The Ames Research Center , under the direction of Charles F. Hall , was chosen because of its previous experience with spin - stabilized spacecraft .
NASA Ames Research Center , rather than Goddard , was selected to manage the project as part of the Pioneer program .
The NASA Ames Research Center     , under the direction of Charles F. Hall , was chosen because of its previous experience with spin - stabilized spacecraft .
NASA Ames Research Center , rather than Goddard , was selected to manage the project as part of the Pioneer program .