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I Am Building SLS: Nick Chang, Electrical System Design Engineer

I work as an electrical system design engineer on the overall system architecture for the Space Launch System (SLS) core stage flight avionics, specifically the Command Telemetry Controller (CTC). It’s an important, unique component, as the central communication portal for our vehicle core stage element.

During the mission, the two CTCs on the vehicle are the primary collectors of data for telemetry downlink.  The CTCs format the data stream from cameras, over a thousand sensors, and the flight computer’s operations. That data stream is directed to the vehicle radios for downlink to ground stations. While the vehicle is on the launch pad, the CTCs are the conduit between ground operations and the flight computers.  In this mode, the CTCs perform a critical safety function. 

The biggest challenge of my current work is not only to make this complex electronic box work in a short period of time, but to integrate it with other boxes properly. It’s a fun and challenging job, but you really need to be enthusiastic about what you are doing in order to have such commitment. It’s rewarding work, and I feel patriotic about it because I’m helping provide America the next-generation heavy-lift vehicle that will carry astronauts safely on different missions. 

It was always interesting to me to watch the shuttle flights on television when I was young because there are limited Space Programs available in Taiwan.  To be part of the SLS Program satisfies a dream I had when I was a kid, and I’m looking forward to watching the launch with my two daughters some day.

I’d advise anyone who has aspirations to work in space exploration to study hard, do the things you love to do and do not be afraid to make mistakes.