Big Changes at NASA's JPL

In a significant leadership shake-up, Laurie Leshin is stepping down as the director of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) on June 1. Caltech has appointed David Gallagher, the lab’s current associate director for Strategic Integration, as her successor.

A Legacy of Achievement

Leshin, a renowned geochemist, took charge of JPL in early 2022 and has since overseen groundbreaking missions such as EMIT, SWOT, and the upcoming launch of the NASA-Indian Earth satellite NISAR. Under her guidance, JPL has also advanced missions like the asteroid-hunting NEO Surveyor and the CADRE lunar rovers, showcasing the lab's pivotal role in space exploration.

Reflecting on her tenure, Leshin said, "I am proud of the many things JPL has accomplished over the past three years. We’ve made incredible scientific discoveries, including the identification of potential ancient Martian biomarkers by Perseverance, and pushed technological boundaries on Earth and beyond."

Gallagher: The New Frontier

As Gallagher steps into his new role, he's poised to lead JPL into a thrilling future. A veteran of 36 years, he has held multiple leadership positions and has previously managed pivotal projects like the Spitzer Space Telescope and the Wide Field/Planetary Camera 2 for the Hubble Space Telescope.

"Laurie has made a significant impact on energizing and focusing the lab during her time, and I wish her all the success in her next chapter," Gallagher stated. He expressed enthusiasm about the opportunities that lie ahead for JPL in advancing the nation's space agenda.

Looking Ahead

Founded in 1936 and managed by Caltech for NASA since 1958, JPL continues to be a cornerstone of American space exploration. As Gallagher prepares to lead the lab's next phase, he emphasizes the strength of the team at JPL in achieving ambitious goals.

With both Leshin and Gallagher having made remarkable contributions, the transition promises to maintain JPL's legacy of innovation as they chart new territories in space science.