In the early days of the 'space race, Ames pioneer, Julian Allen developed the 'blunt body' design concept that is used in the design of the space shuttle and other reusable reentry vehicles. NASA Ames also developed a leadership role in the development of thermal protection materials that keep the searing heat of reentry form destroying vehicles returning to Earth or landing on other planets.

Today, NASA Ames continues its innovative work in thermal protection for the space shuttle, next generation of space vehicles and planetary probes. NASA Ames is also using its expertise with computers and information technology to develop diagnostic systems to keep vehicles in top working order keeping costs down. The center is also investigating the role of 'smart systems' that will be able to make decisions with little or no assistance from controllers on Earth.

As NASA seeks to expand into the solar system, NASA Ames will continue to take an active role in keeping missions and especially astronauts safe while keeping costs to a minimum.