CSC’s rich legacy in the aerospace industry is highlighted by the fact that the company employs two former NASA astronauts. Senior scientist Ron Parise flew on two space shuttle missions while working for CSC as an astronomer. Mark Brown, vice president and general manager of CSC’s government aerospace business, flew on two shuttle flights before joining CSC, and recently brought his many years of experience to CSC’s Federal Sector – Defense Group.

Ron Parise

Ron Parise began his career with CSC in 1980, and worked with NASA as a data management scientist on the Spacelab project. In 1984, NASA selected him to serve as a payload specialist on the Astro mission series, and he flew on missions aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in 1990 and Endeavour in 1995.

In addition to his flight crew responsibilities for the Astro program, Parise was involved in mission planning, simulator development and scientific data analysis during his 12 years as a payload specialist. Parise also provided engineering and development support for a number of significant space projects, including the Mir space station and the International Space Station.

Among Parise’s current projects for NASA is the development of advanced spacecraft communications and navigations systems, including groundbreaking research into the use of Internet protocols in space.

Mark Brown

Mark Brown joined CSC in August 2003, bringing more than 30 years of experience to the company. Brown spent 12 years as a NASA astronaut and manager, serving as a mission specialist on Columbia in 1989 and on Discovery in 1991. Before joining NASA, Brown served 21 years in the U.S. Air Force as a fighter pilot and officer, achieving the rank of colonel.

While at NASA, Brown was responsible for satellite deployments and early tests of materials later used in the construction of the International Space Station. He also worked in NASA’s Mission Control center during the first 11 space shuttle flights and served as an astronaut representative to the Challenger Accident Investigation Team.

Prior to joining CSC, Brown held a variety of senior management positions at AT&T Government Solutions and GRC International.

Photo credits:

Photos of Parise and Brown courtesy of NASA.

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