Carlos Montalvo

Dr. Carlos Montalvo is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Biomedical Engineering within the College of Engineering at the University of South Alabama. His research focuses on the intersection of flight dynamics, control engineering, and air vehicle design. He leads the Facility for Aerospace Systems and Technology (FAST) Lab, which conducts cutting-edge research in unmanned aerial systems.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology
• M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology
• B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology

Dr. Montalvo's research interests center on dynamic simulation, control system design, and flight testing, with particular emphasis on developing new flight control algorithms and vehicle designs to improve autonomous air vehicle performance. His work spans fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft, projectiles, parafoil vehicles, and multi-body systems. The FAST Lab, which he directs, specializes in controls of multi-body systems including aircraft, quadrotors, parafoils, projectiles, spacecraft, and tethered systems.

Analyzing his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on innovative aerospace control systems across multiple platforms. His research bridges theoretical control algorithms with practical implementation in diverse aerospace applications, from electric sails for space propulsion to advanced UAV control systems. A notable trend is his work on multi-body systems and unconventional aircraft configurations, demonstrating expertise in complex dynamic systems.

Dr. Montalvo serves as faculty advisor for the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Student Chapter and USA Launch Society Student Chapter. His research has been supported by collaborations with NASA, most notably his contribution to the Mars 2020 mission that successfully landed the Perseverance rover on Mars in February 2021.

At the FAST Lab, Dr. Montalvo oversees research projects involving dynamic simulation coupled with applied estimation of custom-made aircraft, design of control systems and mechanisms, and experimental testing to improve autonomous aerospace vehicle performance. His lab has been involved in significant projects including NASA's Mars 2020 mission and development of fixed-wing unmanned aerial surveillance aircraft in partnership with the Disaster Preparedness Program.