FROM THE INSTITUTE
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Tag: From the Institute
AIAA Announces 2026 General Election Results
FROM THE INSTITUTE
AIAA has announced the results of its recent 2026 elections. The newly elected AIAA officials will take office in May.
March 2026: The Goddard Centennial
FROM THE INSTITUTE
This March 16th will mark the 100th anniversary of Dr. Robert Goddard’s historic first flight of a liquid propulsion rocket, back in 1926. That flight is rocketry’s closest equivalent of the Wright Brothers’ first flight of an airplane at Kitty Hawk in 1903. And just like the similarly historic Kitty Hawk flight, Goddard’s pioneering first liquid propulsion flight opened the way to a world-changing future that all of humankind benefits from today.
AIAA SciTech Forum 2026 Event Recap Published
This report provides a comprehensive look back at this year’s forum, from attendee demographics and the technical program to the Expo Hall and the HUB. Explore media highlights, digital engagement, and other key moments.
Call for Technical Experts for Standards
FROM THE INSTITUTE
AIAA is now the Committee Manager and US TAG for ISO TC20/SC 16 Uncrewed Aircraft System which leads international standardization in the field of advanced air mobility and uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS). The committee is looking for technical experts to support its work in developing International Standards to provide a framework and guidance for government, public and private stakeholders involved in the safe and effective design, procurement, deployment and operation of Counter UAS equipment intended to be deployed in all fixed, mobile and transportable civilian environments. Experts in the field of cybersecurity aspects specific to UAS are also encouraged to particiate.
Aerospace Momentum Builds in the Carolinas: AIAA Symposium Showcases Regional Innovation
FROM THE INSTITUTE
UNC Charlotte hosted the 2026 AIAA Carolina Aerospace Symposium on February 21st at the Energy Production and Infrastructure Center (EPIC), bringing together more than 80 participants from across North and South Carolina. Organized and promoted by the AIAA Carolina Section, the event highlighted the region’s growing strength in aerospace research, education, and industry collaboration.
The R&D Decisions that Will Shape the Success of Golden Dome
FROM THE INSTITUTE
Golden Dome for America represents one of the most intricate homeland defense initiatives the Pentagon has contemplated since the conclusion of the Cold War. Public discussions have understandably centered on the effectiveness of space-based sensors, space-based interceptors (SBIs), or layered terrestrial systems in defending against evolving missile threats. However, a possibly more pressing concern at this juncture is the necessity to articulate the applied research and development (R&D) strategy and approach.
Faculty Advisor Spotlight: Arif Malik, University of Texas at Dallas
FROM THE INSTITUTE
Arif Malik, an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD), was one of six faculty advisors selected to receive the 2025 AIAA Faculty Advisor Award in recognition of his extraordinary efforts in growing and mentoring the UTD student branch. Through his leadership, the student branch has strengthened its internal community while expanding collaboration with AIAA’s Region IV and other professional organizations.
AIAA Announces 2026 Key Issues to Advance U.S. Aerospace Leadership
FROM THE INSTITUTE
The United States enters 2026 at a pivotal moment for aerospace. To help policymakers and the aerospace community focus on the most consequential priorities, the Institute has released its 2026 Key Issues. The Key Issues reflect AIAA’s mission as a neutral, technical convener at the intersection of government, industry, and academia. They are designed to support practical oversight, responsible modernization, and sustained U.S. leadership across the aerospace enterprise.
Faculty Advisor Spotlight: Danilo de Camargo Branco, Florida Institute of Technology
FROM THE INSTITUTE
Danilo de Camargo Branco, Assistant Professor in the Department of Aerospace, Physics and Space Sciences at the Florida Institute of Technology (FIT), serves as the Faculty Advisor for the AIAA FIT Student Branch. He was recognized in 2025 with the AIAA Faculty Advisor Award for his extraordinary leadership, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to his student branch.