What are your accomplishments so far?

In our RAPTOR project, we aim to build a wind tunnel that can run in Mars atmospheres to test out different rotor blades for aerodynamics. As of now, we are currently building the final section of the wind tunnel called the mixing section. In our Outwash project, we have completed a rotor blade testing to figure out the thrust values at different rpms and collective angles to discover the limitations of the blade setup.

What are your goals?

The main goals to be accomplished are to complete the construction of the entire wind tunnel such as the window for the testing section, the filter screens for the inlet section. In the Outwash project, I am currently developing a setup for pressure calibration system for collecting data of different locations for pressure.

What is an impact of this internship?

This internship has allowed me to explore different aspects of a research project. I am learning the protocol of communicating with different levels of staff authorities based on the need and help, and how to work in terms of good needs for a project. I was able to enhance my skills and use it in a manner to contribute well to the projects to bring progress. All efforts as an intern were acknowledged by every mentor and I was given the opportunity to learn more about the science behind the projects. I developed my collaborative skills by not only helping out my mentors, but by helping out other mentors in their projects. This has developed my interest more in research and STEM as I have been exposed to different opportunities and how as an intern I am able to contribute to NASA projects.