NASA-sponsored research at the University of Michigan occurs in astronomy, medicine, and a variety of engineering disciplines. At the UM Space Physics Research Laboratory, which has played a significant role in the U.S. Space Program since 1946, research topics include atmospheric chemistry, dynamics, and evolution; magnetospheric physics; space exploration; electronic beam studies; and remote sensing. The laboratory is among a handful of university centers that can design, construct, test, and operate space flight instruments.

Examples of UM projects supported by the NASA:

Radar Remote Biosensing of the Amazon: Data from space-based radar instruments are providing information needed to map and measure land cover and land-use changes in the Amazon Basin. Techniques for analyzing such data developed at the UM are being used to provide information useful to biologists and other scientists involved in a large-scale ecological study of the Amazon Basin.

System on A Chip -- Radio Frequency Components: Decreasing size of spacecraft and increasing the performance of transmission of data from space to ground is necessitating the use of highly integrated sensors and instruments. UM engineers are developing multichip modules which can integrate high-frequency circuits, advanced microelectromechanical (MEMS) devices, and micromachined components into one wafer. The aim is to reduce mass and volume while providing the performance and reliability needed in the communications system.

Michigan Space Grant Consortium: This ten-year-old effort joins nine Michigan colleges and universitities in an effort to bolster interdisciplinary research, training, and public service programs related to aerospace. The consortium provides grants for space-related research and fellowships, and funds for teachers to obtain training in math, science, and technology areas. Many of the precollege and college programs are aimed at increasing the involvement of women and minorities in space and technology fields.

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