Connecting the Cosmos

By Lauren Sarmir

How did our solar system form? Could there really be planets in the universe that sustain life beyond Earth? The answers to these questions may lie in exoplanets, the planets outside of our solar system. For Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) Engineer Adam Jones exoplanets offer clues to cosmic unknowns and a gateway to something greater.

As a child, Adam wanted to be an astronaut, and his interest in aerospace engineering began with a love of spaceflight and math. 

“I remember always wanting to learn more about our solar system and the sun; trying to comprehend the scale of stars and galaxies and just feeling this sense of wonder and awe at it all,” he said.

In 2012, Adam joined Northrop Grumman, jumping at the chance to explore the cosmos. Now, as a GNC engineer, Adam controls the position of a spacecraft to complete its mission, whether that’s ensuring a cargo resupply spacecraft follows course to dock with the International Space Station, or a discovery satellite is in the right position to capture data. 

Adam’s passion for engineering shines in virtually every interaction. Engineering helps satisfy his endless curiosity, love of math and pull toward creative problem-solving — and his work reminds him there is so much more in this universe to explore. 

“Northrop Grumman brings a scale of breadth and depth that’s hard to find at other places, with the wide range of programs from science missions to commercial and classified,” he said. "All of these options are at our fingertips, giving you a chance to pursue almost any interest.”