USC Space Engineering Research Center

The USC Space Engineering Research Center (SERC), established in 2012 as part of the USC Viterbi Department of Astronautical Engineering, is a leading academic and research institution focused on advancing space technology. SERC’s core activities encompass a broad range of space engineering disciplines, including rocket propulsion, space robotics, hypersonic flight, and spacecraft systems. A key capability demonstrated by the student-run USC Rocket Propulsion Lab is the design, construction, and launch of high-altitude rockets, recently achieving a record-breaking altitude of 470,000 feet with the Aftershock II rocket and successfully launching a payload-carrying rocket, Malibu.

SERC is actively involved in cutting-edge research, with projects ranging from the development of autonomous space robotics systems – including contributions to NASA’s Astrobee platform – to innovative docking systems like CLINGERS, currently being tested on the International Space Station. Faculty are engaged in research supported by NASA and other organizations, focusing on areas like electric spacecraft propulsion and hypersonic flight.

The center’s work extends beyond research and student projects, with faculty frequently providing expert commentary on major space industry events, such as SpaceX launches and the evolving space economy. USC’s Astronautical Engineering program and SERC contribute to a pipeline of skilled engineers and researchers poised to impact the future of space exploration and technology.