Christopher Povak

Christopher Stephen Povak (born November 26, 1970) is a United States Space Force major general who serves as the deputy director of the National Reconnaissance Office and commander of the Space Force Element to the National Reconnaissance Office. He previously served as the deputy director of the Space Warfighting Analysis Center.

Povak received his commission from Clarkson University in 1992. He has extensive experience in satellite operations, engineering, and acquisitions with the Air Force Space Command and National Reconnaissance Office. He has commanded NRO's Aerospace Data Facility-Colorado, Air Force Element at RAF Menwith Hill, and Operations Division 7. He has also served as a military legislative advisor to Senator Joseph I. Lieberman.

In 2021, Povak transferred to the Space Force. A year later, he was promoted to major general. As deputy director of the NRO, he assists the director in managing the strategic and tactical priorities of the NRO. He also leads the military personnel assigned to NRO, manages the associated service resources, and serves as senior advisor to the director on all military matters.