New Small Satellite Skunk Works Operation Under Development at NASA Ames Research Center

[Former] Acting Director Christensen Upbeat About NASA Ames Research Center’s Future, ARC Astrogram

“Christensen laid out a strategy for Ames’ recovery and future strength that includes developing a ‘skunk works’ to build satellites, attracting more work packages, winning more competitive proposals, and restoring our reputation for project management and job completion. With regard to the skunk works concept, Christensen said Ames will construct a ‘satellite center’ in building N240 to develop small satellites that cost less than $250 million. He reported that NASA Administrator Michael Griffin not only expressed approval of the skunk works concept, but also opened the door to the prospect of Ames taking on even larger projects.”

NASA Ames Appoints Marvin “Chris” Christensen As New Deputy Director

“Chris has provided experienced leadership as acting program manager of the Robotic Lunar Exploration Program (RLEP) since coming to Ames in September 2005,” said Worden. “In that role, he has been instrumental in regaining a true mission management role for the center and in kicking off our efforts in the area of small satellites, which I think will be key to our future.”