About the Department

UCL's Mullard Space Science Laboratory is the UK's largest university space research group. We aim to unravel the mysteries of space through research in fields ranging from the Earth's climate to the most distant galaxies in the known Universe, using innovative space instruments.

MSSL is UCL's Department of Space and Climate Physics. UCL was one of the first universities in the world to become involved in making scientific observations in space. Since MSSL was established in 1966, we have participated in over 35 satellite missions and over 200 rocket experiments.

The laboratory is located in a Victorian mansion set in 30 acres of land in the Surrey Hills, 35 miles from London, with spectacular views across the Surrey and Sussex countryside. Here we have the unique capability of designing, building and testing instruments and other spacecraft systems on site. Seven research groups supported by specialist engineers conduct our scientific research. Staff also teach space-related courses at UCL.