Welcome to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s Michoud Assembly Facility, located in eastern New Orleans.  In 1973, Martin Marietta Aerospace was awarded a contract to design, develop and manufacture nine external propellant tanks for the Space Shuttle System. The external tank serves as the structural backbone of the Shuttle, and provides some 1.6 million pounds of propellants for the Shuttle’s three main engines. It is the only component of the Space Shuttle that is not recovered for reuse. Lockheed Martin has produced more than 120 tanks to date, and is currently on contract to produce the 154-foot long, 28-foot diameter tanks through at least 2006.

The Michoud Assembly Facility boasts a long and colorful history dating back more than 240 years. Originally built during World War II to produce airplanes, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration acquired the Michoud facility in 1961 through a Congressionally approved property transfer from the Department of Defense. The site would be used to support the National Space Program by serving as a final assembly facility for the design, development and manufacture of large space launch vehicles requiring water transportation to launch sites. These efforts culminated in July, 1969, when the first man visited the dusty surface of the moon. The crew of that Apollo Mission was powered on their flight by a Michoud-built Saturn 1C booster.

Concurrent to our main mission areas is our work on safe return to flight and support of the Vision for Space Exploration. Return to flight is not just a one-time goal; it is how we conduct ourselves, being ever mindful of all aspects that go into mission success, especially safety and effective communication. Mission success is the greatest reward of all, and we are all responsible for echoing the message. The Vision for Space Exploration, the Agency’s framework for exploring our solar system, is an exciting program that will advance U.S. scientific, security, and economic interests. The Michoud Assembly Facility has unique and outstanding capabilities that are ready to support NASA’s goal of returning to the Moon, and then sending robotic and human missions to Mars and beyond.

This is an awe-inspiring time to be a part of America ’s space program. Michoud’s work is fascinating and aligned with the needs of the Agency. Our values are simple, yet powerful: We are dedicated to the values of Mission Success, Teamwork, and Integrity.  We aspire to achieve these values in everything we do.  We commit ourselves to the hard work ahead to realize these values.  Once we achieve them, we will be vigilant in upholding them. 

Our work is intriguing and all personnel have an important role in our success. I want to encourage you to learn as much as you can about NASA and the Michoud Assembly Facility. The diverse opportunities Michoud offers provide for an exciting work environment and great career development.

Welcome aboard and enjoy the journey!

Dave King
Director