New Air Quality Permit Application Submitted for Cosmiac in Albuquerque

Overview of COSMIAC’s Mission

The Center for the Development of Space Imaging and Analysis Capabilities (COSMIAC) is a pivotal research center at the University of New Mexico (UNM) in Albuquerque. With its status as a Tier-2 Research Center, COSMIAC is dedicated to advancing space technology through rigorous research and collaboration among academia, government, and industry. The center employs around 30 full-time faculty and staff, alongside 30 students, all of whom hold necessary security clearances.

Application for Air Quality Permit

Recently, COSMIAC submitted Application #3546 to the City of Albuquerque Air Quality Program, seeking a new air quality permit for its operations. This application is a necessary step for COSMIAC as it continues to expand its research capabilities and maintain compliance with local environmental regulations.

Research Focus and Technological Innovations

COSMIAC specializes in several key areas related to space technology, including:

• Radiation effects testing and mitigation for space electronics.
• Telecommunications across various frequency bands.
• Rapid prototyping in additive manufacturing.
• Remote sensing technologies and artificial intelligence applications.

These research efforts play a critical role in the development of systems used in spacecraft, missiles, and other aerospace applications.

Significant Projects and Collaborations

The center has been involved in several noteworthy projects, such as:

• SPARC-1, a CubeSat launched in collaboration with Sweden for military applications.
• RHEME, a radiation experiment conducted aboard the International Space Station.
• SSPIDR, which focuses on Space Solar Power prototypes.

These initiatives not only enhance COSMIAC’s research portfolio but also foster partnerships with organizations like NASA, the US Air Force, and private aerospace companies.

Supporting Local Talent and Workforce Development

In addition to its research activities, COSMIAC places a strong emphasis on education and workforce development. The center actively mentors students, providing them with hands-on experience in real-world projects. This approach is vital for nurturing the next generation of engineers and scientists in New Mexico’s burgeoning aerospace sector.

Community Impact and Future Directions

As COSMIAC seeks to secure its new air quality permit, the center’s ongoing commitment to innovation and education continues to benefit both local communities and the broader aerospace industry. By fostering collaboration between various sectors, COSMIAC is positioned to remain at the forefront of space technology research.