The ASL addresses the capabilities and priorities of UCSC and ARC, invigorating the facilities in Building N239 through the inclusion of new and unique equipment, and enlivening and expanding the research productivity of both organizations. The ASL provides for the establishment of cooperative working space where ASL-affiliated researchers and students from various organizations can work together sharing resources and expertise.

Academic researchers will team with NASA scientists and engineers to create new adaptations for flight instruments, independent space probes and rovers, and human missions. ASL shared-used, open-access facilities are co-located with NASA Ames experts on astrobiology, Earth and planetary science, and biological and chemical engineering. By succeeding in this partnership, we are creating a new exemplar research organization:
a model that advances innovation and deployment of technology and can be adopted by other locations and discipline areas. The possibilities are.........bright.

ASL’s Promise

The current suite of ASL Affiliates creates a dynamic perspective linking advanced materials science and technology to planetary exploration and space research. The use of new materials—conformable, self-cleaning and diagnosing, energy-converting—in extraterrestrial environments will enable the next generation of planetary exploration; whether by autonomous probes, landed rovers, or human missions. Extreme environments, on Earth and on other planets, are the ultimate challenge for exploration applications. Of singular importance are applications that impact energy. Energy, energy, energy…..it’s the new mantra. And it must be sustainable energy. Not only is extraplanetary exploration dependent on energy production, storage, conversion, and utilization, our own biosphere here on Earth is dependent on this research, too.

ASL's Facility in Building N239

The ASL is operating in approximately 10,000 SF of office and laboratory space in Building N239 on the Ames campus. Additional square footage will be added, at quarterly intervals, over the next five years.

N239's valuable features include:

• Up to 12,000 SF of laboratory and office capability
• ASL's operating spaces constantly being expanded, contact ASL for availability
• Meeting and seminar facilities
• On-demand configurable internet connectivity
• Full Environmental/Hazardous Materials/Fire/Life Safety services
• Full property maintenance, construction, and custodial services
• Ames Technical Library branch
• Rooftop environmental study areas
  
• ASL provided shared-use spaces allow access to shared equipment and facilities