Barry Wilmore

Early Life and Education

Barry Eugene Wilmore was born on December 29, 1962, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. He graduated from Smyrna High School in 1981 and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Tennessee Technological University in 1985.

Military Career

After graduating from college, Wilmore joined the United States Navy and became a Naval Aviator. He served as a pilot for the A-6 Intruder and F/A-18 Hornet aircraft. Wilmore also served as a mission commander and instructor pilot.

NASA Career

In 1998, Wilmore was selected as a NASA astronaut. He has flown on two space shuttle missions, STS-129 in 2009 and STS-135 in 2011. Wilmore also served as the commander of the International Space Station during Expedition 42/43 in 2014-2015.

Space Shuttle Missions

Wilmore served as a mission specialist on STS-129, which launched on November 16, 2009. The mission’s primary objective was to deliver and install the ExPRESS-2 and ExPRESS-3 modules to the International Space Station. Wilmore also performed three spacewalks during the mission.

Wilmore served as the commander of STS-135, which launched on July 8, 2011. This was the final mission of the Space Shuttle program. The mission’s primary objective was to deliver the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Raffaello to the International Space Station. Wilmore also performed two spacewalks during the mission.

International Space Station

Wilmore served as the commander of the International Space Station during Expedition 42/43 from March 28, 2014, to September 11, 2014. During his time as commander, Wilmore oversaw the arrival and departure of several cargo vehicles, conducted scientific experiments, and performed spacewalks.

Post-NASA Career

After retiring from NASA in 2016, Wilmore joined the private spaceflight company Axiom Space. He is currently serving as the chief operating officer of Axiom Space.

Awards and Honors

Wilmore has received numerous awards and honors for his service to the United States Navy and NASA. These include:

• Navy Distinguished Flying Cross
• Navy Air Medal
• NASA Distinguished Service Medal
• NASA Exceptional Achievement Medal

Personal Life

Wilmore is married to Paula Wilmore. They have three children.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is ‘s hometown?
A: Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Q: What is ‘s Alma Mater?
A: Tennessee Technological University

Q: How many spacewalks has performed?
A: Five

Q: What is ‘s current position?
A: Chief Operating Officer of Axiom Space

Q: How long did serve as commander of the International Space Station?
A: Six months

Tennessee Tech University

Tennessee Tech University (TTU) is a public research university in Cookeville, Tennessee. Founded in 1909 as a polytechnic institute, TTU focuses on engineering, technology, business, and the health sciences.

Academics:

• Offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs in five colleges: Engineering, Business, Arts and Sciences, Education, and Nursing.
• Top-ranked programs in engineering, technology management, and health sciences.
• Emphasizes hands-on learning, research, and practical experience.

Research:

• Home to the Center for Energy Systems Research and the John Anderson Technical Institute for Cybersecurity.
• Conducts research in areas such as engineering materials, energy efficiency, and computer science.

Campus:

• Located on a scenic 200-acre campus overlooking the Cumberland Plateau.
• Features modern facilities, including the M.L. Rose Foundation Innovation Center and the Cookeville Higher Education Campus.
• Offers numerous student housing options and recreational amenities.

Recognition:

• Ranked among the best regional universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report.
• Recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, receiving the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award.

Astronaut

Astronauts are individuals who are trained and certified to travel into space. They conduct scientific experiments, perform maintenance on spacecraft and space stations, and make observations of Earth and its surrounding environment. Astronaut training involves rigorous physical, mental, and technical preparation in areas such as:

• Spaceflight systems: Understanding the spacecraft, its systems, and emergency procedures.
• Physiology: Preparing for the effects of space travel, including weightlessness, radiation, and altitude.
• Psychology: Building resilience, coping mechanisms, and interpersonal skills for isolation and long-duration missions.
• Scientific research: Conducting experiments and collecting data in various fields, such as astrophysics, biology, and Earth science.

Astronauts play a vital role in advancing space exploration and contribute to our understanding of the universe and our home planet. They represent nations and serve as ambassadors for scientific research and international cooperation.

Space

Space refers to the boundless three-dimensional expanse in which all matter and energy exist. It extends infinitely in all directions and encompasses everything in the universe, from the smallest subatomic particles to the largest cosmic structures. Space itself is not a tangible substance but rather a concept that facilitates the description and quantification of physical relationships.

Space serves as a framework for the motion and interaction of objects. It provides a backdrop against which the relative positions and velocities of celestial bodies can be measured. The laws of physics, such as gravity and electromagnetism, operate within space and govern the behavior of matter and energy in it.

Our understanding of space has evolved throughout history with the advancements in astronomy and physics. From the geocentric models of antiquity to the heliocentric model developed by Copernicus and Galileo, our perception of space’s nature and extent has been continuously refined. Today, space exploration missions and technological advancements continue to push the boundaries of our knowledge and provide insights into the vastness and complexity of this enigmatic realm.

