The research conducted at NSRL seeks to increase the safety of space exploration through radiobiology and electronic device studies. The NSRL uses beams of heavy ions extracted from Brookhaven's Booster accelerator to simulate the high energy cosmic rays found in space. NSRL features state-of-the-art specimen preparation resources, its own beam line dedicated to radiobiology research and space technology studies. Other experiments use industrial materials as samples, studying their suitability for space suits and spacecraft shielding.

Scientists from around the world come to NSRL to perform their work using the unique capabilities of Brookhaven's accelerator facility. NSRL is the only place designed and built to study a space radiation environment right here on Earth's surface.