Ground-Based Observatories Spacecraft missions have greatly increased our knowledge, but we can also study space remotely from the ground. Radar, ground-based telescopes, and balloons are a few of the many ways scientists observe our space environment. NSO has two observing facility locations: Kitt Peak, Arizona and Sacramento Peak, New Mexico. Its mission is to advance knowledge of the Sun, both as an astronomical object and as the dominant external influence on Earth, by providing forefront observational opportunities to the research community. The NSO mission includes the operation of cutting edge facilities, the continued development of advanced instrumentation both in-house and through partnerships, conducting solar research, and educational and public outreach. NSO is funded by the National Science Foundation and operated and managed by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, Inc.