Lincoln Laboratory
Encyclopedia
MIT Lincoln Laboratory, located in Lexington
, Massachusetts
, is a United States Department of Defense
research and development center chartered to apply advanced technology to problems of national security
. Research and development
activities focus on long-term technology development as well as rapid system prototyping
and demonstration. These efforts are aligned within key mission areas. The Laboratory works with industry to transition new concepts and technology for system development and deployment.
Created in 1951 as a federally funded research and development center
of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
, Lincoln Laboratory was focused on improving the nation’s air defense system through advanced electronics
. The Laboratory’s inception was prompted by the Air Defense Systems Engineering Committee’s 1950 report that concluded the United States was unprepared for the threat of an air attack. Because of MIT’s management of the Radiation Laboratory
during World War II
, the experience of some of its staff on the Air Defense Systems Engineering Committee, and its proven competence in electronics, the U.S. Air Force suggested that MIT could provide the research needed to develop an air defense that could detect, identify, and ultimately intercept air threats.
James R. Killian, then president of MIT, was not eager for MIT to become involved in air defense. He asked the Air Force
if MIT could first conduct a study to evaluate the need for a new laboratory and to determine its scope. Killian’s proposal was approved, and a study named Project Charles (for the Charles River
that flows past MIT) was carried out between February and August 1951. The final Project Charles report stated that the United States needed an improved air defense system and unequivocally supported the formation of a laboratory at MIT dedicated to air defense problems.
This new undertaking was initially called Project Lincoln and the site chosen for the new laboratory was on the Laurence G. Hanscom Field (now Hanscom Air Force Base
), where the Massachusetts towns of Bedford
, Lexington
, and Lincoln meet
. A Project Bedford (on antisubmarine warfare) and a Project Lexington (on nuclear propulsion
of aircraft
) were already in use, so Major General Putt, who was in charge of drafting the charter for the new laboratory, decided to name the project for the town of Lincoln.
The key to this system was a computer
that could perform reliably in real time. MIT’s Whirlwind (computer)
, built in the 1940s, looked to be a possible candidate for the system. However, the Whirlwind was not reliable or fast enough for the processing needed for analyzing data coming in from dozens of, perhaps even 100, radars. Jay Forrester, an MIT professor instrumental in the development of the Whirlwind, found the breakthrough to enable the computer to achieve outstanding reliability and doubled speed—the magnetic core memory
. The magnetic core memory revolutionized computing. Computers became machines that were not just large and fast calculators; their uses for varying applications grew. Industry followed this development closely, adopting the magnetic core memory that expanded the capabilities of computers.
Lincoln Laboratory quickly established a reputation for pioneering advanced electronics in air defense systems. Many of the technical developments that later evolved into improved systems for the airborne detection and tracking of aircraft and ground vehicles have formed the basis for current research.
, surface surveillance and object identification, communications, homeland protection, high-performance computing
, air traffic control, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). The core competencies of the Laboratory are in sensors, information extraction (signal processing and embedded computing), communications, integrated sensing, and decision support, all supported by a strong advanced electronic technology activity.
Lincoln Laboratory conducts research and development pertinent to national security on behalf of the military services, the Office of the Secretary of Defense
, and other government agencies. Projects focus on the development and prototyping of new technologies and capabilities. Program activities extend from fundamental investigations, through simulation and analysis, to design and field testing of prototype systems. Emphasis is placed on transitioning technology to industry.
The work of Lincoln Laboratory revolves around several mission areas:
Lincoln Laboratory also undertakes work for non-DoD agencies such as programs in environmental monitoring for NASA
and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
.
