Members Can Post Anonymously On This Site
-
Similar Topics
-
By NASA
3 Min Read Lagniappe for April 2025
Explore the April 2025 issue, highlighting the NASA-sponsored FIRST Robotics competition, Space Flight Awareness honorees and more! Credits: NASA/Danny Nowlin Explore Lagniappe for April 2025 featuring:
NASA-Sponsored FIRST Robotics Welcomes Teams to Magnolia Regional NASA Leaders Visit Representatives Blood Moon in South Mississippi Gator Speaks
Gator SpeaksNASA/Stennis New beginnings feel a lot like the month of April. It is the heart of spring and the season that symbolizes growth and renewal.
April is the perfect time to break free from old routines and try something new.
If you have landed here in this website corner of our digital world, consider this your open invitation to continue ahead on the journey with NASA Stennis by following us on social media.
It is time to say goodbye to the Lagniappe publication as we know it, but do not worry. All of the great news about the center and its frontline activities still will be available, just in a new way – via our social media platforms! Gator wants you to feel more connected than ever as we continue to help power space dreams in south Mississippi. Moving forward, join NASA Stennis in our digital playground for even more of that extra-something special.
This playground is not limited to only fun, or making new friends, or learning new stuff.
Whether you are on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or X, there is a place, and space, for all of that and more.
As we close out the website edition of NASA Stennis Lagniappe, we turn the page and look forward to new possibilities ahead.
Let’s keep building one connection at a time because here at America’s largest rocket propulsion test site, it is more than just content.
It is where the NASA Stennis team will continue building on its proven expertise in all areas of work, and where you will have a front row seat to experience it unfold.
So, click the links below to become a NASA Stennis follower today. Then, invite your friends to become followers as well.
Facebook logo @NASAStennis @NASAStennis Instagram logo @NASAStennis > Back to Top
NASA Stennis Top News
NASA-Sponsored FIRST Robotics Welcomes Teams to Magnolia Regional
NASA serves as a lead sponsor, along with NASA Stennis employees and interns volunteering, for the third annual FIRST Robotics Magnolia Regional Competition on March 14. The event in Laurel, Mississippi, welcomed 37 teams from eight states (Alabama, California, Florida, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, and Tennessee) and one team from Mexico. The FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics event joined NASA’s Robotics Alliance Project to combine the excitement of sport with the rigors of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in field games using industrial-sized robots.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA serves as a lead sponsor, along with NASA Stennis employees and interns volunteering, for the third annual FIRST Robotics Magnolia Regional Competition on March 14. The event in Laurel, Mississippi, welcomed 37 teams from eight states (Alabama, California, Florida, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, and Tennessee) and one team from Mexico. The FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics event joined NASA’s Robotics Alliance Project to combine the excitement of sport with the rigors of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in field games using industrial-sized robots.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA serves as a lead sponsor, along with NASA Stennis employees and interns volunteering, for the third annual FIRST Robotics Magnolia Regional Competition on March 14. The event in Laurel, Mississippi, welcomed 37 teams from eight states (Alabama, California, Florida, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, and Tennessee) and one team from Mexico. The FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics event joined NASA’s Robotics Alliance Project to combine the excitement of sport with the rigors of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in field games using industrial-sized robots.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA serves as a lead sponsor, along with NASA Stennis employees and interns volunteering, for the third annual FIRST Robotics Magnolia Regional Competition on March 14. The event in Laurel, Mississippi, welcomed 37 teams from eight states (Alabama, California, Florida, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, and Tennessee) and one team from Mexico. The FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics event joined NASA’s Robotics Alliance Project to combine the excitement of sport with the rigors of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in field games using industrial-sized robots.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA serves as a lead sponsor, along with NASA Stennis employees and interns volunteering, for the third annual FIRST Robotics Magnolia Regional Competition on March 14. The event in Laurel, Mississippi, welcomed 37 teams from eight states (Alabama, California, Florida, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, and Tennessee) and one team from Mexico. The FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics event joined NASA’s Robotics Alliance Project to combine the excitement of sport with the rigors of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in field games using industrial-sized robots.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA serves as a lead sponsor, along with NASA Stennis employees and interns volunteering, for the third annual FIRST Robotics Magnolia Regional Competition on March 14. The event in Laurel, Mississippi, welcomed 37 teams from eight states (Alabama, California, Florida, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, and Tennessee) and one team from Mexico. The FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics event joined NASA’s Robotics Alliance Project to combine the excitement of sport with the rigors of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in field games using industrial-sized robots.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA serves as a lead sponsor, along with NASA Stennis employees and interns volunteering, for the third annual FIRST Robotics Magnolia Regional Competition on March 14. The event in Laurel, Mississippi, welcomed 37 teams from eight states (Alabama, California, Florida, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, and Tennessee) and one team from Mexico. The FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics event joined NASA’s Robotics Alliance Project to combine the excitement of sport with the rigors of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in field games using industrial-sized robots.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA serves as a lead sponsor, along with NASA Stennis employees and interns volunteering, for the third annual FIRST Robotics Magnolia Regional Competition on March 14. The event in Laurel, Mississippi, welcomed 37 teams from eight states (Alabama, California, Florida, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, and Tennessee) and one team from Mexico. The FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics event joined NASA’s Robotics Alliance Project to combine the excitement of sport with the rigors of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in field games using industrial-sized robots.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA serves as a lead sponsor, along with NASA Stennis employees and interns volunteering, for the third annual FIRST Robotics Magnolia Regional Competition on March 14. The event in Laurel, Mississippi, welcomed 37 teams from eight states (Alabama, California, Florida, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, and Tennessee) and one team from Mexico. The FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics event joined NASA’s Robotics Alliance Project to combine the excitement of sport with the rigors of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in field games using industrial-sized robots.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA serves as a lead sponsor, along with NASA Stennis employees and interns volunteering, for the third annual FIRST Robotics Magnolia Regional Competition on March 14. The event in Laurel, Mississippi, welcomed 37 teams from eight states (Alabama, California, Florida, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, and Tennessee) and one team from Mexico. The FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics event joined NASA’s Robotics Alliance Project to combine the excitement of sport with the rigors of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in field games using industrial-sized robots.NASA/Danny Nowlin > Back to Top
Center Activities
NASA Leaders Visit Representatives
U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi, center, greets NASA Stennis Deputy Director Christine Powell, right, and NASA Stennis Legislative Affairs Officer and Chief of Staff Troy Frisbie on March 4. Powell and Frisbie visited with Smith and other congressional members in conjunction with the recent NASA Artemis Suppliers Conference in Washington, D.C.NASA/Stennis U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi welcomes NASA Stennis Deputy Director Christine Powell and other guests on March 5. Powell visited Wicker in conjunction with the NASA Artemis Suppliers Conference in Washington, D.C.NASA/Stennis U.S. Rep. Mike Ezell of Mississippi, fourth from right, stands with acting NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Kelvin Manning, fifth from right; NASA Stennis Deputy Director Christine Powell, third from right; NASA Stennis Legislative Affairs Officer and Chief of Staff Troy Frisbie, far left; and several congressional staff members March 5. The NASA officials visited with Ezell and other congressional members in conjunction with the recent NASA Artemis Suppliers Conference in Washington, D.C.NASA/Stennis NASA Space Flight Awareness Program Recognizes Stennis Employees
NASA’s Stennis Space Center employees were recognized with Honoree Awards from NASA’s Space Flight Awareness Program during a March 10 ceremony in Orlando, Florida, for outstanding support of human spaceflight.
