What is JPL for?
The Jet Propulsion Laboratory holds a unique place in the universe. We are a leader in robotic space exploration, sending rovers to Mars, probes into the farthest reaches of the solar system, and satellites to advance understanding of our home planet. Nestled at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains in Southern California, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory – JPL for short – is a federally funded research and development center managed by Caltech.Founded in the 1930s, JPL is owned by NASA and managed by the nearby California Institute of Technology (Caltech). The laboratory’s primary function is the construction and operation of planetary robotic spacecraft, though it also conducts Earth-orbit and astronomy missions.Michael Watkins serves as the CEO / President of NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
Is JPL government or private?
JPL is NASA’s Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) operated by the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), located in the San Gabriel Valley in Southern California’s Los Angeles County, is a federally funded research and development center that consists of more than 150 buildings spread across 177 acres.Founded by Caltech researchers, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is the leading center for exploring the solar system and more distant expanses that humans cannot yet reach.
Is JPL free?
The JPL Public Services Office offers a limited number of onsite, in-person tours, free of charge, for groups and individuals on an advance reservation basis. Visitor parking is also available free of charge. JPL’s Public Services Office offers a limited number of onsite, in-person tours, free of charge, for groups and individuals on an advance reservation basis. Tours are booked one month at a time and must be booked a minimum of three weeks in advance. Please note that tours are not conducted on weekends or holidays.