Edward Campion
Headquarters, Washington, D.C.                                     
June 25, 1992
(Phone:  202/453-1134)

Barbara Schwartz
Johnson Space Center, Houston
(Phone: 713/483-5111)

RELEASE:  92-96


ASTRONAUT CREIGHTON TO RETIRE AND LEAVE NASA


     Astronaut John O. Creighton (Capt., USN) will retire from 
the U.S. Navy and leave NASA on July 15 to work in the 
Commercial Airplane Group of the Boeing Co., Seattle, Wash., 
beginning Sept. 1.  He will work as a production test pilot and 
as an instructor pilot in the customer support area.

     Creighton, who was selected for the astronaut program in 
1978, is a veteran of three Space Shuttle missions.  He piloted 
STS-51G, in June 1985, on which communications satellites were 
deployed for Mexico (Morelos), the Arab League (Arabsat) and 
the United States (AT&T Telstar).  He was commander of 
Department of Defense flight STS-36, launched Feb. 28, 1990.  
He also commanded STS-48 in September 1991, on which the Upper 
Atmosphere Research Satellite was deployed. 

   "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at NASA, especially 
working with the outstanding people here.  I feel privileged to 
have flown on three Shuttle missions--each unique and 
rewarding, but then comes a point when it's time to look for a 
new and different challenge.  I am looking forward to returning 
to Seattle, where I grew up, and to beginning my new career at 
Boeing," Creighton said. 

     "Our loss is Boeing's gain," said Donald R. Puddy, 
Director of Flight Crew Operations. "They're getting a terrific 
pilot and a seasoned aerospace pioneer.  We will miss him, but 
wish him continuing success as he pursues his new career."
                             -end-