Read More about Space Flight Awareness Honorees Blood Moon in South Mississippi
Images show the total lunar eclipse, known as a Blood Moon, over south Mississippi during the early morning hours of March 14. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align so that the Moon passes into Earth’s shadow. In a total lunar eclipse, the entire Moon falls within the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, called the umbra. When the Moon is within the umbra, it appears red-orange. Lunar eclipses are sometimes called “Blood Moons” because of this phenomenon.NASA/Rebecca Mataya Images show the total lunar eclipse, known as a Blood Moon, over south Mississippi during the early morning hours of March 14. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align so that the Moon passes into Earth’s shadow. In a total lunar eclipse, the entire Moon falls within the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, called the umbra. When the Moon is within the umbra, it appears red-orange. Lunar eclipses are sometimes called “Blood Moons” because of this phenomenon.NASA/Rebecca Mataya Images show the total lunar eclipse, known as a Blood Moon, over south Mississippi during the early morning hours of March 14. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align so that the Moon passes into Earth’s shadow. In a total lunar eclipse, the entire Moon falls within the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, called the umbra. When the Moon is within the umbra, it appears red-orange. Lunar eclipses are sometimes called “Blood Moons” because of this phenomenon.NASA/Rebecca Mataya Images show the total lunar eclipse, known as a Blood Moon, over south Mississippi during the early morning hours of March 14. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align so that the Moon passes into Earth’s shadow. In a total lunar eclipse, the entire Moon falls within the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, called the umbra. When the Moon is within the umbra, it appears red-orange. Lunar eclipses are sometimes called “Blood Moons” because of this phenomenon.NASA/Rebecca Mataya Images show the total lunar eclipse, known as a Blood Moon, over south Mississippi during the early morning hours of March 14. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align so that the Moon passes into Earth’s shadow. In a total lunar eclipse, the entire Moon falls within the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, called the umbra. When the Moon is within the umbra, it appears red-orange. Lunar eclipses are sometimes called “Blood Moons” because of this phenomenon.NASA/Rebecca Mataya Images show the total lunar eclipse, known as a Blood Moon, over south Mississippi during the early morning hours of March 14. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align so that the Moon passes into Earth’s shadow. In a total lunar eclipse, the entire Moon falls within the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, called the umbra. When the Moon is within the umbra, it appears red-orange. Lunar eclipses are sometimes called “Blood Moons” because of this phenomenon.NASA/Rebecca Mataya Learn More About the Blood Moon U.S. Senator’s Staff Visit NASA Stennis
NASA’s Stennis Space Center hosts staff members of U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi on March 21 for a site visit. Pictured (left to right) are Kelly McCarthy, NASA Stennis partnership development lead; Troy Frisbie, NASA Stennis legislative affairs officer and chief of staff; Jason Richard, NASA Stennis propulsion business manager; Joe Schuyler, director of the NASA Stennis Engineering and Test Directorate; Emily Yetter, Wicker’s military legislative assistant; Dan Hillenbrand, Wicker’s legislative director; Terry Miller, U.S. Navy Fellow assigned to Wicker’s office; NASA Stennis Associate Director Rodney McKellip; Duane Armstrong, manager of the NASA Stennis Strategic Business Development Office; Drew Parks, Navy Senate liaison officer to Wicker’s office. The members representing the Mississippi senator’s staff toured NASA Stennis, including the Thad Cochran Test Stand, where NASA Stennis is preparing for future Artemis testing.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA Stennis Hosts Leadership Class
Approximately 50 members of the Leadership Hancock Class of 2025 visit NASA Stennis on March 26 for a full-day tour that included meeting NASA Stennis leaders and seeing center facilities, such as the Thad Cochran Test Stand pictured in the background. Leadership Hancock is an annual program by the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce designed to identify and cultivate future community leaders.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA Stennis Interns Tour Site
NASA student interns stand in the flame deflector at the Fred Haise Test Stand on March 7 during a NASA Stennis site tour. Interns include (left to right): Addison Mitchell (Pathways intern for Engineering and Test Directorate); Andrew Evans (Office of STEM Engagement intern for Autonomous Systems Lab); Mikayla Chandler (Office of STEM Engagement intern for ASTRO CAMP Community Partners); and Kristen Zack (Office of STEM Engagement intern for Autonomous Systems Lab). NASA Office of STEM Engagement paid internships allow high school and college-level students to contribute to agency projects under the guidance of a NASA mentor. The Pathways program offers current students and recent graduates paid internships that can be direct pipelines to full-time employment at NASA upon graduation.NASA/Danny Nowlin Rocket Test Group Visits NASA Stennis
NASA Stennis partnered with Mississippi Enterprise for Technology to host more than 100 members of the 57th Rocket Test Group on March 18-19.
The group toured the south Mississippi NASA center on March 19, learning how NASA Stennis operates as NASA’s primary, and America’s largest, rocket propulsion test site to serve the nation and commercial sector with its unique capabilities and expertise.
Read More about Rocket Test Groups Visit > Back to Top
NASA in the News
NASA’s Artemis II Orion Service Module Buttoned Up for Launch – NASA
Welcome Home! NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 Back on Earth After Science Mission – NASA
NASA Science Continues After Firefly’s First Moon Mission Concludes – NASA
NASA Artemis II Core Stage Goes Horizontal Ahead of Final Integration – NASA
> Back to Top
Employee Profile: Rebecca Mataya
Rebecca Mataya is a budget analyst at NASA’s Stennis Space Center. “Whether you are an engineer, analyst, lawyer, technician, communicator or innovator, there is a place for you here at NASA,” she said. “Every skill contributes to the greater mission of pushing the boundaries of exploration, discovery, and progress. If you have a passion, determination, and willingness to learn, NASA is a place where you can grow and leave a lasting impact on the future of space.”NASA/Stennis A career path can unfold in unexpected ways. Ask NASA’s Rebecca Mataya. The journey to NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, was not planned but “meant to be,” she said.
Read More About Rebecca Mataya > Back to Top
Additional Resources
My Origin Story: NASA Engineers – Bradley Tyree Artemis II to the Moon: Launch to Splashdown (NASA Mission Animation)
Explore More
4 min read Lagniappe for January 2025
Article 3 months ago 3 min read Lagniappe for February 2025
Article 2 months ago 4 min read Lagniappe for March 2025
Article 4 weeks ago View the full article
-
By NASA
4 Min Read Lagniappe for March 2025
<a>Explore the March 2025 issue, highlighting the installation of the new production RS-25 engine at NASA Stennis, and more!</a> Explore Lagniappe for March 2025 featuring:
NASA Stennis Teams Install New Production RS-25 Engine for Upcoming Hot Fire NASA Stennis Flashback: Learning About Rocket Engine Exhaust for Safe Space Travel NASA in NOLA for Super Bowl Gator Speaks
Gator SpeaksNASA/Stennis Welcome to March. It is the month that refuses to sit still. One day, the sun is shining, and the next day, the wind is howling through the trees, especially in the 125,000-acre buffer zone at NASA Stennis.
The buffer zone and location of NASA Stennis helps provide the right conditions for around-the-clock propulsion test capabilities.
March, like NASA Stennis, is full of possibilities.
The month kicks off a season of new beginnings. It is a time when farmers begin to plant seeds.
Did you know powering space dreams at NASA Stennis is a lot like farmers planting seeds?
Planting a seed is simple, yet profound. It signals a fresh start no matter if you are an experienced planter or if it is your first time.
Picking the right seed, carefully choosing the spot, and preparing the soil are ways to get going. Anticipation begins in March as planters set the stage for something that will happen over time.
Similarly, NASA Stennis is the right place to pick for many aerospace companies large and small. It is where the road to launch begins.
