American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, often called the AIAA, is a professional society for engineers and scientists engaged in aviation and space work. The AIAA addresses the needs of professionals who design, develop, build, test, and operate air and space vehicles and equipment. It operates regional sections throughout the United States as well as several sections overseas. It sponsors conferences and publishes books, journals, a monthly magazine, and a number of electronic products. The AIAA was established in 1963 through the consolidation of the American Rocket Society and the Institute of the Aerospace Sciences. Headquarters are in Washington, D.C.