Profile

Name

Andre Popinhak

Nationality

Brazilian, Canadian, and Italian

Bio

From my early adolescence, I’ve been humbled and inspired by
the complexities of machinery — how cars come to life and aircraft challenge
the skies. This sense of wonder propelled me towards engineering, where I’ve
had the privilege of amassing a wealth of multidisciplinary experiences.

In Brazil, during my undergraduate years at UDESC studying
Mechanical Engineering, I embarked on my first research endeavor by designing a
plasma chamber for the study of surface treatments under plasma discharges.
This project stands as a profound learning experience that I hold close to my
heart.

My academic journey continued in Italy at UNIMORE, where an
internship immersed me in the vast world of fluid mechanics. This experience
led me to pursue a master’s degree in experimental thermal fluid mechanics at
UFSC, delving into the intricacies of turbulent natural convection within
enclosed spaces.

While at Whirlpool, my role as a thermodynamics specialist
tasked me with developing compressors for refrigerators. This position
underscored the importance of collaboration as I frequently interfaced with
experts spanning disciplines from fluid mechanics and thermodynamics to
acoustics and structural analysis. This multifaceted exposure solidified my
belief in the unparalleled power of diverse collaboration. During my time
there, I achieved a significant milestone by securing a patent, accomplished
through rigorous CFD analysis and subsequent experimental validation.

Subsequently, my thirst for knowledge led me to the
Aerospace Engineering department at TU Delft in the Netherlands. Engaging with
tomographic-particle Image Velocimetry, I was constantly reminded of the
expansive nature of my field and the ever-present avenues for learning.

As I near the completion of my Ph.D. at the University of
Calgary in Canada, I find myself engrossed in the study of sensor-based
estimation in separated subsonic flows. This research, encompassing intricate
data analysis, decomposition methods, and spectral analysis, serves as a daily
reminder of the boundless complexities of fluid flow and the exhilaration that
comes from deciphering them.

Outside of academic and professional spheres, karate has
anchored me. Representing Alberta at the Canadian Nationals remains one of my
proudest moments, symbolizing lessons in humility, perseverance, and
discipline.

Upon the recommendation of Rodrigo Santiago Carvalho, a
respected Astronaut Scientist Candidate from the Class of 2018, I turn to the
Institute for Astronautics Sciences. Reflecting on my journey, I recognize the
vast expanse of knowledge yet to be charted. One of my deepest aspirations is
to spearhead experiments in micro-gravity environments, delving into the
subtleties of remote sensing — from sub-orbital flights to voyages that push
the boundaries of our known universe. My eagerness to learn is matched only by
my desire to elevate others alongside me on this transformative journey.
Through every experiment and venture into the unknown, I remain steadfast in my
commitment to space exploration. I envision a future not as a lone individual
reaching for the stars, but as part of a collective endeavoring to redefine the
confines of our known universe.

Academic Background
  1. Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering (UDESC, Brazil)
  2. Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering (UFSC, Brazil)
  3. Visiting Researcher in Aerospace Engineering (TU Delft, Netherlands)
  4. PhD in Mechanical Engineering (University of Calgary, Canada)—finalizing by the fall of 2023.
Professional Interests
  1. Data Analysis
  2. Remote sensing for monitoring and control purposes
  3. Sensor estimation
  4. Low-order models
  5. Fluid flows
  6. Space travel
  7. Hypersonic flows of reentry vehicles
Certifications

Open University Student

Social Profiles

Linked In

ca.linkedin.com/in/popinhak1/en

top
© 2024 International Institute for Astronautical Sciences, a DBA of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization ‘Project PoSSUM, Inc.'    
X