NASA appoints first-ever chief AI officer

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) had appointed David Salvagnini as its first-ever chief artificial intelligence officer.

According to NASAadministrator Bill Nelson, on May 13, appointed Salvagnini as the agency’s new chief AI officer.

The agency has expanded Salvagnini’s current role as chief data officer.

Nelson said, “Artificial intelligence has been safely used at NASA for decades, and as this technology expands, it can accelerate the pace of discovery.”

He added, “It’s important that we remain at the forefront of advancement and responsible use. In this new role, David will lead NASA’s efforts to guide our agency’s responsible use of AI in the cosmos and on Earth to benefit all humanity.”

As per agency the new appointment is made in accordance with the US President Joe Biden’s executive order on the safe, secure and trustworthy development and use of artificial intelligence.

Salvagnini, who joined NASA in June 2023, is now responsible for aligning the strategic vision and planning for AI usage across NASA.

He will be serving as a head for AI innovation, supporting the development, risk management of platforms, tools, and training.

Space agency pledged, “NASA continues developing recommendations on leveraging emerging AI technology to best serve our goals and missions.”