Key Technology Challenges for Spaceborne Active Optical Sensing of Earth Science Measurements

George J. Komar

Program Director NASA Earth Science Technology Office

George J. Komar has over 38 years experience in engineering, program, project and operational management. Presently he serves as the Associate Director in the Earth Science Division and Program Manager for the Earth Science Technology Office (ESTO) for NASA. In this capacity he is responsible for developing, integrating and managing all the advanced technology developments that will enable future Earth Science capabilities.

He previously served as the Deputy Associate Administrator for Technology for the NASA Science Mission Directorate (SMD), where he was responsible for planning, advocating, and optimizing an integrated advanced technology program. He was the Program Manager for the Landsat 7 Program and the TOPEX/Poseidon Program. George also managed the integration of the NASA Space Station Ground System Program for Space Station Freedom.

Prior to coming to NASA, George spent 21 years in the Air Force. He flew numerous flight hours in various USAF aircraft and coordinated all Air Force headquarters activities for strategic airlift weapons system acquisition programs.

George received numerous awards and honors, including the NASA Medal for Exceptional Achievement for his innovative leadership and vision in creation of the NASA Earth Science technology program, and in June of 2010 the NASA Administrator presented him with the NASA Exceptional Leadership Medal, recognizing his success in developing new technical capabilities for the Earth science community.