Dr. Kenneth S. Obenberger of DOD's Air Force Research Laboratory receives prestigious Arthur S. Flemming Award

  • Published
  • By Britianie Teston
  • Kirtland Public Affairs

Dr. Kenneth S. Obenberger, a Senior Research Physicist at the Air Force Research Laboratory's Space Vehicles Directorate (AFRL) at Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., has been named a recipient of the prestigious Arthur S. Flemming Award for his innovative work in radio wave propagation and plasma physics. This national honor recognizes exceptional public service and scientific achievement, placing Obenberger among the ranks of previous awardees such as Dr. Anthony Fauci and Neil Armstrong.

Obenberger's pioneering research has significantly advanced the understanding of space plasma disturbances, directly benefiting $4 billion in military communication, navigation, and surveillance systems. By spearheading a multi-faceted approach that included collaborations with NASA, Sandia National Laboratories, universities, and industry partners, he successfully bridged theoretical physics with practical applications. His leadership resulted in nine ground demonstrations and three space experiments, greatly enhancing the Department of Defense’s capabilities in space environment sensing and characterization.

According to Obenberger, AFRL’s new technique could be used for numerous remote applications, including monitoring/warning of eruptions of remote volcanoes such as in the Aleutian Islands of Alaska.

“The new technique leverages the fact that at the edge of space, the atmosphere is ionized (ionosphere) and therefore a good target for a high-frequency (HF) radar,” Obenberger explained. “The team calls it an "ionospheric microphone" or "space microphone," where a constant density layer in the ionosphere acts like the diaphragm. As the infrasound from the explosion moves that layer, the radar detects those movements and turns them into an electrical signal.”

The Arthur S. Flemming Award is the nation's oldest and most prestigious recognition for government service, celebrating 75 years of honoring individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the nation. Obenberger's achievements align perfectly with the spirit of the award, which was named after civil servant Arthur S. Flemming, a staunch advocate for social equity and public service excellence.

Dr. Kathryn Newcomer, President of the Arthur Flemming Awards Commission, emphasized the impact of this year's honorees, stating, "From their achievements in space to combating human trafficking, the dedication and contributions from this year’s awardees will inspire current and prospective public servants. They are true heroes in our government."

The awards ceremony will be held on Nov. 13, 2024, in Washington, D.C., with esteemed journalist Frank Sesno serving as the emcee. Obenberger's work exemplifies the award's mission to recognize the very best in public service, continuing a legacy that began in 1948.