I’m thinking someone outside the “system” with a degree in some discipline of Physics would have been the best choice. Promoting from the ranks (someone already indoctrinated and “enlightened”) always seems to be the preferred method in these circumstances. Disturbing the established narrative or asking uncomfortable questions not allowed.
Your comment is more insightful than you can know. The new guy is a NASA politician. Nothing controversial will come from this “study” unless it benefits the govt. For example, an occasional distraction.