Trump appoints billionaire astronaut Jared Isaacman to lead NASA

“Jared will drive NASA’s mission of discovery and inspiration, paving the way for groundbreaking achievements in space science, technology, and exploration,” Trump stated on his Truth Social platform.

This early appointment underscores Musk’s influence, with the SpaceX CEO reportedly engaging closely with Trump on plans for Mars exploration and other initiatives to advance private space ventures. Trump recently attended the sixth test launch of SpaceX’s Starship in Texas, further highlighting the collaboration.

At 41, Isaacman is expected to reinforce NASA’s increasing reliance on private companies for space access—a trend that poses challenges to traditional programmes like the Space Launch System, a costly, over-budget rocket developed by Boeing and Northrop Grumman.

Isaacman will also manage NASA’s aeronautics division, which focuses on green aviation technology, alongside its space science portfolio, which has faced budget cuts and layoffs under President Joe Biden. These adjustments came as NASA prioritised the Artemis programme during Biden’s tenure.

Trump’s previous NASA administrator, Jim Bridenstine, a former congressman, initiated the Artemis programme and secured budget increases for the agency. Biden’s pick, former senator Bill Nelson, continued to oversee the agency during a period of financial reshuffling.

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