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NASA MCP Server

by ProgramComputer

The NASA MCP Server provides a standardized interface for AI models to interact with NASA's data sources using the Model Context Protocol. It offers access to various NASA APIs through a single, consistent interface.

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What is NASA MCP Server?

The NASA MCP Server is an implementation of the Model Context Protocol (MCP) designed to provide a standardized way for AI models to access and utilize data from various NASA APIs. It acts as a bridge, simplifying the interaction between AI systems and NASA's vast data resources.

How to use NASA MCP Server?

The server can be installed and run using npx, manually via git clone and npm install, or configured within Cursor IDE. It requires a NASA API key, obtainable from api.nasa.gov. Once running, AI models can interact with the server using the MCP SDK, sending requests with specific methods and parameters to access different NASA APIs like APOD, Mars Rover Photos, and more.

Key features of NASA MCP Server

  • Access to 20+ NASA data sources through a single interface

  • Standardized data formats optimized for AI consumption

  • Automatic parameter validation and error handling

  • Rate limit management for NASA API keys

  • Comprehensive documentation and examples

  • Support for various NASA imagery formats

  • Data conversion and formatting for LLM compatibility

  • Cross-platform support (Windows, macOS, Linux)

Use cases of NASA MCP Server

  • Enabling AI models to analyze and interpret NASA's Astronomy Picture of the Day (APOD).

  • Facilitating AI-driven exploration of Mars Rover photos for scientific discovery.

  • Providing AI systems with access to Near Earth Object (NEO) data for risk assessment.

  • Integrating NASA's Earth data, such as satellite imagery, into AI models for environmental monitoring.

FAQ from NASA MCP Server

What is the Model Context Protocol (MCP)?

MCP is a standardized protocol for AI models to interact with data sources.

How do I get a NASA API key?

You can obtain a NASA API key from api.nasa.gov.

What NASA APIs are included?

The server integrates NASA Open API, JPL Solar System Dynamics API, and Earth Data APIs.

How do I install the server?

You can install it using npx, manual installation with git clone and npm, or configure it in Cursor.

How do I test the APIs?

Use the provided test script ./scripts/test-with-inspector.sh and the example test requests in docs/inspector-test-examples.md.