Southwest Research Institute

Technology

Simulated Space Strikes Prepare Satellites for Survival

In a San Antonio lab, tiny bullets fly like shrapnel from a silent war in orbit.

Aug 18, 2025

Technology

Scientists Use Corrosion Modeling to Study Habitability on Saturn’s Icy Moon

Researchers at the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) are adapting chemistry modeling software, originally designed for corrosion studies, to explore whether icy moons like Saturn's Enceladus have the right conditions to support microbial life.

Nov 19, 2024

Earth & Environment

New Study Sheds Light on Mysterious Surface Features of Airless Worlds

Researchers have discovered that temporary liquid brines formed after meteoroid impacts could explain enigmatic flow features on celestial bodies like asteroids and icy moons.

Oct 21, 2024

Technology

Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Power Plant Generates Electricity for the First Time

The Supercritical Transformational Electric Power (STEP) Demo pilot plant has achieved a significant milestone by generating electricity for the first time using supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) power cycles.

May 29, 2024

Technology

Acoustic testing system can simulate the deafening noise of a rocket launch

Southwest Research Institute’s aerospace acoustic test chamber can now simulate the complex and harsh acoustic environment associated with the thunderous noise of a rocket launch to ensure that space systems can endure blastoff conditions.

Oct 16, 2023