The U.S. Senate on Wednesday confirmed billionaire private astronaut Jared Isaacman to become President Donald Trump's NASA administrator, making him the space agency's 15th leader.

The 42-year-old businessman, made his fortune in online payment processing and has a personal passion for space. He has flown twice with SpaceX and became the first private astronaut to perform a spacewalk in 2024. He is also an advocate of Mars missions and a former associate of SpaceX CEO Elon Musk.

Isaacman will take over as administrator of the U.S. agency at a sensitive time, as it faces major budget cuts and pressure to travel to the moon again and eventually reach Mars.

The Trump administration first nominated Isaacman after the 2024 election, withdrew the nomination in April 2025, and re-issued it in November.

NASA workforce cut in efficiency push

The White House, in its government efficiency push led by Elon Musk, slashed NASA's workforce by 20 percent and has sought to cut the agency's 2026 budget by roughly 25 percent from its usual $25 billion. The move threatens dozens of space-science programs that scientists and some officials regard as priorities.

Isaacman has outlined plans to sharpen the focus on Mars mission alongside the Artemis moon program, while increasing reliance on private companies such as SpaceX to save taxpayer money and stimulate private-sector competition.

Maria Cantwell, the ranking member of the Senate Commerce Committee that oversees NASA, has criticized the Trump administration's efforts to cut NASA's science unit. She supported Isaacman's confirmation on Wednesday.

"During his nomination process, Mr Isaacman emphasized the importance of developing a pipeline of future scientists, engineers, researchers, (and) astronauts to support the science and technology development and align with NASA's objectives. I strongly agree," Cantwell said.

Acting NASA chief Sean Duffy, who also leads the U.S. Transportation Department, congratulated Isaacman on X, wishing Isaacman "success as he begins his tenure."

(With input from agencies)