Which agency is responsible for exploring outer space?

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is the agency responsible for exploring outer space. Established in 1958, NASA is tasked with the civilian space program, as well as aeronautics and aerospace research. It conducts missions that involve human spaceflight, satellite deployment, planetary exploration, and the study of the Earth's atmosphere, among many other scientific endeavors.

NASA's initiatives include sending astronauts to the Moon, developing the Space Shuttle program, launching the Mars rovers, and conducting the Hubble Space Telescope observations. The agency collaborates with international space organizations and is involved in significant scientific discoveries that expand our understanding of the universe and our planet.

The other agencies listed do not focus on outer space exploration: the FBI is primarily involved in domestic security and law enforcement; the FCC regulates interstate and international communications; and the Department of Defense handles military operations, which may include some aspects of space but not as its primary mission.