Author Hugh Harris in action at the microphone during his time as launch commenter for numerous shuttle liftoffs. Photo courtesy of NASA.
Called “The Voice of NASA” for many years by the world’s television networks, Hugh Harris devoted his thirty-five years with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to telling the story of the United States space program. Although he is best known to the public for his calm, professional commentary on the progress of launch preparations and launch of the space shuttle, his primary accomplishments were in directing an outreach program to the general public, news media, students, and educators, as well as to business and government leaders. He also oversaw the largest major expansion (up to that time) in the history of the Kennedy Space Center’s visitor complex and tours.
Harris began his career as a member of the news media. He worked as a reporter and broadcaster for WMTR in Morristown, New Jersey, and as a reporter and photographer for two newspapers.
After his retirement in 1998, he shared his experience in NASA public relations with nuclear-industry leaders at conferences held by the United Nations’ International Atomic Energy Agency in Europe and Japan and in this country through the Nuclear Energy Institute.
He continues to work as a volunteer at the KSC Press Site, as well as for the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation.