U.S. President Barack Obama Saturday picked a former astronaut as the first African American head of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

Astronaut Charles F. Bolden Jr. seen in NASA handout photo from 1991.(Xinhua/Reuters Photo)

“These talented individuals will help put NASA on course to boldly push the boundaries of science, aeronautics and exploration in the 21st century and ensure the long-term vibrancy of America’s space program,” Obama said in a statement.

Bolden, 62, has served at several technical and administrative posts at the space agency, including the assistant deputy administrator, before he left in 1994. He flew in space four times.

If Obama’s nomination is confirmed by Charles Bolden, Bolden would be the space agency’s first black administrator and the second astronaut to hold the post.

VietNamNet/Xinhuanet