Chad Healy is currently an Ensign in the
United States Navy and is working towards his Masters degree in
Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the
University of Colorado at Boulder. His studies are focused in the field of
Bioastronautics, where he is developing methodology for improving internal configurations of human-rated spacecraft, specifically tailored to Sierra Nevada Corporation’s Dream Chaser. In addition, Chad works for
BioServe Space Technologies where he is the test engineer for payloads used for biological research onboard the International Space Station. After Chad receives his degree, he will return to the fleet and begin his training as a navy pilot.
Prior to his time in Boulder, Chad graduated from the United States Naval Academy (
USNA) in May 2009 with a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering. During his time at USNA, Chad served as captain of the lightweight rowing team, Platoon Commander, and Company Honor Representative. He conducted research as the lead systems engineer and attitude control systems engineer for three CubeSat missions in various stages of development. Chad also worked on the
Laser Interferometer Space Antenna at
Goddard Space Flight Center, where he developed lock acquisition algorithms for laser stabilization cavities. Chad was awarded the Captain Michael J. Smith, USN Memorial Award, competed on United States Under-23 National Rowing Team in 2008 and 2009, and has accumulated flight time in four different aircraft.
During his free time, Chad enjoys rowing, cycling, snowboarding and climbing mountains.
