Christine Braden values ​​new experiences that expand her perspective; this mentality has directed her 26-year career at the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, where she is currently a senior systems engineer for commercial low-earth orbit development programs. Braden works with engineering teams in her role to develop commercial space stations that will prioritize astronaut safety while maximizing cost-effectiveness and scientific research capabilities on board.

The program is managed by NASA's Space Operations Mission Agency and supports the development of commercially owned and operated space stations in low-Earth orbit, which, together with other customers, can purchase services and stimulate growth in commercial activity in space. Designing and developing these space stations is the first step in NASA's two-stage approach, enabling the agency to demonstrate the station and procure services to one of many customers.

Braden has a bachelor's degree in technical management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, bringing her strong engineering foundation to her work. But her role is unique because it allows her to combine technical expertise with creative instincts.

"My team has to think out of the box to identify new approaches to ensure that the technology integration, demand, development and operation of commercial providers are the highest designs," Braden said.

Recently, she proposed a certification and systems engineering architecture that redefines how companies will interact with NASA in an evolving landscape. Braden’s hybrid approach strikes a balance that allows companies to innovate while favoring common assurance and accountability. It also gives NASA awareness of the company's design, testing, tasks and operational approaches. Braden won the "Live" award for her efforts.

Looking to the future, Braden envisions a commercial space station as a hub of science and technology, spacecraft being more efficient, space flight is more accessible, human beings have restored the moon, and Mars is the next border. In reflecting on the goals within these scopes, Braden found that working with enthusiastic team members made her daily routine special and enjoyable.

“I am part of a small, close-knit team who work together to make these advances in space exploration,” Braden said. “Working at NASA is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that not only defines my work life, but also provides me with the experience I can share with some really great people.”

Outside of work, Braden is inspired by her faith, which encourages her to look at things from a new perspective and try to understand people from all walks of life. Additionally, Braden is a lifelong learner who loves to listen to podcasts, watch documentaries and read online articles. She longs to learn everything from music and dance to plants and animals.

"When I browsed the scientific websites of discovering new planets and galaxies, it brought me into the ways in which humans could expand themselves to stars, and the ways in which we could protect the life we ​​have on Earth," Braden said.

One of Braden’s many hobbies about the topic of preservation is antique restoration. “It reminds me of my father and grandfather who were working together in childhood to repair the house and hopes that I can inspire my kids to watch me follow in my footsteps,” Braden said. Her other hobbies include gardening and family activities such as puzzles, board games, watching TV, playing video games, hunting and traveling.

As a man known for his creativity and curiosity, Braden’s new ideas and spirit are key to guiding the institution into new boundaries.

NASA's Space Operations Mission Agency maintains the ongoing existence of humanity in space to benefit people on Earth. The program within the bureau is a hub for NASA's space exploration efforts, enabling Artemis, commercial space, science and other agency tasks through communications, startup services, research capabilities and crew support.

To learn more about NASA Space Operations Mission Agency, visit: