NASA creates new directorate

WASHINGTON – NASA Administrator Charles Bolden announced creation of the Space Technology Mission Directorate, which will be a catalyst for the creation of technologies and innovation needed to maintain NASA leadership in space while also benefiting America's economy. The directorate will develop the cross-cutting, pioneering new technologies needed for NASA's current and future missions, many of which also benefit America's aerospace industries, other government agencies. NASA will focus leadership responsibility for the existing Space Technology Program in the mission directorate, improving communication, management and accountability of critical technology investment activities across the agency. Associate Administrator Michael Gazarik will head the organization. The Space Technology Mission Directorate will employ a portfolio approach, spanning a range of discipline areas and technology readiness levels. Research and technology development will take place within NASA centers, in academia, and industry, and leverage collaboration with other government and international partners. (Source: NASA, 02/21/13) Gulf Coast note: NASA's Stennis Space Center is in South Mississippi and its manufacturing center, Michoud Assembly Facility, is in east New Orleans.