
Nolan Tribu
Heliophysics Spacecraft Instrumentation Team
Mentored by Dr. Akhavan-Tafti
Major: Space Science Engineering
Class of 2026
“During my time at MDP, I have learned how to effectively communicate across multiple teams in order to achieve a larger goal. I have conducted multiple trade studies, learned how to properly test our design products, and eventually improve on old models based off of those results. I think one undervalued skill that I learned as well is how to learn on your own during research. I was able to make a thermal regulator calculator to properly insulate a structure, and learn how to manage softwares through code during my time here on the heliophysics team. I was able to take advantage of these skills during this past summer through a formal research project studying energy transfer at Earth’s magnetopause.
My experiences doing MDP has certified my passion for research, so I will pursue a PhD after I graduate to stay within research.” – Nolan