NASA Earth Scientist to Head Programs Office in Science Directorate

Michael R. Luther has been named deputy associate administrator for programs in NASA’s Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Ed Weiler, associate administrator for the directorate, made the announcement Wednesday.

Luther will be responsible for overseeing the safe and successful execution of the directorate’s 36 missions currently in formulation and development, as well as 54 operating science missions. Prior to this appointment, Luther was deputy director for programs in the Science Mission Directorate’s Earth Science Division.

“Mike brings an unprecedented amount of knowledge in overall science programs along with extensive experience in Earth research. That experience will be invaluable as we prepare for upcoming Earth-related launches and campaigns,” said Weiler.

Luther began his tenure at NASA Headquarters in 1987 and has served as program manager of the Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite and Earth science flight program director. He has worked at NASA since 1981 when he joined Langley Research Center, Hampton, Va. In 2005, Luther received the NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal.

“It is an honor and a privilege to assist Ed Weiler and Deputy Associate Administrator Chuck Gay in managing the world’s premier civilian space science organization,” Luther said. Luther’s predecessor, Todd May, who served in the position since 2007, will return to Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala.

NASA’s Science Mission Directorate conducts research and scientific programs to observe the Earth, study space weather and explore the solar system and the universe beyond. To achieve these scientific goals, NASA manages a diverse constellation of spacecraft and conducts an assortment of grant-based research programs.