Megan Harvey: A Pioneering Force at NASA’s Johnson Space Center
Megan Harvey is a remarkable professional making significant contributions to NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. In her role as a Utilization Flight Lead and Capsule Communicator, commonly known as Capcom, she plays a pivotal role in coordinating complex logistics and scientific operations, crucial to the success of space missions. Her responsibilities involve integrating science payload requirements in line with vehicle launch and landing schedules. She also coordinates the logistics for SpaceX vehicle returns to West Coast landing sites.
A Journey from Long Valley to NASA
Megan’s journey began in Long Valley, New Jersey. When explaining her job to those unfamiliar with NASA, she often describes her role as ensuring that biological experiments on the space station adhere to their time-sensitive schedules. This involves coordinating with both the International Space Station (ISS) Program and the scientific community. She highlights the importance of this task, particularly because launch dates can often shift from their original schedules.
As a Capcom, Megan is the Mission Control Center’s voice in Houston, communicating directly with the crew. She relishes her role in responding to calls like the iconic "Houston, we have a problem!" Her tenure in the Research Integration Office began in 2024, marking a shift from her 11-year stint in the Flight Operations Directorate, where she supported various consoles for the ISS. Retaining her Capcom certification since 2021, Megan cherishes every moment she spends in the ISS Flight Control Room, which she describes as a dream come true.
A Career Spanning Over a Decade
Megan has dedicated 13 years to NASA, a period filled with learning and growth. For those aspiring to join the space industry, she offers valuable advice: practice regularly, prepare thoroughly, maintain curiosity, and approach every task with enthusiasm.
Megan’s path to NASA was anything but straightforward. Her fascination with space began at Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama, at the age of 10. She aspired to become a Capcom and contribute to NASA’s mission. A visit to Russia during high school sparked an interest in the collaboration between Russian and U.S. space programs. This led her to pursue a bachelor’s degree in physics with a minor in Russian language from Kenyon College in Ohio. However, her grades did not initially meet NASA’s high standards.
After graduation, Megan worked at a technology camp and later secured a research assistant position in a neuroscience lab at Princeton University. Although independent research didn’t align with her interests, she gained valuable experience. Later, she moved to California to become an instructor at Astrocamp, an outdoor education camp, where she taught various science classes, including astronomy. Witnessing the assembly of the Perseverance Mars rover at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory inspired her to explore aerospace-related graduate programs. She eventually earned a master’s degree in engineering physics from Embry-Riddle in Daytona Beach, Florida, and secured a flight control position.
Influences and Memorable Moments
Megan’s career has been shaped by influential figures in the space industry. Sergey Sverdlin, a trainer during her time with the Houston Support Group/RIO, left a lasting impression. Despite his gruff demeanor, Megan and Sergey developed a mutual respect, inspiring her to excel in her role.
One of Megan’s most impactful NASA experiences occurred during the Soyuz coolant leak incident. She was the Increment Lead RIO at the time and was troubleshooting with the Increment Manager and the ISS Mission Management Team chair when coolant flakes were observed leaking from the Soyuz. The ensuing months were filled with intense and meaningful work alongside a dedicated team, showcasing the collaborative spirit of NASA.
Sharing the Space Station’s Wonders
Megan is passionate about sharing insights into the complexities of the space station and the international collaboration that keeps it operational. She emphasizes the importance of communicating the benefits of space research to life on Earth, a message she believes is vital for general audiences to understand.
If given the opportunity, Megan would love to have dinner with iconic astronauts Mae Jemison and Sally Ride, as both have inspired countless individuals in the space industry. Her favorite space-related memory includes a visit to a Navy aircraft carrier with the SpaceX Crew-1 crew, an experience that left a lasting impression.
Key Projects and Personal Interests
Throughout her career, Megan has contributed to several key projects. Her first increment lead role involved updating products for potential space station decrewing during Increment 59, a collaborative effort she found eye-opening. In 2021, she served as the Integration Systems Engineer lead for the Nanorack Airlock project, coordinating with multiple stakeholders to achieve successful results.
Outside of work, Megan enjoys biking, rock climbing, cooking, board games, and singing. She prefers night launches and has a fondness for the movie "Space Camp," which holds sentimental value as her first DVD purchase. When it comes to NASA logos, she favors the "worm" design.
Staying Informed About Space Research
NASA conducts exciting research aboard the ISS, contributing to space exploration and benefiting life on Earth. To stay informed about space station science, readers can visit the Station Research & Technology news page. Additionally, subscribing to NASA’s weekly email newsletter provides regular updates. For social media enthusiasts, NASA shares updates on Twitter via @ISS_Research and on the space station’s Facebook and Instagram accounts.
By understanding the vital role individuals like Megan Harvey play in NASA’s success, we gain a deeper appreciation for the dedication and collaboration involved in advancing space exploration. Her journey is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of dreams in the ever-expanding realm of space science.
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