Beyond the Cutting Edge: Unleashing Innovation and Opportunity for the Future of Space Exploration and Science

Bhanu Sood, PhD
Deputy Chief Technologist
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

Abstract: This talk will explore the transformative potential of emerging technologies in NASA’s and Goddard’s science
and space exploration strategy. By introducing Goddard’s diverse space technology investments and examining breakthroughs in sensors, artificial intelligence, autonomy, and digital engineering, we will discuss how these advancements are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in astrophysics, earth science, heliophysics, and planetary science. The talk will further address the socio-economic opportunities that arise from these innovations, highlighting the role of collaboration, private sector involvement, and policy frameworks in shaping a sustainable and inclusive future for humanity’s journey into space.

Biography: Dr. Bhanu Sood strategically manages NASA Goddard’s IRAD program, which invests in advanced technologies for NASA’s future science and exploration missions. In this role, Dr. Sood helps develop and infuse innovative aerospace technologies, next generation of instruments leveraging quantum sciences, artificial intelligence, autonomy, space optical communication, edge computing and other investments in space systems that are crucial for NASA’s science and exploration goals. As Deputy Chief Technologist, he works closely with the NASA Agency Chief Technologist, the Office of Technology Policy and Strategy (OTPS) and other NASA Center technologists in formulating technology strategies.

Dr. Sood’s other roles at NASA have included Division Chief Engineer, Agency Program Manager for Standards & Training, and the Risk Assessment process owner for microelectronics in JWST, RST, OSAM-1, PACE/OCI, JPSS, GOES, ICESAT-2, TESS, LUCY, ILLUMA-T, ICON, IXPE, LandSat-9/TIRS, and numerous SmallSat and NPR-7120.8 missions. Prior to joining NASA, Dr. Sood served as the Laboratory Director at University of Maryland’s Center for Advanced Life Cycle Engineering. At CALCE Dr. Sood lead efforts towards the acceleration of U.S. leadership within the
semiconductor industry, developed partnerships with global electronics industry participants across a complex ecosystem of microelectronics supply chains, chip fabricators, fabless companies, packaging, designers and tool manufacturers, to target increased reliability for product manufacturers serving communications, healthcare, oil & gas, automotive, aerospace, and defense industries. Previously, he developed laser-based 3-D printing processes and materials at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) in Washington DC.

In addition to numerous project awards and accolades, he was awarded the NASA Exceptional Achievement Medal, the Robert H. Goddard Award for an on-orbit anomaly resolution, SAE International ESC Outstanding Achievement Award, and NRL’s Edison Patent Award. He holds six patents, is IPC Fellow, an IEEE senior member, a member of ASM, and holds a doctorate in electronics reliability, master’s degrees in metallurgy and materials science, and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Dr. Sood serves on the Board of Directors of ASM, the Humanitarian Technologies Board representatvie for IEEE Region 2, and a member of the Board of University of Maryland's Engineering Alumni Network.