Space Systems and Technology

We develop technology to meet the challenges of an increasingly congested and contested space domain. Our engineers design, prototype, operate, and assess systems that detect, track, identify, and characterize resident space objects. Given the potential for conventional conflict to extend to space, we conduct R&D on concepts and systems that will provide space mission resilience.

Space Control - Ensuring critical U.S. space activities

Advanced Capabilities and Technologies
Advanced Electro-Optical Systems
Advanced Quantum Technologies
Advanced Sensors and Techniques
Applied Space Systems
Information Integration and Decision Support
Space Systems Analysis and Test

We research and develop technology for advanced satellite systems that are used to monitor the activity of objects in space and to perform remote sensing of Earth.

More

Spectators on a platform watch as the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System-Hosted Payload lifts off in the distance over a forest.

Newly launched Space Force optical sensing system will improve space domain awareness in collaboration with Japan

May 8

The exterior main entrance of MIT Lincoln Laboratory is shown with a radar antenna in the background.

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is a workhorse for national security

Apr 11

A screenshot of the game interface shows the blue team using a ground asset to analyze one of the red team's satellite's activity.

Military interns test new serious game for deterring conflict in space

Apr 9

More News

a photo of a small satellite in a studio

weather

TROPICS

A constellation of small satellites is collecting rapidly refreshed weather data to advance studies of hurricane structure and intensity and improve forecasts.

a small electronic chip is illuminated with red laser light.

quantum

Compact Optical Trapped-Ion Array Clock

Optical atomic clocks are the most accurate in the world, but they are very large, sensitive instruments. We are transforming the complex components of these clocks into a compact, portable platform.

This is an image of adiamond seed crystal that glows orange.

quantum systems and science

Diamond Magnetometer

Engineered diamonds show promising capability for use in quantum sensing of magnetic fields.

Imagery from the GOES-16 Advanced Baseline Imager

environmental monitoring

Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Series

The Laboratory's long-term collaboration with NOAA and NASA on environmental monitoring satellites has led to revolutionized weather imagery and products and improved detection for space and solar phenomena.

More Projects

The Laboratory presents me with the ability to chase after what I once believed was science fiction and to make it a reality through hard work and dedication.

Madison Lagos

Radar Operator

Space Systems and Technology

Information Integration and Decision Support

Photo of Madison Lagos standing outside with a large radar in the background.

It’s a satisfying feeling to know you were part of the team that helped fix an issue.

Noah Stein

Technician

Space Systems and Technology

Advanced Sensors and Techniques

A photograph of Noah Stein standing in front of a radar.

The flexibility at the Lab to work on diverse problems is a wonderful thing. You can work in a variety of technical fields. All you have to do is meet the right people down the hall and ask if they need help.