Now is an exciting time for space exploration. In our excitement, we should recall the mistakes made in the past here on Earth and work intentionally to ensure we are not repeating them. An absence of regulation does not mean there is an absence of ethical obligation to maintain sustainable space environments for future generations and for the intrinsic value of space itself.
Read MoreIs the current level of commercial space growth sustainable? What does sustainability even mean? As chief scientist at an engineering firm specializing in space and sustainability systems, and as a human who enjoys the serenity of the wilderness, I feel obligated to grapple with these questions.
Read MoreWe describe the relationship between mission cost and risk, examine the state of low-cost missions in the PSD, list the benefits of further commercial involvement to planetary exploration and its community, and provide a set of incentives that would evolve beyond the CLPS program by attracting further engagement by commercial space companies.
Read MoreRead a white paper I wrote with a team on a mission concept to Venus called Thalassa.
Read MoreI joined Jake Robins on the WeMartians podcast to discuss the changing paradigm of how we explore the solar system.
Read MoreHow do those in leadership roles on NASA missions manage their teams? How did they prepare for the role they’re in? How did they build teams that work together well? How do they foster a healthy team culture? Here’s the panel discussion I organized to get answers to these questions.
Read MoreMy Lunar & Planetary Science Conference 2020 abstract was rejected for related to policy and not science or missions. In my continued effort to bridge the gap between planetary science and commercial space, here’s my rejected abstract.
Read MoreAfter a few years of working with engineers, I look back on my MESSENGER experience with a fresh perspective and an appreciation for the engineers I never met who created and operated the spacecraft. Now at First Mode, I use this experience to bridge the communication gap between scientists and engineers.
Read MoreEvery time a spaceflight failure occurs, the phrase “space is hard” will invariably be uttered in response. What is it that makes space so hard?
Read MoreThe first step in effecting change is admitting that there is a problem. In order to disrupt the status quo, the planetary science community must first make changes in our culture and assumptions regarding missions.
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