Bill Nelson, the head of the agency’s chief artificial intelligence ( AI ) division, announced the appointment of David Salvagnini, a position that extends his current responsibilities as chief data officer. In order to promote discovery and improve efficiency, Nasa has made a major step forward with the integration of AI technologies across its different missions and operations.
Salvagnini, whose career spans over two decades of tech management in the intelligence society, took on his new position successful soon, according to Nasa’s press release. His extensive experience includes a 21-year career as a communications and computer systems agent in the Air Force and a position held by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.
In his speech, Nelson emphasized the importance of AI in Nasa’s efforts:” Artificial intelligence has been properly used at Nasa for years, and as this technology expands, it can expand the speed of discovery”, he said. It is crucial that we stay ahead of development and dependable usage. David does direct Nasa’s efforts to promote the use of AI in space and on Earth in a way that benefits everyone in this new position.
The development of this place aligns with President Biden’s recent Executive Order on the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence, aiming to ensure the honest and safe implementation of AI systems. Salvagnini may lead the effort to align Nasa’s strategic vision and strategy for AI, promote creativity, and oversee the creation of AI training and tools.
Salvagnini’s duties will also include continuing Nasa’s partnerships with various government agencies, educational institutions, business partners, and experts to ensure the company remains at the cutting fringe of AI systems. As Nasa uses AI in a variety of applications, from monitoring communications with spaceship like the Perseverance Mars rovers, to analyzing Earth research imagery.
Due to Salvagnini’s session, Nasa’s chief scientist Kate Calvin briefly held the position of acting concerned AI official, emphasizing the important role AI has played and may continue to play in Nasa’s clinical and experimental missions.
