Department of Space Operations
At Southwest Research Institute (SwRI), the Department of Space Operations specializes in the full lifecycle of space missions—from early planning and instrument design to mission control and data analysis.
We support missions from initial concept through launch and long-term operations.
Mission Planning & Management
- Timeline development
- Resource allocation
- Risk management strategies
Space Flight Instrumentation
- Design, build, and delivery of advanced space instruments
- Projects include lunar payloads (neutron detection, in-situ dating, magnetotelluric sounding)
- Actively providing NOAA with coronagraphs, and ESA with EUV imagers
Mission Operations Control
- Spacecraft control and system monitoring
- Coordination with ground-based ops centers
- Our active missions include: CYGNSS, PUNCH
Our missions in development include: CubIXSS, QuickSounder - We are active in science operations for:Lucy, New Horizons, PUNCH
Data Management & Analysis
- Download, process, and archive mission data
- Ensure data integrity for accurate insights
- Deliver data to scientists for analysis
- Interface with NASA archives including SDAC, PDS, and others
Engineering & Technical Support
- Rapid troubleshooting for mission anomalies
- Ensure smooth operation throughout mission lifecycle
- Expert support in high-stakes, high-complexity space environments
Collaboration & Communication
- Coordinate between scientists, engineers, and mission stakeholders
- Facilitate mission-wide alignment
- We partner with NASA and other government agencies, universities, and commercial space industry leaders
Why DOSO?
The Department of Space Operations delivers rigorous processes, innovative technologies, and deep expertise to ensure space mission success. Our team thrives on collaboration and is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of exploration and discovery.