Rep. Lofgren Applauds New NASA Ames Aeronautics Research Institute

Washington, D.C. – Reps. Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose) and Anna G. Eshoo (D-Palo Alto) applauded the announcement that NASA will establish a National Aeronautics Research Institute (NARI) hosted at the NASA Ames Research Center to promote aeronautic innovation with $10 million in annual seed funding for early-stage concepts. As a virtual institute, NARI will use web-based technologies to solicit research, facilitate public-private partnerships, and disseminate technical findings.

"Those of us who live and work in Silicon Valley fully appreciate how this center and its resources can be a powerful tool for springing a good idea from the drawing board into reality," said Rep. Zoe Lofgren. "This new institute will help drive 21st century American aeronautics innovation to ease our crowded skies, help the environment, and boost safety."

"I'm very proud that Ames has been chosen to lead NASA's new National Aeronautics Research Institute," said Rep. Anna G. Eshoo. "Once again, the vibrant work and strong leadership of Ames in the field of Aeronautics is being realized, and the innovative technologies that will flow from this Institute will strengthen our region and our country."

NARI's research will be aimed at reducing air traffic congestion, mitigating environmental impacts, improving safety, and fostering innovative aircraft design through cooperative academic and public-private aeronautic research partnerships.