New Mexico State University (NMSU) is the lead institution for the New Mexico Space Grant Consortium (NMSGC). NMSGC is a member of the congressionally funded National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program which is administered by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in 1989.

National Program Objectives
• Establish and maintain a national network of universities with interests and capabilities in aeronautics, space and related fields;
• Encourage cooperative programs among universities, aerospace industry, and Federal, state and local governments;
• Encourage interdisciplinary training, research and public service programs related to aerospace;
• Recruit and train U.S. citizens, especially women, underrepresented minorities, and persons with disabilities, for careers in aerospace science and technology; and,
• Promote a strong science, mathematics, and technology education base from elementary through secondary levels.