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 51 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