The dissemination of information to the government, academia, and industry is a principal focus of Lincoln Laboratory’s technical mission. Wide dissemination of technical information is achieved through annual technical workshops, seminars, and courses hosted at the Laboratory. Toward the goal of knowledge sharing, the Laboratory publishes the Lincoln Laboratory Journal, which contains comprehensive articles on current major research and journalistic pieces highlighting novel projects. Other publications include Tech Notes, brief descriptions of Laboratory capabilities and technical achievements; the Annual Report, which highlights technical accomplishments and ongoing corporate and community outreach initiatives; and an overview brochure, MIT Lincoln Laboratory: Technology in Support of National Security. Current news about Laboratory technical milestones is featured on the Laboratory's website.
MIT Lincoln Laboratory maintains a strong relationship with the MIT campus. Ongoing research collaborations, student internship programs, reciprocal seminar series, and cooperative community and educational outreach projects are just a few of the ways the Laboratory and the campus share the talents, facilities, and resources of each other.
The technical work is organized into seven divisions: Air and Missile Defense Technology, Homeland Protection and Air Traffic Control, Communication Systems and Cyber Security, Engineering, Advanced Technology, Aerospace, and ISR and Tactical Systems.
Lincoln Laboratory supports its research and development work with a strong infrastructure of services from six departments: Contracting Services, Facility Services, Financial Services, Information Services, Security Services, and Human Resources. Approximately 1300 people working in the service departments or as technical specialists support the research and development mission of the Laboratory.
Lincoln Laboratory demonstrates a firm commitment to community outreach. Programs that promote education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics for students in grades kindergarten to high school are well received by the local community and well supported by volunteers from across the Laboratory. The Lincoln Laboratory community service program raises awareness of both local and national needs by organizing fund-raising and outreach events that support selected charitable organizations, medical research, and U.S. troops abroad.
MIT Lincoln Laboratory is also committed to diversity and inclusion in the workforce as core values. All employees contribute to an environment founded upon technical excellence and outstanding innovation. The Laboratory recognizes that its continuing success is achieved through the appreciation and support of the diverse talents, ideas, cultures, and experiences of its employees.
, has played a key role in space situational awareness and the Laboratory’s overall space surveillance mission. The site comprises three major radars – Millstone Deep-Space Tracking Radar (an L-band radar), Haystack
Long-Range Imaging Radar (X-band), and the Haystack Auxiliary Radar (Ku-band).
Lincoln Laboratory is also engaged in field work at sites in the continental U.S. and the Pacific region.
. The Laboratory also supports upgrades to the command-and-control infrastructure of the range to include applications of real-time discrimination and decision aids developed as a result of research at the Laboratory.
in Socorro
, New Mexico
. The ETS is operated by the Laboratory for the Air Force; its principal mission is the development, evaluation, and transfer of advanced electro-optical space surveillance technologies. The ETS has been a contributing sensor to the U.S. Air Force Space Command
. A spin-off program for NASA, Lincoln Near-Earth Asteroid Research, uses the ground-based electro-optical deep-space surveillance telescopes at White Sands to discover near-Earth asteroids. More than 50% of the known asteroids in our solar system have been discovered through this program.
(PMRF) on the Hawaiian island of Kauai
is one of the ranges supporting experimental and developmental testing of the Ballistic Missile Defense System. Lincoln Laboratory personnel provide technical advice, consultation, and analysis support as requested by the government leadership at the range.
Lexington, Massachusetts
Lexington is a town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. The population was 31,399 at the 2010 census. This town is famous for being the site of the first shot of the American Revolution, in the Battle of Lexington on April 19, 1775.- History :...
, Massachusetts
Massachusetts
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. It is bordered by Rhode Island and Connecticut to the south, New York to the west, and Vermont and New Hampshire to the north; at its east lies the Atlantic Ocean. As of the 2010...
, is a United States Department of Defense
United States Department of Defense
The United States Department of Defense is the U.S...
research and development center chartered to apply advanced technology to problems of national security
National security
National security is the requirement to maintain the survival of the state through the use of economic, diplomacy, power projection and political power. The concept developed mostly in the United States of America after World War II...
