“We are pleased to see the enhancement of our information technology and  telecommunications research programs – one of the three strategic research focus areas at the GW Virginia Campus,” said John S. Wilson Jr., the executive dean of the Virginia Campus.  “Dr. Pelton and his colleagues will look to advance knowledge in ways that will benefit their fields, our campus and society at large.”

The merger of these two initiatives brings together GW’s top researchers in the fields of satellite communications, wireless technologies and networking with leading partners in industry and government.  Together these groups will collaborate on a wide range of important research projects with a special emphasis on satellite communications with regard to advanced technology, next generation systems, air and transportation safety, disaster recovery and anti-terrorism applications.

Several research projects are currently underway, including projects on new broadband satellite applications for telecommuting funded by Hewlett Packard; advanced GeoPlatform Comsat systems and satellite systems policy and standards funded by the Communications Research Lab of Japan; and a satellite design on advanced satellite distribution systems funded by TASC Northrop Grumman.  Initial seed funding for the research institute was provided by The Virginia’s Center for Innovative Technology. 

The Institute will de directed by Dr. Joseph N. Pelton, an internationally renowned expert in satellite communications and telecommunications.  Dr. Pelton is a GW research professor and director of GW’s accelerated master’s program in telecommunications and computers.  He also has been principal investigator on several international research projects on global satellite systems with funding from Hewlett Packard, TASC Northrop Grumman, NASA, the Communications Research Centre of Canada, the European Space Agency, Communications Research Laboratories of Japan and NASDA (the Japanese Space Agency).

Along with Dr. Pelton, Dr. Neil Helm, deputy director and head of satellite initiatives and Dr. David Smith, deputy director and head of wireless initiatives, will also direct SACRI.  The Institute is actively seeking research partners from industry and government, as well as contributions of equipment for expanding its research laboratories. 

A prestigious Advisory Board has been formed to direct SACRI’s ongoing development.  The Advisory is co-chaired by Frank Loch, Senior Analyst, Booz Allen Hamilton and GW Professor Hermann Helgert.  Other Advisory Board members include: