About NRAO

NRAO Mission Statement

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory enables forefront research into the Universe at radio wavelengths. In partnership with the scientific community, we:

  • provide world leading telescopes, instrumentation, data and expertise;
  • train the next generation of scientists and engineers;
  • advance broader, equitable, inclusive participation in science and engineering;
  • and promote astronomy to foster a more scientifically literate society.

About Our Facilities, People, and More

The NRAO operates three state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the scientific community, regardless of institutional or national affiliation: (1) the international Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), (2) the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array (VLA), and (3) the Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA). Access to ALMA observing time by the North American astronomical community is enabled through the North American ALMA Science Center (NAASC).

The NRAO collaborates with the university astronomy community to develop new instrumentation and technology, and helps train the next generation of scientists through its student, co-op, postdoctoral, and Fellowship programs. A new data management system will soon improve every astronomer's access to NRAO data products for research and education.

Science Newsletter

 Read the latest news & announcements about NRAO science, science operations, and project status.

Committees

 Information on the current members of the Users Committee, ALMA North American Science Advisory Committee and the NRAO Visiting Committee.

Scientific Staff

 Contact information, research interests, and Observatory support responsibilities for all NRAO scientific staff.

Visitors

 Information about visiting NRAO facilities, including maps, directions, transportation, local accommodations, and restaurants.

Organization

 Take a look at the NRAO Organization Chart.

Annual Reports

 The NRAO Annual Report describes the associated calendar year’s science highlights and summarizes the numerous science, development, operations, and construction activities that were conducted across the Observatory.

Performance Metrics

 The NRAO Performance Evaluation and Measurement Plan provides a quantitative methodology for assessment of the Observatory’s performance, indicating areas of current focus and tactical responses to issues identified in the metrics.

Historical Publications

 Publications on the history of radio astronomy and/or utilizing material from the NRAO/AUI Archives.

Connect with NRAO

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory and Green Bank Observatory are facilities of the U.S. National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.

Founded in 1956, the NRAO provides state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. NRAO telescopes are open to all astronomers regardless of institutional or national affiliation. Observing time on NRAO telescopes is available on a competitive basis to qualified scientists after evaluation of research proposals on the basis of scientific merit, the capability of the instruments to do the work, and the availability of the telescope during the requested time. NRAO also provides both formal and informal programs in education and public outreach for teachers, students, the general public, and the media.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense..."

AUI collaborates with the scientific community and research sponsors to plan, build, and operate cutting-edge facilities. We cultivate excellence, deliver value, enhance education, and engage the public.