03/03/2026
Dr. Stefan Thonnard, Director of the Non-Traditional Geospatial Intelligence System Program Office, is the recipient of the Dr. Joseph V. Charyk Award.
Dr. Thonnard critically drove the acquisition for a space-based spectral satellite, where he oversaw research studies, ensured mission partner readiness, led integration, test, launch, initialization, characterization, experimentation, and operations. He guided a large team, despite unprecedented constraints, ultimately delivering on schedule, below cost, exceeding performance, and accomplishing a 50-year goal of the National Reconnaissance Office. Dr. Thonnard built a robust spectral community by partnering with the Intelligence Community and Department of War. His innovative portfolio-based experimentation plan secured additional funding to implement enhanced capabilities including non-earth and motion imaging. The exquisite data collected, as a result of his efforts, continues to be integrated into intelligence briefings to the President and into military actions against foreign adversaries. Dr. Thonnard’s exceptional and lasting contributions ensure the National Reconnaissance Office’s ability to support the United States military, making him most deserving of this prestigious award.
We are proud to recognize Dr. Thonnard for his exceptional leadership and lasting contributions to national security space.
