Luigi T. DeLuca

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Luigi T. DeLuca is a leading authority in aerospace propulsion and space debris mitigation, with a career dedicated to advancing the safety and sustainability of space operations. His research focuses on hybrid rocket propulsion, solid propellant combustion, and the active removal of orbital debris—a critical issue for the future of spaceflight. DeLuca’s most-cited work, "Active space debris removal by a hybrid propulsion module" (2013, 75 citations), proposes an innovative, cost-effective solution for deorbiting defunct satellites using a hybrid propulsion system, directly addressing the growing threat of collisions in low Earth orbit. Beyond this, he has made foundational contributions to the understanding of solid rocket motor combustion instabilities and the development of green propellants, publishing over 200 papers and earning more than 2,500 citations. A former professor at the Politecnico di Milano and a key figure in the International Astronautical Federation, DeLuca’s work has shaped both academic theory and practical engineering for cleaner, safer space access. His research continues to inspire new generations of engineers tackling the challenges of space debris and advanced propulsion.