50th Anniversary Gala Essay Contest Entries

“Why Does NASA Inspire Me?”

Once upon a time, a seven year old boy sat transfixed in front of his television set watching the grainy image of a man in a bulky, white space suit step on to the surface of another world. That man was Neil Armstrong taking his giant leap for Mankind. That boy was me. That night, NASA inspired me by demonstrating that dreams can become reality. The Apollo explorations of the Moon proved that a future imagined can be a future realized. Apollo took a boy’s spark of interest and turned that spark into a guiding light that illuminated his path forward, just as it did for countless other “children of Apollo.”

In 1983, that path brought me to the Lewis Research Center, and my dream of being part of the exploration of space became a reality. And I have been living that dream for the last twenty-five years!

Why does NASA continue to inspire me? By returning to the Moon as a prelude to reaching further out into space, NASA is leading Humanity on its first step from the cradle of Earth out into the Universe. NASA has sparked another guiding light, illuminating a path leading to the future. Just as they did from Apollo, new generations will find THEIR paths illuminated by that same light. They will carry that torch forward, continuing to light a path for successive generations that will follow. The technological developments we will make along the way will be applied to benefit those who remain at Home, just as they did in Apollo. But those inspired by the light will forever look outward.

Our future lies out there; one giant leap at a time for all Mankind!

Sheila Bailey

When asked I claim that I have the best job in the world. I, little ole me from Nowhere, USA, gets to do research and work on projects that will create the miracles of the future. It’s an awesome responsibility and an exciting prospect. We, all of us at NASA holding hands and doing our jobs, will make our future in space exploration real. I can only imagine the awe of all those NASA engineers and scientists who contributed to the Apollo program when Neil Armstrong first walked on the moon. It wasn’t only scientists and engineers that made it happen. There were procurement personnel, secretaries, accountants, lawyers, administration, technicians, contractors and countless others whose jobs contributed to that first step for mankind. We have a right to be proud.

It’s not just the launch of the space shuttle, or a picture from Hubble or a Mars Exploration Rover or Lander, it’s also getting on a plane and knowing we did our part to make it safer, quieter, and more fuel-efficient. It’s knowing we contributed to understanding our earth’s climate, improved worldwide communication, led in the development of renewable energy resources for the “benefit of mankind”. The world has shared our triumphs and our sorrows. We’ve been out in our communities and schools sharing our excitement and educating children and the public. We live every day with the excitement that science and math can bring to our world and hopefully we prepare for the future with our outreach. Goddard said, “It is difficult to say what is impossible, for the dream of yesterday is the hope of today and the reality of tomorrow.” I feel NASA inspires the opportunity to create that reality of tomorrow and also leave the world a better place for our children and grandchildren.

Steven Barsi

For centuries, history has taught us that the benefits of exploration are immeasurable. The lessons of the ancient odysseys romanticized by the Greeks and Romans were that “fortune [often] sides with him who dares.” Throughout history, many have dared to explore. From the seafaring nations of the fifteenth and sixteen centuries to the spacefaring nations of the twentieth century and beyond, the ability of man to conquer the unknown, to reach beyond his current grasp, has always been a source of inspiration to me and to countless others.

Exploration is not an endeavor for the faint of heart. The sacrifice and courage required can challenge the human spirit. Though to paraphrase President Kennedy, we undertake these challenges willingly not because they are easy, but because they are hard. Because by overcoming these challenges we become better than we initially are.

Exploration not only involves setting foot on some foreign land, but also involves pushing the frontiers of science and technology. In the little more than one hundred years since the Wright brothers first took flight and in the fifty years since man first ventured into space, the technological rewards reaped by this nation have been extraordinary. Advances in transportation, medical diagnostics, communications, and Earth-sensing satellites have increased our standard of living, taught us more about ourselves, and have, in part, resulted from the efforts of NASA, a place where dreams have a habit of turning into reality.

As we embark on our next great adventure, to the Moon and beyond, the allure of what might lie ahead appeals to the best in us. Hopefully, the greatest legacy of this new mission will be to inspire the next generation who will take up the mantel of scientific and technological discovery for the betterment of all.

