R. McKenna
Papers
1
Total Citations
24
H-Index
1
About
R. McKenna is a key figure in the field of autonomous space robotics and satellite servicing, with a focus on relative navigation technologies for on-orbit operations. Their most cited work, the 2015 paper "Raven: An On-Orbit Relative Navigation Demonstration Using International Space Station Visiting Vehicles," has garnered 24 citations and represents a landmark contribution to NASA’s Satellite Servicing Capabilities Office (SSCO) at Goddard Space Flight Center. This research pioneered the use of the International Space Station as a testbed for sensor-driven navigation, enabling spacecraft to autonomously track and approach uncooperative targets—a critical capability for future missions to repair, refuel, or reposition legacy satellites not originally designed for servicing. McKenna’s work directly addresses the challenges posed by the end of the Hubble Servicing Mission, advancing the technologies needed to extend the operational life of valuable orbital assets. Their contributions have laid foundational groundwork for autonomous rendezvous and proximity operations, influencing subsequent NASA servicing demonstrations and inspiring a new generation of engineers working to make space sustainability a reality.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1