NASA’s Acting Chief Duffy Chooses New Exploration-Driven Associate Administrator

Amit Kshatriya Appointed as NASA’s New Associate Administrator

On Wednesday, Acting NASA Administrator Sean P. Duffy announced the appointment of Amit Kshatriya as the new associate administrator, marking a significant leadership change in the agency’s civil service.

From Moon to Mars: Kshatriya’s Journey

With two decades of experience at NASA, Kshatriya recently served as the deputy head of the Moon to Mars Program within the Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate (ESDMD) at NASA Headquarters in Washington. In this capacity, he oversaw the strategic planning and execution of crewed lunar missions under the Artemis program, setting the stage for humanity’s inaugural journey to Mars.

Strengthening America’s Lunar Ambitions

Kshatriya’s elevation to NASA’s senior ranks underscores the agency’s commitment to the Artemis mission, placing the return to the Moon at the forefront of its agenda. This move highlights the dedication of both President Donald J. Trump and Duffy to reestablish American presence on the Moon, ahead of global competitors like China.

Leadership and Vision for the Future

“Amit has dedicated over 20 years to advancing U.S. leadership in space exploration,” Duffy remarked. “His leadership will guide us in realizing a bold vision for lunar exploration during President Trump’s administration. Amit’s expertise, integrity, and steadfast dedication to pioneering new frontiers make him exceptionally suited for this role. With his guidance, we will continue to expand the horizons of possibility.”

Boosting the Commercial Space Sector

Kshatriya’s promotion also reflects the Trump Administration’s view of the commercial space industry as a vital component of the American economy. By placing a seasoned leader at the helm, NASA aims to strengthen partnerships with the burgeoning U.S. space sector, fostering economic growth and ensuring that the future of space exploration is rooted in American innovation.

A Distinguished Career

Originally from Wisconsin, Kshatriya is an alumnus of the California Institute of Technology and the University of Texas at Austin. He is among a select group of approximately 100 individuals in history to have served as a mission control flight director, bringing exceptional operational and strategic expertise to NASA’s leadership team.

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Bethany Stevens
Headquarters, Washington
771-216-2606
[email protected]