Whether the company is brand new to the field, like a first-time planter, or more experienced, the soil is right at NASA Stennis. South Mississippi is where a team of experts can help companies achieve a successful outcome.
Ah yes, the month of March and NASA Stennis are indeed alike.
They both can be a bridge between what was and what is to come – one, a time of year and the other, a place to shake off the winter slumber, take a deep breath, and step into something new.
There is something magical about planting seeds, just like there is something magical about powering space dreams at NASA Stennis.
NASA Stennis Top News
NASA Stennis Teams Install New Production RS-25 Engine for Upcoming Hot Fire
NASA marked a key milestone Feb. 18 with installation of RS-25 engine No. E20001, the first new production engine to help power the SLS (Space Launch System) rocket on future Artemis missions to the Moon.
Read More About the New Production NASA Stennis Flashback: Learning About Rocket Engine Exhaust for Safe Space Travel
NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, is widely known as the nation’s largest rocket propulsion test site.
Read More About the Diagnostic Test Facility Center Activities
NASA in NOLA for Super Bowl
NASA Stennis representatives inspire the Artemis Generation at the Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans Feb. 7-8 with activities and displays highlighting space exploration, including NASA’s Artemis missions to the Moon.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA Stennis representatives inspire the Artemis Generation at the Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans Feb. 7-8 with activities and displays highlighting space exploration, including NASA’s Artemis missions to the Moon.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA Stennis representatives inspire the Artemis Generation at the Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans Feb. 7-8 with activities and displays highlighting space exploration, including NASA’s Artemis missions to the Moon.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA Stennis representatives inspire the Artemis Generation at the Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans Feb. 7-8 with activities and displays highlighting space exploration, including NASA’s Artemis missions to the Moon.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA Stennis representatives inspire the Artemis Generation at the Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans Feb. 7-8 with activities and displays highlighting space exploration, including NASA’s Artemis missions to the Moon.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA Stennis representatives inspire the Artemis Generation at the Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans Feb. 7-8 with activities and displays highlighting space exploration, including NASA’s Artemis missions to the Moon.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA Stennis representatives inspire the Artemis Generation at the Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans Feb. 7-8 with activities and displays highlighting space exploration, including NASA’s Artemis missions to the Moon.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA Stennis representatives inspire the Artemis Generation at the Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans Feb. 7-8 with activities and displays highlighting space exploration, including NASA’s Artemis missions to the Moon.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA Stennis representatives inspire the Artemis Generation at the Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans Feb. 7-8 with activities and displays highlighting space exploration, including NASA’s Artemis missions to the Moon.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA Stennis Leaders Visit Kennedy Space Center
NASA Stennis Deputy Director Christine Powell and NASA Rocket Propulsion Test Program Manager Michele Beisler tour the Vehicle Assembly Building to view the SLS (Space Launch System) rocket expected to fly on the Artemis II mission and the mobile launcher ground structure used to assemble, process, and launch SLS during a visit to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on Jan. 31.NASA/Stennis NASA Stennis Deputy Director Christine Powell and NASA Rocket Propulsion Test Program Manager Michele Beisler tour the Vehicle Assembly Building to view the SLS (Space Launch System) rocket expected to fly on the Artemis II mission and the mobile launcher ground structure used to assemble, process, and launch SLS during a visit to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on Jan. 31.NASA/Stennis NASA Stennis Deputy Director Christine Powell and NASA Rocket Propulsion Test Program Manager Michele Beisler tour the Vehicle Assembly Building to view the SLS (Space Launch System) rocket expected to fly on the Artemis II mission and the mobile launcher ground structure used to assemble, process, and launch SLS during a visit to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on Jan. 31.NASA/Stennis Leadership Class Visits NASA Stennis
The Pearl River County Leadership Class visits the Thad Cochran Test Stand (B-1/B-2) during a NASA Stennis tour on Feb. 20. NASA Stennis is at the front end of the critical path for the future of human deep space exploration through NASA’s Artemis campaign. The B-2 side of the Thad Cochran Test Stand is undergoing preparations for exploration upper stage testing. The upper stage is scheduled to undergo Green Run tests of its integrated systems before its first flight on the Artemis IV mission. The test series will culminate with a hot fire of the stage’s four RL10 engines, just as during an actual mission.NASA/Danny Nowlin Rocket Lab Leader Visits NASA Stennis
NASA Stennis Director John Bailey, left, welcomes Richard French, Rocket Lab USA, Inc. vice president of business development and strategy of space systems, for a tour of NASA Stennis on Feb. 26. In 2022, NASA and Rocket Lab reached an agreement for the aerospace company to locate its engine test complex at NASA Stennis. The initial 10-year agreement between NASA and Rocket Lab includes an option to extend an additional 10 years. The Archimedes Test Complex includes 24 acres surrounding the site’s A-3 Test Stand. Archimedes is Rocket Lab’s liquid oxygen and liquid methane rocket engine to power its medium-lift Neutron rocket. The company successfully completed the first hot fire of the new Archimedes rocket engine at NASA Stennis in August 2024.NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA in the News
NASA’s Advancements in Space Continue Generating Products on Earth – NASA What You Need To Know About the March 2025 Total Lunar Eclipse – NASA Science More Than 400 Lives Saved with NASA’s Search and Rescue Tech in 2024 – NASA Tests in Simulated Lunar Gravity to Prep Payloads for Moon Employee Profile: Jason Hopper
NASA’s Jason Hopper is shown at the E Test Complex at NASA’s Stennis Space Center.NASA/Danny Nowlin Jason Hopper’s journey to NASA started with assessing the risk of stepping into the unknown.
Read More About Jason Hopper Additional Resources
Artemis II to the Moon: Launch to Splashdown (NASA Mission Animation) Subscription Info
Lagniappe is published monthly by the Office of Communications at NASA’s Stennis Space Center. The NASA Stennis office may be contacted by at 228-688-3333 (phone); ssc-office-of-communications@mail.nasa.gov (email); or NASA OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS, Attn: LAGNIAPPE, Mail code IA00, Building 1111 Room 173, Stennis Space Center, MS 39529 (mail).
The Lagniappe staff includes: Managing Editor Lacy Thompson, Editor Bo Black, and photographer Danny Nowlin.
To subscribe to the monthly publication, please email the following to ssc-office-of-communications@mail.nasa.gov – name, location (city/state), email address.
Explore More
4 min read Lagniappe for December 2024
Article 3 months ago 4 min read Lagniappe for January 2025
Article 2 months ago 3 min read Lagniappe for February 2025
Article 4 weeks ago
View the full article
-
By NASA
3 Min Read Lagniappe for February 2025
Explore the February 2025 issue, highlighting historic snow at NASA Stennis and more! Explore Lagniappe for February 2025 featuring:
NASA Stennis Becomes Winter Wonderland Gator Speaks
Gator SpeaksNASA/Stennis Welcome to February, folks!
The shortest month of the year is here, but do not let its number of days fool you.
The month is full of energy and is welcomed with great enthusiasm.
We have dusted ourselves off from a historic snowfall in January.
The Super Bowl will be played in nearby New Orleans this month.
Mardi Gras season is here, which means King Cake for all! What is not to love about that?
The same kind of enthusiasm welcoming February is like the energy Gator felt when reading this month’s NASA Stennis employee feature story. I invite you to read it as well.
It is a reminder that bringing energy into what you do is all about genuine passion and commitment. The “get-it-done attitude” at NASA Stennis is that kind of energy.
The NASA Stennis culture of meeting any challenge head-on is what has helped power space dreams for six decades and counting in Mississippi.
