THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY | SPRING 2024
STUDENTS TAKE A GIANT LEAP FORWARD SEE HOW THE M-STAR PROGRAM FUELED THEIR STELLAR WORK
NEW IN AEROSPACE PHYSIOLOGY Leading-Edge Lab Explores Challenges of Human Space Travel NEW IN SPACE OPERATIONS Degree Powers Eagle’s Dream Career as a Spacecraft Analyst
NEW IN ASTRONOMY Undergraduate Research on Stardust Leads to Celestial Discovery
FLORIDA | ARIZONA | ONLINE
DID YOU KNOW?
Students from Embry-Riddle’s Applied Science programs often end up being hired by distinguished employers such as The Boeing Company, NASA, General Motors, Gulfstream and Lockheed Martin, among others.
Programs deeply rooted in research enable you to explore a world of possibilities. Discover new constellations, develop problem-solving algorithms or dive into the mysteries of the human mind.
Bachelor’s Degree Programs:
s Aerospace and Occupational Safety s Aerospace Physiology s Air Traffic Management s Applied Biology s Astronomy and Astrophysics s Communication s Computational Mathematics s Computer Science s Data Science s Engineering Physics s Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination s Forensic Biology s Forensic Psychology s Human Factors Psychology s Industrial/Organizational Psychology s Interdisciplinary Studies s Meteorology s Simulation Science, Games and Animation s Space Operations s Space Physics
SCIENCE THAT WORKS
Whether you want to analyze weather patterns, peer deep into space or explore how humans interact with rapidly changing technology, the Applied Science programs at the world’s leading educator of tomorrow’s workforce can put you on a direct course to a rewarding career. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s wide range of intensive STEM offerings gives you an immediate opportunity to work on projects and conduct research alongside accomplished faculty members who are deeply connected to their industries of expertise. There is no better place to study Applied Science than a highly technological university featuring state-of-the-art facilities, modern labs and leading-edge programs that provide the foundation of scientific knowledge that today’s top employers are looking for. Earning an Applied Science degree at Embry-Riddle means you’ll graduate with the skills you need to push the boundaries of tomorrow.
ALTITUDE SPRING 2024 VOLUME 03 ISSUE 01 Altitude is a semi-annual publication produced by Enrollment Management and Marketing at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
EDUCATION AT A HIGHER ALTITUDE AT EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY, DARING TO THINK BIG AND PUSH BOUNDARIES IS A WAY OF LIFE.
Senior Vice President, Enrollment Management, Marketing and Student Success
Jason Ruckert, Ph.D. Editor-in-Chief Kristen Weitzel Contributing Editors Maria F. Espinosa Leslie Smith Creative Director Jonathon Metz Contributing Writers and Editors Ashley Mueller Jon O’Neill Makenna Pringle Taylor Reilly Alison Whitney Keaton Ziem
Multimedia Joey Harrison Bill Fredette-Huffman Connor McShane
Since 1926, Embry-Riddle has been the leader in aviation and aerospace education. Our degree programs are consistently ranked among the best in the nation, with several routinely landing in the top 10 and others soaring straight to number one. Embry-Riddle has been at the forefront of groundbreaking aeronautical milestones since the early days of flight, and today we are renowned innovators in the fields of Applied Science, Aviation, Business, Computers and Technology, Engineering, Security, Intelligence and Safety. Our mission is to teach students the science, practice and business of aviation and aerospace, preparing them for leadership roles in industry, government agencies and the military. Our students are also an integral part of pioneering research that has the power to change the world, and Embry-Riddle partners with key stakeholders to develop new insights and solutions that help meet the challenges of today and enhance the opportunities of tomorrow.
Embry-Riddle faculty members are active leaders in their respective industries and share the knowledge and key connections they’ve gained from decades of experience to ensure our graduates have a vital competitive edge in the workforce. We are proud of our diverse student body, which today represents some of the best young minds from all around the globe. Our residential campuses located in Daytona Beach, Florida, and Prescott, Arizona, offer you the choice of living and learning in a spectacular beach setting or a scenic mountain community. As a distance learning leader, our Worldwide Campus features award-winning technology that leverages online and face-to-face instruction through a network of locations designed to support student advancement in the U.S. and abroad. What will you discover at Embry-Riddle?
Florida Campus 1 Aerospace Boulevard, Daytona Beach, FL 32114 386.226.6100 / 800.862.2416 daytonabeach@erau.edu Arizona Campus 3700 Willow Creek Road, Prescott, AZ 86301 928.777.6600 / 800.888.3728 prescott@erau.edu Worldwide / Online Campus 1 Aerospace Boulevard, Daytona Beach, FL 32114 800.522.6787 worldwide@erau.edu
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3 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
CONTENTS
BACHELOR’S PROGRAMS
FL AZ WO
a a
Aeronautical Science
a a a
Aeronautics
A GIANT LEAP FORWARD
a a
Aerospace Engineering
a a
Aerospace Physiology
Aerospace & Occupational Safety
a a
Air Traffic Management
a
Applied Biology
aa
Astronomy & Astrophysics
aaa
Aviation Business Administration
a
Aviation Maintenance
a
Aviation Maintenance Science
a a
Business Administration
a
Business Analytics
a
Civil Engineering
a a
Communication
HISTORY IN THE MAKING
a
Computational Mathematics
a a
Computer Engineering
11 13
a
Computer Science
a a
Cyber Intelligence & Security
Data Science
a a
Electrical Engineering
a a
Emergency Services
Engineering
a
TRENDING
Engineering Physics
a
Engineering Technology
HUNTING DATA
a a a a
Forensic Accounting & Fraud Examination
5 A Crash Course in Safety This specialized Embry-Riddle lab offers the opportunity to conduct firsthand research and investigation on simulated aircraft accidents. 10 Looking to Make an Environmental Impact
Forensic Biology
Forensic Psychology
Global Business & Supply Chain Management
a
Global Conflict Studies
a
Global Security & Intelligence Studies
21
a a a a a *
Homeland Security & Intelligence
A Mechanical Engineering major aspires to use her degree to fight climate change and develop strategies for sustainable energy.
