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Astronaut Appearance

Meet Astronaut John Herrington

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

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Headshot of astronaut Commander John Herrington in full space suit, holding his helmet in front of the U.S. and NASA flags
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Get the rare opportunity to meet a veteran NASA astronaut every day at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Meet the Astronaut of the Day at any of the following opportunities:  

  • Astronaut Encounter – During these presentations, hear from the Astronaut of the Day about his or her unique experience living and working in space. Have your questions ready after the presentation. Astronaut Encounter is included with admission. 
  • Chat With An Astronaut – Enjoy a sampling of food and beverages while having a small-group conversation with the Astronaut of the Day about what it is really like to live and work in space. Chat With An Astronaut can be purchased in addition to admission. 
  • Autograph signings – get the astronaut’s autograph at The Space Shop and Shuttle Express at various times during the day. 

 See the Daily Schedule for the times for each when you arrive.

Learn more about this Astronaut of the Day below.

Headshot of astronaut Commander John Herrington in full space suit, holding his helmet in front of the U.S. and NASA flags

John B. Herrington

  • Mission Specialist, space shuttle Endeavor (STS-113)

Commander John B. Herrington, a pioneering astronaut and aviator, made history as the first enrolled citizen of a Federally recognized tribe to fly in space, and now dedicates his life to inspiring Native American youth through education and mentorship.

Commander John B. Herrington, a retired Naval Aviator, test pilot, aquanaut, and astronaut, has flown over 5,000 hours in more than 30 aircraft types. As an aquanaut, he led the sixth NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations (NEEMO) mission, spending nearly 264 hours underwater. An enrolled citizen of the Chickasaw Nation, he is celebrated as the first member of a Federally recognized tribe to fly in space. Cdr. Herrington flew aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the 16th International Space Station assembly mission, traveling over 5.6 million miles (9 million kilometers) over 330 hours and performed three spacewalks.

After retiring, Cdr. Herrington cycled 4,300 miles (6,920 kilometers) across the United States, sharing his story and mentorship with Native American youth; and at age 52 he earned a Doctorate in Education, investigating the factors that motivate and engage Native American students to study science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). He also authored the children’s book, Mission to Space. He continues to inspire future generations through his public speaking engagements and educational outreach programs.

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