Astrobotic Foundation

Overview

The Astrobotic Foundation is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering educational and charitable initiatives related to space exploration. It operates the Moonshot Museum in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, which aims to inspire a diverse audience to participate in the future of space commerce, science, exploration, and settlement.

Mission and Activities

The Astrobotic Foundation's primary mission is to engage the public with space technology and exploration. Through its Moonshot Museum, the foundation offers interactive exhibits, educational programs, and curated experiences that highlight the possibilities of careers in the space industry. The museum features a unique large clean room window where visitors can observe real lunar landers and rovers being prepared for missions.

Programs and Partnerships

One of the foundation's notable programs is "Cosmic Careers," supported by an $800,000 NASA grant. This program targets students in grades 5-8 across the Appalachian region, introducing them to careers in space exploration through mobile outreach initiatives, on-site museum experiences, and virtual simulations. The program aims to empower the next generation of space leaders by integrating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education with real-world space industry examples.

Financials

In recent years, the foundation's revenue has been primarily driven by contributions. As of the last available financial data, the organization reported total assets of $500,000 with zero liabilities. The compensation for key employees and officers has been recorded as zero, indicating that the organization's leadership may be volunteer-based or that compensation is handled differently.

Tax-Exempt Status

The Astrobotic Foundation is designated as a 501(c)(3) organization, allowing donations to be tax-deductible. This status aligns with its educational, charitable, and scientific goals.

Legal Classification and Reporting

The foundation files Form 990 annually with the IRS, which provides detailed financial and governance information. These filings are publicly available and offer insights into the organization's financial health and operational structure.

Cultural Impact

By supporting the Moonshot Museum, the Astrobotic Foundation contributes to Pittsburgh's status as a hub for the modern space industry. The museum's educational programs help inspire underrepresented groups in STEAM fields, fostering a diverse pool of future space professionals.