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South Texas Space Science Institute
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    With interests in Astronomy and Astrophysics; Space Technology, Materials and Medicine; and Earth and Planetary Science, the South Texas Space Science Institute is exploring a broad range of research topics.

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      • Astronomy and Astrophysics
      • Space Technology, Materials and Medicine
      • Earth and Planetary Science
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    With a focus on various aspects of the space sciences, STSSI is working to build and incorporate specialized courses to prepare our students for careers as research scientists and / or entrepreneurs in the ever-growing field of space sciences.

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      • Undergraduate Space Science Experience
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    The South Texas Space Science Institute (STSSI) at UTRGV expands access to diverse and inclusive STEM career opportunities to meet the academic and economic challenges facing our community in the field of space science.

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    The South Texas Space Science Institute (STSSI) at UTRGV expands access to diverse and inclusive STEM career opportunities to meet the academic and economic challenges facing our community in the field of space science.

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Research Hubs

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Research Hubs

Each of the faculty that comprise the South Texas Space Science Institute is an expert in their respective field. In addition to their roles at professor, almost all serve as mentors to graduate students and lead research labs and projects.

Dive in to the various research hubs below and learn how they are guiding the next generation of space science experts with the use of state-of-the-art equipment and methods.

Professor in white lab coat with surrounded by students smiling and posing for group picture.

Astrobiochemistry Lab

Focus on prebiotic chemistry – particularly on autocatalytic and pre-genetic evolutionary processes – as well as chemical biosignatures for space exploration.

Cristina Torres Memorial Observatory at dusk.

CTMO

Optical observatory located in Resaca de la Palma State Park, in Brownsville, utilized for research, education and outreach.

Satellite image of a river meeting a larger body of water.

Geomorphology Lab

Utilizing sediment transport and fluid flow theories, field and remotely sensed observations, and numerical models the lab explores modern surface dynamics and ancient sedimentary records.

Artificial intelligence created image of astronaunts harvesting resources on the moon.

ISRU

Research on consolidating lunar regolith simulant through combustion synthesis focusing on using an innovative technique to process and stabilize regolith material.

South Texas Space Science Institute icon in orange and white with icons representing various fields of space science research.

SEERS

Cohort-driven student model combining mentoring, teamwork and leadership training, presentation and communication skills, with significant research at the cutting edge of astronomy and space technology.

Digital rendering of a large satellite comprised of open hexagons hovering over Earth.

STARGATE

Developing new radio frequency-based and other technologies for space exploration and commercialization. Project has already identified specific, innovative devices and improved algorithms that will allow for the next generation of orbital communication systems.

Explore our research areas

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
  • Space Technology, Materials and Medicine
  • Earth and Planetary Sciences

South Texas Space Science Institute


Brownsville

BINAB 2.136
956-882-7151

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Monday - Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM CST

STSSI Contact

stssi@utrgv.edu
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