. Research and development
Research and development
The phrase research and development , according to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, refers to "creative work undertaken on a systematic basis in order to increase the stock of knowledge, including knowledge of man, culture and society, and the use of this stock of...
activities focus on long-term technology development as well as rapid system prototyping
Prototype
A prototype is an early sample or model built to test a concept or process or to act as a thing to be replicated or learned from.The word prototype derives from the Greek πρωτότυπον , "primitive form", neutral of πρωτότυπος , "original, primitive", from πρῶτος , "first" and τύπος ,...
and demonstration. These efforts are aligned within key mission areas. The Laboratory works with industry to transition new concepts and technology for system development and deployment.
Origins
Created in 1951 as a federally funded research and development center
Federally funded research and development center
Federally Funded Research and Development Centers conduct research for the United States Government. They are administered in accordance with U.S Code of Federal Regulations, Title 48, Part 35, Section 35.017 by universities and corporations....
of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is a private research university located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. MIT has five schools and one college, containing a total of 32 academic departments, with a strong emphasis on scientific and technological education and research.Founded in 1861 in...
, Lincoln Laboratory was focused on improving the nation’s air defense system through advanced electronics
Electronics
Electronics is the branch of science, engineering and technology that deals with electrical circuits involving active electrical components such as vacuum tubes, transistors, diodes and integrated circuits, and associated passive interconnection technologies...
. The Laboratory’s inception was prompted by the Air Defense Systems Engineering Committee’s 1950 report that concluded the United States was unprepared for the threat of an air attack. Because of MIT’s management of the Radiation Laboratory
Radiation Laboratory
The Radiation Laboratory, commonly called the Rad Lab, was located at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, Massachusetts and functioned from October 1940 until December 31, 1945...
during World War II
World War II
World War II, or the Second World War , was a global conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis...
, the experience of some of its staff on the Air Defense Systems Engineering Committee, and its proven competence in electronics, the U.S. Air Force suggested that MIT could provide the research needed to develop an air defense that could detect, identify, and ultimately intercept air threats.
James R. Killian, then president of MIT, was not eager for MIT to become involved in air defense. He asked the Air Force
United States Air Force
The United States Air Force is the aerial warfare service branch of the United States Armed Forces and one of the American uniformed services. Initially part of the United States Army, the USAF was formed as a separate branch of the military on September 18, 1947 under the National Security Act of...
if MIT could first conduct a study to evaluate the need for a new laboratory and to determine its scope. Killian’s proposal was approved, and a study named Project Charles (for the Charles River
Charles River
The Charles River is an long river that flows in an overall northeasterly direction in eastern Massachusetts, USA. From its source in Hopkinton, the river travels through 22 cities and towns until reaching the Atlantic Ocean at Boston...
that flows past MIT) was carried out between February and August 1951. The final Project Charles report stated that the United States needed an improved air defense system and unequivocally supported the formation of a laboratory at MIT dedicated to air defense problems.
This new undertaking was initially called Project Lincoln and the site chosen for the new laboratory was on the Laurence G. Hanscom Field (now Hanscom Air Force Base
Hanscom Air Force Base
Hanscom Air Force Base is a United States Air Force base located approximately south-southwest of Bedford, Massachusetts. The facility is a joint use civil airport/military base with Hanscom Field which provides general aviation and charter service.The host unit at Hanscom is the non-flying...
), where the Massachusetts towns of Bedford
Bedford, Massachusetts
Bedford is a town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. It is within the Greater Boston area, north-west of the city of Boston. The population of Bedford was 13,320 at the 2010 census.- History :...
, Lexington
Lexington, Massachusetts
Lexington is a town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. The population was 31,399 at the 2010 census. This town is famous for being the site of the first shot of the American Revolution, in the Battle of Lexington on April 19, 1775.- History :...
, and Lincoln meet
Lincoln, Massachusetts
Lincoln is a town in the historic area of Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. The population was 6,362 at the 2010 census, including residents of Hanscom Air Force Base that live within town limits...
