Message from the Chair

The Department of Astronautical Engineering (ASTE) in the USC Viterbi School of Engineering focuses on meeting the educational needs of the space industry, spacecraft operators, and government space research and development centers. This year, ASTE has reached major milestones, awarding more than 500 Master of Science degrees since its inception in 2004 and student-led Rocket Propulsion and Liquid Propulsion Labs (highlighted below) rocketing to new heights.

With human spaceflight on the verge of expanding beyond low earth orbit, the department expands its coursework in the area with the addition of a new faculty member, a former NASA astronaut (highlighted below). ASTE's space engineering education program will also contribute to building space systems indispensable for national security to meet challenges in a turbulent world.

Our unique department provides students with the knowledge and experience necessary for exciting technical careers and leadership positions in the American space enterprise.

Ad Astra!

Mike Gruntman, PhD