly successful Voyager, Mars Rover, and Cassini missions. JPL's expertise covers a wide range of scientific disciplines, including planetary science, astrophysics, Earth science, and heliophysics. It collaborates with various national and international partners, including other NASA centers, international space agencies, and scientific institutions. The laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and employs a diverse workforce of scientists, engineers, technologists, and support staff. It is known for its innovation and technical excellence, utilizing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and deep space communications. JPL's current and upcoming missions include the Mars 2020 Rover, the Europa Clipper mission to Jupiter's moon Europa, and the James Webb Space Telescope. The laboratory also conducts extensive research and development in areas such as autonomous systems, advanced propulsion, and small satellites. Overall, JPL's contributions to space exploration have been significant, and it continues to push the boundaries of scientific and technological advancements, enabling humanity to better understand the universe and our place within it.