(8-28-24) Honoring the legendary astronaut and former University of Cincinnati professor Neil Armstrong, UC aims to expand and grow the university’s historic and future contributions to aviation and spaceflight with the Armstrong Institute for Space Research and Technology (ASTRO).

The Space Research Institute for Discovery and Exploration (SRIDE) has been rebranded as ASTRO. This new name was approved by the UC Board of Trustees Tuesday.

Coupled with a new logo, the new name heralds a new chapter in UC’s commitment to space research and technology. ASTRO sponsors several funding opportunities aimed at advancing space exploration, technology, and applied research. 

The student support program offers two key awards: one for undergraduates and another for graduate students. These awards are designed to support students across all disciplines exploring ideas in space exploration, technology, and applied research. Additionally, the Office of Research pilot program offers a special track for faculty who seek to conduct team-based, interdisciplinary research.

Patrick Limbach, UC’s vice president for research

“Primarily—and most importantly—we pursued this naming opportunity to enhance the stature of the students being recognized by scholarships and fellowships from the institute. Having this direct connection to Neil Armstrong within their awards immediately enhances the tie between space research, UC, and the student. We also believe this will be a key benefit for students when they graduate from UC—being directly tied to the Armstrong Institute and its research foci.”

ASTRO is fostering the creation of new knowledge, technology, and research and supporting students and UC faculty conducting applied research in space and technology. 

For more information, see the ASTRO webpage or contact Research@uc.edu.