Mr. Alejandro Sabán Fosch | Systems Design | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Alejandro Sabán Fosch, GTD SSI, Spain

Mr. Alejandro Sabán Fosch is a Ph.D. candidate in Aerospace Engineering at UPC-EMFA and a Systems & Software Aerospace Engineer at GTD System & Software Engineering, Spain. With strong expertise in launcher safety, guidance, and simulation systems, he is actively contributing to cutting-edge European space initiatives including SALTO, ENVOL, and ESRANGE-RSD. His work focuses on developing autonomous flight safety systems and modular flight software solutions aimed at advancing reusable launch technologies. Alejandro combines deep technical knowledge with hands-on experience in avionics, flight dynamics, and predictive maintenance systems, supported by a solid academic foundation and international project collaboration.

Author Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Alejandro Sabán Fosch’s journey into aerospace engineering began with a strong academic foundation at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC). He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Science and Technology from EETAC-UPC, Castelldefels, specializing in air navigation, rocket and jet engines, aeroelasticity, and finite element methods. His academic excellence was quickly recognized, earning him the Best Academic Record award (2014–2018) from EETAC and the HEMAV Foundation. Notably, his Bachelor’s thesis—“Analysis of the Air Flow in Through a Car Diffuser”—was completed with honors, highlighting his ability to blend practical application with theoretical knowledge. During his undergraduate years, Alejandro also broadened his perspective through a six-month academic exchange with ETSIAE-UPM in Madrid. He later pursued a Master’s in Aeronautical Engineering with a specialization in Aerospace Vehicles at ESEIAAT-UPC, where he continued to thrive academically. His Master’s thesis on a “Modular Plant Generator Tool for Space Mission Launchers Optimization”, done in collaboration with GTD System & Software Engineering, laid the groundwork for his early industry integration and long-term research direction.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Alejandro’s professional trajectory is deeply embedded within GTD System & Software Engineering, where he has grown from a software system engineering intern to a full-fledged Systems & Software Aerospace Engineer. Since June 2020, he has been at the forefront of European space projects, notably contributing to next-generation reusable launch systems, flight safety solutions, and mission software development. In the Horizon Europe SALTO project, Alejandro leads the development and testing of an Autonomous Flight Safety System (AFSS), a groundbreaking system designed to enhance the safety and reusability of future European launchers. He plays a key role in designing ground-based systems and preparing for test campaigns at the ESRANGE Space Center in Sweden. His efforts also extend to the ESRANGE-RSD project, where he has developed real-time tracking and safety algorithms tailored to launch base operations. Beyond SALTO, he has contributed to several influential projects such as MASSIM (simulation software for flight software validation), ANDOYA LCS (launch control systems for Andøya Space Port), ENVOL (avionics and FSW for micro-launchers), and SAMMBA (virtualized launch base services). His work spans simulation, GNC (guidance, navigation, and control), and safety systems, showcasing his versatility across hardware, software, and systems engineering domains.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical/Space Engineering at UPC-EMFA, Alejandro’s research focuses on Autonomous Flight Safety Systems and Predictive Maintenance—critical areas for the future of reusable spaceflight. His doctoral work is being conducted in close collaboration with GTD System & Software Engineering and forms part of the Horizon Europe SALTO initiative, a flagship project aimed at positioning Europe at the forefront of reusable launch technologies. He has authored several impactful publications, including the 2025 Acta Astronautica article titled “Towards the First European Autonomous Flight Safety System – Software and Hardware Design” and contributions to major conferences such as IAC and EUCASS. His work bridges academic research and real-world application, particularly in the fields of real-time decision-making, mission-specific flight software, and modular avionics architectures.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Alejandro’s career has been marked by continuous academic and professional recognition. His early academic performance earned him the Best Academic Record award for his undergraduate studies. More recently, his innovative work has gained visibility through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at prestigious aerospace conferences. His career has been supported by the Doctorats Industrials programme of the Generalitat de Catalunya, a selective initiative that fosters cooperation between academia and industry for high-impact doctoral research. He has also pursued additional certifications in machine learning, Docker, and PLC development, showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and technological advancement.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Alejandro’s contributions are already influencing the development of safer, more autonomous, and reusable launch vehicles in Europe. By helping to develop systems that reduce reliance on human-in-the-loop decision-making, Alejandro is helping to lay the technical groundwork for the next generation of commercial and scientific launch systems. His work has direct applications in flight safety, predictive maintenance, GNC systems, and virtualized launch services, and he frequently collaborates with partners across Europe, including ArianeGroup, CNES, and NAMMO. His cross-functional expertise—from real-time software design to systems-level simulation—positions him as a key player in the evolution of European spaceflight infrastructure.

🌠 Legacy and Future Contributions

As he continues his Ph.D. and gains further experience in high-level aerospace systems, Alejandro is poised to become a leading figure in the next wave of European launch innovations. His contributions to SALTO and other pioneering projects signal a strong future impact on the space industry, particularly in areas like AI-driven safety systems, software-in-the-loop environments, and mission adaptability for NewSpace operators. Looking forward, Alejandro aims to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and pushing the envelope of aerospace system design. His career is a testament to what can be achieved through a blend of technical expertise, curiosity, and vision—qualities that will undoubtedly shape his legacy in the field of space engineering.

✍️Notable Publications