Obama advices ex-astronaut to lead NASA

The CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - President Obama intends to name former astronaut Charles F. Bolden to head NASA. If confirmed by the Senate, Bolden would become the first African-American NASA administrator.

Obama's choice came in statements from NASA and the White House. The president also intends to nominate former NASA official Lori Garver, who headed Obama's space transition team, to become deputy administrator.

"These talented individuals will help put NASA on course to boldly push the boundaries of science, aeronautics and exploration in the 21st century and ensure the long-term vibrancy of America's space program," Obama said in a statement.





Barack Obama