Human Factors Psychology
a
Industrial / Organizational Psychology
19 A Burning Ring of Fire
a a
Interdisciplinary Studies
An Embry-Riddle team collaborated to design a NASA rocket mission aimed at studying the effects of solar eclipses.
a
Logistics & Supply Chain Management
a a a a
Mechanical Engineering
SHATTERING RECORDS
Meteorology
27 Securing Her Future
a a a
Pilot Operations
A Worldwide degree brings this young mother closer to her dream.
Project Management
Safety Management
a
GET LOCAL
Simulation Science, Games & Animation
a a a
Software Engineering
29
19 Florida Campus – Daytona Beach 23 Arizona Campus – Prescott 27 Worldwide & Online
a
Space Operations
a a
Space Physics
a
Systems Engineering
a a
Technical Management
Uncrewed & Autonomous Systems
a a
Uncrewed Aircraft Systems
*Begins in July
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AN IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE
A CRASH COURSE IN SAFETY
The Harry Robertson Aircraft Accident Investigation Laboratory (aka the Crash Lab) is the most comprehensive facility of its kind and the only fully scenario-based accident investigation training facility available in North America, giving students unprecedented opportunities to gain hands-on experience in their field. All accident sites in the lab are replicas of real-life aircraft accidents, specifically designed to reflect reality as closely as possible. At its core, the Crash Lab is designed to allow students to analyze aircraft accidents in a controlled environment. By simulating real-world crash scenarios, students, researchers and professionals can gain an invaluable understanding of the factors contributing to accidents, evaluate design flaws and enhance safety measures. The Crash Lab is utilized by students and professionals alike, such as Safety Science students, participants in Embry-Riddle’s Professional Programs’ short courses or participants in outreach training events involving other schools, safety organizations and safety-related entities. In addition to this, Embry-Riddle students from forensic programs have used the lab to simulate crime scene investigations, and a number of uncrewed aerial systems projects have been conducted within the lab. With Embry-Riddle’s strong commitment to the advancement and innovation of materials and sites within the Crash Lab, students can expect to find new, exciting and previously uncovered secrets hidden within its depths.
Robertson Aircraft Accident Investigation Laboratory
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Prescott Campus is home to an 8½ acre outdoor facility with its landscape decorated by damaged and dismantled aircraft. While the sight could be alarming to an unsuspecting passerby, the area serves a much larger purpose for students and faculty at Embry-Riddle — the opportunity to conduct firsthand research and investigation on simulated aircraft accidents.
A MATCH MADE IN THE SKIES
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is an independent federal agency that investigates major transportation accidents, including those involving aircraft. Embry-Riddle collaborates with the NTSB to ensure that safety curriculum maintains its position at the forefront of innovation, providing students with unique academic and career opportunities. Additionally, the Prescott Campus’ Hazy Library houses historical and contemporary NTSB safety and accident reports. With an Embry-Riddle education fueled by NTSB collaboration, students graduate prepared to lead the future of transportation safety.
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STUDENT INSIGHTS
DID YOU KNOW?
The Thumb Butte Complex Suites (T2) are named after the Thumb Butte landform and hiking area, located in the Prescott National Forest and boasting plentiful opportunities for exploration.
Real-World Experience Ward credits the Worldwide Career Services team with helping her land a remote internship with the FAA this past summer, giving her the kind of real-world experience that will help her stand out in any job market.
Inspired By Love My mom is a disabled veteran. I attended Camp Corral as a child, and I fell in love with their mission. I try to volunteer with their weeklong overnight camp as often as I can
A Great Combo “Embry‑Riddle is one of the only schools in the country that offers Human Factors Psychology as an undergraduate program, and combining this with Aviation was a dream come true.”
to give back to the kids with wounded or fallen parents.
Ayesha Ward ’23, ’25 TECHNICAL MANAGEMENT
Margaret Colwell ’24 HUMAN FACTORS PSYCHOLOGY
AVIATION BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
The Perfect Fit Margaret Colwell was drawn to her program, Human Factors Psychology, because of the opportunities it gave her to combine her skills in engineering, love for aviation and passion for psychology. On top of her involvement in the Women in Aviation Club, American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) and the Robertson Aviation Safety Center on campus, Colwell is a Resident Assistant (RA) in the Thumb Butte Complex Suites (T2) which house first-year students. She is also a researcher in the OPTIMUS project on campus, which studies the effects of fatigue on Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Air Traffic Control personnel. This experience allowed her to travel to Washington, D.C., to present her findings to stakeholders in the field.
