Kemp created the NASA Nebula cloud computing platform, an innovative pilot project that allows researchers to set up computing storage and virtual machines in an accessible and affordable pay-as-you-go environment.
Kemp’s decision to use open-source software for the project enables researchers to run data on public clouds while keeping NASA’s internal networks secure. He also fostered cutting-edge technologies by partnering with Microsoft Research to develop the WorldWide Telescope and Google to customize applications, such as Google Earth.
Nebula could serve as a model for creating data center environments in mission-critical infrastructures, said Bruce Klein, senior vice president of Cisco Systems’ U.S. Public Sector division. “Kemp is an entrepreneurial executive with a passion for igniting innovation in high-tech organizations,” Klein said.
Read more about the 2010 Federal 100 award winners.