About Our Solar System Science and Exploration Division
The Solar System Science and Exploration Division employs scientists and engineers who conduct basic observational, modeling and theoretical research in a wide range of solar system and astrophysical topics and are active in the scientific and instrumentation components of several space missions. Researchers are involved in a variety of projects for NASA, the European Space Agency and the National Science Foundation.
Our Science Directorate focus areas include space studies, heliophysics, planetary physics, outer solar system, instrumentation and measurement, and imaging and analysis.
Our Space Mission Directorate focuses on space operations, mission implementation, space technologies, and mission operations.
About Southwest Research Institute
The Solar System Science Exploration Division’s goals are to achieve excellence in space research and to expand and deepen SwRI’s space research efforts. Our division is located in downtown Boulder Colorado with over 120 employees.
By fostering an environment of multidisciplinary collaborations, sharing of resources and expertise, SwRI enables the Solar System Science and Exploration Division to leverage the full spectrum of the institute’s capabilities.
Examples of ways the Institute facilities collaboration with our division include:
Interdivisional Projects
SwRI encourages interdisciplinary collaboration among its various divisions to integrate expertise in different scientific and engineering disciplines.
Joint Research Initiatives
SwRI often undertakes joint research projects in collaboration with other divisions across the institute. This can include sharing facilities, tools, and expert staff.
Mission Participation
The Solar System Science and Exploration Division has the ability to collaborate with other SwRI divisions on mission planning, development, data collection, and analysis.
Instrumentation and Technology Development
Engineers and scientists from across the institute with extensive experience developing cutting-edge instrumentation and technology work with staff in the Solar System Science and Exploration Division to design, build, and test new instruments.
Internal Funding and Support
The Institute provides internal funding and resources to support exploratory and high-risk research endeavors. This funding enables the Division to pursue novel research ideas and preliminary studies that may lead to larger, externally funded projects.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
Thru collaborations with other SwRI divisions, the Solar System Science and Exploration Division can utilize advanced data analysis methods, computational models, and simulations to interpret mission data. This multidisciplinary approach leads to more robust scientific conclusions and discoveries.
Our Institute’s Core Values
The core values of Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) are integrity, innovation, people, and stewardship. These values start with our employees, extend to our clients, and impact the greater community — all rooted in our commitment to benefit government, industry, and the public through innovative science and technology.