Since 1959, NASA has used a stringent screening process to recruit its astronauts. Originally military test pilots, NASA astronauts now come from many different backgrounds and professions, including scientists, doctors, engineers, and even school teachers. Today, there have been 23 astronaut recruiting classes in the history of NASA, with 339 candidates making the cut. And, 14 of these astronauts are Georgia Tech engineering alumni who we are very proud and honored to call yellow jackets.

The Lineup

Eric A. Boe, Electrical Engineering 1997

Michael Richard “Rich” Clifford, Aerospace Engineering, 1982

N. Jan Davis, Biology, 1975

L. Blaine Hammond, Jr., Engineering Science & Mechanics, 1974

Scott J. “Doc” Horowitz, Aerospace Engineering, 1982

Robert S. Kimbrough, Operations Research 1998

Timothy L. Kopra, Aerospace Engineering 1995

Sandra H. Magnus, Materials Science & Engineering 1996

Bill McArthur, Aerospace Engineering, 1983

Alan G. Poindexter, Aerospace Engineering, 1986

Susan Still Kirain, Aerospace Engineering, 1985

Richard H. Truly, Aeronautical Engineering, 1959

Douglas H. Wheelock, Aerospace Engineering, 1992

John W. Young, Aeronautical Engineering, 1952