Dear Colleagues,

Deep space exploration is dedicated to advancing our understanding and capabilities of exploring the depths of outer space. The exploration of deep space presents unique challenges and opportunities that can not only drive scientific and technological advancements, but also inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs and explorers. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in deep space missions, fueled by the desire to uncover the mysteries of the Universe and expand human presence beyond Earth's boundaries.

The current landscape of deep space exploration is characterized by remarkable achievements and ongoing research efforts. However, several crucial questions and challenges remain. These include developing advanced propulsion systems for long-duration interstellar travel, engineering robust and autonomous spacecraft capable of withstanding extreme conditions, designing robotic systems for space and planetary operations, and devising efficient communication and navigation systems for deep space missions. Additionally, the protection of astronauts from the hazards of cosmic radiation and the sustainable utilization of space resources for long-term spacefaring are important considerations in the pursuit of deep space exploration.

We welcome contributions to this Special Issue that address the various aspects of deep space exploration. We encourage researchers and experts from multidisciplinary backgrounds to submit their original research, review articles, and conceptual studies. Topics of interest include but are not limited to:

• Spacecraft design and engineering;
• Propulsion technologies;
• Mission planning and operations;
• Orbital mechanics for deep space exploration;
• Deep space exploration navigation guidance and control;
• Robotics systems for space and planetary operations;
• Artificial intelligence for deep space exploration;
• Life support systems;
• Planetary sciences;
• Astrobiology;
• Space resources utilization.

By bringing together cutting-edge research and diverse perspectives, this Special Issue aims to foster collaboration and drive innovation in the field of deep space exploration.

Prof. Dr. Shuang Li
Prof. Dr. M. Reza Emami
Prof. Dr. Pierre Rochus
Dr. Hongwei Yang
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Aerospace is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• space exploration
• orbital mechanics
• space missions