BEST OF DC: Defining Change in American Leadership

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Innovation - Physics

Critical Challenges, Critical Contributions. A division of one of the world’s premier research institutions, the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory is a national resource for engineering, research and development. More than 4,300 scientists, engineers and support staff solve the country’s toughest technology, national security and space science challenges from APL’s 399-acre campus in Laurel, Maryland, just 20 miles north of the nation’s capital.

APL engineers are developing innovative electronics and uses for autonomous vehicles. (Credit: JHUAPL)

A The Johns Hopkins University

PL’s first task in 1942 was to find better ways for ships to defend themselves against enemy air attacks – the result, a proximity fuze that made anti-aircraft shells significantly more effective, was one of the war’s most valuable technology developments. This success led to a strong partnership between the government, Johns Hopkins University and APL that has endured for more than six decades.

APPLIED PHYSICS LABORATORY

APL’s depth of expertise allows it to take on a broad range of projects. APL-built spacecraft are flying across the solar system, sailing past Mercury, taking 3-D photos of the sun, and heading

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