August 10, 2026 — Dr. Olivier Mousis, a program director in the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) Solar System Science and Exploration Division, has been elected an Academician, or full member, of the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA). Full membership to the IAA recognizes distinguished contributions to space science and exploration.
Founded in 1960, the IAA is an independent, non-governmental organization dedicated to advancing astronautics and fostering international cooperation in the exploration of space. The IAA has more than 1,200 full members, elected by peers, representing more than 90 countries.
At SwRI, Mousis leads research and program development focused on the origin and evolution of the solar system, with a particular emphasis on giant planets, planetary atmospheres and the chemistry of volatile materials. His work supports the development of future planetary exploration missions through theoretical modeling, scientific research and frequent collaborations with NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA) and other international research institutions.
Mousis is involved in several major planetary exploration missions, including NASA’s Europa Clipper mission and ESA’s Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (Juice). He serves as editor-in-chief of Earth and Planetary Science Letters, one of the leading international journals for planetary and Earth sciences.
Before joining SwRI in 2025, Mousis was named a distinguished professor of astrophysics at Aix-Marseille University in France. There, he directed the Institut Origines, an interdisciplinary research institute dedicated studying cosmic and planetary origins. In 2022, the Institut Universitaire de France selected Mousis as a Senior Fundamental Research Chair, one of France’s highest academic distinctions recognizing leading university researchers across France.
Mousis has authored 290 peer-reviewed scientific publications. He is internationally recognized for his contributions to the understanding of giant planet formation, planetary atmospheres, and the origin and evolution of volatile materials throughout the solar system. Most recently, Mousis led a study, featured in The Planetary Science Journal, demonstrating how complex organic molecules, key chemical precursors to life, could have been incorporated into Jupiter’s Galilean moons during their formation.
“I am deeply honored to be elected an Academician of the International Academy of Astronautics,” said Mousis. “This recognition reflects the many collaborations I have had the privilege to build throughout my career. I am especially grateful to my colleagues at SwRI for providing an outstanding environment for scientific discovery and innovation. ”
Earlier this year, Mousis was honored by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) with an asteroid named after him. Asteroid (20565) Oliviermousis, formerly (20565) 1999 RR123, recognizes his contribution to the study of minor solar system bodies.
For more information, visit Space Science or contact Jesus Chavez, +1 210 522 2258, Communications Department, Southwest Research Institute, 6220 Culebra Road, San Antonio, TX 78238-5166.