Sarah Gillis (AeroEngr’17) is a lead space operations engineer and astronaut trainer at SpaceX with literal out-of-this-world experience.

The Â鶹ӰԺ alumna recently returned from a five-day orbital mission aboard which took astronauts further from Earth than any have traveled since the end of the Apollo program in 1972.

On Nov. 11, she spoke to students and community members in a special event at Fiske Planetarium.

A Â鶹ӰԺ native, Gillis shared what life was like in space for the four-member crew and details of the science and engineering that brought them to orbit and safely home.

What it is like experiencing launch for the first time.

Intellectually, I had studied all the physical changes you go through going to space, but actually going through them is fascinating. For this one moment, you’re defying gravity as the rocket lifts off the pad and you start accelerating and accelerating. You get pushed into your seat. The Gs get to about 4.5. When you get to second engine cutoff and you’re just floating, you no longer have pressure pushing you into the seat — you have fluid in your face. You suddenly feel like when you’re a kid and you’re laying upside down off the bed.

There’s an adjustment period once you are in orbit.

Every crew member goes through this time on board where you’re adapting. The first two days are pretty hard in space. You’re figuring it out. You’re going through all the physiological changes. You have this brain fog; you have elevated fluid. You can have space motion sickness.

You’re probably not feeling your best, in all honesty. How you set up a timeline for crew members in space should account for that. You could not possibly have talked our crew into doing any less on our mission, but hindsight is definitely helpful, and it’s just a reality that it takes a bit of time for crew members to adapt.

Keep an eye on space while following your passions.

I always knew how unlikely it was to ever become an astronaut. The statistics are not in your favor right now at our point in human history. I do think that’s going to change in the very near future if SpaceX is successful in bringing Starship online. You go from having four people in a spacecraft to 100 people in a spacecraft. As you change those numbers, cost of access to space will go down, so the opportunities that will exist will look much different in next 10-15 years.

For me, knowing how unlikely it was, it was super important to find things I was genuinely interested in. That way, no matter what happening in life, I couldn’t be disappointed because I was doing things that were interesting and engaging and things I wanted to be pursuing. Follow your curiosity, and it will take you to extraordinary places.

The incredible complexity of designing a space suit from scratch.

It was about a 2.5-year development program where one day we would show up and we’d have the left shoulder rebuilt in a certain way. The next Monday we’d show up and they’d have a whole new elbow for us to try. Then we’d go and get in the simulator and understand what worked and what didn’t and really fed that into the design process of these suits. It was a pretty extraordinary development effort.

There were times that we were learning stuff that went against industry knowledge. One of the things we discovered pretty late was the risk of electrostatic discharge in the suits. That led to an entire deep dive into understanding material testing.

One of the last tests we did still on Earth was once the suit had gone through all sorts of iterations, we actually took them to a vacuum chamber at Johnson Space Center and we wore them in the vacuum chamber and ran through the entire depress and repress sequence. It was just an extraordinary test of competence into the suit, understanding what the pressure changes and temperature changes would feel like.

Moving in space without gravity to weigh you down creates challenges.

What’s so cool about moving in a pressurized suit is it’s really almost physical problem solving. You can only rotate your shoulder so many degrees, or you can only extend your arm so far in the suit. What that means is you have to make sure that a person of a certain stature can perform everything they need to in that pressurized environment. It was a really cool development process with SpaceX to figure out what new mobility aids we needed in the spacecraft. What additional handholds and footholds would be required to make sure we could accomplish all the tasks we needed to.

On flight day two we got pressurized in the suits and did a dry run (of the spacewalk). It was really fun to actually see how things worked, and what were the things we hadn’t accounted for. As soon as I went to the controls and interfaced with them, based on where my center of mass was, my feet would suddenly start rotating up, and so I had to find a whole new strategy for how to secure myself when I was at the displays and how to transition out from the displays.

Train for the worst day so you can experience the best day.

In training we had really prepared for every possible scenario we could come up with for the EVA (extravehicular activity). Really as much as we could use the imagination to prepare bad day scenarios, we had trained for them, and it was so smooth. You train for the worst day so you can actually experience the best day. The spacewalk went exactly as we had hoped.

There is so much we do not know about life in space.

We partnered with 31 institutions on 36 research experiments, a lot of which came from CU, which I was really excited about. Some of my former professors actually contributed experiments to the mission.

Overall, the research was really focused on experiments that needed human involvement, things that could benefit future life as we try and look toward Mars. There’s a lot of health issues that astronauts encounter over long duration, and this includes space motion sickness, and spaceflight associated neuro-ocular syndrome.

