James R. Thompson Jr.
Naval officer, NASA director

Born
1936
89 years ago
Died
November 7th, 2017
7 years ago — 81 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
Served as a naval officer and engineer, assuming the role of the 5th Director of NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. Oversaw major projects including the Space Shuttle program and contributed to advancements in rocket technology. Worked on various engineering initiatives during a career dedicated to aerospace leadership. Advocated for safety and innovation within NASA's various missions during tenure. Retired with significant contributions to both the military and space exploration fields.
Directed NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center
Managed developments in the Space Shuttle program
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