WASHINGTON, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- The National Aeronautics and Space Administration says it has appointed Robert Braun the space agency's chief technologist.
NASA said Braun will become the principle adviser and advocate on matters concerning agency-wide technology policy and programs.
The appointment was effective Wednesday.
"Bobby brings expert knowledge of spacecraft, robotic and planetary exploration technology development to this new position," NASA Administrator Charles Bolden said. "His experience working at NASA Langley and in the academic community brings an excellent skill mix to this exciting and challenging new job."
Officials said Braun will help develop a broadly focused advanced concepts and technology development program leading to new approaches to NASA missions and solutions to significant national needs.
"Braun has more than 20 years experience performing design and analysis of planetary exploration systems as a member of the technical staff at NASA's Langley Research Center in Hampton, Va., and the Georgia Institute of Technology," NASA said. "His research has focused on systems aspects of planetary exploration, where he has contributed to the design, development, test, and operation of several robotic space flight systems."