Steve W. Bauman

People came non-stop in droves to see what NASA had on display. The interest shown and the questions asked were continual and enthusiastic. This was the wonderful reality for every day that I volunteered to work at NASA Glenn’s Journey-to-Tomorrow Traveling Exhibit at this summer’s AirVenture air show at Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Despite the dizzying number of beautiful airplanes, attractive commercial displays, and non-stop flying aircraft, people gave high priority to spending time with NASA. Our theme was to educate and excite the public about NASA’s development of two new rockets, and our plans to return to the moon. It was fun to watch their excited reaction to the movie we showed at the front of the trailer, to the rocket models, the various interactive displays, and finally, to the real moon rock, returned during the Apollo era. The interest and excitement shown by both young and old, men and woman, and all races and nationalities was remarkable. But best of all, the experience reminded me of why people love NASA, and why I love NASA, and how, as a NASA engineer, I am inspired every day to give my very best.

In a sense, the reason is easy to understand, perhaps especially with the backdrop of an air show: NASA quite simply is at the top of the aerospace food chain. Our business is to go higher, faster, and farther than anything or anybody else on earth. NASA also works to improve airplanes and engines, to make air travel safer, quieter, more fuel efficient, and to protect the environment. But we are better known for making reality out of mankind’s most far reaching dreams – by space travel and planetary studies that extend the human reach well beyond our planet. NASA inspires people, and people are what power NASA.

Charles (Skip) Bender

Why does NASA inspire me?

There are many reasons NASA inspirers me, but there are two that stand out to me above all the others.

The first is that we work for the benefit of all humanity. The second is that we bring the Future into the Present.

For many years NASA has been a leader in technology, environmental science, medicine, communications, aeronautics, space exploration and has shared the knowledge it has gained with the world. The vast majority of people that I have worked with or have meant, here at NASA, have been the types that are willing to help their fellow man under any circumstances. We work together for the betterment of society and not for profit.

Like the explorers of old, our astronauts are ready and willing to take on the unknowns of space. Critics may say that the space program is waste of time and money, but do they not benefit in one way or another from the knowledge that is learned? Space flight is our pathway to the stars, other worlds, and possibly other civilizations.

I know that there are people in our country and the world, in all walks of life, that think NASA is the greatest thing since the discover of fire. I was fortunate enough to be a bus guide for the Open House at Plum Brook Station. I was able to talk to a large number of people as the entered or exited the bus. The thing that made me proud to be associated with NASA was when the people were leaving they were thanking us for the opportunity to learn about NASA and the station.

Kristen Bury

My co-op experiences at NASA are the culmination of 21 years of what now seems like a very pleasant dream I never had to wake up from. Never in my life have I wanted anything as much as a job at NASA. Each hour of studying in school was for NASA. I couldn’t just be good; I had to be the best, because NASA is the meeting place of the nation’s brightest minds. The honor roll wasn’t good enough. Only the title of Valedictorian would do; that’s what all the astronauts are. Majoring in engineering wasn’t a choice; it was an imperative. NASA is an agency of innovators. Nothing has ever been so mind-numbingly important. Membership to such an exclusive club of intelligent, pioneering professionals was all I could think about.

But belonging to the NASA club was nothing compared to the carrying out the agency’s exploration mission. It has always been the zenith of ingenuity for me. Spaceflight is breathtaking, gut-wrenchingly terrifying, and so innately human. Watching a shuttle roar off to the stars carrying the most precious of cargos will never be trivial to me. Now I have the chance to help design the vehicle that will take us back to the moon. I still haven’t wrapped my head around that.

When I talk about NASA the words bubble effortlessly. They aren’t tiny drip-drops in a pond of lackluster sentiment. When I talk about my agency, my whole body hums with excitement, my hands shake, my eyes shine, and I let loose a deluge of wonder. I cannot believe I am part of such a vastly large and harmonized team. It is perhaps the greatest inspiration yet. All of my expectations are exceeded, and I truly cannot wait to see where this fantastic adventure takes me!

Peggy A. Cornell

Do you feel the sense of national pride when one speaks the words “National Aeronautics and Space Administration”? They are not merely words that define a government agency; they are a culmination of fifty years of continuing challenge, emotion, honor, humbling failure and crucial success.

From the Sputnik challenge to Mars exploration, NASA bears the ultimate task in that it carries with it the heart of every American and the envy of every nation. The Mercury and Gemini missions fulfilled our childhood dreams by overcoming our barriers of human spaceflight. The awe-inspiring Apollo missions demanded pause and reflection, determination to move forward, and victory. Skylab left us with promise and a reminder of our purpose, while the space shuttle era delivered triumphs, tragedies, and technological character to manned missions. Our horizons were expanded and our diversity strengthened with our involvement in the International Space Station, allowing us to achieve the shared vision of unending human presence in space. Further, unmanned spacecraft, which has advanced our awareness and opened our minds, has driven us to new ideas and undertakings previously unimagined.

