John C. Nordlie

My education includes a Batchelor of Science in Computer Science and Geography, and a Master of Science in Space Studies. I currently work as a Research Assistant and Systems Administrator at the UND Regional Weather Information Center. Before that I did technical work for other UND departments including Space Studies, Electrical Engineering, and even Biochemistry. In my current job I also collaborate with other departments, such as Atmospheric Sciences, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, and Space Studies. Projects tied to these collaborations include Unmanned Aerial Vehicles/Systems, rocketry, UAV payloads, and radar data systems. I hold a General-class amateur radio license, build and fly radio-controlled model aircraft, am an amateur astronomer, have competed in the Sports Car Club of America's Autocross competitions, built an electrically-powered bicycle, and have far too many other hobbies. In 1998 John Graham of the Space Studies Department and I created the UND High Altitude Balloon Project (http://balloons.space.edu/habp/). Our goal was to create access to 'near-space' for student spacecraft and engineering projects. The group consists of students, faculty members, and local amateur radio operators. Since 1998 the group has launched 30 free-flying missions and 7 tethered balloons.