Special Session on Deployable and Adaptive Space Structures
Hosted by Symposium Four
Chaired by Dr. Maria Sakovsky (Stanford) and Dr. Jordan Massad (Utah State University Space Dynamics Laboratory)
Description: This session focuses on advancements in the design, analysis, and implementation of deployable and adaptive spacecraft structures. Topics include but are not limited to innovative deployment mechanisms, lightweight materials, adaptation of shape and other mechanical properties in structures, and multifunctional materials and structures with special consideration for structures operating in the space environment. This session invites discussions on experimental validation, computational modeling, and emerging technologies that enable next-generation capabilities for solar arrays, optical and radio frequency apertures, and other space applications.
Special Session on Smart Textiles/Fabrics
Hosted jointly by Symposiums One and Two
Chaired by Dr. Julianna Abel (University of Minnesota)
Description: Smart textiles and fabrics represent an emerging class of materials that integrate advanced functionality—such as sensing, actuation, thermal regulation, and energy management—directly into fiber, yarn, or fabric architectures. The success of these fabrics depends on the development of new and unique materials such as polymers, metals, ceramics, and composites; multiscale processing routes; and structure–property–function relationships that enable reliable performance under deformation, wear, and environmental exposure. Contributions are encouraged that explore fundamental mechanisms, scalable manufacturing approaches, durability and lifecycle considerations, and new material systems that unlock adaptive or responsive behavior. This topic aims to bring together researchers developing the next generation of textile-based materials that bridge traditional materials science with emerging applications in wearables, robotics, and healthcare.
Special Session on Advanced Manufacturing Techniques and Processes
Hosted jointly by Symposiums One and Two
Chaired by Dr. Aaron Stebner (Georgia Institute of Technology)
Description: Advanced manufacturing methods encompass emerging materials, processes, and system-level approaches that enable precise control over structure, properties, and performance across length scales. This area includes, but is not limited to, additive and hybrid manufacturing, digital and data-driven processing, novel forming and joining techniques, and in situ monitoring and control of materials evolution during fabrication. Increasingly, artificial intelligence and data-driven tools are being leveraged to guide materials design, optimize processing pathways, and accelerate discovery through modeling, inverse design, and real-time process control. Contributions are encouraged that address fundamental process–structure–property relationships, scalability, reproducibility, and integration of new material systems into manufacturable platforms. This topic seeks abstracts that highlight innovative manufacturing strategies capable of accelerating materials discovery, improving performance, and enabling technologies not achievable through conventional processing routes.
Consortium for the Advancement of Shape Memory Alloy Research and Technology (CASMART) Special Session
Hosted jointly by Symposiums One and Two
Chaired by Dr. Douglas Nicholson (The Boeing Company)
Description: This focus area is intended for members of the Consortium for the Advancement of Shape Memory Alloy Research and Technology (CASMART) to highlight advances across the full shape memory alloy ecosystem. Topics include the development of new SMA compositions and microstructures, innovative devices and system-level implementations, advanced processing and manufacturing methods, and the establishment of testing protocols, standards, and best practices. This session aims to bring the CASMART community to SMASIS to share progress, align research directions, and accelerate the transition of SMA technologies from laboratory concepts to robust, deployable solutions.