Embry-Riddle's Innovative Mission Control Lab prepares students for booming space sector

Embry-Riddle's Innovative Mission Control Lab prepares students for booming space sector
by Staff Writers
Daytona Beach, FL (SPX) Nov 27, 2023

In an era where the space industry is rapidly expanding, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has taken a significant step to prepare its students for the challenges of tomorrow. The university has announced the opening of a new satellite mission control center on its Daytona Beach Campus, a move poised to place its graduates at the forefront of the burgeoning space sector.

According to the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, there are currently over 4,800 operational satellites orbiting Earth, each managed from a satellite mission control center. This domain of space operations has become increasingly specialized, mirroring the industry's growth trajectory. In 2022 alone, the space industry witnessed a record-breaking year with 178 successful orbital launches, signaling an unprecedented demand for celestial real estate and space expertise.

The new center at Embry-Riddle, renowned for its comprehensive aerospace and aviation programs, aims to arm students with essential skills for careers in this dynamic industry. Dr. Tom Guinn, chair of the Applied Aviation Sciences Department, emphasized the unique opportunities the program offers. "We are one of the only degree programs offering students a unique, hands-on experience with mission control operations," Guinn stated. "This, paired with a degree in Space Operations, makes our graduates uniquely job-ready for positions at control centers."

The facility is not just a theoretical classroom; it is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to simulate real mission control scenarios. Students will get the chance to experience firsthand the intricacies of satellite operations, including tracking, monitoring, and troubleshooting. "The lab gives us the ability to simulate and train students on the operations in a typical mission control center, where satellites are tracked, monitored, and any anomalies are resolved," added Guinn.

A significant feature of the new center is the integration of classroom CubeSats, a modern innovation in space technology. These small satellites allow students to physically observe the satellite's response to various commands, enhancing the realism of their training. CubeSats are part of a broader trend in the industry where both traditional and smaller satellites are launched for diverse purposes like research, communication improvements, and the establishment of new broadband networks.

However, the increasing deployment of satellites also brings challenges, notably the accumulation of space debris. With over 3,400 decommissioned satellites orbiting Earth, mission control specialists must navigate these hazards to deploy new satellites successfully. This aspect of space operations underscores the importance of Embry-Riddle's training program, which prepares students to manage these complex scenarios effectively.

The program culminates in a Mission Control capstone course, integrating various aspects of space operations, including policy, orbital mechanics, and payload management. "These students will be very well equipped to enter the workforce with a variety of space companies," Guinn asserted, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the training.