Gaurav Misra

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

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About

Gaurav Misra is a leading researcher in space robotics, with a primary focus on trajectory planning and control for free-floating robotic systems. His most-cited work, "Task-Constrained Trajectory Planning of Free-Floating Space-Robotic Systems Using Convex Optimization" (2017, 72 citations), addresses a critical challenge in on-orbit servicing: planning safe, efficient motions for a robot arm mounted on an unactuated, freely-drifting spacecraft. By formulating the problem as a convex optimization, Misra enables real-time computation of trajectories that satisfy task constraints—such as avoiding collisions or maintaining a specific end-effector pose—while managing the system's inherent kinematic redundancy. This breakthrough has significant implications for debris removal, satellite refueling, and assembly missions, where precise manipulation without fuel-wasting base thrusters is essential. His work bridges the gap between theoretical optimal control and practical space operations, earning recognition for its computational efficiency and robustness. Beyond this flagship paper, Misra continues to advance the field through contributions to redundant manipulator kinematics and constraint-aware planning, making him a key figure in the next generation of autonomous space robotics.