The accomplishments NASA has made over the past fifty years have allowed not only for the development of science, research and technology in space, but here on Earth as well. Advancing our quality of life through means that challenge and inspire the human intellect gives each American a sense of identity and a feeling of community with this agency.

It is this special unity that assures us that the price our NASA heroes paid for our successes was not burdened by them alone, nor were their losses for an insignificant cause. NASA is a part of who we are, enabling us all to accomplish goals that we cannot attain alone, and profoundly inspiring each and every one of us.

Barbara Garver

Why does NASA inspire me?
It may sound trite, but NASA has always inspired me. My earliest memories were of my mother dropping my father off at the doors to ERB where he worked as an engineer. As he disappeared inside the doors, I would imagine what it might be like to work in such a mysterious place.

My father would often teach us about NASA as we built paper airplanes and peered into space with our telescope. He would name the planets and the stars and explain how NASA would someday make a lunar landing. We would stare at the moon feeling overwhelmed at the immensity of the prospect. And when vision became reality in July 1969, you could hear the reverence in his voice as he said, “we did it”. I still remember the longing I had to be part of the “we” and now tribute that moment as the catalyst to deciding to spend my career at GRC.

How could someone not be inspired by NASA? All it takes is to look up on a dark night and let your imagination run wild as you gaze at the face of the moon and the beckoning light of the stars. All it takes is to know that some of the most talented people on earth have already made great inroads into discovering the secrets of the universe and many more wait in the wings with bold dreams and vivid imaginations. All it takes is the realization of how lucky we are to be part of creating NASA’s future.

For me, all it takes is to think of my father and how proud he would be to know that his love and passion for NASA now resides in the third generation of family supporting the NASA mission.

George Gazauskas

Why does NASA Inspire Me?

The NASA Mission: to pioneer the future in space, scientific discovery, and aeronautics research is inspirational in itself, but NASA means much more to me in my world?

Beyond the goals and objectives, NASA is a culture unlike any other in corporate America. It’s the overwhelming feeling of teamwork that pervades the Agency that impresses me. It’s the underlying goal of Safety for all missions in space, on the ground, and in the work place, that amazes, and protects, me. It’s the value that NASA places on the opinions of others and the fact that they actually seek those with views from diverse backgrounds in the quest of formidable challenges. It’s the learning environment at NASA where experience, research, education, and even lessons learned from our mistakes and errors are shared and exploited amongst the team to promote growth and improvement. Sure, there’s bureaucratic baloney that comes with any government organization. And as stifling as that may be, it’s the feeling of teams, the culture of learning, and the respect for tradition that makes up NASA. That is what really inspires me.

I’m reminded of it daily as I drive through the gate, “For the Benefit of All”. That’s what NASA is. I am thrilled to be here! I am proud to be part of NASA.

Carlos Gomez

“Why does NASA inspire me?”
NASA.
The name alone inspires.
Moon landings. Space shuttles blasting into orbit. Rovers exploring Mars. Probes flying deep into outer space. Mention the name NASA and people are always interested.
I know because I am one of them.

As a boy I was captivated by the Apollo moon missions. The black and white imagery of men on another planet and the “beep” between communications breaks as the astronauts spoke to Mission Control. Fuel for a young boy’s imagination. As a kid aviation was my life blood. I learned that NACA and later NASA not only discovered and defined the dynamics of flight, but also gave shape to the air vehicles of my fascination. My amazement with and admiration of the organization grew.

With great interest I watched via television in high school as the era of the space shuttle began. A spaceship that could go to orbit yet return to land like an airplane? Amazing! NASA had done it again.

Suddenly, as if out of a dream, I found myself to have become a NASA employee. For an aviation enthusiast like me, NASA was THE place to be. Aviation and space research that I had only read about was now occurring right before me and not only that, I was doing the research as well!

Why does NASA inspire me? It is because NASA is the pioneer of discovery.
The achiever of the impossible. The enabler of the future.
Quite simply, I am inspired because NASA can!
NASA has a unique place in the world because it has a unique place in the hearts and minds of every generation.

Mention the name NASA and imaginations take flight. Spirits soars. People respond with the thrill of excited wonder.
I know because I am one of them.

