Mission Area
National Security Space
Space Solutions to Critical Military Problems
Johns Hopkins APL’s National Security Space Mission Area enables mission partners at all levels of government to realize highly classified and critically important missions for national security. Through an intimate understanding of threats in the space domain and the challenges associated with them, we address the unique problem sets and deliver novel solutions.
The National Security Space Mission Area has rapidly evolved to address the interconnected threats facing today’s warfighter. We apply innovative modeling and simulation, along with insightful analysis, to enable sponsors to make critical national security decisions. We also build and operate technical demonstrations to showcase proof-of-concept capabilities on Earth and in orbit.
Our work includes producing robust hardware and software to meet warfighter needs, providing technical leadership to develop operationally robust security space systems, and collaborating with mission partners to address national security challenges.
Impact
Space Science and Engineering
Since the dawn of the Space Age, APL has expanded the frontiers of space science and technology.
Leadership
Robert Braun Sector Head, Space Exploration
Learn more about Robert Braun
Dennis Woodfork Mission Area Executive, National Security Space
Learn more about Dennis WoodforkHighlights
DARC Demonstration
The APL designed, developed, and tested Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability (DARC) helped solve the challenge of locating and tracking active satellites in and on the way to geosynchronous orbit, more than 22,000 miles above Earth.
Cislunar Science and Technology
APL is making critical contributions to the development of cislunar infrastructure to ensure our nation’s security interests are protected, support development of a sustainable cislunar presence, and advance pioneering science.
Preventing Traffic Jams in Space
Providing greater situational awareness to enhance safety and security for those who plan to operate in cislunar space and on the Moon.
Recent News
Jul 8, 2025
Commercial Collaborations Enable Agile, Reliable Space Solutions
May 2, 2025
Johns Hopkins APL Publishes Report on Nation’s First Space Weather Simulation Exercise
