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Picture of the Stars of the Month for NASA Ames Research Center's Science Directorate. Pictured left to right is Jessica Kong, Josh Alwood, and Sam Kim.

The NASA Ames Science Directorate recognizes the outstanding contributions of (pictured left to right) Jessica Kong, Josh Alwood, and Sam Kim. Their commitment to the NASA mission represents the entrepreneurial spirit, technical expertise, and collaborative disposition needed to explore this world and beyond.

Portrait photo of Jessica Kong of NASA Ames Research Center.

Space Science and Astrobiology Star: Jessica Kong

Jessica Kong is serving as the Facility Service Manager (FSM) for the Astrobiology and Life Science Lab building for the Exobiology Branch while the FSM is away on parental leave. She has applied her expertise as a chemist to connect seamlessly and effectively with N239 staff, and safety, and facility personnel, as well as to coordinate repairs and building shutdowns while minimizing disruption to laboratory research.

Portrait photo of space bioscientist Josh Alwood of NASA Ames Research Center. He is sitting in a laboratory wearing a white lab coat.

Space Biosciences Star: Josh Alwood

Josh Alwood is a researcher for the Space Biosciences Research Branch, focusing on bone biology and biomechanics, reproductive biology, and the nervous system. His pioneering research on molecular mechanisms of skeletal adaptation during spaceflight has advanced the development of countermeasures to protect astronaut health on long-duration missions.

sam-aeromma.jpg?w=2048

Earth Science Star: Sam Kim

Sam Kim, a systems administrator and deputy project manager with the Earth Science Project Office (ESPO), serves many roles and excels in each one of them. During the 2024 ASIA-AQ field mission, Sam deployed for over two months as a key member of the advanced staging team at each of the mission’s four overseas field sites, ensuring that the facilities were ready for the arrival of the ASIA-AQ science and instrument team, while still performing his mission-critical role as systems administrator.

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      Last Updated Sep 12, 2025 LocationNASA Headquarters Related Terms
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