Advancing Mission-Critical Research for DoD, NASA, and the National Security Enterprise
Parallax Advanced Research and its affiliate the Ohio Aerospace Institute (OAI) are premier national security and aerospace research institutes dedicated to solving the nation’s most complex defense and space challenges. With deep roots in the research arms of the Department of Defense and NASA, we help program offices, mission leaders, and technical organizations accelerate the science, engineering, and innovation required to maintain U.S. advantage in an era of rapid technological change.
Our work aligns directly with the DoD’s Critical Technology Areas, the Department of the Air Force and Space Force’s operational imperatives, and the major research priorities of NASA’s mission directorates. Whether we are advancing emerging technologies, refining mission architectures, integrating AI into operational workflows, or bridging the gap between early research and fielded capability, Parallax/OAI bring the technical credibility and mission awareness needed to deliver results.
Supporting the Nation’s Most Urgent Defense and Space Missions
Parallax/OAI strengthens national security by advancing research in domains where the stakes are high and the pace of change is accelerating. Our teams work across modeling, simulation, laboratory experimentation, software development, and operational analysis to support technologies central to both defense modernization and space exploration. This includes trusted AI and autonomy, advanced computing, hypersonics, space technology, energy and climate resilience, and next-generation materials and manufacturing.
Our researchers support federal sponsors with rigorous analysis, digital engineering environments, advanced prototypes, and technical insights that enable program offices to reduce uncertainty, understand risk, and make informed investment decisions. By integrating science, engineering, and mission context, we help DoD and NASA navigate complex technical landscapes with clarity and confidence.
Integrated Research Capabilities Built for Federal Missions
Parallax/OAI’s capabilities reflect the realities of modern defense and space research—where digital engineering, AI-driven decision support, mission software, and interdisciplinary science must work together to rapidly mature technologies.
We deliver mission value through:
Applied Research and Analysis
We conduct research that directly supports national security and space priorites, from emerging aerospace systems and next-generation propulsion to intelligence modernization and contested-environment autnomy. Our work helps governement teams evalauate feasibility, solve complex technical problems, and advance technolocgy readiness.
Digital Engineering and Modeling
Parallax provides modern MBSE, digital thread development, modelilng and simulation, and integrated test environments that accelerate system design and reduce lifecycle risk. Our digital engineering practices support everything from concept development to operational analysis.
AI, Autonomy, and Advanced Computing
We specialize in mission-focused AI—including ISR modernization, pattern discovery in complex data, neuromorphic computing for low-SWaP platforms, and autonomy solutions bult for degraded or contested conditions. Our teams support responsible, testable, and trusted AI adoption across defense and space missions.
Secure Mission Software and DevSecOPs
Parallax develops and sustains secure mission software pipelines that enable rapid iteration while meeting government security standards. Our environments support integrated test and evaluation for autonomy, mission planning, and operator-in-the-loop systems.
Technology Transition and Partnerships
We help government and industry partners move innovations from concept to operational impact. Through a national network of universties, laboratories, and industry innovators, Parallax provides strategy, execution, and collaboration pathways that accelerate technology transition across federal R&D ecosystems.
Climate Security and Earth Systems Innovation
We support emerging national security and NASA priorities in environmental monitoring, climate modeling, precision agriculture, and sustainable infrastructure. By combining sensing, analytics, and applied science, we help government organizations prepare for the intersection of climate, food resilience, and mission readiness.
A Trusted Partner for Federal Research and Mission Success
Program offices choose Parallax/OAI because we provide a rare combination of technical depth, operational awareness, and nonprofit mission alignment. We understand federal research environments, acquisition pressures, and the complexities of transitioning technology into operational use. Our work is shaped by long-standing collaboration with AFRL, AFWERX, NASA centers, Space Force missions, and federal agencies seeking to move faster, reduce risk, and deliver meaningful capability.
As a trusted research partner, Parallax offers:
- Deep alignment with DoD and NASA’s highest-priority technical areas
- Digital-first engineering that accelerates research and acquisition
- Experienced researchers, engineers, scientists, and mission specialists
- Flexible contracting pathways and rapid collaboration models
- A national network bridging academia, industry, and government
- Proven impact across defense, aerospace, and emerging technology domains
A Research Institute Committed to National Impact
From national defense to space exploration and climate resilience, Parallax is committed to advancing technologies that safeguard the nation and shape the future. We partner with program offices, mission stakeholders, and technical leaders who require rigorous research, clear decision insights, and capabilities that deliver real operational advantage. Parallax/OAI stand ready to support the next generation of national security and NASA missions—accelerating research, strengthening readiness, and ensuring the United States remains at the forefront of global innovation.