Many astronauts do have degraded vision over time, and we don’t actually understand the mechanism at this point. It’s often associated with the fluid shift that happens where you suddenly have more fluid in your brain, but if we’re going to actually mitigate that and fix it in the future, we need to get to the heart of the cause, so we did a whole slew of experiments looking at different eye pressure and vision change data.

Re-entry is awesome.

It’s so, so cool to reenter Earth’s atmosphere. We start seeing a glow around the spacecraft at around 100 km. Then as you start to get lower you start to see these neon colors, pinks and oranges, and you actually see some of the sparks flying past the window. As you get lower in the atmosphere you start encountering turbulence with the different layers of the atmosphere. The thrusters are firing all around and it really feels like Dragon is clawing its way back into the atmosphere.

The mission does not end at splashdown.

We were picked up by the recovery vessel, and about 30 minutes later we climbed out of the spacecraft. We were checked out by the doctors before being flown by helicopter back to Kennedy Space Center, where we met our families. From there the mission wasn’t over, we had about a week of science and research and data collection post flight. We traveled to Houston pretty immediately for some high-density bone scans.

Trusting others with your life — teamwork is critical.

Human spaceflight is the ultimate team sport. It’s not only you have to have an extreme working relationship with the people on that mission — you are absolutely trusting them with your life to keep you safe. That extends to the people on the ground team as well, you have this entire team supporting you, and even more people behind the scenes beyond that.

As a trainer, I knew the technical side of Dragon and what you need to do to live and work in space, and what I found most interesting was in one of our early sims, the four of us go in the spacecraft, and we did terribly. We completely messed up the scenario. We were all going in different directions, chasing rabbit holes and ultimately just failed the simulation in so many ways. You have to learn how to work as a team.

It doesn’t matter what you bring to the team, you have to learn when to lead, when to follow, how you bring what you can contribute through a different lens because ultimately the success of the crew is what’s most important versus your own knowledge.

Seeing Earth from space changes you.

Seeing the Earth from that perspective cannot not change someone. All of our time here on Earth is so precious, your life is only so many hours overall. I have this immense appreciation for maximizing what we are here to do in this world. I think you certainly take calculated risks when you put yourself on a rocket and launch to space, or reenter the atmosphere. Those are all things that you have to believe that the risk is worth it for the benefit. It’s shifted my perspective a little bit on how cherished our time is with our family and our friends and what we’re here to do on this Earth. I’m still reflecting on it. I think it will continue to change me.

Off

Off

Off

Off

Off

Karan Dikshit

Karan Dikshit (PhDMatSci’22) is the first author on a paper in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces around new adhesive materials that not only allow for easy sticking and unsticking but could eventually contribute to sustainability efforts around the globe.

Dikshit studied polymer chemistry and mechanics with Assistant Professor Carson Bruns during his time at CU Â鶹ӰԺ in the Material Science and Engineering Program. We asked him about the paper, his current job, and more.

Question: What was your area of study in the College of Engineering and Applied Science and how did you get to Â鶹ӰԺ?
Answer: Prior to joining CU Â鶹ӰԺ I had the incredible opportunity to gain research experience at the esteemed National Chemical Laboratory in India. It was during this time that my passion for scientific exploration and making a positive impact on the world through sustainable materials grew immensely. When I was considering my next academic step, CU Â鶹ӰԺ stood out as a beacon of cutting-edge research and innovation – particularly in the fascinating intersection of sustainability and soft materials. It also boasted a stunning location nestled against the picturesque backdrop of the Flatirons which also helped me decide to come here. 

I got my PhD in Materials Science and Engineering in the summer of 2022. Currently, I have the privilege of working at FLO Materials, a company dedicated to tackling the pressing issue of industrial plastic waste, in Berkeley, California. FLO Materials aims to revolutionize the field by offering groundbreaking platform technology that enables the creation of infinitely recyclable polymers.

Q: How would you describe the work and results of this paper to a high school student?
A: Traditional adhesives are often derived from petroleum refinement and are difficult to dispose of in a way that isn’t harmful to the environment. New eco-friendly materials such as lipoic acid, cyclodextrin, and polyrotaxane – as we discuss in the paper – also stick together and have other advantageous properties like easy removal without leaving residue or harming the surfaces involved. 

These materials are also made from molecules that can be bioderived. Cyclodextrin, for example, comes from plant starch. Utilizing renewable resources like that helps reduce dependence on fossil fuel-based options and the sustainable nature of the materials also opens the possibility of recycling them in other applications to further reduce waste generation.

