Katie Fox
Papers
3
Total Citations
15
H-Index
3
About
Katie Fox is a leading aerospace engineer specializing in spacecraft environmental monitoring and leak detection technologies for human spaceflight. Her primary research focuses on developing and demonstrating robotic systems capable of identifying hazardous fluid and gas leaks from the exterior of crewed spacecraft, with particular emphasis on the International Space Station (ISS). Fox’s most significant contribution is her central role in the Robotic External Leak Locator (RELL) project, a pioneering instrument deployed to the ISS to detect and locate potentially mission-critical leaks, such as those from ammonia-based thermal control systems. Her work on characterizing the natural and induced environment around the ISS, alongside demonstrating RELL’s ability to detect leak plume fields during on-orbit operations, has established foundational methodologies for in-space leak localization. With cumulative citations exceeding 15 for her key papers, Fox’s research directly enhances the safety and sustainability of the ISS and informs the design of future spacecraft, including those destined for lunar and Martian missions. Her achievements represent a critical step toward autonomous external inspection capabilities for long-duration human exploration.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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