On May 4, KAIST and Seoul National University (SNU) became the two newest members of the Universities Space Research Association (USRA). As one of the first Korean universities to hold membership, KAIST has proven itself as a frontrunner in space-related research in the country, and expects more collaboration with world-class institutes such as NASA. 

USRA was founded in 1969 by a shared vision between NASA and the National Academy of Sciences (NAS). The two institutions recognized the importance of strong collaboration between NASA and the university research community. Since its establishment 60 years ago, USRA has grown to be an independent, nonprofit research corporation that aims to advance knowledge in space science and technology through combined efforts from the association and different universities around the world. USRA operates scientific facilities and conducts research and educational programs under federal funding. As a hub for university research collaboration, USRA has 113 universities that actively participate in various programs to further USRA’s efforts to advance space technology.  

USRA membership is granted to promising universities that demonstrate significant contributions in aerospace-related research fields and grant PhD or equivalent degrees in one or more related fields. KAIST satisfied both criteria for the membership. In particular, KAIST paved the way for space research in Korea with its Satellite Technology Research Center (SaTReC), the birthplace of the country’s first satellite in 1992. Furthermore, the Department of Aerospace Engineering (AE) is planning multiple space missions with CubeSats; these plans are in parallel with USRA’s goals in furthering research in laser communications, Earth imaging, and formation flying. 

An election was held on May 4 to confirm KAIST and SNU’s membership. USRA’s President and CEO, Dr. Jeff Isaacson, congratulated KAIST and SNU on the same day. “The expertise they bring broadens our collective strength in space-related science and technology, worldwide. We look forward to their active engagement with, and contributions to, our Association." 

Professor Hyosang Yoon of the Department of Aerospace Engineering has been nominated to be the representative of KAIST to USRA. “The membership proves that KAIST is the leading institute in space exploration research in Korea and on par with universities such as MIT, Harvard, and Yale in space research,” said Professor Jae-Hung Han, the dean of the Department of Aerospace Engineering. “We look forward to participating in collaborative research programs related to space exploration with NASA and other members of USRA”. KAIST is now granted access to the NASA Postdoctoral Program. Any PhD candidates with interests in postdoctoral fellowship in NASA may review and apply via https://npp.usra.edu/opportunities/.