NASA's Earth Science Technology Office
Investing in technologies to advance our understanding of Earth’s natural systems.
2025 NASA Earth Science Technology Forum
Changing the way we observe Earth.
We understand that to develop breakthrough technologies, you need resources and funding for your project. We provide grants and support for cutting-edge sensors, information systems, and a variety of other projects to develop breakthrough technologies that can improve Earth observations. We believe that diverse ideas from engineers, scientists, and students nationwide will deepen our knowledge of Earth’s systems and help guide decision makers. To date, we have invested in over 1,000 projects spanning a wide range of technologies at different stages of development.
Latest News
ESTO supports critical investments in quantum sensing
ESTO's quantum technology portfolio empowers universities and private companies to create novel quantum sensors, which are essential assets for superior science missions and national security.
NASA-developed Technology Supports Ocean Wind Speed Measurements from Commercial Satellite
A science antenna developed with support from ESTO is now in low-Earth orbit aboard MuSat2, a commercial remote-sensing satellite flown by the aerospace company Muon Space.
Workshop sets sights on ‘NASA-scale’ potential of quantum technology for Earth observation
Sponsored by ESTO, the two-day “Quantum Technology Interchange Meeting” brought together researchers and quantum practitioners from across the country, bound by a common desire to harness quantum phenomena for remote sensing.
Investment Areas
From initial concept design all the way to in-space validation, we work with researchers to build and test new ideas that advance Earth science. ESTO programs fund instruments, components, and information systems to make Earth science research easier, more efficient, more cost effective, and more robust.
Learn more about Project TypesA Transparent Process
1
Ideas are Submitted
ESTO releases periodic solicitations for cutting-edge Earth science technologies.
2
Proposals are Reviewed
ESTO uses a science-driven strategy and relies on peer review and competition to award the best cutting-edge technology projects.
3
Technologies are Advanced
ESTO works with scientists, engineers, and students to refine and validate their technologies.