The Service Tree lists all services in "branched" groups, starting with the very general and moving to the very specific. Click on the name of any group name to see the sub-groups available within it. Click on a service code to see its details and the providers who offer that service.
Physical and Earth Sciences Research
Related services
Astronomy and Space Sciences Research
Programs that conduct research which uses the principles of physics and mathematics to learn about the fundamental nature of the universe including the sun, moon, planets, stars and galaxies. Research data are used to calculate the composition of galaxies, quasars, stars and planets and to measure radio, infrared, gamma, and x-ray emissions from extraterrestrial sources. Included are observational research which studies the stars and galaxies using equipment such as radio, optical, and x-ray telescopes, spectrographs and satellite-mounted television cameras with computer-controlled image intensifiers; and theoretical research which develops theories based on observations. Astronomical research data may also be used to solve problems in navigation, space flight and satellite communications; and to develop the instrumentation and techniques that are used to observe and collect astronomical data.
Atmospheric Sciences/Meteorology Research
Programs that conduct research which focuses on the atmosphere's physical characteristics, motions and processes and the ways in which it affects the rest of the environment. Research scientists in this area may study information about air pressure, temperature, humidity and wind velocity; and apply physical and mathematical relationships to make short-range and long-range weather forecasts. Their data come from weather satellites, weather radar, sensors and weather stations in many parts of the world. They may also attempt to identify and interpret climate trends, understand past weather and analyze today's weather. Weather information and meteorological research also are applicable in air pollution control, agriculture, forestry, air and sea transportation, defense and the study of possible trends in the Earth's climate such as global warming, droughts and ozone depletion.
Programs that conduct research that focuses on the efficient, economical, safe, and environmentally responsible production and use of energy including fossil fuels, nuclear energy, wind power, water power, solar energy, solid and liquid biomass energy, biogas and geothermal energy.
Environmental Sciences Research
Programs that conduct research which focuses on pollution sources and their control, environmental alteration and degradation, waste disposal, conservation, recycling and replenishment, and related issues; and seeks to identify and abate or eliminate sources of pollutants that affect people, wildlife and their environments. Scientists working in this area analyze and report measurements and observations of air, water, soil and other sources and make recommendations on how best to clean and preserve the environment. Included are environmental ecologists who study the relationships between organisms and their environments and the effects of influences such as population size, pollutants, rainfall, temperature and altitude; ecological modelers who study ecosystems, the control of environmental pollution and the management of resources; environmental chemists who study the toxicity of various chemicals (how those chemicals affect plants, animals and people); and geochemists who study the nature and distribution of chemical elements in ground water and earth materials. Environmental sciences research may be used to design and monitor waste disposal sites, preserve water supplies and reclaim contaminated land and water to comply with federal environmental regulations.