It helps fuel the NASA Stennis federal city, where skilled people daily support the space agency and various commercial test customers that conduct work onsite.
When people come together, whether it is for the Super Bowl, Mardi Gras, or to power space dreams at NASA Stennis, something extraordinary can happen.
When you combine a “get-it-done attitude” and a skilled workforce like the one at NASA Stennis, it leads to being a part of something great.
Enjoy the month of February, and if, in the small chance you have an extra slice, pass this Gator some King Cake!
> Back to Top
NASA Stennis Top News
NASA Stennis Becomes Winter Wonderland
A series of cell phone and stationary camera images record recent snowfall at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, on Jan. 21. NASA Stennis near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, the nation’s largest propulsion test site, is known for its “shake, rattle, and roar” rocket stage and engine hot fires that have helped power the nation’s space dreams since the first humans stepped foot on the Moon. However, like much of the Deep South, NASA Stennis turned into a winter wonderland Jan. 21 when it received a historic amount of snow across the unique federal city. Hancock County, where NASA Stennis is located, received five to seven inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service. It marked the most snow the county has received in 61 years. A December 31, 1963, weather event holds the record at 10 inches of snow for Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. NASA/Stennis A series of cell phone and stationary camera images record recent snowfall at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, on Jan. 21. NASA Stennis near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, the nation’s largest propulsion test site, is known for its “shake, rattle, and roar” rocket stage and engine hot fires that have helped power the nation’s space dreams since the first humans stepped foot on the Moon. However, like much of the Deep South, NASA Stennis turned into a winter wonderland Jan. 21 when it received a historic amount of snow across the unique federal city. Hancock County, where NASA Stennis is located, received five to seven inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service. It marked the most snow the county has received in 61 years. A December 31, 1963, weather event holds the record at 10 inches of snow for Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. NASA/Stennis A series of cell phone and stationary camera images record recent snowfall at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, on Jan. 21. NASA Stennis near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, the nation’s largest propulsion test site, is known for its “shake, rattle, and roar” rocket stage and engine hot fires that have helped power the nation’s space dreams since the first humans stepped foot on the Moon. However, like much of the Deep South, NASA Stennis turned into a winter wonderland Jan. 21 when it received a historic amount of snow across the unique federal city. Hancock County, where NASA Stennis is located, received five to seven inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service. It marked the most snow the county has received in 61 years. A December 31, 1963, weather event holds the record at 10 inches of snow for Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. NASA/Stennis A series of cell phone and stationary camera images record recent snowfall at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, on Jan. 21. NASA Stennis near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, the nation’s largest propulsion test site, is known for its “shake, rattle, and roar” rocket stage and engine hot fires that have helped power the nation’s space dreams since the first humans stepped foot on the Moon. However, like much of the Deep South, NASA Stennis turned into a winter wonderland Jan. 21 when it received a historic amount of snow across the unique federal city. Hancock County, where NASA Stennis is located, received five to seven inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service. It marked the most snow the county has received in 61 years. A December 31, 1963, weather event holds the record at 10 inches of snow for Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. NASA/Stennis A series of cell phone and stationary camera images record recent snowfall at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, on Jan. 21. NASA Stennis near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, the nation’s largest propulsion test site, is known for its “shake, rattle, and roar” rocket stage and engine hot fires that have helped power the nation’s space dreams since the first humans stepped foot on the Moon. However, like much of the Deep South, NASA Stennis turned into a winter wonderland Jan. 21 when it received a historic amount of snow across the unique federal city. Hancock County, where NASA Stennis is located, received five to seven inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service. It marked the most snow the county has received in 61 years. A December 31, 1963, weather event holds the record at 10 inches of snow for Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. NASA/Stennis A series of cell phone and stationary camera images record recent snowfall at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, on Jan. 21. NASA Stennis near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, the nation’s largest propulsion test site, is known for its “shake, rattle, and roar” rocket stage and engine hot fires that have helped power the nation’s space dreams since the first humans stepped foot on the Moon. However, like much of the Deep South, NASA Stennis turned into a winter wonderland Jan. 21 when it received a historic amount of snow across the unique federal city. Hancock County, where NASA Stennis is located, received five to seven inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service. It marked the most snow the county has received in 61 years. A December 31, 1963, weather event holds the record at 10 inches of snow for Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. NASA/Stennis A series of cell phone and stationary camera images record recent snowfall at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, on Jan. 21. NASA Stennis near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, the nation’s largest propulsion test site, is known for its “shake, rattle, and roar” rocket stage and engine hot fires that have helped power the nation’s space dreams since the first humans stepped foot on the Moon. However, like much of the Deep South, NASA Stennis turned into a winter wonderland Jan. 21 when it received a historic amount of snow across the unique federal city. Hancock County, where NASA Stennis is located, received five to seven inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service. It marked the most snow the county has received in 61 years. A December 31, 1963, weather event holds the record at 10 inches of snow for Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. NASA/Stennis A series of cell phone and stationary camera images record recent snowfall at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, on Jan. 21. NASA Stennis near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, the nation’s largest propulsion test site, is known for its “shake, rattle, and roar” rocket stage and engine hot fires that have helped power the nation’s space dreams since the first humans stepped foot on the Moon. However, like much of the Deep South, NASA Stennis turned into a winter wonderland Jan. 21 when it received a historic amount of snow across the unique federal city. Hancock County, where NASA Stennis is located, received five to seven inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service. It marked the most snow the county has received in 61 years. A December 31, 1963, weather event holds the record at 10 inches of snow for Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. NASA/Stennis A series of cell phone and stationary camera images record recent snowfall at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, on Jan. 21. NASA Stennis near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, the nation’s largest propulsion test site, is known for its “shake, rattle, and roar” rocket stage and engine hot fires that have helped power the nation’s space dreams since the first humans stepped foot on the Moon. However, like much of the Deep South, NASA Stennis turned into a winter wonderland Jan. 21 when it received a historic amount of snow across the unique federal city. Hancock County, where NASA Stennis is located, received five to seven inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service. It marked the most snow the county has received in 61 years. A December 31, 1963, weather event holds the record at 10 inches of snow for Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. NASA/Stennis A series of cell phone and stationary camera images record recent snowfall at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, on Jan. 21. NASA Stennis near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, the nation’s largest propulsion test site, is known for its “shake, rattle, and roar” rocket stage and engine hot fires that have helped power the nation’s space dreams since the first humans stepped foot on the Moon. However, like much of the Deep South, NASA Stennis turned into a winter wonderland Jan. 21 when it received a historic amount of snow across the unique federal city. Hancock County, where NASA Stennis is located, received five to seven inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service. It marked the most snow the county has received in 61 years. A December 31, 1963, weather event holds the record at 10 inches of snow for Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. NASA/Stennis A series of cell phone and stationary camera images record recent snowfall at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, on Jan. 21. NASA Stennis near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, the nation’s largest propulsion test site, is known for its “shake, rattle, and roar” rocket stage and engine hot fires that have helped power the nation’s space dreams since the first humans stepped foot on the Moon. However, like much of the Deep South, NASA Stennis turned into a winter wonderland Jan. 21 when it received a historic amount of snow across the unique federal city. Hancock County, where NASA Stennis is located, received five to seven inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service. It marked the most snow the county has received in 61 years. A December 31, 1963, weather event holds the record at 10 inches of snow for Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. NASA/Stennis > Back to Top
Center Activities
NASA Stennis Attends SpaceCom
NASA Stennis Deputy Director Christine Powell participates in a NASA discussion panel session entitled, “Doing What We’ve Never Done to Do What We’ve Never Done” during SpaceCom in Orlando, Florida, on Jan. 30. The conference and exposition focused on advancing the commercial space industry, produced in partnership with the 51st Space Congress. NASA/Troy Frisbie NASA Stennis Deputy Director Christine Powell participates in a NASA discussion panel session entitled, “Doing What We’ve Never Done to Do What We’ve Never Done” during SpaceCom in Orlando, Florida, on Jan. 30. The conference and exposition focused on advancing the commercial space industry, produced in partnership with the 51st Space Congress. NASA/Troy Frisbie NASA Stennis Deputy Director Christine Powell participates in a NASA discussion panel session entitled, “Doing What We’ve Never Done to Do What We’ve Never Done” during SpaceCom in Orlando, Florida, on Jan. 30. The conference and exposition focused on advancing the commercial space industry, produced in partnership with the 51st Space Congress. NASA/Troy Frisbie NASA Stennis Deputy Director Christine Powell participates in a NASA discussion panel session entitled, “Doing What We’ve Never Done to Do What We’ve Never Done” during SpaceCom in Orlando, Florida, on Jan. 30. The conference and exposition focused on advancing the commercial space industry, produced in partnership with the 51st Space Congress. NASA/Troy Frisbie NASA Attends FAN EXPO New Orleans
NASA reached out to inspire members of the Artemis Generation on Jan. 10-12, joining one of the largest comic con producers in the world to host an outreach booth at the 2025 FAN EXPO in New Orleans.
