| "I work in the Space Sciences Laboratory as part of the X-ray astronomy group. I am currently involved in a high-altitude balloon gondola project that will carry X-ray experiments to altitudes of 35-42 kilometers. At these altitudes, 99 percent of the Earth’s atmosphere is below us, and we can observe faint X-ray sources. In this photo, the galactic field-of-view of the X-ray instruments on the gondola is displayed on my monitor.
"I work in a scientific research lab that is filled with scientists as well a students who are completing their advanced degrees. I’m involved in research and developing/building experiments, and also working to complete my Ph.D. This laboratory is a lot like a university research environment. Everyone is continually looking for research opportunities, writing proposals, building hardware, taking data, writing papers/journal articles, documenting their results, etc. People here need to be self-motivated and serious about working. No one is going to hold your hand, but someone is always around to advise and help you if you need it. I work with a number of senior scientists, and find it a very good mentoring environment.
"I love my job…every day is a challenge." |
Cheryl Bankston
Computer Engineer
Marshall Space Flight Center
University of Alabama at Huntsville
Joined NASA as a co-op student in 1990; became a full-time employee in 1994 |
