2019 ISSRDC Award: Development of Innovative Acquisition Strategies Enabling a Thriving Commercial Presence in Low-Earth Orbit

Each year, the International Space Station (ISS) Research and Development (R&D) Conference, held in coordination with the ISSInternational Space Station U.S. National Laboratory, NASANational Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the American Astronautical Society, highlights individuals who have pushed the boundaries of space-based research through the presentation of research awards. This week, we are spotlighting awardees in the category of “innovation,” honoring individuals who have leveraged the ISS to pioneer a new frontier in space-based science. Today’s spotlight is on Colleen King of NASA, for innovation in finance.

King, contracts specialist at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, has worked to facilitate the emerging markets in low Earth orbit(Abbreviation: LEO) The orbit around the Earth that extends up to an altitude of 2,000 km (1,200 miles) from Earth’s surface. The International Space Station’s orbit is in LEO, at an altitude of approximately 250 miles. and develop acquisition strategies that address the demands of both NASA and the commercial space sector. Her contributions have enriched commercial activities in low Earth orbit and are helping the low Earth orbit economy to continue to expand and thrive.