Jon Michael Smith facts for kids
Jon Michael Smith (born September 6, 1938) is an American scientist and engineer. He used to work for NASA, the United States space agency. He is also an author. Jon Michael Smith helped create a special way to solve math problems using computers, called T-integration.
About Jon Michael Smith
Jon Michael Smith was born in 1938. He studied physics at Seattle University. Physics is the study of how the universe works, from tiny atoms to giant galaxies. He also took special courses at famous universities like Harvard Business School and MIT. These courses helped him learn how to manage big projects and organizations.
Working at NASA
Jon Michael Smith worked for NASA for many years. He was a key part of the Space Shuttle program. The Space Shuttle was a reusable spacecraft that carried astronauts and satellites into space.
He was the very first person in charge of marketing for the Space Shuttle. This meant he helped decide how companies and other groups could use the Space Shuttle. He also helped set the prices for sending things into space on the Shuttle. He even helped create the first agreements for companies to launch their equipment into space.
Later, he managed a program called the Advanced Communication Technology Satellite. This program explored new ways to use satellites for communication. He also helped make NASA's special communication network, which reached the North and South Poles, available for other companies to use. Jon Michael Smith retired from NASA in 2007. He worked at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.
After NASA
After leaving NASA, Jon Michael Smith started his own company called Jon M. Smith and Associates (JMSA). This company helps other groups with space projects. For example, they work on ideas for companies to use space more, and they help with systems that guide rockets during launch. His company also works on projects involving telescopes in space and new ways to get energy from space. NASA is one of his clients, meaning they still ask for his expert advice!
Books by Jon Michael Smith
Jon Michael Smith has written several books about science and math. These books help people understand complex topics. Some of his well-known books include:
- Mathematical Modeling and Digital Simulation for Engineers and Scientists
- Scientific Analysis on the Pocket Calculator
- Financial Analysis & Business Decisions on the Pocket Calculator
- Quantitative Methods in Business
