Ocean & Atmosphere facilities in MD

Climatic Simulation Facilities/Capabilities

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

Compressed Air System Facility

West Bethesda, MD

The Compressed Air System Facility is a one-of-the-art test facility capable of conducting full-scale system and component testing. Systems tested include high-pressure air systems, low pressure vital and non-vital air systems, electronics dry air systems, submarine ballast blow air systems and Electronic Cooling Water Systems. Component testing includes high and low pressure air compressors, reducing valves, dehydrators, moisture monitors, air control panels for radar wave guides, chill water system refrigerant controllers, chill water heat exchangers for demineralizer systems, duplex strainers, flow switches, and temperature regulating valves.

Deep Submergence Pressure Tank Facility

West Bethesda, MD

This facility contains pressure tanks that are designed to provide the Navy and Maritime Industry with the capability to evaluate structures, components and systems in an environment that simulates as nearly as possible the ocean depths. These pressure tanks are some of the largest in the world for their size and pressure ratings. The spherical, 10 foot diameter, 10,000 psi tank is the only tank in the U.S. that is certified for explosives operations by NAVSEA for at-depth shock testing of models and components.

Dive Team

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

Fox Island Laboratory

West Bethesda, MD

The laboratory provides a unique, shallow water, protected marine environment well-suited for support of research, development, testing and evaluation (RDT&E) projects for the Navy's Deep Submergence Program. This support includes conducting ocean engineering experiments, operational evaluation of naval vehicles and equipment, and training in the use of equipment. The laboratory also supports RDT&E projects involving: surface and subsurface navigation and tracking systems, remote underwater vehicle performance, specialized underwater tools; and operations and logistics support for fleet training and exercises.

Maneuvering and Seakeeping Basin (MASK)

West Bethesda, MD

The Maneuvering and Seakeeping Basin is unique within the Navy, and is used to model the full scale motions of ships, platforms, and mooring systems in waves. In this facility, engineers evaluate the maneuverability, propulsion, dynamic stability, and control of surface ships and submarines in waves and smooth water at various headings. The MASK is used in measuring model motions, accelerations, control surface deflections, hull strains, and wake characteristics at a wide variety of simulated sea states through a radio-controlled surface and submarine model capability. The facility is also used for capsizing tests and slamming studies.

Meteorology Team

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

Rain Test Facility

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD