Meet our Scientists: Ice2Thrust.Space Highlights Matteo El Hariry — Bridging AI and the Physical World

On the picture: Matteo El Hariry, Postdoctoral Researcher, University of Luxembourg, Contributor to Ice2Thrust.Space (S4I2T)

Ice2Thrust.Space is proud to spotlight the contribution of Matteo El Hariry, Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Luxembourg, whose work on AI-driven autonomy is helping shape the future of intelligent space systems.

Matteo’s path into science has always been guided by a deep curiosity about how intelligent systems can interact with the physical world. Starting in computer science and engineering, he gradually moved toward robotics and artificial intelligence, focusing on how learning-based methods can enable autonomous systems to operate in complex and uncertain environments.

Today, at the University of Luxembourg, Matteo develops AI-driven guidance, navigation, and control systems for space and robotic applications. Within the Ice2Thrust project, his work centres on autonomous proximity operations, docking, and in-orbit refuelling — designing algorithms that allow spacecraft to make decisions and adapt in real time. His research combines reinforcement learning, simulation, and hardware validation, including experiments on floating platforms that replicate microgravity conditions.

What motivates him most is bridging the gap between advanced AI methods and real-world systems. Having contributed to technologies that were eventually deployed on space missions, Matteo is particularly focused on ensuring that research translates into reliable and impactful solutions. One of the defining challenges in his field is dealing with uncertainty: space systems operate in environments where modelling is imperfect and adaptability is essential.

Looking ahead, Matteo hopes to contribute to the development of autonomous systems that not only improve space operations but also help address complex challenges on Earth — from sustainability to exploration.

Contact: Matteo El Hariry, Postdoctoral Researcher, University of Luxembourg, Contributor to Ice2Thrust.Space, matteo.elhariry(@)uni.lu