David A Barnhart
Biography
Dr. David A. Barnhart
Director of the USC Space Engineering Research Center and CEO of Arkisys Inc., Dr. David Barnhart is a recognized leader in space systems innovation. A former DARPA Program Manager, he has led major programs in satellite robotics, on-orbit assembly, and space infrastructure. With over 30 years of experience, he holds multiple patents, launched USC?s first satellites, and co-founded several pioneering aerospace initiatives. He is an AIAA Associate Fellow and recipient of multiple national and academic awards.
Research Interest
Dr. David A. Barnhart?s research focuses on advancing space systems engineering, with a particular emphasis on:
On-orbit assembly and servicing of satellites and space infrastructure
Autonomous and robotic spacecraft technologies, including geosynchronous robotics and inspection systems
Distributed satellite systems and networked space architectures
Low-cost and rapid spacecraft manufacturing
Modular and reusable space platforms for commercial and defense applications
Space system design tools integrating AI, real-time synthesis, and optimization algorithms
Small satellite mission development, testing, and operations
Space logistics, docking systems, and orbital infrastructure for future in-space construction
His interdisciplinary work bridges engineering design, real-time software systems, and national security applications, pushing the frontier of affordable, scalable, and adaptive space missions.
Abstract
"Dimesos": The Art of Interfacing Robotics to Things in Space.
The domain of robotics today translates to any type of system that manipulates, moves, affects or modifies either its environment or other things. For decades elements in space are monolithic, built on the ground and then transported to space for one purpose and life. Applying the construct of "robotics" to the space domain enables a rethinking of how single use elements are designed and can be utilized, post launch. The singular challenge to changing this entrenched culture is the lowly "interface"; the entity that connects two or more things together. This talk with discuss the unique challenges and morphology of space system design, and where potential connection points between elements may lie for efficiency and optimization, all under the rubric of applying elements of robotics to affect, post launch.
