Mark ‘Indy’ Kochte, an original founding member and the Safety and Education Director of the Climbing Coalition, brings a unique blend of expertise in space exploration and a lifelong passion for climbing to the community. In his day job, Mark explores the solar system as part of the mission operations teams for interplanetary spacecraft, including NASA's New Horizons and ESA's Solar Orbiter. His previous involvements include contributions to NASA's MESSENGER spacecraft and the Hubble Space Telescope.

Mark's climbing journey dates back to the early/mid-1980s, with roots in Ohio before he moved to Maryland in 1988. Since then, he has been on a quest to explore climbing opportunities throughout the state. His dedication to the climbing community led him to create and maintain a webpage guide to climbing areas, ultimately evolving into the publication of the guidebook "Climb Maryland!" in 2003. Mark's commitment continued with the release of a two-volume set, with Volume 1 published in the summer of 2023 and Volume 2 completed early in 2024.

The spark for Mark's climbing passion ignited during a spring break in 1983 when he was initially reluctant to try climbing. However, after a six-month hiatus, he voluntarily gave it another shot and has been hooked ever since. His biggest climbing achievement lies not in personal ascents but in the successful publication of climbing guidebooks.

As an executive member of the Climbing Coalition, Mark has already achieved significant goals, including the creation of the group and fostering relations between climbers and landowners to facilitate access to the Cumberland crags. Looking forward, he aims to continue being a valuable resource for the group, and as he lives out towards Baltimore, contribute in any way possible from a distance. Some of his favorite climbing spots are Rocks State Park, Seneca Rocks, and Locust Grove (when accessible).

Outside of climbing, Mark indulges in a wide range of hobbies and interests. From kayaking and hiking to mountaineering and scuba diving, he is a true outdoor enthusiast. Photography, gaming, night sky observing, and public lectures on space missions round out his diverse set of interests.