The American space program began in earnest soon after the end of World War II. Scientists raced to understand and adopt Germany’s wartime technology, which included scientific study of captured German V2 rockets. Several of the first researchers participating in this period of discovery were part of U-M’s Space Physics Research Laboratory (SPRL).  Exhumed from the Bentley Historical Library, this photo exhibits two U-M researchers intently examining a rocket at SPRL in 1964.  

Over six decades since the lab’s inception, researchers continue to conceive, design, construct, test, operate and analyze data from space flight instruments.  Are you a student seeking hands-on experience in rocket research?  SPRL has a limited number of research assistant openings for undergraduates. Click here to learn more.