Roland Gregg

As the 50th anniversary approaches for the NASA agency, I think of how much this agency has been a source of inspiration for so many people that I know. Mentioning the acronym to children brings a chorus of WOWs from the inventive minds that begin to ask me what I do here. I am inspired to be a part of the agency that has the purpose of advancing the technical abilities of this nation, and in fact the whole world, with the new discoveries that have been routinely made by the Scientists, Engineers, Technicians, Professors, and Students who have participated in the success of NASA.

This agency has made some incredible achievements during it’s first 50 years and I am determined to do my part in contributing to the achievements of the next 50 years so that the next generation might continue to be inspired to continue in the tradition of excellence that has been laid by NASA.

Christopher Hartenstein

About a year ago, I was teaching in a public school in Cleveland Heights. My wife saw an employment advertisement in the Plain Dealer, calling for math and science teachers to work for NASA. When she suggested applying, I responded with cynicism. There was no way that NASA wanted me. I was just a middle school teacher, several years out of college and no major accomplishments besides surviving two years in an urban school. But you know how loved ones can be; in as supportive a voice as possible, she told me to get off my lazy butt and give it a shot. “You might be just what they are looking for,” she said.

The interview went well; I was selected. Ironically, I have spent the past year working for NASA Explorer Schools, encouraging other educators of underrepresented populations to inspire their students to strive for NASA. For many of their students, NASA is believed to be unattainable. People from their neighborhoods just do not go to work for NASA. I give them the same supportive push that my wife gave me.

As if working for NASA Education was not reward enough, I have gotten to be a part of NASA’s golden anniversary. I was given the opportunity participate in both Glenn open houses, the Columbus Future Forum and the upcoming Chicago Future Forum event as an education staff member. I hear many employees talk of these events as if they are obligations. I consider them privileges. I get to share my NASA inspiration with the children in attendance. I tell them that it is people their age who will grow up to be astronauts and first step foot on Mars. When they look at me in disbelief, I tell them, “You might be just what they are looking for.”

Joseph Hemminger

Why Does NASA Inspire Me?

I’ve been part of this adventure for 40 of NASA’s 50 years and it still excites me. Why? Many volumes have already been written but…especially as we observe the Earth’s history playing out…a few reasons stand out:

NASA opens our eyes to the wonders of the Universe and humanity’s little piece of it. Few will forget the images of the Apollo-8 view of the Earth from the Moon, the International Space Station with the Earth as backdrop, and the awe-inspiring, deep-space “artwork” from the Hubble telescope.

NASA brings out the best of humanity by fostering world-wide space collaboration amongst often-bickering sibling nations. This brings us hope that someday all of humanity will be able to give greater weight to our commonalities and to appreciate rather than fight over our differences.

NASA’s people are among the best, the brightest, and most caring. Their imagination, teamwork, and spirit of personal sacrifice are models to the world. Apollo-1, Challenger, and Columbia remind us of those who offered the ultimate sacrifice.

NASA takes the long view of caring for humanity by “growing the seed corn” needed for human survival. This comes from the recognition that the time to invest in the technology for both care of our planet and interplanetary colonization is now when the Earth has the resources to support it, not in the future when resources and people are under significantly more stress.

Finally, NASA satisfies a large piece of humanity’s yearning and need for adventure and exploration. Star Trek’s “Final Frontier” beckons us to learn her secrets.
Let us continue to “Go Where No Person Has Gone Before”!!!

David Irimies

“Why does NASA inspire me?”

NASA inspires me for its tremendous source of innovation, impact, and national pride. Many innovations fail to make a lasting impact. However, NASA has driven many technologies and spin-off companies that have enabled success on aeronautical and space missions. These NASA successes have subsequently led to everyday products from America.

A very short list of these everyday products include: scratch-resistant and UV-blocking sunglasses (based on NASA technology to filter out harmful radiation particles in orbit); wireless headsets (Neil Armstrong’s legendary words when he landed on the Moon); liquidmetal alloys (used on multiple Shuttle missions and found in today’s golf clubs, tennis rackets, and artificial limbs); embedded web technology (developed by my branch here at Glenn to allow ISS astronauts to remotely run experiments, and used in today’s internet appliances); solar panels (developed in part here at Glenn and supplying key power on the ISS); infrared ear thermometers (used by many doctors today when checking patients); voltage controllers (developed by Marshall and used in escalators, blenders, conveyor belts, and elevators); anti-icing systems on airplane wings (developed in part here at Glenn); less noisy jet engines (developed in part here at Glenn); and clean room apparel (used by Intel and other chip manufacturers to help make the most important part of our computers).

