Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center (JSC)

A large space technology complex at Houston, Texas, which is the headquarters for the astronauts of the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). It is the site of "mission control", responsible for the operations of the Space Shuttle after launch and prior to landing. It has major offices responsible for the development and operation of the Space Shuttle Orbiter (the manned vehicle) as well as for the National Space Transportation System (the Space Shuttle as a recoverable rocket launching system). JSC conducts major programmes related to manned space flight, space medicine and aviation. Exploratory studies of future ventures in manned and robotic space travel, such as lunar bases and the proposed Mars Rover Sample Return Mission, are undertaken there. It was named after the late US President, who took a strong interest in the space programme.