Orion Mission Planning Engineer on Passion, Perseverance, and Problem-Solving in Space Exploration
Michelle Zahner is a dedicated Orion Mission Planning Engineer at NASA, playing a crucial role in the integration and execution of the Artemis missions. With a deep-rooted passion for human spaceflight, Michelle’s career has been shaped by her early exposure to shuttle launches in her hometown of New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Inspired by the wonder of space exploration, she pursued a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Florida, setting her on a path to work at Kennedy Space Center during her college years.
After graduating in 2005, Michelle began her career with United Space Alliance at Johnson Space Center before transitioning to NASA as a civil servant, where she found greater opportunities to grow her expertise and expand her impact. Over the years, she has played a pivotal role in the development and integration of Orion’s mission planning, ensuring that each mission is executed flawlessly, even as spaceflight technology and requirements evolve.
In addition to her work at NASA, Michelle is also a mother of three, balancing the demands of a high-stakes career with the joys and challenges of raising her daughters. She actively encourages the next generation to pursue their ambitions fearlessly, proving that there are no limits to what can be achieved with perseverance, passion, and dedication.
You are the Orion Mission Planning Lead Engineer. Walk us through your journey into this space. Did you always know you would end up working in this field?
I grew up in Florida, just north of Kennedy Space Center, in a town called New Smyrna Beach. Watching shuttle launches throughout my childhood—from elementary school through high school—definitely shaped my aspirations. When I went to college, I knew I wanted to work specifically in human spaceflight.
I majored in aerospace engineering and did a co-op at Kennedy Space Center while I was still in school. After graduation, I was hired by the same company—United Space Alliance—here in Houston. Eventually, I transitioned to working directly for NASA as a civil servant to expand my opportunities and continue growing in my career.
What is your educational background?
I earned my Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Florida and graduated in 2005.
When did you first know you wanted to be an engineer and work for NASA?
Honestly, I think always. Like many kids, I originally wanted to be an astronaut. But after learning more about the realities of living in confined quarters in space, I realized I still wanted to be deeply involved in human spaceflight, just from the ground. That was the perfect balance for me.
So it was more the idea of actually going into space that didn’t appeal to you?
Exactly—it wasn’t about fear, but more about recognizing that I could make a big impact on the ground too. There is an incredible team on the ground supporting every mission, and I love playing a role in making space exploration possible. Plus, as a mother of three, I do love that my career doesn’t require a lot of travel.
So you were balancing both motherhood and your career at NASA?
Yes! I had my first child in 2011, not long after I started my career. So throughout my career, I have always been balancing both.
Is your job more of a structured schedule, or do you have late nights as well?
When I was working as a flight controller for the International Space Station, the schedule could be all over the place—night shifts, weekends, and swing shifts. Someone is always on console 24/7 supporting ISS operations. But in my current role, it’s more structured.
Do any of your daughters share your passion for science and space?
Yes! My oldest is currently in a science magnet program and is really interested in engineering. My two younger ones are still in elementary school, so we’ll see.
Did you have any mentors or women in the industry that inspired you?
I did. NASA has a great mentorship program, and I’ve been fortunate to learn from incredible leaders, both men and women.
What advice would you give to women looking to pursue a career in STEM?
Just go for it. There’s nothing holding you back. I’ll admit, when I was younger—especially in high school and early college—I sometimes feltintimidated by the engineering field. But I quickly realized that I was just as capable as anyone else. The industry is evolving, and there is space for everyone.
Can you explain your role in the Orion mission? What does your team specifically handle?
Our group focuses on vehicle integration—we are essentially in the middle of everything. Orion is designed and built, but when challenges arise, we have to find solutions without making major design changes that would significantly impact cost and schedule.
For example, if there’s an issue with the spacecraft, my team figures out a way to still achieve the mission objectives by altering the mission trajectory, implementing operational mitigations, or updating flight software. Our job is to figure out how to solve it within the parameters we have. We turn as many technical “knobs” as possible to fix issues efficiently.
What are some of the challenges you currently face in your position?
One of the biggest challenges going forward is increasing integration complexity. For Artemis I, Orion launched on the Space Launch System (SLS), which put us on the path to the Moon, and then completed the rest of its journey independently. Artemis II, set to launch next year, will carry crew on a similar trajectory. But Artemis III and IV will introduce docking operations with HLS (Human Landing System) and Gateway, which adds another level of mission complexity.
Now, we’re working with multiple partners across different programs to ensure a seamless end-to-end mission. There are gaps in design that need to be bridged, and that’s where my team’s problem-solving comes in.
Is there pressure in your role, given that you’re one of the last teams involved before astronauts take over?
Yes, but it’s shared across multiple programs. I work specifically for Orion, but we interface with EGS (Exploration Ground Systems), SLS, HLS, and Gateway. Our goal is to collaborate with all these programs to ensure mission success.
What keeps you fulfilled in your job?
The challenge. Every day is different, and I love that. One moment I’m working on solar arrays, the next I’m discussing trajectory variations, and then I’m integrating with multiple teams on Artemis IV docking challenges. It’s an ever-changing environment where I’m constantly learning and solving new problems.
You’ve already accomplished so much. What’s next for you?
For me, it’s continuing to feel challenged. If I ever feel like I’ve maxed out my learning in a role, I look for the next step.
You balance such a demanding job with motherhood. How do you manage stress and maintain joy?
Exercise! People always ask me what my hobbies are, and honestly, having three kids is a hobby in itself! But I make it a priority to wake up early and work out five days a week—that’s my time and my stress relief.
Do you prefer outdoor or indoor workouts?
A mix! I run, lift weights, and do all kinds of workouts. It’s essential for my mental well-being.
Looking back, what advice would you give your younger self?
Believe in yourself and don’t be intimidated. There is no reason to doubt your capabilities—you belong in this field just as much as anyone else.