I am proud to be a part of the team developing the software that will be used on the future Constellation EVA (Extravehicular Activity) lunar suits. To have such a unique opportunity to drive new technologies that may one day be used in everyone’s life inspires me to come here everyday and put in my best effort. For me, NASA’s innovations have led to many successful, high-impact missions and everyday products; which in turn has become a tremendous source of national pride for me and many other Americans.

Barbara Kakiris

“What do you want to be when you grow up?”

It’s a question frequently asked of children around the world, and one common theme emerges from the answers. “I want to be an astronaut,” says the child in the U.S. «Je veux être un astronaute,» says the French child. “Deseo ser astronauta,” says the Spanish child. The reason for this sentiment being echoed globally from the mouths of our youth is the same reason that NASA inspires me, and it’s simple—when you’re young, you dream big. Being an astronaut conjures ideas of unattainable adventure and knowledge, but the beauty is that no matter how far-fetched it seems, kids want to pursue those ideals. NASA is not only dedicated to feeding that desire, drive, and imagination in children, but it also attracts adults who haven’t lost those qualities as they’ve matured. And working with these people is inspiring, period. In my job, I learn a lot about the Center’s employees and I’ve had the honor of working with the R&T Director, who was drawn to NASA because of “its innovative spirit and vision to explore new frontiers.” Not only that, but she chose a non-traditional science career, in a country far from her native Taiwan, because the pull was that strong. Or take one Senior Technologist whose road to NASA Glenn began in Ghana, and along the way has made significant contributions to novel concepts for propulsion and aviation safety, such as co-developing the revolutionary exoskeletal concept, which represents a paradigm shift in aircraft engine design. With leaders like these, you don’t have to look far for inspiration because it walks the halls with you, and that’s what has kept me at NASA. No wonder kids are in awe and want to be part of it—I share the sentiment.

Mark Kilkenny

Why Does NASA Inspire Me?

As a member of the “Sputnik” generation, NASA has inspired me every decade it has existed. I recall reading a San Francisco Chronicle headline announcing JPL’s launch of Explorer I in 1958 (just before NASA was created). And watching the Echo 1 satellite fly overhead in 1960. And feeling the whoosh of the X-24B as it landed on an Edwards runway in 1974. And hearing the Space Shuttle Columbia take-off in 1982. And even freezing as I watched the Tu-144LL being rolled out on a Moscow tarmac in 1996! Surely the most inspirational NASA event for me in this decade will be the launch of the Ares 1-X--- wherever and however I witness it.

So obviously it is easy to describe HOW NASA thrills and inspires me. But WHY it does so is harder to figure out. Perhaps it is because NASA dares to fly where others have not, ala Star Trek’s motto. Or perhaps it is because of all the cool planes, rockets, spacecraft and even ground support equipment (like the Shuttle transporter!) that NASA has built and operated--- things certain to excite any gadget-minded boy or girl, man or woman. Or perhaps NASA’s inspiration has a more deep-seated, complex and dark dimension---- that its mission is not only very important for humankind’s future, but also because it is very dangerous. Every time these missions occur, perhaps I am secretly, vicariously testing my limits--- whether flying, spacewalking, or even just managing space probes and robots from the ground. Could that be that NASA is both real life for me and a video game played in my mind?

Julie Kleinhenz

When I was in the fourth grade, the world witnessed a great tragedy. Though it seems ironic, that event was the inspiration behind the dream that still drives me forward. That event was the Challenger disaster. The media coverage that followed was my first real exposure to the space program. I began learning more about space exploration and the resulting scientific and technological advancements. I watched as engineers and scientists worked to rebuild the program and continue NASA’s vision; and knew I wanted to be a part of that. I realized that I was willing to take the risk those seven astronauts took, because what they were doing was worth that cost. I have never given up that dream, and have structured my education and career to achieve it. Even if I never touch the stars myself, I want to be part of the foundation that makes it possible.

Twenty-two years later, here I am, working at NASA. What I have found here is affirmation. This is a place where people are allowed to dream. Everyday I see people who love what they do; who generously share their knowledge because they believe in the vision. People who strive, despite budget cuts, to make the most out of what they have and see their tasks completed. The way my colleagues rise to face challenges, their creativity, and willingness to learn, constantly inspires me to do the same.

NASA has been such an inspiration in my life that I find these few words do not do justice. Suffice to say that I am proud to be a part of NASA, that I am continually inspired by its projects and people, and that no matter how many times I see it, a shuttle launch will always bring a tear to my eye.

