Leaves Exploration Systems Mission Directorate After 38 Years With Agency

Doug Cooke, who worked for nearly 38 years in NASA's space shuttle, International Space Station and exploration systems programs, will retire from the agency effective October 3.

Cooke most recently served as NASA's associate administrator for the Exploration Systems Mission Directorate (ESMD), which is responsible for developing capabilities for sending humans deeper into space. Before retiring, Cooke will serve as deputy associate administrator for the agency's new Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate.

"Doug has been a long-time friend and co-worker since my early days with NASA. His hard work and expertise have been essential to the space shuttle, International Space Station and exploration programs," NASA Administrator Charles Bolden said. "His leadership has helped NASA open the next great chapter of human spaceflight."

Cooke had postponed his retirement until the consolidation of ESMD and the Space Operations Mission Directorates was complete, providing a good time to transition leadership.

"We've worked through key technical and programmatic decisions on the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle and the Space Launch System," Cooke said. "I'm confident that NASA is well prepared to face tomorrow's challenges and reach for destinations in our solar system with human explorers and their machines."

FMI: www.nasa.gov