NASA has named veteran test pilot Troy Asher as the new director of the Armstrong Flight Research Center in California.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman recently appointed Troy Asher as the permanent director of the Armstrong Flight Research Center. The facility operates in Edwards, California. Asher served as the center’s acting director starting in March.
Also, Asher brings decades of experience to this new role. He worked as both an aerospace engineer and a test pilot. Agency leaders believe his background will help NASA reach new heights in aviation research.
Next, Asher will manage the entire workforce and daily operations at the center. He plans to advance new aviation technologies and aircraft research. The site serves as the primary hub for NASA’s flight testing.
Furthermore, the center focuses on expanding the agency’s X-plane portfolio. Experts there develop experimental aircraft for high-speed flight. They also support critical science missions across the globe.
Meanwhile, Asher’s history with the agency began in 2008. He joined as a research test pilot and engineer. He flew several specialized aircraft, including the F-15 and the X-56A.
After that, he acted as the lead pilot for the SOFIA observatory project. He also conducted many scientific research missions using the DC-8 aircraft. His career proves his deep knowledge of flight testing.
In addition, Asher spent 24 years in the U.S. Air Force. He retired as a lieutenant colonel after a distinguished military career. He even set 25 world speed records in a B-1B bomber.
Also, he taught at the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School. He held leadership roles at Edwards Air Force Base before joining the NASA team. His education includes degrees in astronautical and mechanical engineering.
Finally, Asher takes over for Bradley Flick. Flick retired in March after serving NASA for nearly 40 years. The Armstrong center continues its long history of pushing the limits of flight research.