The Astrodynamics and Space Applications group conducts research spanning orbital and interplanetary trajectory design, trajectory optimization, multi-body orbital dynamics, relative motion, planetary entry, remote sensing, and spacecraft guidance, navigation and control. Astrodynamics is the analysis of the motion of natural and artificial objects in space, subject to environmental and artificial forces. Space applications broadly encompass the practical utilization of space, including development of spacecraft, instruments, and software, testing and validation of space systems, space situational awareness, space science and technology mission design, orbital infrastructure to support human exploration, and planetary defense. The discipline group also has advanced visualization and virtual reality capability that they apply to complex trajectory designs and mission applications. Experimental facilities include the Purdue Optical Ground Station, star tracker lab, radio navigation lab, flight hardware laboratory, satellite tracking station, and mission operations center, and access to airborne instrumentation and field sites for remote sensing. ASA faculty work closely with space science and applications researchers both inside and outside of Purdue.