A simple, plastic plaque left inside space shuttle Atlantis following the last mission of NASA’s shuttle program is a priceless tribute to the work force, said one of the managers who worked with the spacecraft for more than 20 years.

Astronaut Chris Ferguson, the last commander of a space shuttle mission, has announced his plans to retire from NASA on Dec. 9. He will leave for a new job in the private sector.

HOUSTON, Dec. 5, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Astronaut Chris Ferguson, the last commander of a space shuttle mission, has announced his plans to retire from NASA on Dec. 9.

NASA astronaut Chris Ferguson will return to his hometown on Nov. 7 to serve as the Philadelphia Eagles' Honorary Captain during the NFL's "Monday Night Football" game.

HOUSTON, Oct. 31, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- NASA astronaut Chris Ferguson will return to his hometown on Nov.