NASA’s exploration programs head Cathy Koerner is leaving the agency, following Jim Free’s retirement after 30 years. The departures raise questions about the future of the Artemis lunar campaign and have sparked concerns about major changes ahead. Acting administrators Vanessa Wyche and Lori Glaze will oversee ESDMD until a new leader is appointed.
Cathy Koerner served as associate administrator for exploration systems development since 2023, spending 34 years at NASA in various roles. Her departure follows Free’s retirement after 30 years of service. The agency is now scrutinizing the Artemis program but has yet to provide formal direction on changes.
The sudden departures have raised concerns about impending major changes. Acting administrators Wyche and Glaze will lead ESDMD until a new leader is appointed. Koerner’s departure marks a significant shift in leadership, leaving many questions unanswered about the future of the agency’s programs.
In other news, NASA has announced several personnel changes, including the appointment of Jackie Jester as associate administrator for the Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs. The agency has also finalized its response to a memo from the Office of Personnel Management regarding employee accomplishments.
The memo had sparked confusion among federal employees, with some receiving conflicting advice on how to respond. NASA officials initially recommended that staff not reply but later stated that there was no impact to employment if employees chose not to respond. Elon Musk’s tweets also created uncertainty, stating that nonresponsive employees would face termination. However, OPM has since informed agencies that responses are no longer required.
As the agency navigates this uncertain period, its leadership will play a crucial role in guiding its workforce towards opportunities ahead.
Source: https://spacenews.com/nasa-associate-administrator-for-exploration-to-retire