Seizing the Moment Earning an A.S. in Aviation Business Administration was just the beginning for Ayesha Ward, who is now pursuing her B.S. in Technical Management with a major in Business Cybersecurity. While she was trying to figure out how to manage her return to school, Ward came across a quote that became her epiphany: “Don’t wait for the perfect moment; take the moment and make it perfect.” Embry-Riddle Worldwide offered Ward everything she wanted, including flexible online programs, expert faculty who understand the difficulties of pursuing a degree while balancing work and parenting and career support that provides access to industry connections. “I want to be an information systems manager within the aviation industry,” she said. “Embry-Riddle helps me achieve that goal… by providing networking opportunities with people on the IT side of the aviation industry so I can learn more from them.”
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STUDENT INSIGHTS
A Lifelong Dream Attending a Space Adventure Camp at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility in his youth sparked Arnold’s fascination with space exploration.
Future Goals When Ani envisions her future, she sees herself opening her own FBO. “There’s a lot that goes into it, but because I’m very hardworking, I know that once I put everything into it, everything I’ve got, by God’s grace, it’s going to work out.”
Meet & Greet Arnold and other interns were lucky enough to brush shoulders with Christina Koch and Victor Glover, two of the four astronauts who will orbit the moon on Artemis II in late 2024.
Set for Success Ani will be leaving Embry-Riddle with lessons learned in handling pressure, staying humble and keeping focus in the aviation industry.
Portia Ani ’23, ’24 AVIATION MAINTENANCE SCIENCE BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION The Perfect Blend
Connor Arnold ’25 AEROSPACE ENGINEERING
Broadened Perspectives An internship at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center changed Connor Arnold’s outlook on the possibilities in his field and how he sees perfection. Arnold’s internship focused on Resource Recovery & Recycling Technology for Human Space Flight. Sustainability and chemistry weren’t necessarily on his radar, the latter being far from his favorite subject. “I didn’t want anything to do with chemistry,” he said. “But after …learning about all these projects and plasma fission and building these bioreactors, it really did broaden the spectrum of things I might be interested in doing.” Arnold also learned an important lesson about perfectionism through the trial-and-error process of research in the lab. “You don’t go into a research program, go straight through, get your results and you’re done,” he said. “There is no perfect solution when it comes to research or engineering.”
From one Embry-Riddle degree to the next, Portia Ani is building a solid foundation for her future in aviation. After completing her B.S. in Aviation Maintenance Science, Ani is now on track to complete her MBA. Ani’s aviation journey started in Nigeria, where she grew up with dreams of studying at a top aviation school in the U.S., such as Embry-Riddle. “The knowledge I’ve gotten at Embry‑Riddle is unmatched,” she said. “Just the people who work within the system alone, the professors, everybody — they’ve all had some kind of background or experience in the aviation field, and they have their own connections...” As a member of the fleet maintenance team, Ani is helping to keep the school’s training aircraft airborne. She earned a scholarship from Flight Safety International and completed an initial Maintenance course on the Dassault Falcon 2000EX aircraft.
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STUDENT INSIGHTS
DID YOU KNOW?
The aviation industry contributes more than $150 billion annually to the U.S. economy and employs more than one million people, according to the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA).
Globetrotting Rock-Arnarson recently traveled to Germany and Belgium while studying abroad. Embry-Riddle offers more than 100 study abroad programs spanning all corners of the globe!
Bougie Bugs Bed bugs may choose certain fabrics because cotton and knit are smoother than fleece, providing enough traction for the pests to grasp onto.
Inspired to Help Yoshioka was inspired to pursue a career in orthopedic sports medicine thanks to the orthopedic surgeon who treats her women’s soccer teammates’ injuries. “It’s inspiring to see my teammates get back to doing what they love.”
Leading the Way As a member of the College of Business Student Council, Rock-Arnarson serves as a leading voice for more than 7,000 students.
Raelyn Yoshioka ’25 APPLIED BIOLOGY
Aiden Rock-Arnarson ’25 AVIATION BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite Raelyn Yoshioka recently completed an undergraduate research project investigating the nesting habits of cimex lectularius — commonly known as bed bugs. Testing which fabrics bed bugs favor can lead to less harmful ways of combating infestations without the use of dangerous chemicals. “This way of a ‘bed bug’ trap would be very efficient and not chemical based, which is better for human health because some of the pesticides they use may be toxic.” The result? Female and male bed bugs have different ideas of comfort! Yoshioka concluded that female bed bugs significantly prefer cotton, and males prefer microfiber. The research experience Yoshioka is undertaking at Embry-Riddle is providing her with valuable lab experience in preparation for her future dream career in sports medicine.
A Well-Balanced Education Aidan Rock-Arnarson has mastered the art of balancing his schedule. Residing in Chico, California, Rock-Arnarson is an online student with Embry-Riddle’s Worldwide Campus. In addition to dedicating time to his studies, he works as an airport intern at Chico Regional Airport. “Whilst the first few hours are spent working in the office… and developing visual media to be used in support of the airport’s current air service development campaign, the afternoon’s work can range from more office work to field reviews to engaging with tenants, stakeholders and the general public to conducting field inspections that at times lead to corralling wildlife away from the runways in a chase reminiscent of a cowboy wrangling their cattle.” Rock-Arnarson serves on the Worldwide College of Business Student Council, where he plays a major role in representing his peers and promotes initiatives to enhance the student experience.
