Testing and Research

As the nations independent testing, assessment and research center for national security space programs, Aerospace comprises more than 80 specialized facilities, equipment and software that is used to test, analyze, and troubleshoot virtually every aspect of rocket and satellite system design, development, construction, deployment and operation. Technical teams also focus on developing and integrating new technologies to enhance existing space systems.

Our research and assessment cover four broad investigative areas:

Electronics and Photonics: Research is focused on electrical power systems for rockets and spacecraft; microelectronics, optoelectronics and microelectromechanical systems, or MEMS; laser technologies, active optical remote-sensing systems, optical communications, fiber-optic sensor applications; and applications of atomic physics (atomic clocks, quantum communications and computing).

Space Materials: Research includes everything from basic materials science, propulsion science, and materials processing to investigating new innovative materials. Facilities in this lab area examine bearings, composites, lubricants, and materials used to construct and operate spacecraft and the effects of the space environment on these materials. In addition, researchers conduct studies and analyses in micropropulsion, micro and nantechnologies and satellites, laser micromachining, and microsensors and sensor systems.

Space Science Applications: Scientists in this area provide a diverse array of services and analyses in surveillance technologies, remote sensing, space instrumentation and testing, and the effects of radiation, plasma, and the elements of the atmosphere and ionosphere on these technologies. The Office of Spectral Applications has become a leading center for the development and application of hyperspectral imaging instruments and data collection.