The National Aeronautic Association has selected the International Space Station as the recipient of the 2009 Robert J. Collier Trophy, “For the design, development, and assembly of the world’s largest spacecraft, an orbiting laboratory that promises new discoveries for mankind and sets new standards for international cooperation in space.”
“We had a remarkably strong list of candidates, one that visibly impressed the distinguished members of the Collier Trophy Selection Committee,” said Walter Boyne, chairman of NAA and chairman of the selection committee. “I believe that the International Space Station is a wonderful example of what the Collier Trophy signifies: Accomplishment, vision, and advancement in aerospace.”
“We are very proud to receive the Collier Trophy,” NASA Administrator Charles Bolden said. “This prestigious award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of thousands of people around the world. With our intention to extend station operations to at least 2020, there are limitless possibilities for science and technological breakthroughs.”
The International Space Station Team includes NASA, The Boeing Company, Charles Stark Draper Labs, Honeywell Corporation, Lockheed Martin Corporation, United Space Alliance, and United Technologies Corporation.
The International Space Station is a joint project of five space agencies and 15 countries that is nearing completion and will mark the 10th anniversary of a continuous human presence in orbit later this year.
The Collier Trophy is awarded annually “…for the greatest achievement in aeronautics or astronautics in America, with respect to improving the performance, efficiency, and safety of air or space vehicles, the value of which has been thoroughly demonstrated by actual use during the preceding year.”
For more information: NAA.aero
