Mahhad Nayyer

Mahhad Nayyer is a PhD candidate in Astrodynamics at Purdue University’s School of Aeronautics and Astronautics, with a research focus on Space Situational Awareness (SSA). Early in his career, he worked in the SSA sector in Pakistan, gaining hands-on experience installing and operating optical sensors for space object detection and tracking. Beyond his academic work, Mahhad is actively engaged in the global space policy and sustainability community. He previously served as Co-Lead for Space Safety and Sustainability at the Space Generation Advisory Council and currently serves as Vice Chair for Emerging Space Ecosystems in the Asia-Pacific region within the International Astronautical Federation. In recognition of his technical contributions and sustained volunteer leadership, particularly in advancing space safety and sustainability efforts in emerging space economies, Mahhad was named a 2025 IAF Young Space Leader and received the Patti Grace Smith Award from the American Astronautical Society.