Visit the world-leading Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL), based in the Surrey Hills near Dorking.

UCL was one of the first universities in the world to become involved in making scientific observations in space. Since the Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL) was established in 1966, they have made key instrument contributions to 70 orbiting satellite missions and 224 sounding rocket experiments.

MSSL has been developing cutting-edge space research and space technology for over 50 years. Their research covers all aspects of space research, from understanding the Sun and its interaction with the planets, to understanding galaxies and the matter that makes up the universe. They build and operate cutting edge space hardware for multinational space missions. They also offer state-of-the-art test facilities for ground and space-based technology.

The laboratory is located in a Victorian mansion set in 30 acres of land in the Surrey Hills. Here they have the rare capability of designing, building and testing space science instruments on site. Several scientific research groups are active on site, and the close collaboration between co-located specialist engineers and research scientists underpins their ability to produce world-leading instruments and use them to make discoveries at the forefront of space science. Their staff also teach space-related courses at UCL.