Christina Koch Transitions From Astronaut to Deputy Chief Engineer

WHO:

Space.com - Christina Koch, NASA astronaut and engineer

NASA - Katherine Van Hooser, retiring deputy chief engineer

WHAT:

Space.com - Christina Koch will become NASA's acting deputy chief engineer.

NASA - Koch will assume her new role on Nov. 1.

NASA - All four Artemis II crewmates have stepped away from active spaceflight duties.

WHEN:

NASA - Koch will serve as acting deputy chief engineer beginning on Sunday, Nov. 1.

NASA - Katherine Van Hooser will conclude her service on Oct. 21.

NASA - Koch's new role begins on Nov. 1.

WHY:

NASA - Koch's appointment follows the retirement of Katherine Van Hooser, who served for over 35 years.

HOW:

NASA - In her new role, Koch will help lead NASA’s engineering community.

(UPDATED October 15, 2026 02:09 UTC)

NASA has announced that Koch will take on the role of acting deputy chief engineer starting on Sunday, November 1. This appointment marks a significant step in the agency's ongoing efforts to enhance its engineering leadership. As Koch steps into this position, the agency looks forward to her contributions in advancing its mission.

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(UPDATED October 14, 2026 17:05 UTC)

Christina Koch has been appointed as NASA's acting deputy chief engineer, taking over from Katherine Van Hooser, who will conclude her service on October 21 after more than 35 years with the agency. Koch will officially assume her new role on November 1, where she will help lead NASA's engineering community. In addition, all four Artemis II crewmates have stepped away from active spaceflight duties.