NASA STEM Stars: Space Station Payload Operations Directors | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Aerospace engineers from NASA's Payload Operations Integration Center discuss their careers and the coordination of scientific experiments on the International Space Station.

Key Insights

• 🇲🇭 The Payload Operations Integration Center (POIC) at the Marshall Space Flight Center coordinates and assists with scientific experiments on the International Space Station (ISS).
• 🖐️ Payload operations directors play a crucial role in providing technical direction, coordinating crew procedures, and integrating payload activities for successful science execution.
• 🔬 The ISS serves as a floating laboratory where astronauts conduct experiments in various fields, including human physiology, biology, earth science, physical science, and technology development.
• 😘 The POIC team works closely with international partners, researchers, and scientists worldwide to ensure the successful execution of over 200 experiments during each ISS expedition.
• 💪 Pursuing a career in aerospace engineering or astrophysics requires a strong foundation in math and physics, advanced coursework, internships, and mentorship opportunities.
• 👨‍🔬 NASA welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds and fields, including chemists who can contribute to different research and operational aspects of the agency.
• 🎟️ Teamwork is essential at NASA to achieve mission success, ensure safety, and foster groundbreaking scientific advancements.

Transcript

stem fans are you running let's hear it for the world-class nasa stem stars team from nasa centers across the country we present phil simmons and jessica cottle [Applause] hello and welcome to nasa stem stars where students connect first-hand with nasa scientists and engineers as well as innovators to learn more about nasa missions career paths and... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: What does a payload operations director do at NASA?

As payload operations directors, Jessica and Phil are responsible for providing technical direction to the POIC team, coordinating crew procedure execution, overseeing payload resource planning, and ensuring commanding control of systems on the ISS. They work closely with the flight director in mission control and international partners to integrate all activities for successful science execution.

Q: How can I become an astrophysicist?

To pursue a career in astrophysics, it is essential to excel in math and physics courses. Taking advanced math and physics courses in high school and college is recommended. It is also beneficial to seek mentorship and internships in related fields, and develop a strong foundation in astronomy and astrophysics.

Q: Can a chemist work at NASA?

Yes, NASA employs individuals with diverse backgrounds, including chemists. Chemists can contribute to various aspects of NASA's research and operations, such as studying chemical reactions in space, developing new materials for spacecraft, or investigating the composition of celestial objects.

Q: How important is teamwork at NASA?

Teamwork is crucial at NASA, as the successful execution of complex missions and scientific experiments requires collaboration among scientists, engineers, and mission control. Working together ensures the safety and efficiency of operations and allows for the accomplishment of groundbreaking discoveries and advancements.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• NASA's Payload Operations Integration Center (POIC) is located at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, and is responsible for planning, coordinating, and assisting with scientific experiments on the International Space Station (ISS).

• Jessica Cottle and Phil Simmons, both payload operations directors, share their career backgrounds and experiences working for NASA.

• The POIC manages the execution of over 200 experiments during each six-month ISS expedition and ensures the successful integration and coordination of scientific activities with researchers from around the world.