Space Systems Design Laboratory (SSDL)

The Space Systems Design Lab (SSDL) at the Georgia Institute of Technology creates space technologies and advanced mission concepts that enable new missions and capabilities in robotic and human space exploration. Research focuses on space flight applications and projects. We use modern engineering tools including mission design methodologies, systems engineering, additive manufacturing, simulation, optimization, sensing, estimation and control to propose, participate in, and operate space flight missions that conduct space science and demonstrate new technologies.

The SSDL is a multi-faculty, interdisciplinary research lab located within the School of Aerospace Engineering. The SSDL is currently directed by Prof. Brian Gunter. Prior SSDL Directors include Prof. E. Glenn Lightsey (2016-2023), David A. Spencer (2010-2016), Robert D. Braun (2003-2016), and John R. Olds (1998-2005).

Focus Areas

Small Satellite Flight Projects

Full life cycle design from mission concept to operations

Space Technology Development

Technology maturation enabling new capabilities for spacecraft

Mission Campaign Optimization

Applying optimization theory to design sequential missions

Spacecraft Guidance, Navigation And Control

Creating new methods for spacecraft control

Featured Projects

ESA SciSpace SolarMag Project

Project Sponsor : European Space Agency Start Date : 01/01/2023 Faculty Investigator : Dr. Álvaro Romero-Calvo Photoelectrochemical devices integrate the processes of light absorption, charge separation, and catalysis for chemical synthesis. The monolithic design and sustainable operation are interesting for space applications, where weight and volume constraints predominate. However, hindered gas bubble desorption in reduced gravitation…

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WEBS: Wireless Energy From Beamed Signals

Project Sponsor : Air Force Research Lab, US Space Force, University Nanosatellite Program Start Date : 01/28/2022 Faculty Investigator : Dr. Brian Gunter Project Status : Final system design, undergoing subsystem fabrication and testing WEBS is an exciting first-of-its-kind technology demonstration in the area of space-to-space wireless power transmission. In collaboration with the United States…

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Enterococcus Evolution In Space: Environmental Adaptations, Antibiotic Resistance, And Clinical Implications (Entero)

Project Sponsor : NASA Space Biology Award # 80NSSC21K0234 to C.E.C Start Date : 11/01/2020 Faculty Investigator : Dr. Christopher E. Carr Project Status : Preparing for flight readiness review(s) Enterococci are gram-positive bacteria that originated when our ancient animal ancestors emerged from the oceans to live on land, and brought their gut flora with…

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