Kevin Konno

Every morning I spring from my bed, grab a quick shower, and rush off to work with anticipation. Why? Because I’m working on the next rocket design that will take us to the moon. And soon to Mars! What I do is important! I work for NASA.

NASA Glenn’s campus is innocuously crouched behind its front gate in Cleveland, Ohio. Behind that gate, however, our heroic workforce is a beehive of activity advancing NASA’s major missions. Once inside the gate one senses the enormity of the work people are accomplishing. Forget for a moment that we employ 3000 workers and pump over a billion dollars into the economy annually. It’s the work we do here like building the Ares 1-X flight hardware, designing the Orion spacecraft, developing new space power systems, and making our aircraft greener, quieter and more efficient that benefits the country and truly inspires the young and old. When I’ve talked to children at schools I’m amazed at the interest (and knowledge!) they possess in science, our solar system and the Shuttle. Without NASA, where would that interest be? As a boy I myself was completely enthralled by space, astronauts and NASA. I still remember visiting the Space Center in Huntsville, Alabama as a child. I remember grabbing every photo and brochure of this new Space Shuttle that I could find and scaling up the drawings with posterboard and colored pencils. I was one of millions dreaming of walking on the moon myself. Astronauts were heroes to me. Now NASA continues to inspire me as I help design the new rocket replacing the Shuttle.

From Apollo to Constellation, NASA will continue to create heroes because what NASA does best, besides doing things no one else in human history has done, is inspire our country to greatness.

Katherine Martin

Why Does NASA Inspire Me?

Working each day at NASA’s Glenn Research Center here in Cleveland inspires me in a myriad of ways. Most days, I go to work knowing NASA’s work will lead to finding the meaning of life’s existence in our solar system as well as beyond. Nothing can be more inspiring!

Because NASA is the one and only place you can work that has “out of this world” impact, I am constantly awestruck by how close I work with the scientists and engineers who are coming up with ideas to take us beyond our small planet, Earth. NASA Glenn’s work that has truly marked NASA as a place for inspiration includes testing ion engines with the capability of getting out in space farther, faster and cheaper; designing and building parts of NASA’s new space vehicles, the Ares I and Ares V; and coming up with ways to keep astronauts healthy during long-duration spaceflight.

In undertaking my primary job of making NASA’s work widely-known and understandable, I feel I have the ultimate privileged ability to help inspire young and old people alike to get excited about the future and all that space exploration holds for humankind. By working at this each day, I am as close to true cutting-edge science as you can get without actually being a scientist!

During my 23+ years working for NASA I’ve come to understand and appreciate how essential we are here in Cleveland to what happens in advancing flight here on Earth and space exploration beyond our planet. I can’t imagine anything more inspiring than that!

Alan Micklewright

“Houston, Tranquility Base here, the Eagle has landed.” In the summer of 1969, I turned ten years old and NASA successfully accomplished what is possibly the greatest achievement of mankind to date, “landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to the earth.” As our nation rose to the challenge put forth by President Kennedy in 1961, the world watched in anticipation and a young boy dreamed of what could be.

Growing up during the Race to the Moon in the 1960’s taught me the importance of setting goals and the value of persistence, even in light of adverse conditions. NASA helped to pull our nation together, towards a difficult goal, even during the trying times that saw the assassination of three great leaders, and the loss of the Apollo One crew.

The achievement of Apollo 11, in July 1969, taught me that with hard work anything was possible, even going to the moon. That NASA achievement inspired me towards what would become a personal career goal to become a part of the NASA team.

Now, in 2008, as NASA celebrates it’s 50th Anniversary, and I celebrate my first anniversary as a part of the NASA team, I realize that although NASA will forever be remembered for the achievements of men such as Armstrong, Aldrin, Shepard, and Glenn, those achievements were only made possible by the teamwork of thousands of others whose names may not be remembered.

Today we are faced with new challenges, and yet the legacy of NASA inspires us in the belief that we can do anything that we set our mind to. Today there are young boys and girls looking into space with awe and wonder, and it is my hope that future achievements by NASA will inspire them as previous achievements inspired me.

Daniel Mikitka

“Why does NASA inspire me?”

What a great opportunity to be a part of the NASA workforce as NASA is in the process of constructing the future launch vehicle that will replace the space shuttle. Words cannot express what I am feeling when I see the facial expressions of my 23 month old daughter looking up into the night sky, waiting to catch a glimpse of the International Space Station and/or the space shuttle passing overhead. And as it is passing overhead, she points into the night sky for her daddy, who is holding her, to share in that very special moment. Or my wife telling me that when I was at work, our little daughter found a NASA bumper sticker that I had given her and was pointing to the sticker while she carried it throughout our home and, out of joy, was saying ‘daddy’.

