American Astronautical Society

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Formed in 1954, the American Astronautical Society (AAS) is the premier independent scientific and technical group in the United States exclusively dedicated to the advancement of space science and exploration. AAS strongly supports NASA's Vision for Space Exploration, and are members of the Coalition for Space Exploration and the Space Exploration Alliance. The AAS is also committed to strengthening the global space program through cooperation with international space organizations.

AAS strives to fulfill these goals through service to their members: engineers, scientists, administrators, institutions and corporations on the cutting edge of the nation's space activities. In addition, many of us support these activities as military space specialists, physicians, lawyers, educators, historians, journalists, artists and other professionals.

The AAS has long been recognized for the excellence of its national meetings, symposia and publications as well as for the impact these have had on shaping the U.S. space program. Members have opportunities to meet with leaders in their field and in related disciplines, exchange information and ideas, discuss career aspirations and expand their horizons.

The AAS has materially aided our nation in addressing future challenges by sponsoring professional, scientific and engineering meetings and by maintaining an effective publications program. The strong and active participation of corporate members, together with the support of major elements of the space industry, have enabled the Society to remain at the forefront of advancing the astronautical sciences.

[edit] AAS AWARDS

The American Astronautical Society established these awards to recognize outstanding contributions in space flight and space exploration; flight testing; space science and technology; commercial utilization of space technology; space flight safety; space flight mechanics and astrodynamics; extravehicular protection in space; public leadership in promoting the Nation's space programs and policies; development of space systems for National defense; and to recognize books that further public understanding of the impact of astronautics upon society.

The Awards are listed in the order in which they were established by the Society: