September 5, 1997

Jennifer McCarter
Headquarters, Washington, DC
(Phone: 202/358-1639)

Eileen Hawley
Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX
(Phone: 281/483-5111)

Release: H97-192

Astronaut Andrew Allen Retires From NASA

Three-time Shuttle astronaut Andrew Allen (Lt. Col., USMC) will retire from NASA on Oct. 1 to become president of the FIRST Foundation, Manchester, NH.

The FIRST Foundation works with youth to foster their interest in science and engineering.

"I'm certain that Andy will find creative ways to challenge young people and develop their interest in science and engineering," said David C. Leestma, director of Flight Crew Operations. "We wish him all the best in this new venture."

Allen is a veteran of three space flights, having flown as pilot on STS-46 in 1992 and STS-62 in 1994. He was commander for STS-75, the second Tethered Satellite System mission in 1996.

"I am truly thankful and have enjoyed my experiences at NASA and will miss the people I have been privileged to work with," Allen said. "I hope this new challenge will give some young people the same opportunities I have had in my life."

For complete biographical information on Allen, or any astronaut, see the NASA Internet biography home page at URL:

http://www.jsc.nasa.gov/Bios/

text-only version of this release