# Lunar Research Institute
**Wikidata**: [Q76468113](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q76468113)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/lunar-research-institute

## Summary
The Lunar Research Institute (LRI) is a U.S.-based nonprofit research organization founded in 1996 by planetary scientist Alan B. Binder. Headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, it focuses on lunar science and exploration research. The institute operates under the website http://www.lunar-research-institute.org.

## Key Facts
- Founded in September 1996 by planetary scientist Alan B. Binder
- Headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, United States
- Classified as both a research institute and nonprofit organization
- Registered with KISTI under ID K000216723
- Operates the website http://www.lunar-research-institute.org
- Has 41 sitelinks across knowledge bases, indicating moderate online presence
- Primary purpose is lunar science and exploration research
- Founded by Alan B. Binder, a notable figure in planetary science

### FAQs

### Q: What is the Lunar Research Institute?
A: The Lunar Research Institute is a nonprofit research organization based in Tucson, Arizona, founded in 1996 by planetary scientist Alan B. Binder. It focuses on lunar science and exploration research.

### Q: Who founded the Lunar Research Institute?
A: The institute was founded by Alan B. Binder, a planetary scientist, in September 1996.

### Q: Where is the Lunar Research Institute located?
A: The Lunar Research Institute is headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, United States.

### Q: What type of organization is the Lunar Research Institute?
A: It is classified as both a research institute and a nonprofit organization, with a primary focus on lunar science and exploration.

### Q: How can I access information about the Lunar Research Institute?
A: Information about the institute is available on its official website at http://www.lunar-research-institute.org.

## Why It Matters
The Lunar Research Institute plays a crucial role in advancing lunar science and exploration during a pivotal era of renewed interest in the Moon. Founded by planetary scientist Alan B. Binder in 1996, the institute emerged at a time when lunar research was transitioning from the Apollo era to new scientific questions about the Moon's formation, resources, and potential for future human exploration. As a nonprofit research organization, LRI provides independent scientific analysis and research that complements government space agencies and commercial lunar ventures. Its work helps inform policy decisions, guide mission planning, and advance our fundamental understanding of Earth's nearest celestial neighbor. The institute's Tucson location places it within Arizona's strong space science community, facilitating collaboration with universities and other research institutions. By maintaining a dedicated focus on lunar research, LRI helps ensure continued scientific progress in understanding the Moon's geology, resources, and potential as a platform for future space exploration.

## Notable For
- Founded by Alan B. Binder, a prominent planetary scientist with extensive lunar research experience
- One of the few dedicated nonprofit organizations focused exclusively on lunar science
- Established in 1996, positioning it as an early independent voice in post-Apollo lunar research
- Maintains KISTI registration (K000216723), indicating recognized status in scientific databases
- Operates with 41 sitelinks across knowledge bases, demonstrating established online presence

## Body
### Founding and Leadership
The Lunar Research Institute was established in September 1996 by Alan B. Binder, a planetary scientist with significant expertise in lunar geology and exploration. Binder's leadership reflects the institute's scientific credibility and focus on rigorous lunar research.

### Organizational Structure
As a nonprofit organization, LRI operates independently of government agencies while maintaining scientific credibility through its research outputs. The institute's classification as both a research institute and nonprofit organization indicates its dual mission of advancing scientific knowledge while operating in the public interest.

### Research Focus
The institute's primary purpose centers on lunar science and exploration research. This specialized focus allows LRI to develop deep expertise in lunar geology, resource assessment, and exploration strategies that support both scientific understanding and practical applications for future lunar missions.

### Geographic Context
Located in Tucson, Arizona, the institute benefits from proximity to the University of Arizona's Lunar and Planetary Laboratory and other space science institutions in the region. This geographic positioning facilitates collaboration and access to scientific resources while maintaining independent research capabilities.

### Digital Presence
The institute maintains an active online presence through its website at http://www.lunar-research-institute.org and holds KISTI registration number K000216723, indicating formal recognition in scientific information systems. The 41 sitelinks across knowledge bases suggest established recognition within the scientific community.