Aaron Cohen

Aaron Cohen (1931-2010) was a transformative figure in America's space program, serving NASA for over three decades in crucial leadership roles. After earning his bachelor's from Texas A&M (1952) and master's from Stevens Institute of Technology (1958), he joined NASA in 1962, where he became instrumental in the success of both the Apollo and Space Shuttle programs. As manager of the Apollo Command and Service Modules (1969-1972), he played a vital role in all lunar landings. He then led the Space Shuttle Orbiter Project Office (1972-1982), overseeing the development of Earth's first reusable spacecraft. His leadership was particularly crucial during the challenging period following the 1986 Challenger disaster when, as Director of the Johnson Space Center (1986-1993), he provided steady guidance that helped return the shuttle program to flight. After retiring from NASA in 1993, he joined Texas A&M University as a professor, continuing to share his extensive knowledge with future generations of engineers. His contributions to space exploration earned him numerous accolades, including the ASME Medal and an honorary doctorate from Stevens Institute of Technology, cementing his legacy as one of NASA's most influential leaders during the golden age of space exploration.