Astronaut Appearances

NASA selects astronauts from a diverse pool of applicants with a wide variety of backgrounds, from scientists to pilots. From the thousands of applications received, only a few are chosen to be a member of the elite NASA Astronaut Corps. Each day at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, visitors get the rare opportunity to meet a veteran NASA astronaut.

Meet the Astronaut of the Day at any of the following opportunities.  See the Daily Schedule for the times for each when you arrive.

• The daily Astronaut Encounter briefings allow time for a presentation from the astronaut and a question-and-answer session, so be prepared to ask him or her what you have always wanted to know.
• Visitors can also get an astronaut’s autograph at The Space Shop and Shuttle Express at various times during the day.
• During the all-new Chat With An Astronaut, enjoy a sampling of food and beverages while having a group conversation with the Astronaut of the Day about what it is really like to live and work in space. This new add-on enhancement requires daily admission.

Astronaut Bio:

• Born: Wetumka, Oklahoma
• Education: BSc. in Applied Mathematics; University of Colorado at Colorado Springs
• Education: Master's degree in Aeronautical Engineering; United States Naval Postgraduate School
• Education: PhD in Education; University of Idaho
• Distinguished graduate of the Aviation Officer Candidate Program, Naval Aviator and Test Pilot; 4600+ hours in more than 30 different aircraft types.
• 1996 NASA class selection
• First Native American to fly in space; Member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma