Frederick D. Gregory. Photo: NASA

NASA Associate Administrator Frederick D. Gregory, an astronaut and the senior executive currently responsible for the safety and reliability of all agency programs, has been named Acting Associate Administrator for the Office of Space Flight.

Gregory, 60, is Associate Administrator for the Office of Safety and Mission Assurance (OSMA) at NASA Headquarters in Washington. He will replace Joseph H. Rothenberg, who retires Dec. 15.

"Safety permeates everything Fred does. He's the right person for this job," said Acting NASA Administrator Dr. Daniel R. Mulville. "His experience as an astronaut, pilot and manager of flight safety programs is essential during this period of transition for the Office of Space Flight."

As a NASA astronaut, Gregory logged more than 455 hours in space during three Space Shuttle missions. In 1985, he served as pilot on board Challenger during STS-51B. Gregory was mission commander for STS-33 in 1989 and STS-44 in 1991.

Gregory was selected as an astronaut in 1978, after a distinguished career with the U.S. Air Force. He logged nearly 7,000 hours in 50 types of aircraft, including 550 combat missions over Vietnam.

In his current position, Gregory is charged with overseeing all safety issues within NASA through the development, implementation and oversight of reliability, maintainability and quality assurance policies.

"I deeply appreciate the confidence Dr. Mulville has shown in me throughout my NASA career," said Gregory. "NASA has the safest and most reliable human space flight program in the world. I'm going to work to make sure we continue to safely explore and develop space for the benefit of everyone here on Earth."

Gregory has been awarded the Defense Superior Service Medal, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, 16 Air Medals, The Air Force Commendation Medal and three NASA Space Flight medals.

His honors also include the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, the NASA Outstanding Leadership Award, the National Society of Black Engineers Distinguished National Scientist Award, the George Washington University Distinguished Alumni Award and an "Ira Eaker Fellow" by the Air Force Association.

Dr. Michael A. Greenfield, OSMA Deputy Associate Administrator, will serve as Acting Administrator during Gregory's interim assignment.