PETER DEMAREST

AEROSPACE ENGINEER

Led a software engineering team who designed, developed and maintained software simulations for the International Space Station and Visiting Vehicles. Performed independent verification and validation of Flight Software and Guidance, Navigation, and Control algorithms for rendezvous and proximity operations. Developed ground based tools for the real time analysis and reporting of vehicle performance and safety metrics. Developed high fidelity models and performed testing and verification for a safety critical simulation. Acted as Quality Manager responsible for overseeing and implementing an ISO9001/AS91000 certified quality management system (QMS).

• Developed models of the ISS Guidance, Navigation and Control subsystem, including navigation sensors (GPS and Rate Gyros) and actuators (Control Moment Gyros).
• Developed models and performed analysis for the Space Launch System (SLS)
• Used Agile/Scrum methodology to develop project plans, monitor work in progress, and meet project objectives.
• Reduced data processing time from hours to minutes, enabling the real time analysis of Cygnus Demo mission objectives.
• Planned and conducted audits of the QMS, monitored quality metrics, worked with senior management to ensure quality goals were defined and met, and developed quality procedures across all business and technical activities.
• Oversaw transition of QMS to AS9001 rev. D.

TECHNICAL STAFF IV

Designed, developed and maintained software code for Mission Operations Directorate at NASA Johnson Space Center, providing planning, training and real-time flight support for controllers of the space shuttle program. Ensured all code satisfied USA and NASA quality standards. Analyzed near Earth and translunar trajectories and determined complex model interfaces and class hierarchies. Evaluated existing and future simulations in partnership with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory to develop requirements for new prototyping efforts. Developed frameworks and algorithms and implemented simulation models in C++ and C#.

• Independently set-up and deployed an automated build system using CruiseControl that builds software, runs tests, performs analyses and generates reports automatically for NASA.
• Recognized for the creation of a hybrid C++ /Python simulation framework in support of an internal R&D project. Consequently received the “Employee of the Quarter Award” for technical achievement in 2010 while working with the simulation framework team.
• Rapidly developed the COMPASS simulation by updating an existing framework in collaboration with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Worked as part of the architecture team to develop interfaces, models, and core simulation components. Delivered quality results in record time and received positive feedback from the client for efficient and effective efforts.

PROJECT ENGINEER 2007—2008

Led a strong Team of cross-functional technical professionals to provide technical support and product management to users of FreeFlyer, including high profile clientele at NASA Goddard, Kennedy Space Center and the U.S. Air Force. Served as an external liaison between clients and developers, gathering client feedback and updating product as necessary. Developed training materials and​ classes for end-users and mission analysts and worked with the sales team to deliver demonstrations, presentations and customized business proposals. Provided quality assurance leadership as an auditor during the ISO-9000 process.

• Improved reporting and tracking capabilities and ensured compliance with International Tracking in Arms Regulation (ITAR) through the creation of a database backed application for tracking software licenses and maintenance agreements.
• Established and rolled-out a WIKI to provide current training information throughout client organizations. Created user manuals, operating and maintenance manuals and technical documentation, providing new feature information as needed. Transferred information to the WIKI, generating an accessible and evolving document for up-to-date information and efficient guidance.

LEAD MISSION ANALYST 2003—2007

Led the flight dynamics ground system team composed of engineers, programmers and system administrators with high technical abilities to supply routine operations, functional updates, bug fixes, and lifecycle management for three spacecraft and the Constellation Coordination System (CCS) as part of the Earth Observing System Operations Center at NASA Goddard. Developed and implemented test plans for the CCS as it expanded its support from 7 to 11 missions with strategic focus on situational awareness at globally dispersed control centers.

• Contributed to the original development and deployment of the Conjunction Assessment System, crested to reduce the risk to spacecraft from orbital debris. Conducted extensive research in collaboration with the U.S. Air Force Strategic Space Command to design tools and scripts for performing detailed analyses, understanding complex data, and generating reports to enable effective system operations and decision making.
• Streamlined operations support in the EOC by transitioning the legacy multi-platform (windows, HP UNIX, and Sun Solaris) ground system for Terra spacecraft to the windows only environment used by the Aqua and Aura spacecraft, resulting in reduced training and maintenance costs.

MISSION ANALYST 2001—2003

Designed trajectory and maneuver strategies for the first three months of the Aqua spacecraft mission. Developed operational tools to determine and deliver the optimal ascent maneuver sequence. Transferred knowledge and focus to design a prototype orbit determination system for the Aura spacecraft project. Worked in the operations center “on-console” for both spacecraft, providing real-time technical support during launch and mission.

• Delivered flawless operational procedures for NASA’s Aqua Spacecraft resulting in best possible orbit safety through the design of software tools to provide evaluation and optimization of maneuvers as they were executed.
• Served on the team that rolled-out the “Constellation Coordination System” (CCS) in 12-18 months’ time, facilitating initial release upon the launch of the EOS Aura Spacecraft. CCS is a web-based portal system that enables data sharing, visualization and analysis between multiple space crafts, and disseminates critical data between Mission Operations Centers (MOC) and scientists, providing big-picture perspectives through multiple reporting capabilities.
• Secured international cooperation with Centre National Etudes Spatiales (CNES) by communicating the value in sharing data through CCS.