Summary Points
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Role in Space Missions: Tess Caswell serves as the lead capsule communicator (capcom) for NASA’s Artemis campaign, ensuring astronauts receive timely and accurate information during missions and training for future spacewalks.
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Career Path: With eight years at NASA, Tess transitioned from internships and a previous role at Blue Origin to focus on exploration, reflecting her passion for space and teamwork across international boundaries.
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Inspiration and Advice: Tess encourages aspiring space professionals to explore various roles beyond engineering and emphasizes finding what aspect of space travel excites them to shape their career paths.
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Impactful Experiences: Her memorable achievements include certifying as a capcom and scripting spacewalks, highlighting both the challenges and collaborative efforts that drive NASA’s ongoing research and missions.
Station Nation: Meet Tess Caswell, Extravehicular Activity Flight Controller and Lead Capsule Communicator
Tess Caswell supports the International Space Station from NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. As a capsule communicator, or capcom, she plays a vital role in relaying information to astronauts aboard the spacecraft. Currently, Tess also leads the Artemis capcom team. This position allows her to leverage her extensive experience while helping to develop training for future lunar missions.
In her role, Tess ensures astronauts receive crucial information at the right moment. She learns about spacecraft language, protocols, and conducts simulations. These elements prepare her to communicate effectively with crew members, especially during critical operations.
Originally from Soldotna, Alaska, Tess discovered her passion for space early on. She encourages young people to reflect on what inspires them about space travel. “Consider what aspect excites you,” she says. “Internships can help clarify your interests.”
With over eight years at NASA, Tess’s journey began with internships and student projects. Her first role was as an Environmental and Thermal Operating Systems flight controller. After briefly leaving for an advanced degree and a position at Blue Origin, she returned to NASA to focus on exploration.
When asked who inspires her, Tess highlights the remarkable people in flight operations. “Every individual here exemplifies excellence,” she says. Their commitment motivates her to give her best every day.
Reflecting on meaningful moments, she recalls her first day as a capcom for the space station. The experience was both nerve-wracking and thrilling. “Knowing the community is listening while you speak is surreal,” Tess notes. The crew even congratulated her over the radio, making it an unforgettable milestone.
Tess enjoys sharing the collaborative spirit of the space station. She emphasizes the significance of international partnerships in space exploration. “The Unity node and Zarya module symbolize our ability to work together for a common goal,” she explains.
Outside of work, Tess leads an active lifestyle. She engages in trail running, taekwondo, and flying her Piper J-3 Cub. Reading and writing fiction also keep her imagination alive.
As NASA advances its missions, individuals like Tess Caswell play crucial roles. The ongoing work at the International Space Station drives innovation that benefits both space exploration and life on Earth. NASA continues to conduct vital research, paving the way for future discoveries and human exploration of Mars.
Stay updated on the latest from NASA by following them on social media and subscribing for news from the International Space Station.
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