NASA's New Horizons Gears Up for Interstellar Boundary Crossing; Procurement Expert Reflects on Global Space Collaboration

NASA's New Horizons spacecraft, known for its Pluto flyby in 2015 and Arrokoth flyby in 2019, is preparing to cross the sun's termination shock, potentially as early as 2027. This boundary marks the edge of the sun's influence and the beginning of interstellar space. Despite being in hibernation mode until April 2, the spacecraft continues to collect heliophysics data. The mission aims to study pickup ions, which play a key role in energy transfer at the termination shock, using its SWAP and PEPSSI instruments. Meanwhile, Portia Keyes, deputy manager of procurement for the International Space Station and Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Programs at NASA, highlights the importance of international collaboration in space exploration. Her work includes negotiating contracts with Roscosmos for astronaut transport to the ISS. Keyes emphasizes the need for adaptability and effective communication in her role, which involves managing taxpayer dollars and securing mission-critical services. She also mentors colleagues and encourages the Artemis Generation to embrace curiosity and responsibility in space exploration.