PSL is a unique national resource that supports the development and application of new and existing technologies. This multi-disciplined organization provides expertise in sub-orbital platforms, information modeling for predictive decision making, specialized intelligence community support, advanced NASA scientific exploration and experimentation, homeland security sensing and detection technologies, and advanced weapons and countermeasures development and testing designed to strengthen our national security.

Founded in 1946 in response to the nation’s space and rocket programs, PSL’s growth in capability and talent has enabled the university to provide exceptional support to numerous scientific and technical activities across the nation and around the globe.

Today’s domain expertise includes; Electronic Warfare, Counter Measures, Cyber, Telemetry and Missile Systems, 21st Century Aerospace and Scientific Ballooning. PSL maintains a catalog of telemetry and antenna systems designed and built in our laboratory. Additionally, custom flight hardware can be designed to meet customer needs.

Staff credentials are primarily applied Hardware and Software experts that include engineering, software technologists and scientists focused on customer needs. PSL also has reach-back capabilities to other faculty members on campus to provide additional focused expertise. PSL operates a FAA approved Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Test at the Las Cruces Airport, using public non-restricted airspace. The UAS FTS operates under an FAA Certificate of Authorization (CoA) that permits UAS flights in over 15,000 square miles of coordinated airspace in southwestern New Mexico and extends from the surface to 18,000 feet mean sea level.

Located on the main campus of New Mexico State University, PSL is in close proximity to White Sands Missile Range, Fort Bliss, NASA and the El Paso/borderland. The building possesses both lab and production areas to include applied engineering and RDT&E specialized areas.

NMSU is a Land Grant University that’s designated a Hispanic Serving Institution with a very diverse population of students and faculty. By 2025 the NMSU system will excel in student success and social mobility for the diverse student populations, achieve the highest Carnegie research status (R1) and maintain the Carnegie Community Engagement classification. PSL is an integral part of NMSU and will use the Classified Ready Employee Workforce Program, also known as the CREW Program, a comprehensive student talent development program, to assist in meeting these objectives. PSL has a diversified portfolio of programs; primarily Department of Defense, NASA, and National Security Sponsors as well as research and development. The organization is postured to expand its capabilities to meet the demands of a more complex world.