NASA Has Released New Geosphere Program Element
The agency launched the A.18 Geosphere research opportunity as part of the latest ROSES-2025 cycle.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Geography
NASA has officially released Amendment 77, introducing program element A.18 Geosphere to the Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Science (ROSES-2025) solicitation. This new initiative opens a fresh avenue for researchers to pursue studies within the Earth science discipline.
Why it matters
This program element establishes a specific framework for scientists to secure funding and institutional support for geosphere research. The addition of A.18 allows the agency to prioritize targeted studies that align with its current Earth science objectives.
Amendment 77 identifies A.18 Geosphere as a formal program element under the ROSES-2025 solicitation. The agency requires a mandatory Notice of Intent before the submission of full proposals for this specific opportunity.
The players
NASA
This federal agency is responsible for the United States space program and long-term Earth science research initiatives.
Thorsten Markus
He serves as the designated point of contact for all inquiries regarding the new A.18 Geosphere program element.
The details
Applicants interested in the A.18 Geosphere element must strictly adhere to the established submission timeline to be considered for review. Failure to provide a mandatory Notice of Intent by the stated deadline will result in proposals being returned without evaluation.
Timeline
October 2, 2026: ROSES-2025 Amendment 77 was officially released.
November 16, 2026: Mandatory Notices of Intent are due to the agency.
January 15, 2027: Final proposals for the program element are due.
Deeper Dive
The introduction of A.18 Geosphere within ROSES-2025 follows the established pattern of periodic amendments that define the agency's annual scientific funding agenda. This structure allows NASA to adapt its research focus to emerging geophysical challenges while maintaining a consistent administrative pipeline for applicants.
This research opportunity impacts the scientific community by creating a new channel for government-backed exploration of Earth systems. Successful proposals could lead to advancements in mapping or environmental data analysis that may eventually inform broader scientific models and public policy.
The takeaway
Researchers should prioritize the mandatory Notice of Intent deadline to ensure their submissions remain eligible for review. Adhering to these strict administrative requirements is the essential first step for any institution seeking to participate in the new geosphere initiative.
What happens next
Prospective applicants must submit a mandatory Notice of Intent by November 16, 2026, followed by a final proposal submission by January 15, 2027.
Further reading
For broader context on current initiatives in the field, explore the United States Geography section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Science @ NASA.
