Albany State University Takes First Place in NASA University Design Challenge

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Wednesday, July 17th, 2024

Albany State University (ASU) computer science students made an outstanding achievement by receiving first place in the prestigious NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) University Design Challenge. The award was announced on June 24th at the NASA Headquarters in Cleveland Ohio.
 
The ASU team, comprised of Shamar Swift, Valeria Mendez Bonilla, Ky’uan Wright, and Anthony Strachan, demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication throughout the grueling six-month competition. The team was supported by Dr. Robert Owor, ASU Professor of Mathematics, Computer Science, and Physics, and Ms. Amiralca Johnson, Data Report Analyst.

The NASA University Design Challenge is a highly competitive event that encourages students to apply their academic knowledge to real-world problems. This year's challenge tasked teams with designing a rocket engine capable of cooling itself using sound waves, a groundbreaking concept aimed at significantly enhancing rocket performance. The primary goal was to reduce the time of flight to Mars from the current six months to an astonishing six weeks.

The Glenn NASA Research Center, known for its cutting-edge research and development in aeronautics and space exploration, provided an ideal platform for students to push the boundaries of current technology. The center's expertise and resources were instrumental in guiding the students through the complexities of the challenge. A special thank you goes to Mr. Roy Bush, Ms. Jeretha Nixon and Dr. Rogers Dyson of NASA who guided the ASU team throughout the Research.

This achievement is a proud moment for Albany State University, showcasing the institution's commitment to fostering excellence and innovation in its students. The victory is also a significant milestone for the students involved, marking the beginning of what promises to be a bright future in their professional careers.

Congratulations to Shamar Swift, Valeria Mendez Bonilla, Ky’uan Wright, Anthony Strachan, Dr. Robert Owor, and Ms. Amiralca Johnson on this excellent accomplishment!

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