Does NASA primarily use C++ or Python for its projects?

NASA does not prioritize one programming language over another; instead, it strategically employs both C++ and Python based on the specific needs of each project. These languages serve distinct roles: C++ is primarily used for performance-critical tasks such as low-level hardware control and real-time systems, including flight software and robotics. Python, on the other hand, is leveraged for data analysis, automation, scripting, and as a high-level interface that integrates with lower-level languages like C++. Additionally, Python is often accessible to non-programming engineers, enabling them to contribute to workflows efficiently. NASA's toolkit also includes other languages such as C, Fortran, MATLAB, Java, Ada, and C#, each chosen for niche requirements like legacy systems or ground control software.