By Rachelle Zheng

By Aneesh Kukreti

Harsh Patel's research explores how the introduction of microorganisms to the space environment affects behavior, gene expression, and stress-response pathways. He examines how classic bacterial growth models can be mathematically adapted to space-flight conditions.

What happens when the systems built to connect Earth interfere with our ability to study the universe beyond it?   By Karla Badoussi

Hydrogen fuel in aerospace could cut down on the vast amounts of CO2 produced in air travel and shows. Balanced systems and initiatives will help promote hydrogen fueling, but the push to decarbonize air travel is difficult and costly. By Aadya Karthik

Condensation trails, the vapor trails left behind planes, account for 35% of aviation's total global warming impact. Smarter architecture of flight paths and plane choices could dramatically reduce this effect. By Lakshanya Rajesh

With battery limitations slowing the path to fully electric aviation, hybrid-electric systems are emerging as a practical alternative. Combining conventional engines with electric propulsion can cut emissions, improve efficiency, and provide a scalable transition toward sustainable flight. By Heer Patel

Fuel efficiency in commercial aircraft when cruising is far worse than any other state due to wing shape optimization. Active aerodynamics designed for takeoff, landing, turbulence, and much more could help increase fuel efficiency and bolster performance.