9 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Embry‑Riddle is a unique place because of the passion its students have for what they do, whether that be flying airplanes, building rockets or anything else. I have also met incredible professors.” Katie Rolle ’24 Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Major Looks to Make Environmental
Katie Rolle (’24) is a Mechanical Engineering major on the Prescott Campus who aspires to use her degree to fight climate change and develop strategies for sustainable energy in her field.
To Rolle, conservation is more than preserving nature. “[It] is about taking action to reduce the interference of man with the natural world so that it can thrive undisturbed in its own order and beauty.” A recent recipient of the Prescott Audubon Society’s Environmental Scholarship, Rolle uses her scholarship to take the place of her on-campus job, allowing her to dedicate more time to her studies. “By earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering, I open the door to progress numerous clean energy technologies,” she said. “Including wind, solar, geothermal, tidal energy, hydropower and nuclear energy.” As a student at Embry‑Riddle, Rolle feels she is exactly where she needs to be. Rolle’s motivation comes down to energy — how we generate it and how we use it.
“I want to work on reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of the energy sector,” said Rolle. “By studying mechanical engineering, I can work in a variety of alternative and renewable energy technologies.” After graduation, Rolle plans to go nuclear. “I hope to continue working in nuclear energy. This past summer, I worked at Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station, where I gained a better understanding of the industry.” If you’re a future student looking to make a difference, Rolle’s advice is to never lose sight of your values.
“Remember what is important to you and what you value,” she said. “Let that be your drive.”
MOLECULAR LEVEL SCIENCE Omics Lab The Omics Lab for Health and Human Performance, located in the College of Arts and Sciences on the Daytona Beach Campus, allows students to take things to the extreme — for research. In biology, omics deals with locating, identifying, describing and quantifying the biomolecules and molecular processes that give cells and tissues their forms and functions. There are many branches of omics sciences, with some of the most well-established being genomics, epigenomics and metabolomics.
Within the Omics Lab, students and faculty perform research on life forms in extreme environments, which is directly tied to the effects of space and extraterrestrial environments on the human body. The lab is primarily used by students and faculty in the Aerospace Physiology program, which focuses directly on the effects of aerospace environments on human physiology. Student researchers have the opportunity to conduct analysis and research on various organisms within the lab. Past students have completed research on how simulated cosmic radiation affects the behavior and cognition of male and female mice, studied the effects of male-pattern baldness drugs on fruit flies, researched self-healing polymers for spaceship exteriors and attended NASCAR events to collect data on racecar drivers throughout adrenaline-pumping races. Students in the Omics Lab get vast exposure not only to human physiology but also to extreme environment research, which is core to aerospace research due to its relation to the effects life-forms experience in microgravity.
Q & A with Dr. Amber Paul, Director of the Omics Lab
What are some practical applications for Omics Lab research?
Aside from scientific research, the opportunities to learn important techniques and instrumentation capabilities are also practical applications in the lab. For example, one student is currently designing fluidics and optical settings that are involved with the flow cytometer instrument with a career goal of engineering a more user-friendly instrument. Similar directives for next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics learning are also possible.
Why does the Embry‑Riddle Omics Lab study life in space?
The extreme environment of aerospace can induce physiological stress in animals. My research interests include understanding how the physiological stress response influences the mammalian immune system, as there are some fascinating integrations between endocrine stress hormones and immune cells when exposed to chronic physiological stressors. Considering not only the type but also the timeframe (acute versus chronic) of physiological stress that influences immune dysregulation is a primary interest of mine.
11 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
SPECIALIZED LABS & HANDS-ON LEARNING
Used for upper-level laboratory classes in Modern Physics and Optics and provides equipment and space for small or short-term undergraduate project needs.
Asia Campus Lab Advances Uncrewed Systems Training Focus on UAS Safety To stay ahead of the explosive growth in the use and deployment of Uncrewed and Autonomous Systems (UAS), Embry-Riddle’s Asia Campus recently earned approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore to provide drone pilot instruction. This allows the Asia Campus to join Embry-Riddle’s other locations in offering authorized UAS training, and B.S. in Aeronautics students can now take online minors in Uncrewed Systems. To support training and boost safety, a new campus lab has also opened and uses the RealFlight commercial app along with other apps that include Virtual Reality Accident Investigation and ERUPT for Quad and Fixed Wing aircraft. The programs and lab will serve as a foundation to advance Embry-Riddle’s UAS training in Asia. “As the proliferation of uncrewed aircraft rises, so must our commitment to responsible piloting,” said Matthew Flaherty, vice chancellor and head of Asia. “These new UAS offerings do more than provide UAS instruction; they’re cornerstones of building a safe and vibrant urban air environment for everyone.”
NOT AN OPTICAL ILLUSION
LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory) is a nationwide project that involves the measurement of gravitational waves with lasers on a very large scale — 4 kilometers by 4 kilometers. Meanwhile, students in the Modern Physics and Optics Lab create their own small-scale, simplified interferometers on optical tables. Dr. Andri M. Gretarsson, professor of Physics and director of both laboratories, believes the research lab informs the teaching lab and vice versa. He said, “Embry-Riddle is fortunate to be involved in such an endeavor on this national scale so close to the frontlines of knowledge. The students benefit enormously from that, both by the professors being motivated by it and by the students being involved directly or indirectly, as in the Optics Lab.”
