Romano, Marcello

Prof. Dr. Marcello Romano is a Professor at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), holding the Chair of Astrodynamics since January 2025. With a career spanning over two decades, he has served as a founding director of the Spacecraft Robotics Lab at the Naval Postgraduate School and held visiting professorships at TUM, NASA Ames, and Stanford University.

• Doctorate in Aerospace Engineering - Politecnico di Milano (2001)
• National Research Council Postdoctoral Fellow

His research focuses on spaceflight mechanics, integrating theoretical analysis, simulation, and flight testing to advance:

• Rotational and orbital maneuvering of satellites
• Autonomous GNC systems
• Orbital robotics for debris removal
• Space-enabled sustainability initiatives

Recent publications highlight his work in convex programming for orbital capture, aerodynamic attitude stabilization, and multi-spacecraft rendezvous maneuvers. He has received prestigious awards including the Patti Grace Smith Award and AIAA Associate Fellowship.

Prof. Romano contributes to the field through:

• Leadership in the International Academy of Astronautics
• Development of advanced space systems
• Technology transfer and innovation projects