FAQs of National Security Space

1. What kind of work do you do?
2. Can APL/NSS work on classified programs?
3. What are APL/NSS's premier projects?
4. How is APL/NSS different from other commercial solutions providers?
5. What kind of partnerships does APL/NSS provide?
6. Does APL/NSS create theories and ideas or practical applications?

What kind of work do you do?

APL does not compete with industry, and therefore we do not do the same types of jobs as industry. We often take on the jobs that industry will not or can not, simply because they may be too challenging and uncertain. For example, we would be more likely to design a precision sensor with many technical challenges and difficult specifications than we would build eight production units on an environmental sensor. Our non-profit status allows us to work on some of the most challenging technical projects facing our nation today.
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Can APL/NSS work on classified programs?

Yes, our laboratory is certified to handle classified information.
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What are APL/NSS's premier projects?

Currently, APL operates the MSX spacecraft. Initially funded by the Ballistic Missile Defense Organization, this mission was the first to demonstrate that technology in space could be used to identify and track ballistic missiles during their midcourse flight phase. Today, the spacecraft, now in its second decade of service, is a primary sensor used to track objects of interest to the U.S. Strategic Command and Air Force.
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How is APL/NSS different from other commercial solutions providers?

Our strong space science and engineering experience began with the advent of modern space exploration. Our unique culture and corporate strengths, including systems engineering and end-to-end development, coupled with our extensive experience with DoD and NASA missions, provide a basis for military and intelligence solutions that few organizations can match. Coupled with our capabilities, our not-for-profit nature eliminates the demand to grow the business for its own sake, leaving us to focus on our nation's critical challenges.
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What kind of partnerships does APL/NSS provide?

We can work at many levels of support. One APL team has provided support as a technical direction agent for weapons systems for nearly twenty years. Of course, we can also accommodate more short-term needs within our broad capabilities. The longer we work with you, the better the insight we can offer into your critical challenges.
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Does APL/NSS create theories and ideas or practical applications?

The answer is both. While we are grounded in research and technology development, nearly all of the projects in the NSS business area find practical application and contribute directly to a mission.
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