. A Project Bedford (on antisubmarine warfare) and a Project Lexington (on nuclear propulsion
Nuclear propulsion
Nuclear propulsion includes a wide variety of propulsion methods that fulfil the promise of the Atomic Age by using some form of nuclear reaction as their primary power source.- Surface ships and submarines :...
of aircraft
Aircraft
An aircraft is a vehicle that is able to fly by gaining support from the air, or, in general, the atmosphere of a planet. An aircraft counters the force of gravity by using either static lift or by using the dynamic lift of an airfoil, or in a few cases the downward thrust from jet engines.Although...
) were already in use, so Major General Putt, who was in charge of drafting the charter for the new laboratory, decided to name the project for the town of Lincoln.
SAGE
The Semi-Automatic Ground Environment (SAGE) Air Defense System is the beginning of MIT Lincoln Laboratory’s history of developing innovative technology. The system was conceived to meet the challenge of providing air defense to the continental United States. SAGE was designed to collect, analyze, and finally relay data from a multitude of radars, all quickly enough that defense responses could be initiated if needed.The key to this system was a computer
Computer
A computer is a programmable machine designed to sequentially and automatically carry out a sequence of arithmetic or logical operations. The particular sequence of operations can be changed readily, allowing the computer to solve more than one kind of problem...
that could perform reliably in real time. MIT’s Whirlwind (computer)
Whirlwind (computer)
The Whirlwind computer was developed at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. It is the first computer that operated in real time, used video displays for output, and the first that was not simply an electronic replacement of older mechanical systems...
, built in the 1940s, looked to be a possible candidate for the system. However, the Whirlwind was not reliable or fast enough for the processing needed for analyzing data coming in from dozens of, perhaps even 100, radars. Jay Forrester, an MIT professor instrumental in the development of the Whirlwind, found the breakthrough to enable the computer to achieve outstanding reliability and doubled speed—the magnetic core memory
Magnetic core memory
Magnetic-core memory was the predominant form of random-access computer memory for 20 years . It uses tiny magnetic toroids , the cores, through which wires are threaded to write and read information. Each core represents one bit of information...
. The magnetic core memory revolutionized computing. Computers became machines that were not just large and fast calculators; their uses for varying applications grew. Industry followed this development closely, adopting the magnetic core memory that expanded the capabilities of computers.
Lincoln Laboratory quickly established a reputation for pioneering advanced electronics in air defense systems. Many of the technical developments that later evolved into improved systems for the airborne detection and tracking of aircraft and ground vehicles have formed the basis for current research.
Today
Since MIT Lincoln Laboratory’s establishment, the scope of the problems has broadened from the initial emphasis on air defense to include programs in space surveillance, missile defenseMissile defense
Missile defense is a system, weapon, or technology involved in the detection, tracking, interception and destruction of attacking missiles. Originally conceived as a defence against nuclear-armed Intercontinental ballistic missiles , its application has broadened to include shorter-ranged...
, surface surveillance and object identification, communications, homeland protection, high-performance computing
High-performance computing
High-performance computing uses supercomputers and computer clusters to solve advanced computation problems. Today, computer systems approaching the teraflops-region are counted as HPC-computers.-Overview:...
, air traffic control, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). The core competencies of the Laboratory are in sensors, information extraction (signal processing and embedded computing), communications, integrated sensing, and decision support, all supported by a strong advanced electronic technology activity.
Lincoln Laboratory conducts research and development pertinent to national security on behalf of the military services, the Office of the Secretary of Defense
Office of the Secretary of Defense
The Office of the Secretary of Defense is a headquarters-level staff of the Department of Defense of the United States of America. It is the principal civilian staff element of the Secretary of Defense, and it assists the Secretary in carrying out authority, direction and control of the Department...
, and other government agencies. Projects focus on the development and prototyping of new technologies and capabilities. Program activities extend from fundamental investigations, through simulation and analysis, to design and field testing of prototype systems. Emphasis is placed on transitioning technology to industry.