My grandparents experienced the transition in transportation from the horse and buggy to the automobile during their lifetime. I have the opportunity to work for NASA while it transitions over to a new space launch vehicle.

In the future, with my daughter grown up, married and having children of her own, I can only imagine of the stories she will share with them of their grandpa working at NASA. I wait in anticipation of the time I will hopefully get to share with my grandchildren looking up into the night time sky and waiting for the International Space Station and/or the new launch vehicle to pass overhead. And as it passes overhead, they will point into the night sky for their grandpa, who is holding them, to share that exciting moment with them.

Antoine Moss

The Psychological Power of Positive Thinking is Why NASA Inspires Me

When writing about why NASA inspires one, most people would assert that tangible technologies and scientific advances are their primary inspiration; however, NASA inspires me because of its intangible power of positive thinking that continues to permeate the entire world. Remez Sasson said “the power of positive thinking is like a car with a powerful engine that can take you to the summit of a mountain,” or even the moon. The catalyst of NASA’s psychological impact was John F. Kennedy’s prescient declaration stating that America will land a man on the moon by the end of the 1960’s. Keeping this statement in mind, the actual landing of Americans on the moon in 1969 infused the world with a self-fulfilling prophecy that encourages many people to optimize their success by dreaming big.

Abraham Maslow theorized that it is this highest level of self-actualization or achievement that cultivates gratification in all citizens. To this end, as a member of generation Y, NASA inspired me to know that if we can land on the moon, I can land on any dream I envision. As a result of NASA’s positive thinking, I am the founder of a volunteer organization, pursuing a Ph.D., and writing a book on career success for college students. Synonymous to the Olympics, NASA initiatives cross-generations and societies by uniting other talented and ambitious people like me throughout the continents to enhance our world.

This contagious level of positive thinking does not only ameliorate science and technology, but it gives hope to people in all professions that anything is possible. Just as the press and media continue to effectively highlight NASA’s distinguished efforts, I’m inspired to do the same in my community because positive thinking is what will help everyone achieve a better life, liberty, and a healthy pursuit of happiness.

Phillip Paulsen

I remember vividly watching in awe as Neil Armstrong took the very first steps on the moon. As young as I was, when I looked out the window that night, I saw the moon in a different way. I realized that smart, talented people really could do something that was unimaginable only a few years before. On July 21st, 1969, I made the decision that I had to be a part of NASA. My life took a lot of twists and turns, but, in the end, I landed a job at GRC. During my years at Glenn I have seen many cutting edge projects. I have been on teams that helped to build a space station, launch rockets, and put the Internet into space. But none of this compares to what will happen in the future. Recently my son was given a school assignment to create a presentation about Neil Armstrong. As he and I poured through details of Neil’s life, I remembered own my feelings at his age. With the wisdom of youth, he looked at me and said, “Isn’t it amazing what NASA did all of those years ago? Can you imagine what future astronauts will do when they can live there? Do you think I can ever do something as cool as that?” As I lay in bed that night and looked at the moon again, I didn’t think about a “small step for mankind” – I thought about the imaginations of thousands of young children like my son. NASA does not exist to put a handful of people in space. NASA exists to inspire others to greatness and achievement. NASA inspires me because it has never changed – fifty years later it still takes talented people, gives them tremendously difficult assignments, and accomplishes what others say is impossible.

Cynthia Phillips

“WHY DOES NASA INSPIRE ME?”

I have watched over the years how every person at NASA has worked together so diligently from the secretaries to the directorate to reach the common goal.
NASA generates so much more than the given knowledge of high technology, research, space exploration projects, and innovative minds at work.

How about the way my five year old granddaughter’s eyes light up every time she hears me speak about NASA. Or the dramatic enthusiasm of my nine year old grandson when he envisions aliens and space wars in the galaxies unknown.

These responses touch my heart and make me proud to be a part of an organization and work environment that continues to transcend hope into reality for a better future for ourselves and generations to come.

I have learned to incorporate this vision into my daily life by appreciating and utilizing every advantage I’ve been given. And as NASA does, I am going to share this philosophy with everyone I meet so others can benefit.

