Sherry Stukes

Papers

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About

Sherry Stukes is a leading figure in space systems engineering, with her research centered on cost modeling, software lifecycle analysis, and mission assurance for robotic exploration. Her most notable contribution is her innovative work on NASA’s VIPER rover—the first robotic mission to prospect for water ice near the Moon’s south pole. In her highly cited 2021 paper, Stukes developed a groundbreaking approach to modeling VIPER’s software life cycle cost, providing critical insights that helped optimize the rover’s 100-Earth-day mission. By integrating advanced cost estimation techniques with real-time mission constraints, she enabled more accurate budgeting and resource allocation for complex spaceflight software. Her work has directly impacted NASA’s ability to deliver reliable, cost-effective robotic explorers, and her methodologies are now referenced by engineers planning future lunar and planetary missions. With 2 citations on this pivotal study, Stukes’s influence extends beyond the paper itself—she is recognized for bridging the gap between theoretical cost models and practical, high-stakes space operations. Her achievements underscore her role as a key contributor to the success of NASA’s Artemis program and the broader field of space systems engineering.