Modern Physics and Optics Lab In the Modern Physics and Optics Lab on the Prescott Campus, you will find students using lasers to make precise measurements by means of interferometry. The lab is equipped with electron guns, quantum-level demonstrations, x-rays, radioactive sources and sensors, general optics equipment of research-grade quality, lasers, spectrometers and interferometers. The lab is primarily used for upper-level physics courses, especially for Space Physics and Astronomy majors, but can also be used for student projects such as senior capstone projects. Adjacent to the Modern Physics and Optics Lab is the LIGO Optics Lab, mainly reserved for faculty-student research with a select few undergrads.
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13 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
With NASA’s Artemis program poised to send humans to the moon for the first time since the Apollo days, three students from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University spent summer 2023 contributing to that mission after they earned once-in-a-lifetime opportunities as NASA M-STAR (Minorities in Space Technology Artemis Research) Fellows. A GIANT LEAP FORWARD
Solving a Dusty Dilemma Born in the Dominican Republic,
A record of accomplishments led to Pujols’ selection as an M-STAR Fellow. In 2021, she was chosen as Embry-Riddle’s only female representative in the NASA RASC-AL research competition, where she oversaw space operations. The team’s research made it to the state finals, where it won Best Design Concept and placed third overall.
Aerospace Engineering senior Ashley Tirado Pujols (’24) interned at NASA Langley Research Center, where she primarily worked on ways to mitigate the effects of lunar dust on ceramic-coated materials used by astronauts. “Lunar dust, or regolith, poses a challenge for aerospace structures on the moon, and even Mars,” Pujols said. “Particles adhere to surfaces, and the impacts from micrometeorite showers can affect the safety of landings. If we can understand how dust adheres to different surfaces, we are one step closer to developing prominent methods to mitigate its adhesion on aerospace structures and spacesuits.”
FEATURE (continued)
Getting His Hands on the Future Aerospace Engineering major John Yonkauske (’24) also worked at NASA Langley, and he credited the hands-on projects at Embry-Riddle for opening the door to even greater opportunities at NASA. As a research intern, Yonkauske investigated the electromechanical properties and space applications of nanotube-polymer composite materials. “I love having access to every different kind of lab or instrument I need on-site and being able to observe the other cool facilities on-site that don’t necessarily apply to my particular project,” he added. “My favorite thing so far has been meeting my fellow interns and mentors who have done, are doing and will continue to do so many amazing things and cutting-edge scientific research.” An Additive Experience Sam Leblanc, a Ph.D. candidate in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science who already has 10 years of experience in the additive manufacturing industry, spent the summer as an intern at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California. “The goal of the internship is to combine my background and area of research with composite materials to ultimately create Metasurface Antennas on composites through advanced manufacturing techniques for space missions,” said Leblanc. “Also, while here, I have presented to multiple groups within JPL to introduce the concept of 3D printed electronics, as it is still a relatively unknown concept.” Additive manufacturing could play a key role in the Artemis missions, given the adaptability and lightweight nature of 3D printed materials, and electronics are just one of the things Leblanc has already built from 3D printed parts. Dr. Eduardo Rojas, associate professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Leblanc’s advisor, said these key internships give Embry-Riddle students hands-on experience alongside world-class space professionals, which better position them for future job opportunities.
The materials science research I’m currently doing at NASA has a lot of similarities to the materials testing I was learning about and doing through undergraduate research.”
John Yonkauske ’24 Aerospace Engineering
15 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
A GIANT LEAP FORWARD
SPACE LAUNCH SYSTEM
NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) is a super heavy-lift rocket, over 212 feet tall, with a 27.6-foot diameter. The core stage holds 733,000 gallons of super-cooled liquid hydrogen and oxygen, fueling the RS-25 engines for human exploration beyond Earth’s orbit. NASA’s Orion spacecraft extends human exploration beyond previous limits. On Artemis missions, it transports the crew, offers emergency abort capability, sustains them during space travel and ensures a safe re-entry from deep space return velocities.
ARTEMIS II CONFIGURATION
THE M-STAR PROGRAM
Funding for the M-STAR program was earned in partnership with the University of Central Florida, and students conduct research under the supervision of NASA scientists as well as faculty from Embry-Riddle — including Dr. Seetha Raghavan, associate dean for research and graduate studies and professor of Aerospace Engineering; Dr. Daewon Kim, professor of Aerospace Engineering; and Dr. Rojas, associate professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.
A GIANT LEAP FOR INCLUSIVITY
NASA’s Artemis missions are scheduled to land the first woman and the first person of color on the lunar surface, equipping them with innovative technologies to explore and discover more than any astronaut has before.
SEE WHERE THEY STARTED / THEN AND NOW
Graduate Finds Her Place at MITRE as a Woman in Cybersecurity
“I don’t think that I would be where I am if it wasn’t for my time and experience at Embry-Riddle. The university gave me the resources to help me grow my skills and confidence. I was able to take those to the next level at MITRE.” MITRE’s mission is to solve problems for a safer world, discovering cybersecurity solutions for the whole of the nation. As a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC), MITRE works with government sponsors to solve some of the biggest challenges facing the 21st century. Adams’ advice for young women who are interested in cybersecurity is to find their place, regardless of their current skill level. “For those looking to get into cybersecurity, no matter at what stage in your career, you do belong!”
