Space Systems Laboratory

One of the many research labs in the Aerospace Experimentation and Fabrication building, or AXFAB, this lab is used by both Engineering and Physics majors for research into experimental space systems, senior design projects and NASA Space Grant Projects. Current and past projects include the Arcjet project, a NASA Space Grant research project involving exotic space propulsion using non-chemical-based fuel sources and a plasma thruster.

Equipment

• Tri-axial spherical air bearing for testing attitude control systems in a simulated torque-free environment
• 2-axis position and rate table system to simulate dynamic environment of spacecraft
• Vacuum chambers to test satellite systems in space-like conditions
• Roof-mounted antenna enabling students to track and communicate with satellites and the International Space Station (ISS)
• Thermal chamber designed to simulate the environment of space
• Orientation-control systems