Vibration-based techniques remain fundamental tools for assessing the dynamic behaviour, structural integrity, and operational reliability of aeronautical structures and systems. In the aerospace sector—where safety, performance, and lightweight design are paramount—accurate dynamic testing is essential not only for initial design validation, but also for continuous monitoring, in-service diagnostics, and life-cycle maintenance. This Special Session focuses on recent advances and innovative applications of Experimental Modal Analysis (EMA, i.e., input-output, linear and nonlinear) and Operational Modal Analysis (OMA, i.e., output-only) in Aeronautics and Space.

Contributions of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Novel developments in automated modal analysis, with particular attention to approaches that enhance the identification of modal parameters in large and complex systems such as aircraft components or space structures. Studies on Automatic OMA tailored to aerospace applications are especially encouraged.
• Real-life applications, either on scaled-down laboratory specimens or field tests, including case studies that illustrate how modern modal analysis techniques support improved Structural Health Monitoring, real-time diagnostics, predictive maintenance, or similar.
• Interdisciplinary progress, including the integration of data-driven methods and artificial intelligence to increase the accuracy and efficiency of modal analysis in both aeronautics and astronautics.

The session welcomes original research papers, either experimental, numerical, or analytical, as well as review contributions. Both academic and industrial works are encouraged, with an emphasis on practical relevance and field applications of Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT).

Keywords: Aeronautical Structures, Space Structures, Structural Health Monitoring, Experimental Modal Analysis, Operational Modal Analysis

Track chairs

Øyvind Wiig Petersen, Norwegian University of Science and Technology

Gunnstein Thomas Frøseth, Norwegian University of Science and Technology

Davide Raviolo, Norwegian University of Science and Technology