Read More About the Experience NASA ASTRO CAMP® Hosts FIRST Robotics Kickoff Event
The NASA ASTRO CAMP® Community Partners (ACCP) program hosted a FIRST® Robotics Competition 2025 season kickoff event Jan. 4 at INFINITY Science Center, the official visitor center of NASA’s Stennis Space Center. NASA representatives welcomed competition teams as the event revealed the challenge for the new season. Teams will use engineering skills during the REEFSCAPE℠ challenge to strengthen one of the ocean’s most diverse habitats to build a better world. The third annual FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Magnolia Regional, a NASA-sponsored event, is scheduled for March 13-15 in Laurel, Mississippi, at the South Mississippi Fairgrounds. The regional competition will serve as a championship-qualifying event for teams to compete in Houston in the world championship event in April. FIRST Robotics is described as the ultimate sport of the mind as teams concentrate and share in the excitement of success.NASA ASTRO CAMP The NASA ASTRO CAMP® Community Partners (ACCP) program hosted a FIRST® Robotics Competition 2025 season kickoff event Jan. 4 at INFINITY Science Center, the official visitor center of NASA’s Stennis Space Center. NASA representatives welcomed competition teams as the event revealed the challenge for the new season. Teams will use engineering skills during the REEFSCAPE℠ challenge to strengthen one of the ocean’s most diverse habitats to build a better world. The third annual FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Magnolia Regional, a NASA-sponsored event, is scheduled for March 13-15 in Laurel, Mississippi, at the South Mississippi Fairgrounds. The regional competition will serve as a championship-qualifying event for teams to compete in Houston in the world championship event in April. FIRST Robotics is described as the ultimate sport of the mind as teams concentrate and share in the excitement of success. NASA ASTRO CAMP The NASA ASTRO CAMP® Community Partners (ACCP) program hosted a FIRST® Robotics Competition 2025 season kickoff event Jan. 4 at INFINITY Science Center, the official visitor center of NASA’s Stennis Space Center. NASA representatives welcomed competition teams as the event revealed the challenge for the new season. Teams will use engineering skills during the REEFSCAPE℠ challenge to strengthen one of the ocean’s most diverse habitats to build a better world. The third annual FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Magnolia Regional, a NASA-sponsored event, is scheduled for March 13-15 in Laurel, Mississippi, at the South Mississippi Fairgrounds. The regional competition will serve as a championship-qualifying event for teams to compete in Houston in the world championship event in April. FIRST Robotics is described as the ultimate sport of the mind as teams concentrate and share in the excitement of success. NASA ASTRO CAMP The NASA ASTRO CAMP® Community Partners (ACCP) program hosted a FIRST® Robotics Competition 2025 season kickoff event Jan. 4 at INFINITY Science Center, the official visitor center of NASA’s Stennis Space Center. NASA representatives welcomed competition teams as the event revealed the challenge for the new season. Teams will use engineering skills during the REEFSCAPE℠ challenge to strengthen one of the ocean’s most diverse habitats to build a better world. The third annual FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Magnolia Regional, a NASA-sponsored event, is scheduled for March 13-15 in Laurel, Mississippi, at the South Mississippi Fairgrounds. The regional competition will serve as a championship-qualifying event for teams to compete in Houston in the world championship event in April. FIRST Robotics is described as the ultimate sport of the mind as teams concentrate and share in the excitement of success. NASA ASTRO CAMP NASA Stennis Employee Receives Service Leadership Award
NASA’s Stennis Space Center employee Tim Pierce received the Roy S. Estess Service Leadership Award on Jan. 8 during a retirement ceremony honoring his NASA career. Pierce retired Jan. 11. The award, established and named in memory of the NASA Stennis director who led the center from 1989 to 2002, recognizes NASA civil servants whose career achievements demonstrate business and/or technical leadership leading to significant advancement of NASA’s mission and whose record of volunteerism reflects a profound commitment to surrounding communities. Pierce received the award for more than 25 years of sustained business and technical leadership supporting the NASA Stennis mission and a record of volunteerism supporting the city of Long Beach, Mississippi. Pierce served in multiple NASA Stennis positions, including as a senior accountant, budget integration lead, lead of the center’s facility planning and utilization efforts, and chief of the Planning and Development Division for the NASA Stennis Center Operations Directorate. He provided strategic leadership in such areas as tenant agreements, financial planning, sitewide master planning, and strategic federal city development, providing innovative and ongoing contributions to the future of the center. Within the community, Pierce served in school board and city public service roles for more than 20 years, gaining a reputation as a leader, collaborator, and innovator.NASA/Stennis > Back to Top
NASA in the News
Artemis II Stacking Operations Update – NASA NASA Invests in Artemis Studies to Support Long-Term Lunar Exploration – NASA NASA Space Tech’s Favorite Place to Travel in 2025: The Moon! – NASA NASA to Explore Two Landing Options for Returning Samples from Mars – NASA How to Fly NASA’s Orion Spacecraft – NASA > Back to Top
Employee Profile: Tim Stiglets
Tim Stiglets’ work at NASA’s Stennis Space Center gives him a front-row seat to the growth and opportunity potential of NASA Stennis. His work ranges from managing data for how a test stand is configured to tracking the configuration of NASA Stennis buildings and utilities systems that make up the infrastructure for America’s largest rocket propulsion test site.NASA/Danny Nowlin Two words come to Tim Stiglets’ mind when he thinks about NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi – growth and opportunity.
Read More About Tim Stiglets > Back to Top
Looking Back
A 1977 photo shows a space shuttle fuel tank arriving at the Thad Cochran Test Stand (B-1/B-2) at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, then known as National Space Technology Laboratories, as NASA prepared to test its space shuttle main propulsion test article (MPTA). The MPTA testing involved installing a shuttle fuel tank, a mockup of the shuttle orbiter, and the vehicle’s three-engine configuration on the stand, then firing all three engines simultaneously, as would be done during an actual launch. NASA/Stennis > Back to Top
Additional Resources
Good Things with Rebecca Turner – SuperTalk Mississippi (interview with NASA Stennis Director John Bailey) Subscription Info
Lagniappe is published monthly by the Office of Communications at NASA’s Stennis Space Center. The NASA Stennis office may be contacted by at 228-688-3333 (phone); ssc-office-of-communications@mail.nasa.gov (email); or NASA OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS, Attn: LAGNIAPPE, Mail code IA00, Building 1111 Room 173, Stennis Space Center, MS 39529 (mail).
