The annual scholarship, administered by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Foundation, represents a multi-year commitment that is being funded by Iridium NEXT Mission Team members including Thales Alenia Space, SpaceX, Orbital Sciences, Lockheed Martin, Boeing and SEAKR.

   A designated group of AIAA Foundation education committee members will select four scholarship winners based on a set of academic and objective criteria. The top applicant will receive a $25,000 scholarship to be used for an educational program in the areas of science, technology, engineering or mathematics, with a focus in aerospace.

   “We hope to share the legacy of the Iridium NEXT Mission Team with future aerospace engineers through this scholarship fund,” Iridium Executive Vice President of Satellite Development and Operation Scott Smith said in a statement. “The Iridium NEXT program is planned to enhance the vital role that Iridium plays in the global communications infrastructure, and gives us the opportunity to expand the commitment of Iridium and its partners to support aerospace innovation.”

   Each applicant must submit a completed application form, two letters of recommendation, a biography and a personal essay. The deadline for submissions is May 15.