The work of Lincoln Laboratory revolves around several mission areas:
- Space Control
- Air and Missile Defense Technology
- Communication Systems and Cyber Security
- Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Systems and Technology
- Advanced Technology
- Tactical Systems
- Homeland Protection
- Air Traffic Control
- Engineering
Lincoln Laboratory also undertakes work for non-DoD agencies such as programs in environmental monitoring for NASA
NASA
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is the agency of the United States government that is responsible for the nation's civilian space program and for aeronautics and aerospace research...
and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration , pronounced , like "noah", is a scientific agency within the United States Department of Commerce focused on the conditions of the oceans and the atmosphere...
.
The dissemination of information to the government, academia, and industry is a principal focus of Lincoln Laboratory’s technical mission. Wide dissemination of technical information is achieved through annual technical workshops, seminars, and courses hosted at the Laboratory. Toward the goal of knowledge sharing, the Laboratory publishes the Lincoln Laboratory Journal, which contains comprehensive articles on current major research and journalistic pieces highlighting novel projects. Other publications include Tech Notes, brief descriptions of Laboratory capabilities and technical achievements; the Annual Report, which highlights technical accomplishments and ongoing corporate and community outreach initiatives; and an overview brochure, MIT Lincoln Laboratory: Technology in Support of National Security. Current news about Laboratory technical milestones is featured on the Laboratory's website.
MIT Lincoln Laboratory maintains a strong relationship with the MIT campus. Ongoing research collaborations, student internship programs, reciprocal seminar series, and cooperative community and educational outreach projects are just a few of the ways the Laboratory and the campus share the talents, facilities, and resources of each other.
Staff and organization
Approximately 1500 technical staff members work on research, prototype building, and field demonstrations. The technical staff come from a broad range of scientific and engineering fields, with electrical engineering, physics, computer science and mathematics being among the most prevalent. Two-thirds of the professional staff hold advanced degrees, and 60% of those degrees are at the doctoral level.The technical work is organized into seven divisions: Air and Missile Defense Technology, Homeland Protection and Air Traffic Control, Communication Systems and Cyber Security, Engineering, Advanced Technology, Aerospace, and ISR and Tactical Systems.
Lincoln Laboratory supports its research and development work with a strong infrastructure of services from six departments: Contracting Services, Facility Services, Financial Services, Information Services, Security Services, and Human Resources. Approximately 1300 people working in the service departments or as technical specialists support the research and development mission of the Laboratory.
Lincoln Laboratory demonstrates a firm commitment to community outreach. Programs that promote education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics for students in grades kindergarten to high school are well received by the local community and well supported by volunteers from across the Laboratory. The Lincoln Laboratory community service program raises awareness of both local and national needs by organizing fund-raising and outreach events that support selected charitable organizations, medical research, and U.S. troops abroad.
MIT Lincoln Laboratory is also committed to diversity and inclusion in the workforce as core values. All employees contribute to an environment founded upon technical excellence and outstanding innovation. The Laboratory recognizes that its continuing success is achieved through the appreciation and support of the diverse talents, ideas, cultures, and experiences of its employees.
Lincoln Space Surveillance Complex
Since 1995, the Lincoln Space Surveillance Complex in Westford, MassachusettsWestford, Massachusetts
Westford is a town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. The population was 21,951 at the 2010 census.-History:Originally a part of neighboring Chelmsford, West Chelmsford soon grew large enough to sustain its own governance, and was officially incorporated as Westford on September 23,...
, has played a key role in space situational awareness and the Laboratory’s overall space surveillance mission. The site comprises three major radars – Millstone Deep-Space Tracking Radar (an L-band radar), Haystack
Haystack Observatory
Haystack Observatory is a group of astronomical observatories owned and operated by Massachusetts Institute of Technology. It is located in Westford, Massachusetts . It is the home of the Millstone Hill Observatory....
