NASA Goddard Center Director Makenzie Lystrup Resigns

Keith’s note: the following letter was just sent out by NASA GSFC Director Makenzie B. Lystrup: “Dear colleagues, After much reflection, I have made the difficult decision that it is time for me to step aside as Director of NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. As mentioned in the official announcement, my last day will be August 1, after which the wonderfully capable Cynthia Simmons, currently Deputy Center Director, will serve as Acting Center Director.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have led during both triumphant moments and challenging times. Together we have achieved remarkable things, from returning samples from an asteroid, to supporting farmers and fellow citizens with critical Earth observations, to keeping the Roman Space Telescope on budget and on schedule, to starting the brilliant work for Habitable Worlds Observatory, the next step in a long line of breakthrough science, engineering, and technology. These accomplishments represent the very best of what we can achieve when we work together toward a common purpose.

I came to Goddard because it is a world-leading institution in space engineering and technology and space astronomy, planetary exploration, space weather, and Earth observation. As such, the work done here is central to NASA, our national science infrastructure, and United States competitiveness and leadership. I also came knowing that change and evolution were needed. I know that has often been challenging. Please know that every day I have strived to lead with integrity and transparency from a place of authenticity – as a leader and a scientist I take that very seriously.

As I have said before, we are not in a sprint or a marathon – it’s a relay race in which each of us is handed a baton by someone, and after our run we hand it off to another. Thank you. It has been a privilege to run part of it alongside you. And while I believe it is time for someone else to now guide the Center, I very much believe in Goddard and its mission, and I will be championing the next leg from the stands.

Robert H. Goddard, the namesake of our center, dedicated his life to the exploration of space. Throughout his work he experienced many ups and downs. He persevered and laid the foundation for the development of spaceflight. It is your collective expertise and passion and that same spirit of commitment that has made Goddard Space Flight Center, and NASA, the beacon to the world that it is. I have deeply appreciated it, and I have been honored to have shared in it. The people of our country appreciate it. The world appreciates it. And I remain confident that people from many generations to come will appreciate your commitment and historic achievements as well.

With gratitude to each,

Makenzie