Transforming Concepts into Reality

The team turns hardware designs into reality by determining the parts needed to fulfill project requirements, and then defining the tests, qualification programs and storage and handling procedures to ensure the components and materials meet those mission requirements. Materials experts also support the design and packaging of electronic assemblies through thermal, structural, venting analysis and part qualification.

Close collaboration between lead engineers, program management and safety and mission assurance staff ensures that the correct materials and parts are used for each specific application, while maintaining production and test schedules. Constant vigilance on cost and schedule helps APL programs deliver cost-effective solutions that meet customer needs and expectations.

Missions

APL has designed, built and operated more than 70 innovative spacecraft over its six decades of spaceflight experience. Click below to learn about some of the missions that made revolutionary discoveries, and spacecraft that will push the boundaries of exploration and investigate outstanding scientific mysteries.

Instruments

Scientists and engineers at APL have designed, built and operated more than 300 novel space instruments and methods to conduct cutting-edge research and make groundbreaking discoveries. Click below to learn about some of these instruments and their role in shaping our understanding of space and the solar system.

Stories

Go inside APL’s space missions and research, and check out the latest news, features and discoveries from the teams that are probing mysteries from the Sun to the edge of the solar system and beyond.