University of Arizona has partnered with the U.S. Space Command by becoming the inaugural member of the Academic Engagement Enterprise.
Through this partnership, UA will support the Department of Defense by researching and responding to challenges in space and security.
Jekan Thanga is a professor of aerospace and mechanical engineering at UA. He says the university’s unique achievements and contributions helped to establish the partnership.
“UA’s space and planetary science capabilities go all the way back to 1960 when Gerard Kuiper had founded the Lunar and Planetary Lab,” said Thanga.
Thanga also says the partnership would provide resources to allow for the expansion of labs, and research opportunities and personnel.
He will play a role as a coordinator who will oversee how to connect UA space entities with the U.S. Space Command.
