Where Innovation Meets Mission
Mission
To provide an environment where collaboration, technical learning, and innovation converge—connecting mission partners with emerging technologies, research expertise, and strategic partnerships that strengthen future national security capabilities.
Who We Are
The Center for Advancing Science, Technology, Learning, and Engagements (CASTLE) is an innovative unclassified collaboration space facilitated in partnership with the National Reconnaissance Office’s (NRO) Advanced Systems and Technology Directorate, the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR), and their partnership intermediary, George Mason University.
Located in Chantilly, Virginia, the CASTLE provides nearly 10,000 square feet of flexible, collaboration space designed to support technical training, research engagement, prototyping, and mission-focused partnerships. By bringing together government, academia, industry, and emerging innovators, the CASTLE creates an environment where ideas are explored, knowledge is shared, and innovation can thrive.
What We Do
George Mason supports this environment by enabling connectivity between mission stakeholders and external innovators, facilitating structured engagement activities, and supporting awareness of technologies and approaches that may inform future mission capabilities. AFOSR remains the Government authority responsible for direction, prioritization, oversight, approval, and performance assessment of work performed under the PIA.
- Collaboration Space: Connects government, private industry, and academia for unclassified research and tech sharing.
- Technical Training: Hosts courses on data science and small satellites for the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community.
- Innovation & Prototyping: Features laboratory workshops, 3D printing stations, and spaces for hands-on experiential learning.
- Educational Outreach: Plans K-12 STEM engagement, student internships, and university partnerships.
PIA-Supported Activities
Research & Innovation
- Mission-Driven Research Collaboration
- Innovation & Technology Enablement
- Research & Prototyping Support
- Knowledge Exchange & Technology Transition
Partnerships & Mission Engagement
- Partnership Development
- Mission Integration & Ecosystem Building
- Strategic Engagement & Event Facilitation
Learning & Workforce Development
- Technical Training & Workforce Development
- STEM Education
Contact Us
For information regarding authorized CASTLE collaboration activities, please contact [email protected]. Requests for events and use of CASTLE space are subject to applicable mission-partner sponsorship, access requirements, availability, and PIA/project approval processes.
Reserving Space At CASTLE
To reserve conference or classroom space, please complete the CASTLE Collaboration Activities Request form. Please submit your request at least 7 days prior to the expected start date of your activity.