Cyber Intelligence and Security alumna Michaela Adams (’21) aspires to be a mentor for young women looking to enter the traditionally male-dominated field of cybersecurity. “I knew I was going to be outnumbered,” said Adams. “When I started my undergraduate degree in 2017, women represented only 11% of the cybersecurity field.” Embry‑Riddle’s Arizona Campus is home to the nation’s first College of Business, Security and Intelligence. Adams, who graduated in 2021, credits Embry‑Riddle for providing her the confidence to lead in a field that has historically underrepresented women. “It can be intimidating being the only [woman] in the room,” she said. “Finding other women in cybersecurity helped me realize that I belong, that my voice matters and I can do whatever I set my mind to.” After graduating, Adams was hired at MITRE in Washington, D.C., and has recently been promoted to senior cybersecurity engineer, focusing on threat hunting and detection engineering.
An Elite Program in Cyber Intelligence and Security The B.S. in Cyber Intelligence and Security prepares students to identify, assess, mitigate and respond to cyber threats. Students practice cybersecurity techniques and reverse engineer malware in the Cyber Lab, also called the “Hacker Lab.” Graduates leave the program ready to enter the workforce, just like Michaela.
Find out more at prescott.erau.edu/cbsi
FLY LIKE AN EAGLE
See how far these Eagles have come since their undergraduate days.
STUDY ABROAD
Spaceflight Operations Degree Helps Graduate Prepare for Liftoff
Christopher Vanacore (’22) graduated with a B.S. in Spaceflight Operations (now Space Operations) with dreams of overseeing missions to space. While Vanacore continues to pursue his dream in graduate school, he looks back on his undergraduate experience as his first step toward a thrilling destination. “I had an awesome experience at Embry-Riddle during my undergraduate program,” Vanacore said. “The faculty broadened my interest and research in the space field.” Today, Vanacore is a Space Ground Systems Telemetry Analyst in the Eastern Range at the Morrell Operations Center, contracted under the U.S. Space Force (USSF) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. “During launch operations, I monitor the spacecraft’s state vectors, telemetry and health status,” he explained. “I collect raw data files from launches and analyze each parameter, including anomalies.” Embry-Riddle led Vanacore to inspiring connections with professors who launched his passion for research. “My senior capstone course led by Professor Lana Laskey opened my eyes to the space field,” Vanacore said. “My main portion of research was to program a code which would receive and send simulated telemetry data to and from a satellite orbiting Saturn.” Combining advanced undergraduate research opportunities and connections with leading- industry employers, students graduate with valuable experience, ready to start their careers. “Working in the space field at Cape Canaveral was always my dream,” said Vanacore. “I have the capability to watch launches on site.” Vanacore’s advice for future students is to make connections and get immersed in research. “Join conferences, create as many connections as possible,” he said. “It is crucial to have the appropriate connections to route you to a career. The STEM field is not an easy path. However, chase your dreams until the end — it is going to be worth it.”
What’s Telemetry? Telemetry is any data that travels from a spacecraft to Earth. Telemetry can give information about position and heading; it can tell how instruments or other parts are functioning.
Breaking Barriers: UAS Outreach in Argentina In summer 2023, a group of 16 Embry-Riddle students traveled to South America to conduct outreach and perform uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) research, led by Dr. Kevin A. Adkins, associate professor of Aeronautical Science, and Dr. Nickolas “Dan” Macchiarella, professor of Aeronautical Science. Embry-Riddle students met with middle schoolers at Blaise Pascal University, where they helped preserve cultural heritage through the application of photogrammetry, which involves photographing a subject from various angles and transforming it into 2D or 3D digital models. It’s often used for map making or in searches for fossils and artifacts. Nathaniel Southerland (’26), studying Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, attended as the UAS technical leader. Southerland will return to Argentina for next summer’s expedition, saying, “I look forward to learning more about the technology in a field setting and seeing new locations. Our focus on environmental topics is interesting to me, and I look forward to applying UAS technology to this field.” In addition to outreach, the itinerary consisted of travel to Buenos Aires and Cordoba, Argentina, through the Andes with overnight stays in Tilcara, Purmamarca and Humahuaca and ending with travel to Uruguay.
FLY LIKE AN EAGLE
See how far these Eagles have come since their undergraduate days.
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DID YOU KNOW?
DAYTONA BEACH FLORIDA CAMPUS Our East Coast campus is only minutes from the beach and adjacent to an international airport and speedway.
An annular solar eclipse occurs when the moon, positioned at its farthest point from Earth, passes between the sun and our planet. Unlike a total eclipse, the moon doesn’t fully cover the sun, creating a captivating “ring of fire” effect. This celestial dance showcases the delicate balance in our solar system, offering insights into cosmic forces and reminding us of the wonders of the universe.
