Derrick Pitts

Derrick Pitts has worked in various roles throughout their career. Derrick began as the Chief Astronomer and Planetarium Programs Director at The Franklin Institute in 1978. Derrick then became a Science Museum, Planetarium, and Urban Outreach Advisor at the Thirty Meter Telescope in 2013. In 2011, they worked as a Solar System Ambassador for NASA. Pitts also served as the Chair of the Board Committee on Academic Affairs and University Honors at St. Lawrence University in 2007. Derrick was an Astrobiology Ambassador for NASA/UNCFSP from 2012 to 2014 and a Countdown Contributor for Countdown with Keith Olbermann, Current TV from 2011 to 2012. Additionally, they served as the President of the Greater Philadelphia Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. from 2006 to 2012 and acted as the National Spokesperson for the International Astronomical Union from 2009 to 2011. Lastly, Pitts trained as a Sub-Orbital Space Flight Trainee at the NASTAR Center in 2009.

Derrick Pitts completed their education at various institutions. Derrick attended St. Lawrence University from 1973 to 1978, although information about their degree and field of study during that time is not provided. Derrick then pursued a Doctor of Science - Sc.D., Hon. degree from LaSalle University, completing their studies in 2011. The field of study for this degree is not specified. Finally, they attended Rowan University College of Mathematics and Science, where they earned another Doctor of Science - Sc.D., Hon. degree in Astronomy, completing their studies in 2015.