NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is a world-leading center for space exploration and Earth science, located in a region prone to wildfires, heatwaves, earthquakes, and other environmental extremes. These events can disrupt power, water, and communications systems, and affect the health and safety of the workforce—over 5,000 people who live throughout the Los Angeles area.

To better prepare for these challenges, JPL conducted its first comprehensive risk assessment, in partnership with NASA’s Earth Science to Action (ES2A) strategy and its new Risk Analysis and Solutions Innovations (RASI) initiative. The study combines advanced satellite data, climate modeling, and engineering insights to understand how environmental hazards may affect JPL’s buildings, critical systems, and mission operations.

The report identifies vulnerabilities and proposes practical steps to reduce risk—such as improving cooling systems, upgrading emergency infrastructure, and planning for power and water disruptions. It also supports coordination with local governments and utilities.

This work not only helps protect JPL’s essential role in space and science missions but also serves as a model for improving resilience at other NASA centers. It shows how Earth science can guide smart planning and keep vital operations running in the face of growing environmental risks.