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This month's episode talks about the often-overlooked world of friction, wear, and lubrication in aerospace.  Discussing the importance of tribology in space travel, we have former NASA Senior Tribology Technologist, and current University of Akron Mechanical Engineering Professor, Dr. Christopher DellaCorte.  Also on our panel, former Air Force Research Laboratory Nanoelectric Materials and Process Research Team Leader, and current Associate Dean for Research at the University of North Texas, Dr. Andrey Voevodin.  We'll dive into the changing landscape of space with the emergence of private industries versus traditional government run entities.  Finally, we will consider where we have been and where we are going as humans continue to follow their desire to explore the stars.  Join us as we discuss the ingenious materials, coatings, and lubricants that ensure a frictionless ride into the sky and to the future.

Our Speakers:
Dr. Andrey Voevodin is currently the Associate Dean for Research of the College of Engineering at the University of North Texas.  Prior to this, Andrey has experience working for the Air Force Research Laboratory on nanoelectronic materials, thermal sciences and materials, and was the tribology research team leader for over 21 years. 

Dr. Christopher Dellacorte is currently a professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Akron and the director of the Timken Engineered Surfaces Lab.   Prior to this, Christopher worked at NASA as the Senior Technologist in Tribology and Rotating Machinery for over 34 years. 

Also, be prepared for Aerospace Tribology technical sessions at our 2025 Annual Meeting in Atlanta.  These will showcase presentations on tribological advancements related to both astronautical and aeronautical applications. These applications function under conditions very different from those on earth, requiring innovative solutions to tribological challenges. As human exploration extends from low earth orbit to the lunar surface to the depths of space, tribology research tailored to aerospace applications will become increasingly important.  Check in for more information on the 2025 Annual Meeting. 

For more information on STLE, please visit https://www.stle.org/ If you have an idea for our podcast, or interested in being a guest, please Email STLE Director of Professional Development Robert Morowczynski at [email protected] .   Also, we love your feedback, please take a minute to provide us with your thoughts at Perfecting Motion Podcast Feedback or Email us at [email protected].