Q: What are some of the other potential applications of this research?
A: The broad range of real-world applications for these pressure-sensitive supramolecular adhesives is incredibly promising. In the medical field, these adhesives have the potential to revolutionize wound care by providing gentle yet secure bonding in bandages and dressings. Their pressure-sensitive nature also allows for easy and painless removal, enhancing patient comfort during the healing process. And in the realm of electronics, they offer exciting opportunities for the development of flexible circuits. 

Q: Anything else you want to say about your time at CU Â鶹ӰԺ?
A: In addition to the lab work, my time at the Â鶹ӰԺ brought significant personal growth and development. Engaging in research, attending conferences, and participating in seminars allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace new challenges. Presenting my work to a wider scientific community also enhanced my communication skills and confidence in sharing my research findings with others.

These experiences not only deepened my knowledge but also sharpened my critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Beyond the academic realm, I had the opportunity to collaborate with diverse individuals from various cultural backgrounds. These interactions enriched my perspective and fostered a greater appreciation for different approaches and ideas. Being part of a supportive and collaborative environment encouraged me to become a more effective team player, building strong relationships and learning from the expertise of my peers. 

Other CU Â鶹ӰԺ researchers involved in this research include Aseem Visal, Femke Janssen, Alexander Larsen, and Carson Bruns. This work was supported by the College of Engineering and Applied Science, Rady Mechanical Engineering Department, ATLAS Institute, and the National Science Foundation.

Off

Off

Kaitlin Mccreery (MechEngr MS’20, BioEngr PhD’22) is pushing the frontiers of human cartilage research as a biomedical engineering PhD graduate from the Â鶹ӰԺ.

Mccreery is one of the first students to earn a PhD from the program, which began at CU Â鶹ӰԺ in 2020 to bridge the gaps between science, engineering, and medicine.

“I am in the field of mechanobiology. It’s all about how cells respond to mechanical cues from their environments and how those cues affect cell differentiation, stem cell fate, and ultimately tissue architecture. There are a lot of questions here that haven’t been answered yet,� Mccreery said.

Her research is focused at the microscopic level and even smaller – on atomic-level interactions that determine how cells behave and build tissues.

“It’s difficult to disentangle the biomechanical and biophysical cues. We want to better predict things, but getting cause and effect determined is nuanced,� she said.

The research has significant implications for regenerative medicine, an area of growing importance to humanity.

Mccreery spent her masters and PhD conducting experimental research on cells under the direction of Corey Neu, a professor in the Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering. She is continuing in his lab this fall as a postdoctoral associate, expanding her investigations into multiscale modeling, using big data methodologies and supercomputers for biomedical research.

“There is a huge repository of data available that is underutilized. Anyone funded by the National Institutes of Health has to upload their data to government servers for anyone to use. A lot more medical breakthroughs could happen by integrating these large datasets. It’s a new frontier,� Mccreery said.

Building a career in biomedicine is the culmination of long-held aspirations for Mccreery, who has been interested in science since childhood.

“I’ve always wanted to be a scientist,� she said. “I did a project in middle school studying a fungus affecting amphibians in my hometown. I got really into research.�

It was perhaps an unlikely drive for Mccreery, who grew up in a household with a strong arts emphasis – her father is a professional cellist, her mother a professional violinist – but her parents encouraged her interests.

“For generations, people in my family have been musicians. I’m kind of the black sheep. Everyone else is in performing arts,� Mccreery said.

A North Carolina native, Mccreery enrolled at Duke University for her bachelor’s, earning a degree in physics. She was drawn to CU Â鶹ӰԺ for her graduate education in part by the university’s collaborative culture.

“CU Â鶹ӰԺ has a really great cooperative research environment. I’ve worked in many different labs during my time here. There’s cutting edge research happening, but people aren’t competitive about it. Science can’t happen in a bubble. To be a good engineer is to be an excellent teammate,â€� she said.

Mccreery’ hopes to continue a career in research long term and next year, will begin a position with the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Biomedicine in Münster, Germany. There, she will be studying stem cell mechanobiology and chromatin mechanics using advanced microscopy and computational methods.

“This is mission-driven biomedical research,� Mccreery said. “I feel like the area I’m working in has the greatest need.�

Off

Arthur Antoine (PhdCivEngr’17) is a proud Buff and an outstanding College of Engineering and Applied Science volunteer. Since graduating from CU Â鶹ӰԺ, Antoine has established a successful career at Shrewsberry & Associates, an engineering consulting firm, as a senior project manager.

As a CU Engineering Front Range Regional Network Ambassador, Antoine serves as a dedicated volunteer. He also contributes to the engineering community, serving as an active member and leader on numerous professional societies. We had the opportunity to sit down with Antoine to learn about his experience at CU Â鶹ӰԺ and why he remains involved with his alma mater.

