Q&A with Gateway: Meet Christian Thomas, Computer Human Interface Subsystem Manager of the Vehicle System Integration Office

The Gateway, a multipurpose outpost orbiting the Moon and vital part of NASA’s Artemis program, is built with sound engineering and operational principles that will serve as a staging point for deep space exploration and model for future missions to Mars. As computer human interface subsystem manager of the Vehicle System Integration Office, Christian Thomas is responsible for gathering the appropriate needs and requirements for Gateway’s audio, imagery, lighting, displays, and control hardware. 

Keep reading to learn more about Christian and don’t forget to follow the Gateway on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news, milestones, and activities! 

What does your office do for the Gateway program?
We are responsible for successful integration of our system across the various Gateway modules and visiting vehicles such as Orion and Human Landing System. 

What are you most excited to share about Gateway and what it will do for human exploration as part of the Artemis program?
I am excited to be a part of the development of systems that will eventually allow humans to set foot on Mars. Gateway provides the unique opportunity to be involved in the beginning stages of vehicle design, and the decisions made today will be used to influence the architecture of future spacecraft. 

How has your personal background influenced your work in the Gateway program?
My first job out of college was in the Human Systems Department for the U.S. Navy. In this role, I worked on systems to support the warfighter, such as aircraft cockpit designs and workstation interfaces for drone operators. This experience helps me in my current role, where integration of crew member needs must be considered in the system. 

What has been your favorite memory while working at NASA?
My favorite memory at NASA has been working in mission control and talking directly with crew in the International Space Station to troubleshoot hardware anomalies. 

Being surrounded by such a high-performing group of people, what’s a great piece of advice you’ve learned?
One piece of advice I have learned is never be afraid to ask questions. There is a wealth of experience at Johnson. By asking the right questions, lessons learned from past programs can be used for Gateway. 

In line with JSC’s DARE | UNITE | EXPLORE, how do you see yourself fitting into the vision?
I see myself fitting into the JSC vision to unite by working with our international partners. Through collaboration with other countries, additional capabilities will be brought to Gateway, such as advanced external robotics. 

More about Christian: 

Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Dallas, Texas. 

If you could temporarily live (or visit) in another part of the world, where would that be?
I would love to live in Switzerland. It is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, especially with its mix of lakes and mountain ranges. 

How long have you been at JSC?
I started working at Johnson in 2014. 

Describe yourself in five words:
Curious, open-minded, versatile, methodical, passionate. 

Favorite thing(s) to do to unwind:
Playing basketball, table tennis, or billiards. 

How has the pandemic shaped your work style?
The pandemic has made me more conscientious of the importance of work-life balance, especially when working from home. I did my best to establish a “cut-off time” so that I could still spend time with my family while fulfilling all my work responsibilities. 

Name one thing we would be surprised to learn about you.
I had the opportunity to stay aboard an aircraft carrier for a week. During this time, I was able to observe pilots from the flight deck while they landed as part of their carrier qualifications. At the end of the one week, we boarded a carrier onboard vehicle and took off using the steam catapults.

At Johnson, we are laser-focused on the next: going forward to our lunar neighbor to build outposts in uncharted territory while revolutionizing the strategies and technologies that will eventually open up the universe. The Gateway is a critical component of the Artemis program and embodies Johnson's DARE | UNITE | EXPLORE vision: We dare to expand frontiers. We unite with our partners to complete bold missions. We explore space to benefit humanity.

DARE | UNITE | EXPLORE