MIT SSL Overview

Introduction

Welcome to the Space Systems Laboratory (SSL), part of the Space Engineering Research Center (SERC) in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Founded in 1995, the SSL engages in cutting edge research projects with the goal of directly contributing to the present and future exploration and development of space. Specific missions include developing the technology and systems analysis associated with small spacecraft, precision optical systems, and International Space Station technology research and development. The laboratory encompasses expertise in structural dynamics, control, thermal, space power, propulsion, MEMS, software development and systems. A major activity in this laboratory is the development of small spacecraft thruster systems as well as looking at issues associated with the distribution of function among satellites. In addition, technology is being developed for spaceflight validation in support of a new class of space-based telescopes that exploit the physics of interferometry to achieve dramatic breakthroughs in angular resolution. The objective of the Laboratory is to explore innovative concepts for the integration of future space systems and to train a generation of researchers and engineers conversant in this field.

Each year the MIT Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics hosts a poster session open house for incoming graduate students, and each laboratory is given space for posters to represent the research projects and interests in the lab. You can view a few of the 2001 open house posters for an introduction to some of our projects, or check out the flight and ground research programs and research facilities pages for more detailed information.

SSL Partners

The SSL is a member of NASA's Small Satellite Technology Initiative (SSTI), New Millennium Program, and International Space Station Technology Testbed Program. The Laboratory also has ties with the M.I.T. Lincoln Laboratory, NASA Langley, JPL and the Air Force Phillips Laboratory as well as the Departments of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering at M.I.T. and aerospace companies such as Draper, TRW, Lockheed-Martin, MDA and Hughes. Links to some of our partners:

• NASA home page
• NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
• NASA Ames Reseach Center
• NASA Langley Research Center
• MIT Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
• MIT Mechanical Engineering
• Lockheed-Martin
• Payload Systems Inc

For More Information

The following web pages are intended to give you a feel for the work done here in the SSL. If you have any specific questions concerning particular research projects, would like to learn more about the unique capabilities of the SSL, or would like to collaborate on a current or new project; please feel free to contact the Director of the MIT Space Systems Laboratory - Professor David Miller.