Monday, February 3, 2025
Monday, February 3, 2025
HomeTechnologyNASA appoints First Woman Director, takes unique oath

NASA appoints First Woman Director, takes unique oath

On Thursday, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) made history by appointing Dr. Makenzie Lystrup as the first woman director of Goddard Space Flight Center. What made her oath-taking unique was that she was not use a Bible or the US Constitution, but instead used Carl Sagan’s book “Pale Blue Dot” to take oath.

It is not uncommon for office holders across the US to use different books to take oaths. Some use the US Constitution, while others use religious texts such as the Holy Quran. However, it was the first time that someone took their oath of office by swearing on Carl Sagan’s book.

Pale Blue Dot: A Vision of the Human Future in Space

Pale Blue Dot: A Vision of the Human Future in Space written in 1994 by astronomer Carl Sagan, book was named because he inspired from the famous picture of the Earth taken by the Voyager 1 space probe in 1990 from a distance of around six billion kilometres.

New Director’s Vision for Goddard Space Flight Center

Expressing her gratitude and excitement, Makenzie Lystrup said, “I’m humbled and honoured to lead such an amazing and diverse world-renowned team.” She also stated that her focus is on growing the next generation of innovators, providing the team with the resources and tools to advance technologies, and making new discoveries that boost the space economy and benefit all.

About Goddard Space Flight Center

Located in Maryland, Goddard Space Flight Center is one of the largest field centres of NASA. According to NASA, the centre is responsible for the oversight and execution of a $4 billion portfolio and hosts the largest number of engineers, technologists, and scientists focused on Earth and Space sciences.

Read also: From Earth to Mars: NASA’s CHAPEA Mission to Explore the Red Planet

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson’s Remarks

Commenting on Lystrup’s appointment, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said, “Makenzie is a natural leader, bringing to Goddard a scientist’s drive for discovery along with a wealth of industry experience and knowledge.” He also added that as the centre director, Lystrup will lead a world-renowned team of scientists, engineers, and technologists focused on Earth and space science.

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