Ed Campion 
Headquarters, Washington, DC               February 2, 1996
(Phone:  202/358-1780)


RELEASE:  96-23

O'CONNOR TO LEAVE NASA

     Space Shuttle Director Bryan D. O'Connor announced today 
that he will leave NASA at the end of this month. 

     In making his announcement, O'Connor released the 
following statement.

     "The current transition underway in the Shuttle program 
management presents an occasion for me to leave NASA without 
causing a significant disruption.  Given that condition, I am 
taking this opportunity to pursue other interests.

     "It has been an honor and privilege to work with the 
dedicated men and women who work on the Shuttle program.  It 
has been their exceptional work that has allowed 49 safe and 
successful missions since the Shuttle's return to flight."

-end-

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