Dr. Willer Gomes dos Santos | Space Systems | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Willer Gomes dos Santos, Aeronautics Institute of Technology, Brazil

Willer Gomes dos Santos, a Brazilian national born on January 26, 1985, has established a notable career as a professor and scientist in the field of aerospace engineering. Currently, he is affiliated with the Aeronautics Institute of Technology (ITA) in São José dos Campos, SP, Brazil, where he has been serving since June 2018. At ITA, he is part of the Aerospace Systems Department and the ITA Space Center (CEI), and coordinates the E2MoC research group. His main responsibilities include teaching, academic guidance, research, and development in areas such as orbital mechanics, spacecraft control systems, space systems engineering, distributed space systems, space situational awareness, and optimization techniques applied to space systems. He delivers lectures on various subjects, including the conceptual design of space systems, spacecraft dynamics and control, spacecraft formation flying, and spacecraft constellations.

Scopus

Educational Background 📚

Willer’s educational journey is both extensive and impressive. He earned his Ph.D. in Space Engineering through a split-site program between the National Institute for Space Research (INPE) in Brazil and the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Germany. His thesis focused on discrete multiobjective optimization applied to spacecraft actuators. Prior to this, he completed his MSc in Space Engineering at INPE, with a dissertation on aeroassisted maneuvers of spacecraft. His foundational education includes a Bachelor’s degree in Mechatronics Engineering from Cruzeiro do Sul (UNICSUL) and a Technical education degree in Mechatronics from Escola Técnica Estadual Presidente Vargas (ETE).

Professional Experience 🚀

Since June 2018, Willer has been a professor and scientist at ITA’s Aerospace Systems Department and the ITA Space Center (CEI). He coordinates the E2MoC research group and teaches various courses, including the Conceptual Design of Space Systems and Spacecraft Formation Flying. His research areas encompass orbital mechanics, spacecraft control systems, space situational awareness, and optimization techniques for space systems.

Prior to ITA, he worked as a space engineer at INPE, contributing to the development of models for orbital analysis and satellite propulsion. His early career includes a significant tenure at NSK BRASIL LTDA, where he implemented quality assurance tools and developed novel measuring equipment.

Research and Collaborations 🔬

Willer has also engaged in numerous research collaborations, including a Postdoctoral tenure at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, focusing on spacecraft formation flying, and internships at the University of Modena and Reggio-Emilia in Italy and DLR in Germany. These experiences have enriched his expertise in decentralized control strategies and real-time simulation frameworks.

Complementary Education and Skills 🎓

He has pursued a variety of short courses, enhancing his knowledge in satellite communications, political sciences, and artificial intelligence, among others. His computational skills span multiple programming languages, CAD software, and applications essential for space engineering.

Languages and Personal Interests 🌍

Willer is fluent in Portuguese and English, with intermediate proficiency in German and basic knowledge of Spanish. Outside of his professional life, he enjoys traveling, playing sports, listening to music, reading, and astronomical observation.

Willer Gomes dos Santos’s career reflects a dedication to advancing space engineering through education, research, and international collaboration. His work continues to influence the field, driving innovations in spacecraft technology and space mission design.

Publications Notes:📄

Impact of non-latching booms on a nanosatellite attitude control system

Attitude determination strategy based on kalman filter for the sport cubesat science mission

Modeling and design of a multidisciplinary simulator of the concept of operations for space mission pre-phase A studies

Analysis of impulsive maneuvers to keep orbits around the asteroid 2001SN₂₆₃

Hardware-in-the-Loop Rendezvous Tests of a Novel Actuators Command Concept

Design of a linear time-invariant control system based on a multiobjective optimization approach

Introductio Best Aerospace Sensing Technology

Welcome to the Best Aerospace Sensing Technology Award, celebrating innovation and excellence in aerospace technology.

Award Eligibility:

Open to individuals and teams worldwide, this award recognizes outstanding achievements in aerospace sensing technology. There are no age limits, and both professionals and students are eligible. Qualifications include a demonstrated commitment to advancing aerospace sensing technology through publications, projects, or research.

Evaluation Criteria:

Submissions will be evaluated based on the innovation, impact, and practicality of the aerospace sensing technology. Judges will consider the quality and relevance of the research or project, as well as its potential to advance the field.

Submission Guidelines:

To apply, submit a detailed description of the aerospace sensing technology, including any relevant publications or supporting materials. Submissions must be received by the deadline to be considered.

Recognition:

Winners will receive a cash prize and recognition at an awards ceremony. Additionally, winning projects may be featured in industry publications or conferences.

Community Impact:

The Best Aerospace Sensing Technology Award aims to recognize technologies that have the potential to significantly impact the aerospace industry, improving safety, efficiency, or performance.

Biography:

Include a brief biography highlighting your achievements and contributions to aerospace sensing technology.

Abstract and Supporting Files:

Provide a concise abstract summarizing your aerospace sensing technology. Include any supporting files, such as publications or project documentation, to strengthen your submission.