The Aerospace Corporation
The Aerospace Corporation operates the only federally funded research and development center dedicated exclusively to the space enterprise, providing independent technical analyses and assessments for various customers.
Company Overview
The Aerospace Corporation is the only federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) dedicated exclusively to the space enterprise. The company provides independent technical analyses and assessments for various customers, including government, civil, and commercial entities. Headquartered in Chantilly, Virginia, with significant regional offices in El Segundo, California, and Colorado Springs, Colorado, The Aerospace Corporation also maintains a comprehensive network of locations throughout the United States to offer on-site support.
The Space Safety Institute
Established in 2021, the Space Safety Institute by The Aerospace Corporation aims to enhance the safety of space and space-related activities. The institute supports all aspects of space safety throughout different mission phases, including launch, operations, reentry, cyber, and spectrum. Its core mission focuses on areas such as Space Situational Awareness, Space Operations Assurance, Launch and Reentry Safety, Cybersecurity and Spectrum, Human Spaceflight Safety, and Cislunar Space Safety.
Commercial Space Futures Office
The Aerospace Corporation's Commercial Space Futures Office plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration between the U.S. government and commercial space entities. By accelerating the development and advancement of U.S. space capabilities, this office identifies and aligns commercial solutions with national needs. It also enables the insertion of new technologies through various means including standards and regulation, verification and validation, access to facilities, capability maturation, and testbeds.
Center for Orbital and Reentry Debris Studies (CORDS)
Established in 1997, the Center for Orbital and Reentry Debris Studies (CORDS) is a part of The Aerospace Corporation focusing on space debris, collision avoidance, and reentry breakup. CORDS provides significant expertise and research to address these vital aspects of space operations, ensuring the sustainability and safety of ongoing and future space missions.
Global Reach
The Aerospace Corporation supports the global space enterprise with a presence beyond the United States. The Aerospace Corporation UK Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary, was established to deliver independent technical advice and support across the UK space industry. Additionally, the company's Space Warfighting Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado, serves as the focal point for technical expertise to counter national security threats in space.