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.
Tag: From the Institute
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.
Space Exploration Educators Conference Delivers Inspiration, Recognition, and Hands-On Discovery
FROM THE INSTITUTE
The 32nd Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC) was held at Space Center Houston, 5–7 February 2026. The inspirational event brought together 600 STEM educators from all over the world to connect and gain invaluable hands-on experiences. In addition to hearing from impressive speakers and participating in sessions, attendees toured and explored iconic exhibits and labs at Space Center Houston and NASA Johnson Space Center.
2026 Election Closes Today. Cast Your Vote Before 3 p.m.
FROM THE INSTITUTE
The AIAA Council Nominating Committee has assembled an outstanding slate of candidates. We urge all eligible voting members to carefully consider each candidate and select those who most closely reflect your values and your vision for the future of AIAA. You can vote until 3 p.m. today (20 February).
AIAA Members Named to National Academy of Engineering
FROM THE INSTITUTE
Twelve AIAA members are among the 130 newest members of the National Academy of Engineering (NAE). Academy membership honors those who have made outstanding contributions to “engineering research, practice, or education, including, where appropriate, significant contributions to the engineering literature” and to “the pioneering of new and developing fields of technology, making major advancements in traditional fields of engineering, or developing/implementing innovative approaches to engineering education.”
Countdown to Goddard Centennial with New Model Rocket for Launches
From the Institute
To mark the 100th anniversary of Robert Goddard’s historic launch, a low-cost replica of his pioneering liquid fueled rocket gives schools and the public a powerful way to introduce the birth of modern rocketry. The anniversary represents a unique opportunity to inspire a new generation to follow in the footsteps of Goddard, who as a youngster began tinkering with kites, balloons, and eventually chemical compounds – all with the encouragement of his father, who bought him a telescope and a subscription to Scientific American.