PROGRAM OBJECTIVES:
To strengthen and enhance the national scientific enterprise through the expansion of fundamental knowledge and increased understanding of the integrated Earth system through the support of basic research in the atmospheric, earth and ocean sciences. Major objectives include the discovery of new knowledge of the atmosphere from the sun to the Earth's surface over the entire spectrum of physical and chemical phenomena; a better understanding of the physical, chemical, and biological character of the Earth and the processes that govern its evolution; and increased insight into the world's oceans, their composition, structure, behavior, and tectonics. Support is also provided for science and technology centers, undergraduate Student research, facility enhancement, instrumentation, and laboratory equipment; and for research opportunities for women, minority, and disabled scientists and engineers.

 ELIGIBLE FUNCTIONAL CATEGORIES:
1. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY;
- Research - Specialized;

 WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM THIS PROGRAM:
- State;
- Public nonprofit institution/organization;
- Other public institution/organization;
- Profit organization;
- Private non-profit institution/organization;
- Scientist/Researcher;

 WHO CAN APPLY:
- State (includes District of Columbia, public institutions of higher education and hospitals);
- Public non-profit institution/organization (includes institutions of higher education and hospitals);
- Individual/Family;
- Specialized group (e.g. health professionals, students, veterans);
- Profit organization;
- Private non-profit institution/organization (includes institutions of higher education and hospitals);