The Lagniappe staff includes: Managing Editor Lacy Thompson, Editor Bo Black, and photographer Danny Nowlin.
To subscribe to the monthly publication, please email the following to ssc-office-of-communications@mail.nasa.gov – name, location (city/state), email address.
Explore More
6 min read Lagniappe for November 2024
Article 3 months ago 4 min read Lagniappe for December 2024
Article 2 months ago 4 min read Lagniappe for January 2025
Article 1 month ago View the full article
-
By NASA
4 Min Read Lagniappe for January 2025
Explore the January 2025 issue, highlighting the year in review at NASA Stennis, and how to become a NASA test conductor at the official visitor center and more! Explore Lagniappe for January 2025 featuring:
NASA Stennis Celebrates Key Testing, Operations Milestones in 2024 NASA Exhibit Puts Visitors in Test Conductor Seat NASA Stennis Hosts Mississippi Kween Gator Speaks
Gator SpeaksNASA/Stennis This time of year is one Gator enjoys. The ending of one year and beginning of another provides the opportunity to reflect, reset, and refocus.
This is true at NASA Stennis, a place that powers space dreams, or for someone who enjoys staying up to date with all the happenings around NASA Stennis – you!
In 2024, Gator witnessed the legacy of excellence continue at the south Mississippi NASA center. There were milestones reached with RS-25 engine testing and preparations for testing NASA’s new exploration upper stage for future Artemis missions, the center continued to fuel the space market with its support of commercial companies at the E Test Complex, and it was announced the historic in-space payload mission for the NASA Stennis Autonomous Systems Laboratory team would continue.
Another bright spot at NASA Stennis is range operations. The partnership between NASA Stennis and Skydweller Aero represents the first big step in this area. In 2024, NASA Stennis entered into an agreement with Skydweller Aero for the company to operate its solar-powered autonomous aircraft in the site’s restricted airspace.
It marks the first agreement between NASA Stennis and a commercial company to use the center’s unique capabilities to support testing and operation of uncrewed systems.
The future is indeed bright. The new year is like the NASA Stennis buffer zone. The 125,000-plus acre buffer zone enables many opportunities for site achievement and advancement, much like a new year does.
We all can make 2025 the best year to date by building on what we have accomplished and setting bold, new goals.
Here is to 2025 – a year of focus, ambition, and collaboration. Together, we can turn our goals into achievements and make this year one of our best yet.
Happy New Year!
> Back to Top
NASA Stennis Top News
NASA Stennis Celebrates Key Testing, Operations Milestones in 2024
NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, celebrated propulsion testing and site operations milestones in 2024, all while inspiring the Artemis Generation and welcoming new leadership that will help NASA Stennis innovate and grow into the future.
Read more about key milestones from 2024 NASA Exhibit Puts Visitors in Test Conductor Seat
NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, is helping the Artemis Generation learn how to power space dreams with an interactive exhibit at INFINITY Science Center.
Read more about the engine test simulator exhibit > Back to Top
Center Activities
NASA Stennis Hosts Mississippi Kween
Cookbook author and culinary content creator Caroline Davis, popularly known as Mississippi Kween, and her family enjoy touring facilities and learning about NASA Stennis and its frontline work during a site visit Dec. 18. Davis, husband Joe, and children Zeke and Zoey, met with NASA Stennis leadership before touring the L3Harris (formerly Aerojet Rocketdyne) Engine Assembly Facility, Thad Cochran Test Stand, Autonomous Systems Laboratory, and the NASA Stennis rocket engine garden. The tour highlighted the NASA Stennis story and how the south Mississippi NASA center has the ingredients for a recipe that accelerates the exploration and commercialization of space, innovates to benefit NASA and industry, and leverages assets to stimulate the economy.NASA/Danny Nowlin Cookbook author and culinary content creator Caroline Davis, popularly known as Mississippi Kween, and her family enjoy touring facilities and learning about NASA Stennis and its frontline work during a site visit Dec. 18. Davis, husband Joe, and children Zeke and Zoey, met with NASA Stennis leadership before touring the L3Harris (formerly Aerojet Rocketdyne) Engine Assembly Facility, Thad Cochran Test Stand, Autonomous Systems Laboratory, and the NASA Stennis rocket engine garden. The tour highlighted the NASA Stennis story and how the south Mississippi NASA center has the ingredients for a recipe that accelerates the exploration and commercialization of space, innovates to benefit NASA and industry, and leverages assets to stimulate the economy.NASA/Danny Nowlin Cookbook author and culinary content creator Caroline Davis, popularly known as Mississippi Kween, and her family enjoy touring facilities and learning about NASA Stennis and its frontline work during a site visit Dec. 18. Davis, husband Joe, and children Zeke and Zoey, met with NASA Stennis leadership before touring the L3Harris (formerly Aerojet Rocketdyne) Engine Assembly Facility, Thad Cochran Test Stand, Autonomous Systems Laboratory, and the NASA Stennis rocket engine garden. The tour highlighted the NASA Stennis story and how the south Mississippi NASA center has the ingredients for a recipe that accelerates the exploration and commercialization of space, innovates to benefit NASA and industry, and leverages assets to stimulate the economy.NASA/Danny Nowlin Cookbook author and culinary content creator Caroline Davis, popularly known as Mississippi Kween, and her family enjoy touring facilities and learning about NASA Stennis and its frontline work during a site visit Dec. 18. Davis, husband Joe, and children Zeke and Zoey, met with NASA Stennis leadership before touring the L3Harris (formerly Aerojet Rocketdyne) Engine Assembly Facility, Thad Cochran Test Stand, Autonomous Systems Laboratory, and the NASA Stennis rocket engine garden. The tour highlighted the NASA Stennis story and how the south Mississippi NASA center has the ingredients for a recipe that accelerates the exploration and commercialization of space, innovates to benefit NASA and industry, and leverages assets to stimulate the economy.NASA/Danny Nowlin Cookbook author and culinary content creator Caroline Davis, popularly known as Mississippi Kween, and her family enjoy touring facilities and learning about NASA Stennis and its frontline work during a site visit Dec. 18. Davis, husband Joe, and children Zeke and Zoey, met with NASA Stennis leadership before touring the L3Harris (formerly Aerojet Rocketdyne) Engine Assembly Facility, Thad Cochran Test Stand, Autonomous Systems Laboratory, and the NASA Stennis rocket engine garden. The tour highlighted the NASA Stennis story and how the south Mississippi NASA center has the ingredients for a recipe that accelerates the exploration and commercialization of space, innovates to benefit NASA and industry, and leverages assets to stimulate the economy.NASA/Danny Nowlin SLS Rocket on Display at Governor’s Mansion
