Aaron Rose, a member of the Crew and Thermal Systems Division, plays a crucial role in supporting cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station. His responsibilities involve working with payload developers to ensure the safe transportation of temperature-controlled science experiments using portable coolers, freezers, and refrigerators.
Throughout the entire flight cycle, Rose and his team coordinate all cold stowage hardware, operations, and personnel to guarantee the safe and secure handling of science experiments from launch to landing. These experiments play a vital role in unlocking discoveries that are not feasible on Earth, improving life on our planet, and laying the groundwork for future missions to the Moon and Mars.
Rose hails from Canton, Ohio, and has been working at Johnson Space Center for 18 years. His journey to NASA began as a co-op with Jacobs Engineering while attending The Ohio State University. Inspired by retired NASA astronaut Nancy Currie, Rose seized the opportunity to join the co-op program at Johnson and eventually transitioned to a full-time role as a test engineer in Houston.
In explaining his job to those unfamiliar with NASA, Rose describes his work as specializing in temperature-controlled transportation of science experiments. He oversees the packing of domestic and international experiments into coolers, freezers, or refrigerators, ensuring their proper installation into spacecraft and functionality. Additionally, he oversees the return of science samples to researchers post-splashdown, with the added responsibility of selecting ice cream for the crew.
For aspiring individuals looking to work in the space industry or at NASA, Rose emphasizes the value of networking and perseverance. He advises not to shy away from engineering due to challenges in higher-level mathematics, as there are diverse roles within NASA that cater to various strengths.
When asked about his inspirations in the space field, Rose cites retired astronaut Stephen Robinson as a significant influence who encouraged him to pursue his dreams and join NASA full-time. Reflecting on his favorite NASA memory, Rose recalls his involvement in the SpaceX CRS-3 return mission, where he was thrilled to handle science experiments fresh from space.
In discussing the 25 years of continuous human presence on the International Space Station, Rose expresses excitement for the future of the industry and NASA’s ambitious goals for deep space exploration. He looks forward to witnessing the continued advancements in space exploration.
If given the opportunity to dine with any astronaut, Rose would choose former astronaut Neil Armstrong, whom he met once and admires for his contributions to space exploration. Among his favorite space-related moments are watching the movie “IMAX: Hubble 3D” with fellow co-ops and witnessing his first up-close space shuttle launch.
Throughout his time at NASA, Rose has worked on key projects such as “IMAX: Hubble 3D,” the potable water dispenser, and cold stowage. His favorite project, cold stowage, has allowed him to support multiple missions each year and contribute to over 50 flights to the space station.
Outside of work, Rose enjoys weightlifting, playing video games, traveling, engaging in car culture, attending comedy shows, and watching movies. He prefers night launches over day launches, cites “Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back” as his favorite space movie, and favors the NASA Worm logo.
In conclusion, NASA and its partners continue to support human presence in space, paving the way for future space exploration missions. The International Space Station serves as a hub for research that not only expands our understanding of space but also brings benefits back to Earth. Interested individuals can stay updated on space station research through NASA’s Station Research & Technology news page and social media channels.
By following the latest developments in space exploration, we can all be part of the journey towards unlocking the mysteries of the universe and enhancing life on our home planet.
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