Astronaut and Axiom Space’s Director of Human Spaceflight Peggy Whitson opened AIAA SciTech Forum 2026 in Orlando with an inspirational message about the future of space as the International Space Station (ISS), in orbit for 25 years, transitions to commercially run stations by 2030.
Tag: AIAA News
Aerospace Next
FROM THE INSTITUTE
As we enter 2026, our community stands on the threshold of tomorrow. The future of aerospace won’t be shaped by a single researcher or “eureka” moment. Rather, necessity will drive experimentation and risk-taking, leading to the next breakthroughs. AIAA will connect people doing this vital work as we look to our north star, to be the most trusted source for aerospace knowledge exchange. I look forward to everything we will learn together at AIAA SciTech Forum this week as it propels us toward the next wave of aerospace breakthroughs.
Celebrating 30 Years of the AIAA Foundation
FROM THE INSTITUTE
For three decades, the AIAA Foundation has promoted aerospace education, recognized excellence, and inspired future aerospace professionals. “The AIAA Foundation has been a powerful force in helping countless students and educators discover the wonder of aerospace,” remarked AIAA President Dan Hastings. As we celebrate the Foundation’s 30th anniversary, we recognize that strong support by AIAA members has enabled the Foundation to achieve significant impact. We invite you to explore our Silent Auction in the HUB at AIAA SciTech Forum to continue your support. Bids must be in by 10 am on Thursday.
Astronaut Peggy Whitson to Open AIAA SciTech Forum 2026
She joins a distinguished lineup of speakers from industry, government, and academia. These visionaries will take the stage during plenary and Forum 360 programming and will offer you their global perspectives on critical aerospace issues. Join us 12–16 January in Orlando, FL.
Aerospace America Opens the Year with its January–March Issue
FROM THE INSTITUTE
After a landmark year for aerospace, 2026 is shaping up to be even more pivotal. In the first print issue of the year, Aerospace America explores efforts to modernize U.S. air traffic control, the influence of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on small drone development, the state of hypersonics research, and much more.
Full Story (Aerospace America)
Investment, Innovation, and the U.S. Space Industrial Base
AIAA Publishes 2025 Year in Review Special Report
FROM THE INSTITUTE
AIAA has released a special roundup of the year’s biggest aerospace achievements and milestones, authored by AIAA’s technical and integration and outreach committees. From reusable rockets to lunar landings and AI-piloted jets, explore the innovations that shaped the future.
Full Story (Aerospace America)
AIAA Mid-Atlantic Section Conference Brings Students and Professionals Together
FROM THE INSTITUTE
On 21 November, the AIAA Mid-Atlantic Section held its annual Young Professionals, Students, and Educators Conference at JHUAPL. The conference – a flagship event for the section – brings together high school, undergrad, and graduate students, as well as educators and young professionals from all over the East Coast and beyond. Presenters shared their research and networked with professionals from a wide variety of aerospace specialties and disciplines.
AIAA SciTech Forum 2026 Bringing Aerospace Innovation to Orlando
FROM THE INSTITUTE
At the forum, you’ll gain fresh insights into the latest advances in aerospace R&D. With a happy hour, luncheon, workshops, and other special events, you’ll have opportunities to expand your network and reconnect with friends and colleagues. Join us 12–16 January in Orlando, Florida.