Innovation at Aerospace

Innovation is rooted in our DNA, from our historic work in the development of GPS to the complex problems integrating existing and emerging technologies into today’s space enterprise. As space technology and exploration rapidly evolves, Aerospace continues to be a leader in space innovation with numerous programs designed to discover, develop, and challenge the next generation of space thought leaders, engineers, and explorers.

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Aerospace is promoting best practices to increase the reliability and repeatability of space components produced via additive manufacturing.

Additive Manufacturing of Space Components

Components made via additive manufacturing could help reduce the cost and enhance the capability of future space systems. Aerospace is spearheading efforts to certify and qualify additive manufacturing parts, materials, and processes.

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Picture of artist rendering of Branecraft in space

Brane Craft Wins NASA Award

Aerospace’s role as an industry leader in supporting government and commercial customers in space debris management has been further cemented through the awarding of the 2017 NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) Phase II award to Dr. Siegfried Janson for the Brane Craft, his innovative concept for removing space debris.

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HIVE SATELLITES REDEFINE DISAGGREGATION

Built and assembled like Legos in space, Hive’s innovation is built on the concept of disaggregated satellites. Hives are mass-producible, multi-functional satellite units that are put in orbit to build large structures. These units can interlock and work with one another, perform various functions, and even repair themselves.

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Featured Innovators

Danielle Bernstein-HIGH RES

Danielle V. Bernstein Principal Director , Federal Programs Division Danielle Bernstein is the principal director of the Federal Programs Division within the Civil Systems Group (CSG) at The Aerospace Corporation.

Catherine Venturini

Catherine C. Venturini Principal Engineer , Enterprise Lab Catherine Venturini is a principal engineer in the Enterprise Lab (elab) under the Office of the Chief Technology Officer at The Aerospace Corporation. 

Josh Train

Dr. Joshua D. Train CHIEF ENGINEER, SPACE SYSTEMS GROUP Dr. Joshua D. Train is chief engineer for Ground and IT in the Space Systems Group at The Aerospace Corporation.

James M. Myers Senior Vice President , Civil Systems Group James (Jim) M. Myers is senior vice president of the Civil Systems Group at The Aerospace Corporation.

Innovation News and Resources

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Accelerating Innovation to Meet the Nation’s Needs

Aerospace has launched Solution Accelerator, a game-changing office that streamlines rapid, mission-ready solutions for government customers through collaboration across defense, civil and commercial ...

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Aerospace 2024 Image Challenge

Aerospace’s Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) recently hosted a Labs Image Challenge, inviting staff to submit the best imagery from their labs and work.

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Reshaping the Future of Space Robotics

A team of engineers and scientists have developed a novel technology, the Autodynamic Flexible Circuit, that will enable new adaptable and resilient approaches for space robotics, satellites and other...

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Novel Workshop Spotlights Need for In-Space Rescue Capabilities

The Aerospace Corporation and RAND recently sponsored and co-hosted the first U.S. Space Rescue Workshop, bringing government, industry, and private space organizations together to advance the topic o...

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Aerospace Develops New Capability to Deorbit Small Spacecraft

A team at Aerospace recently developed a prototype deorbit motor that could enable space operators to safely retire their spacecraft on demand, which is now more essential than ever to space missions.

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NASA’s Psyche Mission Could Unlock Secrets to How Planets Are Formed

NASA's mission could help researchers to better understand the formation process of terrestrial planets and their interior structures.

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How Aerospace Advances Technical Excellence to Deliver Needed Solutions

Aerospace is ensuring that its technical capabilities are strategically aligned to support the current and future priorities and mission requirements of its government partners.

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Project Phantom: Furthering Space Exploration with Virtual and Augmented Reality

The Aerospace Corporation is investigating the potential for VR and AR technology to assist with space operations and change the way humans explore the solar system.

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