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3 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 12 OCTOBER 2025 MUSIC From space engineering to space music Dr Leonardo Barilaro represents Malta at IAC 2025 DR Leonardo Barilaro, a Senior Lecturer in Aerospace Engineering at the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technol- ogy (MCAST) for the Aviation Depart- ment of the Institute of Engineering and Transport (IET), has made a significant impact at the 76th International Astro- nautical Congress – IAC 2025 in Sydney. Known also as the acclaimed musician ""The Space Pianist"", Dr Barilaro was the sole delegate presenting aerospace engineering research from Malta at the world's premier space conference. Held under the theme "Sustainable Space: Resilient Earth", the IAC gath- ered the global space community from September 29 to October 3. Dr Barila- ro presented three technical papers and co-authored a fourth, showcasing the high-caliber research being conducted at MCAST's Institute of Engineering and Transport to an international audience. His research addressed key challenges in space technology and sustainabili- ty. In collaboration with the University of Padova, one paper detailed the use of 3D-printed Kevlar® and carbon fibre composites for satellite shielding. This innovative approach offers a cost-effec- tive solution for protecting spacecraft from the growing threat of space debris. A second presentation focused on the "ASTROBEAT 2" project, a partnership with New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD). Building on a successful ex- periment validated on the International Space Station (ISS), this next phase will test advanced in-space repair technol- ogies and deploy new debris detection sensors. Bridging science with public engage- ment, Barilaro also presented ""Mu- sic from Space"", an outreach initiative linked to the ASTROBEAT project. This program uses original musical compo- sitions streamed from the ISS to make complex space missions more accessible and inspiring. Collaborations with re- nowned artists like Tina Guo and Steve Mazzaro have helped connect scientif- ic exploration with artistic expression to reach diverse audiences worldwide. Finally, he co-authored a paper with the University of Padova outlining a roadmap for safer orbits and responsi- ble end-of-life strategies for spacecraft, reinforcing a commitment to space sus- tainability. Beyond his scientific duties, Dr Barila- ro brought his artistic vision to Sydney at the Steinway Gallery. The moment celebrated the harmony between tech- nological innovation and creativity. "On the same day, I found myself surrounded by two of my favourite worlds; Steinway and NASA", said Barilaro. "It reminded me that art and science are driven by the same human desire to explore, to create, and to inspire." The congress also served as a vital plat- form for collaboration, where Dr Barila- ro met with global leaders to exchange ideas and establish new partnerships. "Representing MCAST and Malta's aer- ospace research on this global stage for the fourth time is an immense honour", stated Barilaro. "The work we are doing, in collaboration with esteemed interna- tional partners, is pushing the bounda- ries of what's possible. The IAC is where the future of space is shaped, and I hope this success encourages more research- ers in Malta to join and showcase the na- tion's capabilities in the years to come."