UNC Charlotte Computer Engineering Student Receives 2026–2027 NC Space Grant Graduate Research Fellowship

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) congratulates Gilberto Feliu, a Computer Engineering student at UNC Charlotte and undergraduate researcher in the Controls, Optimization, Autonomy and Robotics Laboratory (COAR Lab), for being selected as a 2026–2027 North Carolina Space Grant Graduate Research Fellow.

Feliu was selected for his project, “Autonomous Deorbit Safety Satellite for the ISS Commercial LEO Transition: PPO-Supervised Behaviors and ML Risk Telemetry.” His work focuses on developing autonomy and artificial intelligence tools to support safer space operations during the transition from the International Space Station to future commercial low-Earth-orbit platforms. The project brings together reinforcement learning, machine-learning-based risk assessment, and autonomous decision-making for space systems operating in uncertain and safety-critical environments.

“This recognition is an exciting achievement for Gilberto and a strong reflection of the research culture we are building in the COAR Lab,” said Dr. Dipankar Maity, assistant professor of ECE and director of the COAR Lab. “Our lab’s research is centered on autonomy, control, optimization, and AI for complex robotic systems. Gilberto’s project is a timely example of how these tools can contribute to resilient and trustworthy autonomy for future space missions.”

The North Carolina Space Grant fellowship supports student research aligned with NASA Mission Directorates, including science, human exploration, and space technology. Feliu joins a statewide cohort of student researchers whose projects address emerging challenges in space science, engineering, and technology.