Overview

• Matt Anderson, a retired Air Force colonel with 24 years of service, has been nominated by President Trump to serve as NASA’s deputy administrator.
• The White House officially transmitted Anderson’s nomination to the Senate on May 6, 2025, initiating the confirmation process.
• Acting NASA Administrator Janet Petro publicly endorsed Anderson on May 7, highlighting his extensive experience in space operations and leadership roles.
• Anderson’s career includes senior military liaison roles with NORAD, USNORTHCOM, and USSPACECOM, as well as executive positions at CACI and the Space Force Association.
• Industry observers expressed surprise at the nomination due to Anderson’s limited prior engagement with NASA, though his national security background is seen as a potential asset.