Utah State University's Space Dynamics Laboratory collaborates with White Sands Missile Range for knowledge exchange

Dr. Kori Moore, Program Manager and Dr. Morgan Davidson from Utah State University’s Space Dynamics Laboratory visited White Sands Missile Range on June 18. Their objective was to study and analyze the range’s use of data fusion and visualization techniques to ensure the safe and effective execution of tests.

The partnership came to fruition when the White Sands Missile Range Executive Director, Vincent Liddiard, visited the Space Dynamics Laboratory and, to further the relationship, invited Moore and Davidson to the installation. The Space Dynamics Laboratory is no stranger to military testing; it has an ongoing 15-year relationship with Dugway Proving Ground.

“We are here to learn about the process that White Sands goes through to analyze real-time data coming in to make sure that things are going well. And to make any decisions about whether they need to terminate a test,” said Moore.

Moore and Davidson, with their extensive experience, are not just observers in this collaboration. They are actively contributing their insights and expertise, which will significantly aid in shaping future projects.

During their time at WSMR, the Space Dynamics Laboratory team gained invaluable insights into data analysis and the role of WSMR safety officers. They also toured the Cox Range Control Center and met with the key individuals who drive the testing operations at WSMR.

“It’s been really interesting to see what types of tests are done here. A lot of the things they worry about, we worry about when it comes to testing,” said Moore. “We may have information and lessons learned that we can share. Once we really get into the meat of how they are doing the work here, we can start comparing what we have done.”

At the Space Dynamics Laboratory, Moore runs programs that deal with counter-unmanned aircraft systems. He also runs programs with Light Detection and Raiding or LiDAR.