The goals and promises of NASA inspire me to do things I never would have otherwise attempted and to look at life in an entirely different way. It is like this…before NASA I was one tiny star in this vast universe. Now I see my star as the stepping stone that may get mankind closer to their destination whatever that may be. What an important thing to be!

We must educate the public of this knowledge. The world needs to know that NASA is not just about those first brave steps on the moon. They need to be aware that they too could benefit from the work that NASA encompasses.

We must inspire others to be the best they can and know that there is so much hope for the future.

Angelo Scandaliato
NASA INSPIRES
NASA GLENN RESEARCH CENTER 50TH ANNIVERSARY GALA CELEBRATION ESSAY CONTEST

The future of NASA must be driven by the young blood while directed and trained by the willing veteran infrastructure. NASA’s understanding of this fundamental concept leads to a constant mentoring, training, and excitement in the youth of the organization. Invaluable experience is transmitted through generations, which accelerates innovation among constant competition. As with the majority of other NASA employees, I have always maintained a competitive drive in everything I do. However, NASA’s attitude of always striving to be better harnesses my drive and inspires me as I learn and hone skills from my mentors while expanding my knowledge.

As a member of Generation Y, I am especially inspired by the amount of attention NASA is putting towards the development of Generation Y employees. This is evidenced in that employees are not expected to conform to the traditional workday; however, NASA tries to alter its ways to adapt to the employees which produces a more efficacious product. Personally, I have sat in on several meetings where discussions are held about ways to change the setting to better accommodate younger generations. I appreciate the fact that my own opinion is valued and changes are being made according to suggestions from members of Generation Y. This says to me that NASA cares not only about its progress in exploration, but also the best interest of its employees. This is a very important factor for future success and it is clear that NASA has a strong base that will allow it to continue. Not only is this inspiring, but it is something essential in any employer that tries to cultivate the younger generations. I am proud to say I have found it in NASA.

Betty Seminatore

Why does NASA inspire me?

As I look at NASA over the last fifty years, I can use a timeline to see the history and growth and compared it to my own life.

Fifty years ago, Dr. Thomas Keith Glennan was appointed to NASA as the first Deputy Administrator. Likewise, fifty years ago, I was born into this universe with a purpose.

We are all put on this earth for a reason. While there are days when we all wonder what our purpose is here on earth, each one of us is here for a reason. Day to day, we cannot see what that reason is, but if we think back on our lives, we know that we have made a difference in one way or another in so many people’s lives.

NASA, too, has been put on this earth for a reason. NASA inspires me through its mission statement to pioneer the future in space exploration, scientific discovery, and aeronautics research. NASA completes this mission through the efforts of all its employees in all that they do every day of each week, month, and year. Through these efforts over the last fifty years and to infinity and beyond, NASA is inspired to explore the unknown and make history marking milestones and making a difference in the world.
A quote by Thomas Edison says, “If we did all the things that we are capable of doing, we would literally astound ourselves.” NASA has done many astounding things in its lifetime. If we look back and recap those accomplishments, these events alone are enough to provide inspiration. We can only continue to believe that there is so much more out there to achieve in space and here on earth.

Debra Zamostny

I work at NASA. I see it in the eyes of any person I tell. Wow… Yes, wow. As an engineer I’ve been privileged to be involved with some amazing projects. I worked in the Rocket Lab, where our job was to test Next Generation rocket engine designs. The Rocket Lab is a series of block houses consisting of a control room and test stand. The walls are approximately two feet thick. An alarm sounds for 30 seconds before the test to warn neighboring facilities of the impending blast. Then hydrogen and oxygen mix in the combustion chamber and the result exits in a fireball about 15 feet behind the engine. One of my most treasured possessions is my Rocket Lab jacket that sports the X33 test on the back.

I’ve also worked on vacuum facilities in the Ion Propulsion Lab. Ion propulsion was used on Deep Space 1 that took a spacecraft to asteroid Braille and Comet Borrelli. The vacuum tanks are used to simulate the vacuum of space. A “cold wall” (using liquid nitrogen) is used to simulate the coldness of space. And a solar simulator takes care of the affects of the sun.

Right now I’m writing the software to control the vacuum facility known as “B2.” It’s the only facility in the world that can test full-scale upper-stage launch vehicles and rocket engines from atmosphere to high-altitude conditions. When finished, we will test the J2X rocket for the Constellation project and other projects in support of our return to the moon.

In 1969, I was 12 years old. I remember vividly watching the sketchy black & white images coming from the moon. I walked outside of our little bungalow, looked up and thought, there are people up there. Now I’m a part of that team. Wow…