What are your fondest memories of CU Engineering?

My fondest memories of the college, and in particular of our Construction Engineering & Management (CEM) group, are of our research group meetings and regular camaraderie among grad student colleagues in our shared offices.

It was a welcoming experience to join the CEM group and the culture of supporting new grad students was genuinely maintained. Also, it was a pleasant surprise that the CEM group attracted US-based and international academics, contributing to a diverse mix of cultures while I was there.

You have served in executive roles with local trade associations such as vice president of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Denver Professionals chapter, and secretary for the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) Colorado. Can you talk about why you choose to pursue leadership positions with each of the organizations and what they mean to you?

Fresh out of grad school in fall 2017, the first local trade association I got involved in was COMTO Colorado. The experience served as a great way to get familiar with the local Denver-Metro Engineering/Construction professional community.

It was a pleasure to serve as Secretary for a term. Currently, I serve as the Chair of COMTO Colorado’s Scholarship Committee, in which we aim to award up to 10 scholarships annually to students interested in pursuing college studies in a transportation-related field. 

With the NSBE Denver Professionals chapter, I served as Vice President for one term and currently serve as the Corporate Sponsorship Liaison responsible for fundraising and fostering partnerships with corporate entities that wish to support our NSBE Mission, i.e. "to increase the number of culturally responsible Black Engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community."

In summary, I chose those organizations and welcomed the leadership positions as a way to get involved and support the local community while contributing to my professional development.

Since graduating from CU Â鶹ӰԺ, you have maintained a close connection with the Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering. Can you talk about your experience as a student and the impact it had on you?

In my quest seeking a Construction Engineering & Management (CEM) PhD, I applied to multiple schools and CU Â鶹ӰԺ’s CEM professors had the best personal approach to my interest in their program.

Beyond acceptance/entry, the program turned out to be more than I could have asked for –  it was a comprehensive academic experience in my field of study. CU’s support of academic pursuits, financial and otherwise, was especially impactful on my experience.

With CU’s support, I got to attend and present my research at several significant industry and academic conferences. Additionally, through my advisor’s involvement in industry, I got to network and meet professionals who helped my research efforts and remain as professional contacts. Ultimately, I graduated feeling that the CEM program at CU Â鶹ӰԺ surpassed my expectations.

Why did you choose to become a Regional Network Ambassador for the Front Range? Have there been any highlights to your role as an RNA since joining the program?

After graduating, I felt indebted to the institution as my alma mater and obligated to support the efforts of recruiting and retaining diverse students. 

In this regard, I accepted the role of an RNA. The highlight for me is the random new connections made with prospective students and sharing knowledge about CU Â鶹ӰԺ to aid them in deciding whether or not they pursue studies here.

What would you say to encourage alumni who are considering volunteering with their alma mater?

Ultimately, it’s a personal decision based on experiences and circumstances. Nonetheless, to anyone considering it I would say, think of your own achievement (BSc/MS/PhD or otherwise). Undoubtedly someone helped you along the way at some point, so consider being that person to help someone else on their academic journey.

Want to get involved as an alumni volunteer? Fill out our  or update your contact information to be notified of future CU Engineering alumni events.

Off

“Nobody is going to coddle you, so you learn to perform, handle difficult personalities and play chess in order to make a difference and grow at work," she said.

Dachere is the CEO and president of (formerly known as CodeChix) a nonprofit that offers mentorship, technical training programs and hosts networking events for female developers and engineers.

Dachere recently moved back to Colorado to take care of her elderly parents, but still travels to and from the Bay Area to continue her mission to help women achieve success in their careers. She is also looking to expand her network of women in science and engineering in Â鶹ӰԺ.

Thrive-WiSE supports women in business, specifically women engineers in technical industries, from graduates entering industry to women returning to industry and looking to climb the technical ladder.

"Engineers are driven by an internal fire to create and build unique solutions to old and new problems, regardless of industry. Problem analysis and solutioning is in our DNA," said Dachere.

Since 2015, Thrive-WiSE has hosted many conferences to aid women in industry and create a safe space for women. They feature high-level technical conversations and provide workshops to enhance their skills.

For those conferences, Dachere spends hours selecting the topics, finding speakers, developing the programs, and connecting with sponsors.

"I dislike wearing heels and dressing up (one of the reasons I chose engineering), but there are times when it is critical to do just that,� she said. “Breaking strict rules for the right reasons is also a little bit of the rebellious part of good engineering traits."

How to get involved

Thrive-WiSE holds monthly with open and inclusive conversations on various topics relevant to career and work-life integration! Register for the next on April 20 at 12 p.m. to get the latest information. Follow them on and .

Off