NASA Ames Research Center Overview
Location: Moffett Field, California
Founded: December 20, 1939
Annual Revenue: $1.2 billion
Revenue Per Employee: $344,400
Staff: 3,392 employees
Director: Dr. Eugene Tu
NASA's Ames Research Center, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, is a leading field center dedicated to pioneering advancements in aeronautics, exploration technology, and scientific research. Since its establishment in 1939, Ames Research Center has developed key capabilities such as Wind Tunnel Testing, Arc Jet Testing, Flight Simulators, and Space Biosciences Ground Research Facilities. These facilities contribute significantly to NASA's mission of innovating exploration technologies and expanding human understanding of the universe.
Research and Development Focus Areas
- Entry Systems: Focus on developing safe and efficient entry systems for spacecraft, addressing the engineering challenges posed by atmospheric entry on various celestial bodies.
- Advanced Computing and IT Systems: Ames is at the forefront of innovating new modeling and simulation tools critical for NASA's research ecosystem.
- Aerosciences: Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for ground-testing to ensure flight readiness.
- Air Traffic Management: Developments aimed at revolutionizing air traffic management protocols to enhance safety and efficiency.
- Biology and Astrobiology: Study of life sciences on Earth and potential alien life forms through various biochemical research.
- Cost-effective Space Missions: Dedicated to the engineering of pioneering space missions that maximize scientific value while minimizing costs.
- Intelligent/Adaptive Systems: Creation of systems to supplement human efforts in exploring space environments.
- Space and Earth Science: Ames involves extensive research aimed at deepening knowledge of celestial phenomena and Earth's dynamics.
Leadership
- Dr. Eugene Tu
Position: Center Director
Education: Stanford University
LinkedIn Profile: [Eugene Tu](https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugene-tu-032593121)
Dr. Tu oversees a vast team of professionals dedicated to NASA's most urgent research priorities. His guidance ensures excellence in project execution across NASA's exploratory initiatives.
- Dr. David Korsmeyer
Position: Deputy Center Director
LinkedIn Profile: [David Korsmeyer](https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-korsmeyer)
Dr. Korsmeyer is instrumental in managing complex collaborations and the adoption of cutting-edge research technologies.
- Amir H. Deylami
Position: Associate Center Director
Education: University of Alabama in Huntsville
LinkedIn Profile: [Amir Deylami](https://www.linkedin.com/in/adeylami)
Amir Deylami's executive initiatives push forward digital services and engineering goals aligned with NASA's strategic vision.
- Additional Key Personnel:
- Joseph Rios, Chief Engineer, UTM Project
- David Hash, Chief, Entry Systems and Technology Division
- Ethiraj Venkatapathy, Chief Technologist, Entry Systems and Technology Division
- George Raiche, Chief, Thermophysics Facilities Branch
- Stephan Ord, Chief Technologist - Flight Opportunities Program
Notable Projects and Innovations
Ames Research Center is instrumental in trailblazing projects such as the Next-Generation Solar Sail Mission and the development of Deployable Solar Array Technology. These projects are pivotal in advancing NASA's exploratory missions by enhancing propulsion technology and creating more efficient energy systems. Ames also plays a crucial role in modernizing Air Traffic Management, supporting developments that redefine the aviation industry.
Competitors
NASA Ames Research Center navigates a competitive environment within the aerospace and defense sectors, facing competition from:
1. Hermes Aviation
Annual Revenue: $6.5 million
Employees: 33
Focus: Cargo General Sales Agent operations in North America and Mexico.
2. Tyvak Nano-Satellite Systems
Annual Revenue: $149.4 million
Employees: 486
Specialization: Agile space systems including nano and satellite technologies.
3. Aeros
Annual Revenue: $13.9 million
Employees: 63
Noted for its advanced airship development and deployment of aerostats.
These organizations highlight the innovative competitive landscape in aerospace solutions, offering diverse challenges and incentives for NASA Ames' ongoing projects.
Industry Position
Ames Research Center stands as a leader in R&D within the aerospace sector, setting industry benchmarks for technology innovation and expert workforce engagement. The Center's strategic focus on aeronautics and exploration secures its pivotal role within NASA and the broader scientific community.
Contacts and Online Presence
- NASA Ames Earth Science Division Mailing Address:
MS: 245-4, NASA Ames Research Center, PO Box 1, Moffett Field, CA 94035-1000
- Social Media Profiles:
- Twitter: [@NASAAmes](https://twitter.com/NASAAmes)
- Facebook: [NASA Ames](https://www.facebook.com/nasaames/)
NASA Ames Research Center continues to play a central role in the advancement of aeronautical sciences and space technology, supported by a capable leadership team and a strategically-focused workforce actively pushing the boundaries of human knowledge.