Auburn junior awarded Astronaut Scholarship

As a child, Eirik Mulder would spend his days plane spotting on the back porch of his Tijeras, New Mexico home. In the evenings, he played computer-based flight simulator programs in his room. This fascination with flight led Mulder to study engineering and mathematics, attend Auburn University and eventually be named a 2025 Astronaut Scholar by the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation (ASF).

The prestigious award recognizes outstanding college students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) who show exceptional academic performance, ingenuity and potential to make meaningful contributions to their fields. Mulder is a junior majoring in aerospace engineering and computer science in the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering. 

A select group of students nationwide were chosen for this honor, which includes a scholarship of up to $15,000, lifelong networking and mentoring opportunities with astronauts and STEM leaders and participation in the ASF Innovators Symposium and Gala.

“I am excited about the mentoring and connection opportunities the scholarship provides, and I hope to meet the other scholars and learn what I can,” Mulder said. “Receiving the scholarship has also solidified my goals of attending graduate school and pursuing research further post-graduation. I hope to represent Auburn well as an Astronaut Scholar.”

A focus on research

Mulder is an Honors student pursuing a University Honors Scholar distinction and is currently conducting research in two different areas. He works with the 3i Space Dynamics Lab, leading the development of novel virtual reality applications for trajectory design. His research focuses on providing intuitive tools for mission design in cislunar space, which he believes could significantly reduce mission design timelines for future space missions.

His other research is with the Auburn University Small Satellite Program, where he serves as the lead software developer and chief engineer for the ASTRA-HyRAX mission. One of their missions, TRYAD, focuses on detecting terrestrial gamma-ray bursts to improve understanding of lightning formation. The ASTRA-HyRAX mission aims to detect and track incoming radio signals using a phased array.

Davide Guzzetti, associate professor in aerospace engineering, praised Mulder’s achievement.

"I have known Eirik since his freshman year. He spends several hours in our 3i Space Dynamics Lab, spearheading the development of multiple research projects focused on producing new tools and capabilities for advanced spacecraft trajectory design — in addition to all his other commitments," Guzzetti said.

"I am very happy to see him recognized by this award. Eirik has consistently demonstrated unparalleled initiative and technical ingenuity."

A bright future

After graduation, Mulder plans to attend graduate school and pursue a doctorate in aerospace engineering. His long-term goal is to become a professor or researcher, expanding the research field while mentoring students and helping develop the next generation of engineers.

“I plan to give back to the public in several ways, including mentoring other engineers in both of my research roles, engaging in STEM outreach and hopefully serving as a professor in the future. So far, I’ve volunteered for K–12 outreach in Alabama through Auburn’s Rocketry Association and events like E-Day, and I intend to continue inspiring the next generation,” he said.

“We are so proud of Eirik,” said Laura Stevens, director of the Honors College. “His drive to improve our world — and humanity’s ability to travel beyond our world — through his keen intellect and hard work epitomizes the Auburn Creed and the Honors College’s mission. We look forward to seeing the amazing contributions he makes to scientific knowledge and space exploration.”

Founded in 1984 by the Mercury 7 astronauts, the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation supports the nation’s top STEM students to strengthen the future of U.S. leadership in science and technology. ASF Scholars go on to distinguished careers in research, innovation and public service.