Research Projects

Space Systems Optimization Laboratory performs a variety of research projects in space mission design. The following are some examples of our past/ongoing projects.

  • ATLAS: Advancing Technologies for Logistics Architecture in Space
  • Autonomous Landing and Proximity Operation Technology for Poorly-Characterized Small Bodies
    • Source: NASA (NSTGRO)
  • Modeling and Optimization of Discrete CONOPS in Campaign Architectures
    • Source: NASA; with Jacobs Space Exploration Group
  • Novel design of a resilient constellation in the era of mega constellation
    • Source: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
  • Logistical Feasibility of Rapid OOS Capabilities in GEO (Phase I)
    • Source: Space Force Orbit Prime STTR; with Galactiv, Inc.
  • Space Object Understanding and Reconnaissance of Complex Events (SOURCE)
    • Source: AFRL/AFOSR Space University Research Initiative (SURI) program; with SUNY Buffalo, Penn State, Purdue, and MIT
  • Cislunar Space Domain Awareness (SDA) through Distributed Sensors
    • Source: GTRI IRAD
  • Guided Capture and Removal of Space Debris
    • Source: GTRI IRAD
  • CAREER: Designing Flexible Complex Systems with Coupled and Co-Evolving Subsystems under Operational Uncertainties
  • Real-Time Terrain Mapping and Processing for Safe Landing via Deep Neural Networks
  • Time-Expanded Space Logistics Network Modeling and Optimization for On-Orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing
    • Sponsor: DARPA Young Faculty Award
  • Debris Management and Removal for Large-Scale Constellations
    • Sponsor: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
  • Integrated Architecture Trade Studies on ISRU Technologies for Human Space Exploration
  • Next Space Technologies for Exploration Partnerships – 2 (NextSTEP-2), Power and Propulsion Element (PPE) Study
    • Sponsor: NASA NextSTEP Program/Space Systems Loral
  • An Integrated Framework and Tool for Effective Participation of Commercial Enterprise in Space Development
  • Transportation Network Design Optimization for Cis-Lunar Space Economy
    • Sponsor: United Launch Alliance
  • SYNERGEO: Cooperative Reconfigurable Persistent Geostationary Support Platform
    • Sponsor: DARPA/CU Aerospace
  • Constellation Design for Communication Network in Low Earth Orbits
    • Sponsor: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation