NASA Distinguished Service Medal

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NASA Distinguished Service Medal is the highest award which can be bestowed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Established in 1959, the medal is granted to individuals who, by distinguished service, ability, or vision, have personally contributed to NASA's advancement of United States' interests. The recipient's service must have been so extraordinary that other forms of recognition by NASA would be inadequate.

Criteria

The criteria for the NASA Distinguished Service Medal include extraordinary performance that contributes significantly to the NASA mission. The achievements or service must be so exceptional that they set the individual apart from his or her peers. Both civilians and military personnel can receive the award, and it can also be awarded posthumously.

Design

The medal's design features a solid gold shooting star encircled by a laurel wreath. The reverse of the medal bears the inscription "For Distinguished Service" above the NASA seal.

Notable Recipients

Over the years, many individuals have been awarded the NASA Distinguished Service Medal for their contributions to space exploration and the advancement of aeronautics and astronautics. Notable recipients include:

- Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the Moon - John Glenn, the first American to orbit Earth - Katherine Johnson, a mathematician whose calculations were critical to the success of several manned spaceflights - Christopher C. Kraft Jr., a key figure in the establishment of NASA's Mission Control operation

Presentation

The medal is often presented by the NASA Administrator at special ceremonies. Due to its prestigious nature, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal is a symbol of recognition that carries significant honor within the aerospace community.

See Also

- NASA Space Flight Medal - NASA Exceptional Service Medal - Presidential Medal of Freedom - Congressional Space Medal of Honor