Budd McLaughlin of The Huntsville Times <a href="http://blog.al.com/huntsville-times-business/2010/04/auburn_to_open_research_center.html">reports</a> that Auburn will create a research center in Huntsville that will team up with federal agencies to further progress in national and homeland security. The center would also be used for space exploration purposes, a rather bold move during a time when some feel that the process is a waste of time and money.

<i>The center opens July 1 and will match Auburn scientists in defense, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, life sciences, biotechnology and information technology with government agencies and industry in North Alabama seeking expertise in those areas.</i>