
The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) has named Dr. Paul J. van Susante, associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at Michigan Technological University, to its Class of 2026 Associate Fellows. This honor recognizes individuals who have made “outstanding contributions to the arts, sciences, or technology of aeronautics or astronautics”. Associate Fellows must be recommended by three AIAA members and have at least 12 years of professional experience.
In the organization’s press release, AIAA President Dan Hastings acknowledged the significance of this achievement:
“Congratulations to each member of the Class of 2026 Associate Fellows. This distinguished group of professionals has performed extraordinary work and advanced the state of science and technology in aeronautics and astronautics. They exemplify a dedication to excellence in their specific technical disciplines. We are proud of their achievements as they shape the future of aerospace.”
At Michigan Tech, van Susante directs the Planetary Surface Technology Development Lab (PSTDL), also known as HuskyWorks, where his team develops technologies for lunar and Martian excavation, mobility, and in-situ resource utilization (ISRU).
HuskyWorks operates unique facilities for space hardware testing, including a Dusty Thermal Vacuum Chamber and lunar regolith simulant testbeds, enabling realistic planetary surface experiments. The group recently partnered with industry to build the first simulated “lunar road”, demonstrating regolith-based paving techniques to reduce lunar dust hazards.
Dr. van Susante will be formally inducted as an AIAA Associate Fellow during the AIAA SciTech Forum in January 2026.