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s 7,200 Undergraduate Students s 50 States / 91 Countries Represented s 11% International Students Student Clubs + Organizations Our Florida Campus houses hundreds of student clubs, including the Mars Society, Musicians Club, Muscle Car Association and Microgravity Club, as well as club, intramural and recreational sports. NCAA Division II Athletics Women’s Men’s s Basketball s Baseball s Cross Country s Basketball s Golf s Cross Country s Lacrosse s Golf s Rowing s Lacrosse s Soccer s Rowing s Softball s Soccer s Tennis s Tennis s Track & Field s Track & Field s Volleyball Coed s Cheerleading
A BURNING RING OF FIRE
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EMBRY-RIDDLE ROCKETS OFFER CLOSER LOOK AT ECLIPSE EFFECTS An Embry-Riddle team designed a multi-institution NASA rocket mission to learn more about changes that solar eclipses can cause in the Earth’s upper atmosphere and how they impact communication in the air and on the ground.
Led by Dr. Aroh Barjatya, professor of Engineering Physics and director of
The Embry-Riddle team aimed to capture essential data across multiple points in space and over time while the eclipse was happening — a scientific first. For additional insights, ground-based measurements were captured by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory at Kirtland Air Force Base. Farther from the center, collaborators at the MIT Haystack Observatory used radar to evaluate perturbations in the ionosphere hundreds of miles from the eclipse path. Embry-Riddle researchers also launched specifically developed high-altitude balloons every 20 minutes for several hours to study how meteorological conditions changed during an eclipse. All these measurements will aid ionosphere modeling efforts led by Embry-Riddle and the University of Colorado Boulder. Barjatya and his team recovered and relaunched the three main payloads atop new rockets from the Wallops Flight Facility during the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. Megan Soll (’25), an undergraduate student in Engineering Physics, was part of the balloon study. “Building the balloon sondes was a great hands-on experience with software and hardware integration,” Soll said. “It has given me a deeper appreciation for the nuances and connection between the two sides of payload development that I have not been able to get simply via my coursework.”
the Space and Atmospheric Instrumentation Lab (SAIL) at the Daytona Beach Campus, the team fired three sounding rockets from New Mexico’s White Sands Missile Range during the annular solar eclipse on Oct. 14, 2023. The Embry-Riddle team included professor of Engineering Physics Dr. Matthew Zettergren; research scientists Dr. Robert Clayton and Dr. Shantanab Debchoudhury; Ph.D. students Rachel Conway, Henry Valentine and Nathan Graves; master’s degree students Peter Ribbens, Joshua Milford and Jonas Rowan; and undergraduate students Megan Soll, Johnathan Bizzano and Maddox Morrison. Although a solar eclipse may seem serene, it propels a shadow at speeds up to 1,100 mph. All that energy rocks the atmosphere, potentially affecting communications. “Think of the ionosphere as the surface of a pond,” Barjatya said. “There are already ripples happening. Now, imagine a motorboat suddenly ripping through that water. The boat creates waves all around it. The water level dips, below and right behind it, and then rises above the background level for a brief time as it rushes back in. That’s what an eclipse does to the ionosphere, except in three dimensions.” Researchers at Embry-Riddle and Dartmouth College built instruments for the sounding rocket mission, which Barjatya called APEP, for “Atmospheric Perturbations around the Eclipse Path.” The name was inspired by a mythological snake called Apep that chased the sun god Ra, in ancient Egyptian lore — an event deemed responsible for eclipses.
PENUMBRA
SUN
EARTH
M
UMBRA
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CAMPUS FEATURE
A Well-Rounded Future Abigail Valley (’24) exemplifies the Eagle spirit by turning her many passions into action. Being a student- athlete in cross country and track and field requires a strong commitment each season, so she admits she’s “always busy.” The Civil Engineering major skillfully balances rigorous academics, is an active member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) student chapter, holds jobs on and off campus and even leveraged summer break to get involved in research. Led by faculty advisor Dr. Marwa El-Sayed, assistant professor of Civil Engineering, a team of students monitored ozone concentrations, a criteria pollutant, in the atmosphere across the U.S. to see how it’s changed over the last six years. It was an opportunity for Valley to apply her math skills and connect with faculty outside the classroom. “Working along with (faculty) reminds you that your professors aren’t just professors — it’s nice to get to know them on a different level.” This research experience will look great on Valley’s resume, and her excitement to continue exploring environmental research will serve as motivation for future success.
HUNTING FOR THE DATA
Area-I Altius-600 Uncrewed Aircraft System Scientists at NOAA’s Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory deployed an Area-I Altius-600 Uncrewed Aircraft System into a hurricane while onboard a NOAA WP-3D Orion Hurricane Hunter aircraft N42RF, nicknamed “Kermit.”
Image Courtesey of NOAA
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From Classroom to Cyclones
DID YOU KNOW?
Some students grow up knowing the career they want to chase in life. Embry-Riddle senior Ryann Jones (’24) merged two passions, meteorology and theater, and then set out to pave her career path. “Creating entertaining weather stories and explaining complicated severe weather phenomena is my passion,” the weather-and-tornado- obsessed Meteorology major shared. Jones partook in a broadcasting competition where she explored the National Hurricane Center’s “Cone of Uncertainty” storm-tracking graphic, focusing on the 2022 Hurricane Ian. Jones took home two first-place awards from the Florida Association of Broadcast Journalists in the categories of Climate/Environmental Reporting and Weathercaster for her analyses. Jones’ pursuit of her dream career has become more of a reality. She recently entered the field as the first-ever Black female meteorologist for First Coast News in Jacksonville, Florida, and hopes the impact she leaves will encourage other girls to enter STEM fields. “I want to empower young girls to go into STEM, especially minorities,” she said, with aspirations that other girls will pave their own paths in the industry.
