A Decade of Aerospace Research in Latin America: An Analysis of Thematic and Methodological Trends in Peer-Reviewed Publications

Duran-Aquino R.C.; Bonilla-Santiago J.J.; Cuba-Vargas K.; Inga A.J.V. · Proceedings of the International Astronautical Congress, IAC (2025) · DOI: 10.52202/083107-0006

Resumen

Over the past decade, aerospace research in Latin America has experienced significant growth, reflecting both regional priorities and global scientific integration. This study presents a systematic bibliometric analysis of 23,689 peer-reviewed articles from the Scopus database (2014-2024) to map the thematic and methodological trends shaping the region's aerospace research landscape. Results reveal a consistent upward trajectory, with a 127% increase in annual publications, led by Brazil (49.7% of total output), followed by Mexico, Chile, and Argentina. Thematic analysis identifies a dual focus: a strong applications-driven strand in Earth and Planetary Sciences (19.5%), emphasizing remote sensing, satellite imagery, and UAVs for environmental monitoring and resource management; and a distinct astronomy and astrophysics strand (11.6%), driven by unique geographical assets like the Atacama Desert. Methodologically, the research is characterized by simulation-based studies, experimental designs, and data-intensive observational techniques. Furthermore, the publication strategy shows a pronounced orientation towards high-impact, English-language journals (92.1%) and a strong commitment to Open Access (53.4%), highlighting deep integration into the global research community. However, collaboration patterns suggest that intra-regional networks remain underdeveloped compared to extra-regional ties. The findings provide a foundational understanding of how Latin America’s unique contexts shape its scientific contributions and underscore the need for strategic policies to bolster regional cooperation and capacity building in aerospace science. Copyright

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos; Universidad Científica del Sur; Universidad Continental