NASA’s Strategic Collaboration with Industry for Lunar Exploration
In a pioneering effort to advance lunar exploration, NASA has strategically partnered with American industry to deliver science and technology payloads to the Moon. This collaborative initiative is underpinned by a dedicated team that ensures each mission is imbued with strategic vision, compliance, and innovation. At the helm of this effort is Aubrie Henspeter, a pivotal figure who oversees all procurement aspects for NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative, a cornerstone project supporting the Artemis mission.
With two decades of experience at NASA, Henspeter brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as the CLPS procurement team lead, operating from the Lunar & Planetary Exploration Procurement Office at the Johnson Space Center in Houston. Her responsibilities are multifaceted, involving problem-solving, mentoring, and strategic planning—all aimed at enabling commercial partners to deliver NASA payloads to the lunar surface more efficiently and affordably than ever before.
Henspeter describes her journey as a thrilling experience, witnessing the entire lifecycle of a project from the initial solicitation of requirements to the final launch to the Moon. She emphasizes the importance of adapting continuously as the lunar industry evolves, incorporating lessons learned to refine procurement terms and conditions, thereby fostering a dynamic and responsive approach to lunar exploration.
Leading a Dynamic Team
Henspeter leads a team of six contracting officers and contract specialists, deftly managing workload priorities and ensuring the seamless progression of seven commercial missions currently under contract. Additionally, she plays a crucial role in shaping upcoming contract opportunities for future lunar deliveries, continuously seeking innovative procurement strategies within a commercial firm-fixed-price framework.
The CLPS initiative, launched by NASA in 2018, was designed to establish a more agile and flexible method of partnering with commercial entities for lunar deliveries. Thirteen vendors have been selected as part of a multi-award contract, each eligible to compete for individual task orders to deliver NASA’s science and technology payloads to the Moon. These deliveries are integral to the Artemis goals, which aim to enable new discoveries, test pivotal technologies, and prepare for sustained human exploration on the lunar surface.
Recognition and Collaboration
In recognition of her exemplary leadership on the CLPS project from 2018 to 2023, Henspeter was awarded the NASA Exceptional Service Medal in May 2023. She views this accolade as a testament to the team’s collaborative spirit and collective efforts. Henspeter expresses her enthusiasm for working on the project, highlighting its lean and adaptable approach and the remarkable team involved. She believes that when all NASA employees collaborate effectively, they achieve the greatest success and fulfill their mission objectives.
This sense of collaboration and adaptability has significantly influenced the insights Henspeter has gathered throughout her career. These lessons are applied daily to keep the team aligned and prepared for any challenges that may arise.
Essential Lessons in Procurement
One of the key lessons Henspeter emphasizes is the necessity of maintaining current contracts. She notes that everything is in order until it isn’t, and then the question arises—what does the contract stipulate? Open communication and up-to-date documentation, regardless of how minor the change, are crucial for managing contracts effectively.
Throughout her career, Henspeter has learned to prioritize preparation, adaptability, and maintaining strong working relationships. She explains that preparation in procurement involves conducting thorough market research, understanding regulations, identifying gray areas, and developing strategies that best meet the customer’s needs. Adaptability, on the other hand, means staying committed to the goal while remaining open and flexible regarding the methods of achieving it.
This philosophy has been instrumental in navigating various challenges, from year-long international contract negotiations with foreign partners to transitioning a customer from a sole-source request to a competitive procurement, ultimately resulting in cost savings and expanded opportunities.
Looking to the Future
As NASA gears up for the Artemis Generation, Henspeter aspires to instill a deep respect for teamwork and a shared sense of purpose within the organization. She believes that every contribution is valuable, regardless of its perceived size, and plays a crucial role in achieving NASA’s mission. Henspeter takes pride in her role and in being part of the NASA team, continually striving to foster an environment of collaboration and innovation.
In conclusion, NASA’s strategic partnership with American industry for lunar exploration represents a significant step forward in space exploration. Through the CLPS initiative, NASA is not only advancing its scientific and technological capabilities but also paving the way for sustainable human presence on the Moon. Under the leadership of individuals like Henspeter, NASA is well-positioned to achieve its ambitious goals and continue its legacy of exploration and discovery.
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