Dr. Andrew Abraham is an accomplished aerospace engineer and systems manager with over 15 years of experience in space traffic management, orbital debris analysis, and satellite operations. Currently serving as a Senior Space Traffic Coordination Specialist at The Aerospace Corporation, Dr. Abraham provides critical guidance to government, industry, and international stakeholders on the safe and sustainable operation of spacecraft within the complex and crowded space domain. His expertise in space situational awareness, GPS transponder technology, and conjunction assessment has made him a key contributor to advancing safe space operations in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense, NASA, the FAA, and the Department of Commerce’s Office of Space Commerce.
In previous roles at The Aerospace Corporation and Lockheed Martin, Dr. Abraham managed technical teams and led projects that included modeling, simulation, and analysis for national security and commercial satellite operations. During his tenure as a Data Scientist Manager at Lockheed Martin, he successfully managed a group of 50 engineers and associate managers across multiple locations. This role honed his abilities in functional management and strategic oversight, skills he has continued to apply in his current position, where he tackles the complex challenges posed by the increasing density of satellites and orbital debris.
Dr. Abraham’s background includes a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and an M.S. in Physics from Lehigh University, where his doctoral research focused on using particle swarm optimization for low-thrust transfers to halo orbits within the Earth-Moon system. This groundbreaking work has applications in mission design and optimization, showcasing his strong foundation in orbital mechanics and astrodynamics. His academic journey also includes a Leadership and Management Certificate from the Wharton School of Business, which has further developed his strategic thinking and project leadership abilities.
In addition to his technical achievements, Dr. Abraham has a rich history of public speaking on topics related to space traffic management and orbital mechanics. He has shared his insights at industry conferences and educational institutions, demonstrating his commitment to promoting understanding and innovation in space safety and sustainability. His publications cover a wide array of topics, from GPS transponders for space traffic management to optimization of space trajectories, all of which contribute to the broader dialogue on maintaining a sustainable and secure space environment.
Throughout his career, Dr. Abraham has been recognized for his contributions to aerospace engineering, receiving multiple awards from The Aerospace Corporation, including the Achievement Award for his involvement with the Small Payload Ride Share Association and the SPOT Award for his modeling and simulation support in evaluating the military utility of government systems. These accolades underscore his technical excellence and his dedication to supporting the missions of both government and commercial partners.
As an active member of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) since 2011, Dr. Abraham remains connected to a global community of aerospace professionals. His involvement with AIAA reflects his dedication to lifelong learning and collaboration within the aerospace industry. He is also committed to causes related to education and science and technology, actively promoting advancements in these fields to support the next generation of engineers and scientists.
Dr. Abraham’s professional experience is complemented by his commitment to innovation. He has led significant projects, including the development of GPS transponder technology for enhanced space traffic management, and has been involved in NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission as a flight dynamics support engineer. His background in prototyping and technical project management positions him as an innovator and thought leader in the aerospace community, continually seeking new approaches to ensure the safe use of space.
Outside of his technical roles, Dr. Abraham values family and personal growth. He enjoys hobby electronics and spending quality time with his young child, passions that align with his desire to foster creativity and curiosity both professionally and personally. His journey embodies a balanced approach to work and life, blending rigorous scientific inquiry with a commitment to mentorship and education.
In summary, Dr. Andrew Abraham brings together a unique blend of technical knowledge, managerial experience, and a commitment to space safety. His work aims not only to advance the field of space traffic management but also to ensure that space remains a sustainable and secure domain for generations to come.
Character:
Dr. Andrew Abraham is driven by a commitment to space safety and sustainability, demonstrating responsibility and dedication in all aspects of his work. His values guide his approach to leadership, fostering a collaborative and ethical environment within the space industry.
Knowledge:
With a deep understanding of orbital mechanics, astrodynamics, and space traffic management, Dr. Abraham brings extensive technical expertise to every project. His knowledge spans both theoretical and practical applications, allowing him to tackle complex challenges in satellite operations and space situational awareness.
Strategic:
Dr. Abraham leverages his technical skills and management experience to develop forward-thinking solutions that address critical issues in space operations. His strategic approach helps drive innovation in areas like space traffic coordination and GPS-based tracking systems, contributing to safer and more sustainable space activities.
Communication:
A skilled communicator, Dr. Abraham effectively shares his insights through public speaking, publications, and industry collaborations. His ability to articulate complex topics makes him a valuable advocate for space safety, bridging gaps between technical experts, policymakers, and the public.
