"...an entity in and by means of which universities and other research institutions may cooperate with one another, with the Government of the United States, and with other organizations toward the development of knowledge associated with space science and technology." - USRA Charter, 1969

The Universities Space Research Association was incorporated in 1969 in the District of Columbia as a private nonprofit corporation under the auspices of the National Academy of Sciences. Institutional membership in the Association has grown from 49 colleges and universities when it was founded, to 94 in 2003. All member institutions have graduate programs in space sciences or aerospace engineering. Besides 87 member institutions in the United States, there are two member institutions in Canada, three in Europe, and two in Israel. 

USRA provides a mechanism through which universities can cooperate effectively with one another, with the government, and with other organizations to further space science and technology, and to promote education in these areas. Its mission is carried out through the institutes, centers, divisions, and programs that are described in this website. Administrative and scientific personnel now number about 420. A unique feature of USRA is its system of Science Councils, which are standing panels of scientific experts who provide program guidance in specific areas of research. Most of USRA's activities are funded by grants and contracts from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.