May 19, 2013
The man in charge of NASA's Space Shuttle Program, who was one of the agency's most recognized faces following the destruction of the Shuttle Columbia, will soon resign.
Ron Dittemore had planned to resign after Columbia completed its mission but postponed his departure because of the shuttle disaster and investigation.
The shuttle disintegrated 38 miles over Texas, killing all seven astronauts.
The Orlando Sentinel reported Saturday that Dittemore is expected to announce his resignation this week. A source says it was common knowledge at NASA that Dittemore was leaving to take a job in private industry.
Dittemore has been with NASA for 26 years and has headed the shuttle program since 1999.
The Orlando Sentinel said a search for Dittemore's replacement is under way.