A model of NASA’s SLS (Space Launch System) rocket is part of the holiday display in the Mississippi Governor’s Mansion in Jackson, the official residence of state Gov. Tate Reeves. The model symbolizes the longtime relationship and shared history between the state of Mississippi and NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, the nation’s largest rocket propulsion test site. Built in the 1960s, NASA Stennis tested Apollo rocket stages that carried humans to the Moon and every main engine that helped launch 135 space shuttle missions. It now is testing engines and systems for NASA’s Artemis missions and operates as a powerful aerospace and technology hub for the region and state. “We are grateful for our ongoing relationship with the state of Mississippi,” NASA Stennis Director John Bailey said. “We appreciate every opportunity to highlight the role NASA Stennis and the state play in helping to power the nation’s human space exploration program. We look forward to 2025 and continuing our work to test engines and systems that will help launch Artemis missions back to the Moon and beyond.” NASA Stennis/Troy Frisbie NASA Stennis Director Hosts Java with John
NASA Stennis Director John Bailey hosts a Java with John session on Dec. 10 with employees representing the Office of the Chief Financial Officer, Office of STEM Engagement, Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity, Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer, and the center’s Autonomous Systems Laboratory team. Java with John is an employee-led discussion in a casual environment aimed at fostering a culture in which employees are welcome to share what matters most to them at work. NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA Assistant Administrator for Procurement Visits NASA Stennis
The NASA assistant administrator for procurement stands with leaders of NASA’s Stennis Space Center and the NASA Shared Services Center during a visit to the south Mississippi site Dec. 11 to deliver an agency update, highlighting key initiatives and priorities across NASA’s procurement activities. The visit focused on fostering open communications and collaboration, and included an opportunity for Jackson to engage with procurement staff, provide updates, and respond to questions. The assistant administrator met with NASA leadership to align on strategic goals, discuss procurement-related challenges and opportunities, and reinforce support for the NASA Stennis mission. The visit highlighted NASA’s continued commitment to innovation, efficiency, and mission success through effective procurement strategies. Pictured (left to right) are James Bailey, NASA Shared Services Center/NASA Stennis deputy procurement officer; NASA Stennis Deputy Director Christine Powell; NASA Stennis Director John Bailey; Karla Smith, NASA assistant administrator for procurement; Eli Ouder, NASA Shared Services Center/NASA Stennis procurement officer; and Jamiel Charlton, NASA executive officer. Photo Credit: NASA/Danny Nowlin > Back to Top
NASA in the News
Artemis II Core Stage Vertical Integration Begins at NASA Kennedy – NASA New Commercial Artemis Moon Rovers Undergo Testing at NASA – NASA NASA Accelerates Space Exploration, Earth Science for All in 2024 – NASA Space Meets Sound: NASA Lands in 2024 Spotify Wrapped – NASA Artemis Accords Reach 50 Signatories as NASA Welcomes Panama, Austria – NASA > Back to Top
Employee Profile: Heather Seagren
Heather Seagren grew up near NASA’s Stennis Space Center and visited for field trips as a child. Now, as a financial management specialist, Seagren coordinates work trips for NASA employees at the south Mississippi NASA center. NASA/Danny Nowlin A leap of faith for Heather Seagren eight years ago brought the Gulf Coast native to something new, yet also returned her to a familiar place at NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.
Read More About Heather Seagren > Back to Top
Additional Resources
Good Things with Rebecca Turner – SuperTalk Mississippi (interview with NASA Stennis Director John Bailey) Subscription Info
Lagniappe is published monthly by the Office of Communications at NASA’s Stennis Space Center. The NASA Stennis office may be contacted by at 228-688-3333 (phone); ssc-office-of-communications@mail.nasa.gov (email); or NASA OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS, Attn: LAGNIAPPE, Mail code IA00, Building 1111 Room 173, Stennis Space Center, MS 39529 (mail).
The Lagniappe staff includes: Managing Editor Lacy Thompson, Editor Bo Black, and photographer Danny Nowlin.
To subscribe to the monthly publication, please email the following to ssc-office-of-communications@mail.nasa.gov – name, location (city/state), email address.
Explore More
4 min read Lagniappe for October 2024
Article 3 months ago 6 min read Lagniappe for November 2024
Article 2 months ago 4 min read Lagniappe for December 2024
Article 1 month ago View the full article
-
By NASA
4 Min Read Lagniappe for December 2024
Explore the December 2024 issue, highlighting the Clean Energy Project, Powering Space Dreams, and more! Credits: NASA/Stennis Explore Lagniappe for December 2024 featuring:
NASA Stennis Secures Grant for Clean Energy Project Powering Space Dreams NASA Builds Bridges at Bayou Classic Gator Speaks
Gator SpeaksNASA/Stennis Do you have time for a quick story?
Recently, your ol‘ friend Gator had the chance to help his family move.
This move was not the same as going to the Moon or Mars like NASA’s planned Artemis adventure, but it felt similar.
The move brought friends, family, and even some neighbors together to help. Each person took on a role in an organized way to help make it happen.
Some packed, others cleaned, and all contributed in some way, with each person bringing his or her special touch to the project.
We were not just working hard. We were making the most of it.
It became more than work. It turned into a celebration of friends and family coming together to make something good happen. There was something truly rewarding about seeing everyone pitch in to make it a success.
While this move will not take us to the Moon like the Artemis campaign, it is hard not to see similarities. When NASA returns to the Moon for scientific discovery, technology advancement, and to learn how to live and work on another world while preparing for human missions to Mars, it will be a success for all of us to share in.
Through Artemis, NASA is bringing together commercial and international partners to establish the first long-term presence on the Moon. Here at NASA Stennis, many are working hard to help prepare the agency for future Artemis missions, testing needed rocket engines and systems.
Going back to the Moon has become more than work, though. It is inspiring a new generation of explorers – the Artemis Generation.
Every person is playing a role. It is bringing together friends, family, and neighbors to help. All are contributing, with each person bringing a special touch to the mission.
It is a celebration of each step forward, each rocket launched, each mission accomplishment. Each milestone reminds us all – “Wow, we really did that. We are a part of something great.”
> Back to Top
NASA Stennis Top News
NASA Stennis Secures Grant for Clean Energy Project
NASA’s Stennis Space Center has been awarded a highly competitive U.S. Department of Energy grant to transform its main administration building into a facility that produces as much renewable energy as it uses.
Read More About the Clean Energy Project Powering Space Dreams
As the nation’s largest multiuser propulsion test site, NASA Stennis supports and helps power both national and commercial space efforts and missions.
Read More About Propulsion Testing at NASA Stennis NASA Builds Bridges at Bayou Classic
NASA was on full display during the 51st Annual Bayou Classic Fan Fest activity on Nov. 30, hosting an informational booth and interacting with event participants.
