Designated Flight Director (DFD)

A Designated Flight Director (DFD) is a senior NASA spacecraft flight controller responsible for overseeing and coordinating all activities during a mission or a specific phase. They are the primary decision-maker, ensuring mission objectives are met safely and efficiently. The DFD manages teams, communicates with the spacecraft, and adapts plans based on real-time data. Essentially, they act as the central leadership figure, integrating technical expertise and mission knowledge to steer the spacecraft’s operations during critical operations or routine activities.