Named after “The Muppets” characters, “Kermit” and “Miss Piggy” are twin WP-3D (“P-3”) Orion aircraft, which fly into hurricanes at an altitude of about 10,000 feet. The aircraft are large and tough and can fly through the eyewall of a tropical cyclone, the most intense part of the storm.
Image Courtesey of NOAA
This past spring, two Meteorology undergraduates Lauren Villafane (’24) and Sean Stoltz (’23) were given the rare research opportunity of being invited onboard the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Hurricane Hunter aircraft. “This trip provides an opportunity to see the research side of things, as well as get out there and ask questions from people who have been working in the meteorology field for years.” Laura Villafane ’24 Meteorology
While in the air, the students aided in test launching instruments designed to measure factors in hurricanes that will help them understand the physics of what makes hurricanes more intense. Dr. Josh Wadler, assistant professor of Meteorology, explained that the purpose of the flights was to validate innovative technologies for making measurements close to the ocean’s surface. Using small Uncrewed Aerial Systems (sUAS), the team assessed the new instruments’ reliability in surviving being thrown out of a plane at 210 knots and if they communicated proper measurements back to the Hurricane Hunter aircraft. They conducted these tests on a clear day, rather than during a hurricane, to ensure their stability before being released into an actual hurricane. “To actually get to fly with them is a dream,” said Stoltz. “This research opportunity will give me a great way to make connections in NOAA’s aviation department and help me move in that direction.”
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CAMPUS FEATURE
SHATTERING RECOR
PRESCOTT ARIZONA CAMPUS Nestled in the beautiful Bradshaw Mountains between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon, our Western campus is renowned for its excellent seasonal weather and outdoor activities, such as skiing, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and rock climbing, to name just a few.
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s 3,100 Undergraduate Students s 50 States / 46 Countries Represented s 9% International Students Student Clubs + Organizations Our Arizona Campus is home to countless student clubs ranging from the Mountain Biking Club to the Society of Women Engineers and from the Blue Eagles Skydiving Team to the Brotherhood of Steel, as well as a variety of intramural and recreational sports.
A STELLAR TEAM
DALTON SONGER Team Leader BEN BLACK Ground Testing ZOE BRAND Propulsion DAWSON DAMISH Ground Support Equipment Mechanisms TOM DEVRIES Data Acquisition and Control KYLE DUTCHER Structures CHARLES FLAHERTY Fluids DUNCAN SHOUR Avionics and Recovery JARED WALKER Flight Modeling
Athletics Women’s s Basketball
Men’s
s Baseball s Basketball
s Cross Country
s Golf
s Cross Country
s Outdoor Track
s Golf
s Soccer s Softball s Volleyball
s Outdoor Track
s Soccer
s Wrestling
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RDS
“A lot of people told us that our timelines were unrealistic and that we should be content with just getting the rocket to the test stand. But our level of scrappiness and get-it-done mentality meant the only option was to be successful.” Ben Black ’23 Mechanical Engineering The team trekked out to the Friends of Amateur Rocketry facility in the Mohave Desert in California, where Deneb failed to launch three times. But after putting 4,000 hours of blood, sweat and tears into this project, along with funding and supplies from sponsors like Firefly Aerospace and Lockheed Martin, the Cygnus Suborbitals were not giving up. On their fourth attempt, the rocket came to life and soared into the sky. “It was gone in an instant, but watching Deneb take off was the most exhilarating moment of my life,” team leader Dalton Songer (‘23) said. “We all ran out of the bunker to watch as Deneb burned further and further into the morning sky. It was breathtaking.” Although the rocket was never recovered from the desert, the students were able to bring back what they learned from the experience and pass it on to the next cohort of rocket builders at the RDL. Graduates from the Cygnus Suborbitals are now working for stellar companies, including SpaceX and Lockheed Martin, in roles like propulsion engineer, project engineer and launch operations engineer.
In April 2023, a group of Embry-Riddle seniors wrote their names in history as they broke records with an amateur rocket launch. The team of nine Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering undergraduates initially came together in a senior capstone propulsion design class. They took on the name “Cygnus Suborbitals” — Cygnus being the swan constellation in the Milky Way — and they called their rocket “Deneb,” named after the brightest star in the constellation. The astonishing launch of Deneb broke world records for the highest undergraduate, collegiate and amateur liquid rocket flight, reaching a high point of 47,732 feet (about 9 miles or 14.5 kilometers). The previous world record was 22,000 feet. Deneb reached a velocity of 1,150 MPH, or Mach 1.5. Deneb was the second phase of the Rocket Development Lab (RDL)’s Mountain Spirit Program. The first liquid rocket to come out of the RDL was called Altair, which unfortunately met its fiery end in a 2022 launch attempt. While the Cygnus Suborbitals did not build that rocket, they were able to learn from Altair what they needed to improve. The process of designing and constructing Deneb was not immune to setbacks — every subsystem on the project faced at least one obstacle that forced the team to rethink and rework those aspects.
WATCH THE LAUNCH
See the moment Deneb Rocket launched rocketdevelopmentlab.com
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