Long-Range Imaging Radar (X-band), and the Haystack Auxiliary Radar (Ku-band).
Lincoln Laboratory is also engaged in field work at sites in the continental U.S. and the Pacific region.
Reagan Test Site, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands
Lincoln Laboratory serves as the scientific advisor to the Reagan Test Site at the U.S. Army Kwajalein Atoll installation located about 2500 miles WSW of HawaiiHawaii
Hawaii is the newest of the 50 U.S. states , and is the only U.S. state made up entirely of islands. It is the northernmost island group in Polynesia, occupying most of an archipelago in the central Pacific Ocean, southwest of the continental United States, southeast of Japan, and northeast of...
. The Laboratory also supports upgrades to the command-and-control infrastructure of the range to include applications of real-time discrimination and decision aids developed as a result of research at the Laboratory.
The Experimental Test Site at White Sands Missile Range
The Experimental Test Site is an electro-optical test facility located on the grounds of the White Sands Missile RangeWhite Sands Missile Range
White Sands Missile Range is a rocket range of almost in parts of five counties in southern New Mexico. The largest military installation in the United States, WSMR includes the and the WSMR Otera Mesa bombing range...
in Socorro
Socorro, New Mexico
Socorro is a city in Socorro County in the U.S. state of New Mexico. It stands in the Rio Grande Valley at an elevation of . The population was 9,051 at the 2010 census...
, New Mexico
New Mexico
New Mexico is a state located in the southwest and western regions of the United States. New Mexico is also usually considered one of the Mountain States. With a population density of 16 per square mile, New Mexico is the sixth-most sparsely inhabited U.S...
. The ETS is operated by the Laboratory for the Air Force; its principal mission is the development, evaluation, and transfer of advanced electro-optical space surveillance technologies. The ETS has been a contributing sensor to the U.S. Air Force Space Command
Air Force Space Command
Air Force Space Command is a major command of the United States Department of the Air Force, with its headquarters at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado. AFSPC supports U.S. military operations worldwide through the use of many different types of satellite, launch and cyber operations....
. A spin-off program for NASA, Lincoln Near-Earth Asteroid Research, uses the ground-based electro-optical deep-space surveillance telescopes at White Sands to discover near-Earth asteroids. More than 50% of the known asteroids in our solar system have been discovered through this program.
Pacific Missile Range Facility, Kauai, Hawaii
The Pacific Missile Range FacilityPacific Missile Range Facility
The Pacific Missile Range Facility, Barking Sands is a U.S. Naval facility and airport located five nautical miles northwest of the central business district of Kekaha, in Kauai County, Hawaii, United States....
(PMRF) on the Hawaiian island of Kauai
Kauai
Kauai or Kauai, known as Tauai in the ancient Kaua'i dialect, is geologically the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands. With an area of , it is the fourth largest of the main islands in the Hawaiian archipelago, and the 21st largest island in the United States. Known also as the "Garden Isle",...
is one of the ranges supporting experimental and developmental testing of the Ballistic Missile Defense System. Lincoln Laboratory personnel provide technical advice, consultation, and analysis support as requested by the government leadership at the range.
Directors
- F. Wheeler Loomis, July 26, 1951 – July 9, 1952
- Albert G. Hill, July 9, 1952 – May 5, 1955
- Marshall G. Holloway, May 5, 1955 – February 1, 1957
- Carl F.J. Overhage, February 1, 1957 – February 1, 1964
- William H. Radford, February 1, 1964 – May 9, 1966
- C. Robert Weiser, acting director, May 10, 1966 – January 1, 1967
- Milton U. Clauser, January 1, 1967 – June 1, 1970
- Gerald P. Dinneen, June 1, 1970 – April 1, 1977
- Walter E. Morrow, Jr., April 1, 1977 – June 30, 1998
- David L. Briggs, July 1, 1998 – June 30, 2006
- Eric D. Evans, July 1, 2006 – present