From Diamond Jubilee High School, Hyderabad to NASA: Mohammed Nasrullah’s space journey
Mr Mohammed Nasrullah, a 1965 alumnus of the Diamond Jubilee High School (DJHS), Hyderabad has had an inspiring 40-year career in the space industry. What began as a childhood fascination with space led him to support all of NASA’s Space Shuttle missions and help build the International Space Station.
During his school days at DJHS, Hyderabad, Mr Nasrullah excelled in mathematics and science, later earning a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering from the University College of Engineering, Osmania University and a master’s in the same field from the University of Oklahoma.
His journey with NASA began with the Space Shuttle programme, where he supported in all 135 Space Shuttle missions, assisting with every launch, orbital operation and landing. As a lead thermal analyst, he developed and tested thermal protection systems – the heat shield that protects the shuttle during launch and re-entry – for the Space Shuttle. He also contributed to preparing the Space Shuttle Columbia for its first flight, STS-1, and was part of the mission support team, offering expertise to resolve any issues, ensuring the safety and mission success.
After a decade as a lead thermal analyst, Mr Nasrullah transitioned to Project Manager in the Space Shuttle Payload/Cargo Integration division. There, he worked closely with payload developers to meet interface requirements and oversee the execution of numerous scientific experiments and satellite deployments.
As the Space Shuttle programme concluded, he shifted his focus to the International Space Station, contributing to human spaceflight and international collaboration. He played a crucial role in designing and developing systems including the Environmental Control and Life Support System, which regulates the station's atmosphere, water and waste to sustain an astronaut’s health, and the Active Thermal Control System, which manages the station’s temperature to maintain safe living and working conditions. Both systems are critical to supporting astronauts in space.
Reflecting on his journey, he says, “It’s been an honour to work alongside passionate individuals, contributing to a legacy that inspires future generations.” His dedication has also earned him numerous accolades, including:
- Employee of the Year award (1990)
- NASA Space Flight Awareness Honouree (2004)
- NASA Silver Snoopy award (2006)
- RNASA Stellar Award for the Advanced Recycle Filter Tank Assembly (ARFTA) project (2025)
Mr Nasrullah’s career has been marked by groundbreaking achievements. From the early days working on the Space Shuttle Columbia to his contributions to the ISS, he has remained committed to advancing human knowledge. His contributions, both at NASA and to the global space community, will continue to inspire future generations of engineers, scientists and dreamers.
Photos (top to bottom):
- Mr Nasrullah and team accepting the RNASA Stellar Award for the ARFTA Project Team.
- Mr Nasrullah receiving the Engineer of the Year (1987) for contributions to the NASA Space Shuttle’s Thermal Protection System.
