Cristobal Garrido and Jonathan Messer at the entrance of the 2026 AIAA SciTech Forum in Orlando. At the 2026 AIAA SciTech Forum in Orlando, Florida, the Space Engineering Center at the University of Southern California (USC) delivered a series of technical presentations showcasing cutting-edge research in space robotics, soft robotic actuation, sensing, artificial intelligence, and…

Nine SERC students presented six groundbreaking research papers at IAC 2024, showcasing USC’s pioneering work in space exploration.

On September 28, we cheered for Haley Topper as she accepted a job at Millennium Space Systems, celebrating her amazing journey at SERC!

SERC's first successful RPO engagement.

Prof Barnhart hosted over 26 professionals from Korea sponsored by the Korea Institute of Human Resources Development in Science and Technology (KIRD).

SERC Director Prof. Barnhart recognized the students and staff at a small dinner on campus on May 3rd.

Space-related applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning are often confined to the ground because moving AI onboard satellites, while promising, is significantly more difficult.

Dr Justin Walsh of Chapman University, an Ad Astra Fellow of the Space Engineering Research Center at USC was inducted into the Explorers Club class of 2024!

USC’s Space Engineering Research Center (SERC) is part of the largest new USSF support research institute for In Space Operations. Under Texas A&M, USC SERC is part of 5 major university research centers that will collaborate for the next 5 years on advancing the concept of in space operations, space mobility and logistics for the USSF and AFRL. “This is a big deal for us, our projects and research have led us to this unique opportunity in the Space domain. This will allow SERC and USC in general to advance our ability to transform the space industry and support both Government and commercial activities for years to come”, says David Barnhart, Director of SERC.

From developing advanced materials to inspiring the next generation to better understanding microgravity’s effects on liver regeneration, the ISS National Lab sponsored a variety of research in 2023 that aims to improve life on Earth.