Utah State University Space Dynamics Laboratory

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.

DELIVERING MISSION SUCCESS SINCE 1959

As a nonprofit trusted agent of the Government, Utah State University Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is customer driven, mission focused, and technology enabled. SDL has been solving the technical challenges faced by the military, science community, and industry for more than six decades.

SDL works with the Department of Defense and industry in defending and protecting our nation as well as supporting NASA’s vision to “reveal the unknown for the benefit of humankind.”

SDL’s solutions include improved data gathering and analysis tools for all branches of the military and powerful remote and in situ sensing solutions—with an emphasis in electro-optical sensing in the near UV to far IR.

EXPLORE SDL'S CORE CAPABILITIES

Ground Stations: Mission Data Processing 

• The Government requires solutions for gathering visual intelligence for strategic analysis and planning. SDL develops hardware and software solutions to support real-time acquisition, processing, and display of tactical image data from multi-INT sensor sources. Our products range from fully supported, deployed systems used by programs such as the DoD’s DCGS (Distributed Common Ground System) to rapid prototype solutions such as those developed for the Naval Research Laboratory’s FEATHAR (Fusion, Exploitation, Algorithms, and Targeting for High-Altitude Reconnaissance) program.

Networking & Data Assurance

• In the digital information age, transmitting large volumes of data securely and without information loss is an evolving problem. SDL’s team of highly skilled engineers are experts in data transfer. Because we also build and test sensor systems and ground stations, we thoroughly understand sensor interfaces, network protocols, embedded processing, and how to mitigate issues caused by long fat networks. In addition, SDL’s experience with systems security engineering includes successful development and execution of strategies and solutions for attack surface mapping, network analysis, penetration testing, intrusion detection/prevention, and cyber exercise execution.

Satellite Technologies

• As a research institution, SDL has a long heritage of providing solutions to problems and building one-of-a-kind customized/productized components for space systems over a broad spectrum of reliability needs, lifetime needs, and form factors. SDL provides satellite services including manufacturing, assembly, integration, environmental and functional testing, calibration, operations support, and small satellite ground station capabilities.

Science & Engineering

• The Government is engaged in keeping our National and global assets safe and furthering important discovery and research by funding programs that solve today’s evolving challenges. These programs require strong science and engineering teams to determine mission feasibility, overcome technical obstacles, and provide sound operational concepts. As pioneers in remote sensing, SDL has the heritage, personnel, and facilities required to provide cost-effective solutions for defense, intelligence, and science customers.

Sensor Systems

• Sensor systems are powerful tools that are vital to decision makers in fields as diverse as defense, meteorology, military intelligence, ecology, and economics. SDL has sixty years of experience in remote sensing and has designed, built, and tested space and airborne IR, VIS, UV, and RF sensors. These systems acquire critical imagery and other data products for applications such as astronomy, atmospheric research, missile detection and tracking, and tactical reconnaissance. SDL also develops in situ instruments for space and terrestrial weather sensing.

Testing & Calibration

• To demonstrate how hardware and software will meet mission requirements, programs require a broad range of testing. For over 50 years, SDL has developed extensive system, instrument, and component testing capabilities for space, airborne, and miniaturized systems. SDL also provides specialized calibration and flight testing services that have contributed to the success of numerous missions that span the electromagnetic spectrum.

Employment

If you're looking to work on big missions and make a bigger impact, we have space for you. At SDL, you can launch your career forward while prioritizing a work-life balance with best-in-industry benefits and flexible work options.

Benefits 

• 14.2% retirement contribution
• Work-from-home options
• Flex schedules
• Up to 22 days of paid vacation
• Free or discounted college tuition 

Company Culture 

SDL is a people-driven organization. We recognize that our employees are the key to our success, and we work with that in mind. From flexible work arrangements to company-organized activities and events, we take pride in prioritizing a healthy work-life balance while we work toward a common goal.

• Work-life balance
• Events (picnics, BBQs)
• Clubs & activities 

Elevating Your Career 

To help you take your career up a notch, you'll work toward common goals alongside industry-leading mentors and have access to reduced tuition at Utah State University. Plus, at SDL, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to entire missions from proposal to delivery.

• Mentorship
• Established professional development framework 

Supporting Our Troops

The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) has been recognized as a partner for the DoD SkillBridge program, a program designed to connect transitioning service members with positions at SDL. We provide opportunities to gain real-world professional experience with the potential for full-time employment post separation/retirement. SkillBridge candidates may apply to any posted job for which they are qualified up to three months prior to their eligibility date and reference SkillBridge on their application.