What's Happening?
Mihailo Derek Rutovic has been serving as the director of NASA's Airborne Science Program (ASP) since June 2025. In this role, he oversees the management of aircraft used for Earth Science airborne data
collection. Rutovic's responsibilities include maintaining government-owned aircraft, integrating commercial aircraft vendors, and planning for future asset requirements. His extensive experience at NASA includes roles as an engineer and program manager, contributing to various aircraft upgrades and acquisitions. Rutovic's leadership is pivotal in advancing NASA's airborne science capabilities, ensuring the program meets current and future scientific needs.
Why It's Important?
Rutovic's leadership in the Airborne Science Program is crucial for NASA's mission to collect and analyze Earth Science data. The program's success in managing and deploying aircraft for scientific research supports a wide range of studies, from climate monitoring to environmental assessments. By effectively managing these resources, Rutovic helps ensure that NASA can continue to provide valuable data for scientific and policy-making communities. His role also highlights the importance of experienced leadership in managing complex aerospace programs, which are essential for advancing scientific knowledge and addressing global challenges.
