Dr. Madhusudan Vijayakumar is an astrodynamicist with a passion for Space Missions. His research interests span space mission design, trajectory optimization, constellation management, and onboard spacecraft guidance. Madhu is particularly focused on developing advanced tools for the analysis and optimization of space missions across Geocentric, Cislunar, and interplanetary spaces.

Madhu earned his bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Communication from the Bangalore Institute of Technology in India, followed by a master’s and Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from Iowa State University. He then contributed to Space Situational Awareness as a Flight Dynamics Engineer at SpaceNav in Colorado, where he worked to ensure the safety of orbital operations. He also plays a pivotal role in the mission design efforts at GalaxEye Space in India, helping to shape the future of the country’s space initiatives.

Madhu is committed to bridging the gap between theory and industry application in his teaching. He is dedicated to creating coursework that prepares students for the evolving challenges of the space industry, leveraging his extensive industry experience to guide them in pushing the boundaries of space exploration.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Madhu is a beach-loving, happy-go-lucky individual who enjoys racquetball, stargazing, hiking, camping, and kayaking. A true foodie at heart, he delights in exploring culinary delicacies from around the globe. His enthusiasm for adventure and discovery extends from the wilderness on Earth to the vastness of space, reflecting his lifelong passion for exploration.