“How do we use aerial mobility in the future on Mars, to help not just robotic exploration, but to help human exploration?”
Ellen Stofan
Smithsonian
More Space Content From Aviation Week & Space Technology
May 27, 2026
On the cover of the May 31, 1976 issue of Aviation Week & Space Technology, we can see an image of the Navy/Air Force fleet satellite communications qualification model undergoing rigorous testing in an anechoic chamber at TRW Space & Defense Systems Group.
May 26, 2026
Millennial engineers are engaged in NASA’s Artemis missions, and the program is likely to inspire future generations of scientists, engineers and explorers.
May 22, 2026
Space Force leaders say space control, launch capacity and orbital warfare training top the service’s fiscal 2027 investment priorities.
May 19, 2026
Rocket Lab founder and CEO Sir Peter Beck received recognition at the Laureates Awards, crediting the company's 3,500-strong workforce for the achievement rather than accepting individual accolades.
May 19, 2026
Grace Gratton, a junior studying space physics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, shares her groundbreaking research and advice on dedication as a 2026 20 Twenties winner.
May 19, 2026
Aviation Week editors discuss the state of X-planes, how they have historically performed and what challenge the next X-plane program should take on.
May 14, 2026
China’s megaconstellations threaten to shift the balance of power in space.
May 13, 2026
Asian startups are building new intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance satellite fleets to meet growing military and commercial demand.