NASA Internship Program Fosters Next Generation of Space Exploration Talent

Daniel Cohen, a Guidance, Navigation & Control (GN&C) engineer at NASA's Johnson Space Center, has been mentoring interns, including Malvika Bhardwaj, a Rice University student. Through NASA's Office of STEM Engagement, interns contribute to agency projects while learning from NASA mentors and gaining technical skills. Bhardwaj is developing tools to analyze thruster firings on the U. S. Deorbit Vehicle, which will help NASA safely deorbit the International Space Station at the end of its operational life. Cohen's mentorship has shaped Bhardwaj's internship experience, teaching her about the culture of community and support at Johnson and NASA. He sets aside time to teach interns topics such as orbital mechanics and control systems, and has introduced Bhardwaj to the team and included her in conversations and meetings.