NASA chief technologist gets AIAA's von Karman Award

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics has given NASA Chief Technologist Bobby Braun the von Kármán Lectureship in Astronautics Award.

Braun was recognized for significantly advancing the understanding of the challenges of traveling to Mars and for the development of systems, concepts and technologies that enable exploration programs on that planet.

"I am honored to be recognized by the AIAA and to speak at this year's conference about the challenging work done by the scientists and engineers in NASA's entry, descent and landing technical community," Braun said in a NASA press release. "My hope is that engineering students around the country will share in the excitement of planetary exploration, developing new technologies and advancing our nation's forays in space."

NASA Administrator Charles Bolden named Braun chief technologist in February 2010. Braun serves as the principal adviser and advocate on matters that concern agencywide technology policy and programs. He received a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering from Penn State University in 1987, a master's degree in astronautics from George Washington University in 1989, and a Ph.D. in aeronautics and astronautics from Stanford University in 1996.