Morehead State University has quietly built a reputation as a leader in space-focused research and education through its state-of-the-art R&D programs in small satellite technologies, lunar ground station services and academic programs. Home to the renowned Space Science Center, the university operates advanced satellite design and tracking initiatives, including its own 21 meter ground station that serves as the only non-NASA node on the NASA Deep Space Network. What makes Morehead especially notable is its unexpected expertise for a regional university: it has successfully developed and supported seven small satellite missions to date, giving students hands-on experience typically found only at major research institutions or agencies like NASA. Images: Morehead State University