Read More About the 51st Annual Bayou Classic > Back to Top
Center Activities
Outreach Event Promotes Doing Business with NASA
Tom Lipski, NASA Stennis Technology Transfer Expansion team lead, speaks at the “A Day with NASA” event at The Accelerator in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, on Nov. 7. NASA speakers focused on providing updates on agency resources available to help companies grow and on different ways to do business with the agency. They also offered information about how businesses could build partnerships with the agency to commercialize NASA-developed technologies. Participants had the opportunity to meet one-on-one with members of the NASA Stennis business and technology team as well. The Mississippi Polymer Institute, with funding from the Mississippi Manufacturer’s Association Manufacturing Extension Partnership, hosted the event. NASA/Stennis Participants in A Day with NASA at The Accelerator in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, included: (left to right) Marc Shoemaker with the NASA Stennis Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Technology Transfer Office; Kay Doane with the NASA Stennis Office of Small Business Programs; Sandy Crist with the Mississippi Manufacturers Association Manufacturing Extension Program; Dr. Monica Tisack with the Mississippi Polymer Institute; Caitlyne Shirley with the Mississippi Polymer Institute; Top Lipski with the NASA Stennis Technology Transfer Expansion Team; Thom Jacks with the NASA Stennis Engineering and Test Directorate; Dawn Davis with the NASA Stennis Engineering and Test Directorate; Kelly McCarthy with the NASA Stennis Office of STEM Engagement; and Janet Parker with Innovate Mississippi. College Students Visit NASA Stennis
A collection of college students from Mississippi and Alabama recently visited NASA’s Stennis Space Center to gain firsthand insight into NASA operations. During the visits on Nov. 14-15, students from Meridian Community College, the University of Alabama, and Mississippi State University toured key facilities such as the Thad Cochran Test Stand, where NASA is preparing to test a new SLS (Space Launch System) rocket stage to fly on future Artemis missions to the Moon and beyond. The visits provided inspiration for members of the Artemis Generation, while also allowing students to bring together their academic studies with practical application at the nation’s largest propulsion test site.College Students Visit NASA Stennis A collection of college students from Mississippi and Alabama recently visited NASA’s Stennis Space Center to gain firsthand insight into NASA operations. During the visits on Nov. 14-15, students from Meridian Community College, the University of Alabama, and Mississippi State University toured key facilities such as the Thad Cochran Test Stand, where NASA is preparing to test a new SLS (Space Launch System) rocket stage to fly on future Artemis missions to the Moon and beyond. The visits provided inspiration for members of the Artemis Generation, while also allowing students to bring together their academic studies with practical application at the nation’s largest propulsion test site.College Students Visit NASA Stennis A collection of college students from Mississippi and Alabama recently visited NASA’s Stennis Space Center to gain firsthand insight into NASA operations. During the visits on Nov. 14-15, students from Meridian Community College, the University of Alabama, and Mississippi State University toured key facilities such as the Thad Cochran Test Stand, where NASA is preparing to test a new SLS (Space Launch System) rocket stage to fly on future Artemis missions to the Moon and beyond. The visits provided inspiration for members of the Artemis Generation, while also allowing students to bring together their academic studies with practical application at the nation’s largest propulsion test site.College Students Visit NASA Stennis NASA Stennis Hosts Voluntary Protection Program Council Meeting
Grant Tregre, deputy director of the NASA Stennis Safety and Mission Assurance Directorate, welcomes members of the Mississippi/Louisiana Gulf Coast Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) Local Area Council to their annual meeting on Oct. 29, hosted by NASA’s Stennis Space Center at INFINITY Science Center. The regional meeting focused on how workplace safety team members can achieve and maintain consistent and effective safety and health programs for their current and potential OSHA VPP worksites across south Mississippi and Louisiana. NASA/Danny Nowlin Lasonya Pulliam, representing L3Harris, speaks during the annual meeting of the Mississippi/Louisiana Gulf Coast Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) Local Area Council on Oct. 29, hosted by NASA’s Stennis Space Center at INFINITY Science Center. The regional meeting focused on how workplace safety team members can achieve and maintain consistent and effective safety and health programs for their current and potential OSHA VPP worksites across south Mississippi and Louisiana. NASA/Danny Nowlin Jennifer Adams, representing the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System, speaks during the annual meeting of the Mississippi/Louisiana Gulf Coast Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) Local Area Council on Oct. 29, hosted by NASA’s Stennis Space Center at INFINITY Science Center. The regional meeting focused on how workplace safety team members can achieve and maintain consistent and effective safety and health programs for their current and potential OSHA VPP worksites across south Mississippi and Louisiana. NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA Stennis Director Hosts Java with John
NASA Stennis Director John Bailey hosted the latest Java with John session on Nov. 19 with employees from the NASA Stennis Safety and Mission Assurance Directorate, NASA Stennis Office of the Chief Information Officer, and NASA Rocket Propulsion Test Program Office. Java with John is an employee-led discussion in a casual environment aimed at fostering a culture in which employees are welcome to share what matters most to them at work. NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA Stennis Leaders Host U.S. Marine Personnel
NASA Stennis senior leaders hosted U.S. Marine Corps Reserve representatives during the group’s visit to the center Nov. 1. The Marine Corps personnel were onsite to tour Naval Small Craft Instruction and Technical Training School operations and facilities located at NASA Stennis and continue planning for future small boat training and education opportunities. Marine Corps representatives and NASA Stennis leaders participating in the meet-and-greet session included: (front row, left to right) Master Gunnery Sgt. Paul Guidry, Maj. Patrick Murphy, NASA Stennis Director John Bailey, Brig. Gen. Kevin Jarrard, Lt. Col. Justin Davis, Sgt. Maj. Timothy Peterson, and Capt. Bryson Curtin. (Back row, left to right) Gerry Ormerod, NASA Stennis Deputy Director Christine Powell, and NASA Stennis Associate Director Rodney McKellip. Jarrard is the commanding general of the 4th Marine Division, with headquarters in New Orleans. Murphy is the capabilities officer of the 4th Marine Division. The other Marine participants are from the 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion in Tampa, Florida. Ormerod is deputy director for requirements and capability development with the U.S. Marine Forces Reserve. NASA/Stennis U.S. Navy Officials Visit with NASA Stennis Leaders
U.S. Navy officials visited with NASA Stennis leaders Nov. 13 for a meet-and-greet opportunity, also receiving an overview briefing about the work and operations of south Mississippi site. Participants in the gathering included (left to right): Anita Harrell, executive director of the NASA Shared Services Center; Joe Schuyler, director of the NASA Stennis Engineering and Test Directorate; Herschel Mims, a management support specialist with the Naval Oceanography Operations Command; Rodney McKellip, NASA Stennis associate director; Francis Prikasky, an electronics engineer and information technology administrator with the Naval Oceanographic Office; Robert Gavagnie, a contract specialist with the Naval Oceanographic Office; James “Brett” English, information systems security manager with the Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command; Dr. Brooke Jones, head of the Ocean Forecasting Division for the Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center; Maxwell Williamson, a physical scientists with the Naval Oceanographic Office; Dr. Benjamin Phrampus, a research geophysicist with the Naval Research Laboratory; Gary Benton, director of the NASA Stennis Safety and Mission Assurance Directorate; Thom Rich, associate director of the NASA Stennis Center Operations Directorate; Ken Newton, director of service delivery for the NASA Shared Services Center; and Eli Ouder, director of the NASA Stennis/NASA Shared Services Center Office of ProcurementNASA/Danny Nowlin > Back to Top
NASA in the News
NASA, SpaceX Illustrate Key Moments of Artemis Lunar Lander Mission – NASA NASA Plans to Assign Missions for Two Future Artemis Cargo Landers – NASA Discovery Alert: A Rare Glimpse of a Newborn Planet – NASA Science Employee Profile: Jeff Renshaw
Jeff Renshaw is the lead attorney for procurement law in the Office of the General Counsel for NASA’s Stennis Space Center and the NASA Shared Services Center. NASA/Danny Nowlin NASA attorney Jeff Renshaw’s work has primarily revolved around two things: serving others and solving problems.
Read More About Jeff Renshaw > Back to Top
Additional Resources
Good Things with Rebecca Turner – SuperTalk Mississippi (interview with NASA Stennis Director John Bailey) Subscription Info
Lagniappe is published monthly by the Office of Communications at NASA’s Stennis Space Center. The NASA Stennis office may be contacted by at 228-688-3333 (phone); ssc-office-of-communications@mail.nasa.gov (email); or NASA OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS, Attn: LAGNIAPPE, Mail code IA00, Building 1111 Room 173, Stennis Space Center, MS 39529 (mail).
The Lagniappe staff includes: Managing Editor Lacy Thompson, Editor Bo Black, and photographer Danny Nowlin.
To subscribe to the monthly publication, please email the following to ssc-office-of-communications@mail.nasa.gov – name, location (city/state), email address.
Explore More
7 min read Lagniappe for September 2024
Article 3 months ago 4 min read Lagniappe for October 2024
Article 2 months ago 6 min read Lagniappe for November 2024
Article 4 weeks ago View the full article
-
-
Check out these Videos
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.