History of SDL
SDL traces its origins to the earliest US space experiments utilizing German
V-2 rockets at the end of World War II. These experiments, which measured electron
density in the upper atmosphere, led to the formation of the Upper Air Research
Laboratory (UARL) at the University of Utah in 1948 and the Electro-Dynamics
Laboratories (EDL) at Utah State University in 1959. UARL focused on studies
of the physical properties of the upper atmosphere, while EDL primarily conducted
optical/infrared aerospace research. The two laboratories frequently collaborated,
and in 1970, UARL relocated to Utah State University. In 1982 the two laboratories
merged to form SDL.
Today's Space Dynamics Laboratory is the successor to these earlier laboratories,
incorporating several decades of experience in experimentation and instrumentation
for upper atmospheric and space measurements. Some of SDL’s significant
accomplishments over the past 50 years include the following:
- Launching over 400 sounding rockets, many of which have led to a better
understanding of upper atmosphere chemistry and dynamics
- Pioneering techniques for developing cryogenic radiometers and spectrometers
used in space applications
- Developing internationally-recognized IR calibration expertise
- Playing a key role in discovering the atmospheric effects that result from
nuclear detonation
- Participating in the first shuttle flight that included a significant science
payload (VCAP) and pioneering a number of instruments critical to understanding
how the Space Shuttle and other vehicles interact with the space environment
- Assisting USU students with the first private research experiment on the
Space Shuttle (Get Away Special #G001) in 1982 and with 45 subsequent shuttle
experiments
- Collecting measurements considered to be among the most accurate measurements
of infrared emissions in the upper atmosphere ever taken (CIRRIS
1A)
- Acquiring the best galactic plane infrared data to date and collecting
critical IR data needed to create the sensor specifications for the next US
space missile warning and tracking system (SPIRIT
III)
- Leading the only cooperative research program in the area of missile defense
between the US Department of Defense and the Russian Ministry of Defense (RAMOS)
- Accumulating over 35 years of experience in building state-of-the-art interferometers
and spectrometers, including developing a next generation geosynchronous environmental
monitoring satellite that will revolutionize weather forecasting (GIFTS)
- Conducting, using both wheat and Brassica, the first replicated successful
seed-to-seed experiments in space (GEMS) and providing the first “salad”
to be grown and eaten in space (Lada)
- Developing cutting-edge data visualization and compression technologies
that have led to the design of the ground visualization system for the next
generation tactical reconnaissance system (NAVIS)
- Developing instrumentation that will monitor electrical charging on the
International Space Station, protecting the safety of astronauts during space
walks (FPMU)
- Providing thousands of students with hands-on job experience in science,
engineering, and business
- Enhancing Utah State University’s reputation for excellence in science
and engineering
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CIRRIS-1A