Plain English Meaning
The U.S. government agency that handles space exploration and also runs research programs that help develop new aviation technology and improve how the air traffic system works.
Full Definition
A United States government agency responsible for the nation's civil space program and for aeronautics research. In the aviation context, NASA conducts research into aircraft performance, airspace operations, and air traffic management technologies, and partners with the FAA on the development of the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen).
Context Anchor
Seen in FAA discussions of NextGen, especially where different government and industry organizations are shown as contributors to the future air transportation system.