Student

A student is an individual who is enrolled in an educational institution for the purpose of gaining knowledge, developing skills, and acquiring qualifications.

Characteristics:

• Enrolled in a recognized educational program
• Actively involved in learning and pursuing academic goals
• Striving to acquire knowledge and skills in various subjects
• Participating in extracurricular activities and campus life
• May be at different levels of education, including primary, secondary, or tertiary

Responsibilities:

• Attending classes and completing assignments
• Preparing for exams and assessments
• Collaborating with peers and instructors
• Engaging in research and critical thinking
• Maintaining academic integrity and professional conduct

NASA Astronaut Corps

The NASA Astronaut Corps is an elite group of individuals selected and trained to perform space missions and conduct scientific research in space. The corps has been in existence since 1959 and has sent over 300 astronauts into space. Astronaut candidates are typically military pilots, scientists, engineers, or medical professionals with exceptional physical and mental health. After undergoing a rigorous selection process, candidates attend the Astronaut Candidate Training Program, which includes training in spacewalking, robotics, and spacecraft systems. Upon completion of training, astronauts are assigned to specific space missions and work as part of a team to prepare for and execute those missions. The Astronaut Corps plays a vital role in NASA’s exploration of space and the advancement of scientific knowledge.

‘s Education

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering: United States Naval Academy (1984)
• Master of Science in Aeronautical Engineering: Purdue University (1994)
• Certificate in Management: United States Naval War College (2006)
• Distinguished Graduate: United States Naval Test Pilot School (1995)

‘s Hometown

was born in Mount Juliet, Tennessee, a suburban town located just 15 miles east of Nashville. The city’s population has grown significantly in recent decades, making it one of the largest and fastest-growing municipalities in the region. Mount Juliet is home to several major corporations and healthcare facilities, and it is also a popular destination for tourists due to its proximity to the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. The city is known for its friendly atmosphere, its strong sense of community, and its beautiful parks and recreation areas.

‘s Family

is married to Dana Wilmore (née Burbank). Together, they have two children: William and Allison. Wilmore is also a father figure to Dana’s daughter, Audra, from a previous relationship. The family resides in League City, Texas, near the Johnson Space Center.

‘s Hobbies

enjoys spending his free time with his family, reading, listening to music, and exercising. He is also an avid golfer and skier. In addition to these hobbies, Wilmore is also a skilled woodworker and enjoys building things in his garage. He has built everything from furniture to model airplanes.

‘s Awards

• NASA Distinguished Service Medal (2015)
• NASA Exceptional Achievement Medal (2009, 2012)
• NASA Space Flight Medal (2007, 2015)
• Air Force Distinguished Flying Cross (2007)
• Air Force Meritorious Service Medal (2006)
• Air Force Commendation Medal (1995, 1997)
• Air Force Achievement Medal (1992, 1994)
• NASA Group Achievement Award (2007, 2015)
• Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (1998)
• Air Force Space and Missile Pioneers Award (2015)
• Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI) Yuri A. Gagarin Gold Medal (2016)

Tennessee Tech University’s Aerospace Engineering Program

Tennessee Tech University’s aerospace engineering program is recognized for its comprehensive curriculum and research opportunities.

• Curriculum: The program offers a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, providing a foundation in aerospace principles, design, and analysis. Students gain hands-on experience through design projects, labs, and simulations.

• Research: The university has a strong research program in aerospace engineering, with faculty involved in areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion, structural mechanics, and astrodynamics. Students have the opportunity to participate in ongoing research projects and present their findings at conferences.

• Facilities: The program has state-of-the-art facilities, including a wind tunnel, composite materials lab, and propulsion lab. These facilities provide students with the resources to conduct experiments and develop design prototypes.

• Career Preparation: Graduates from Tennessee Tech’s aerospace engineering program are highly sought after by industry leaders. The program prepares students for careers in aerospace design, manufacturing, and research. Graduates have gone on to work at companies such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and NASA.

NASA Astronaut Corps Requirements

• Citizenship: United States Citizen
• Education: Master’s degree in engineering, biological science, physical science, or mathematics from an accredited institution
• Experience: At least 1,000 hours of experience piloting a jet aircraft
• Physical: Must be in excellent physical health and meet NASA’s height and weight requirements
• Medical: Must pass a comprehensive medical examination and be able to tolerate the stresses of spaceflight
• Psychological: Must pass a psychological screening and demonstrate emotional stability, resilience, and teamwork skills
• Language: Proficiency in English and another language is preferred
• Age: 25 to 40 years old
• Other: Dive certification, winter survival training, and robotic arm operation experience are desirable

Life As A NASA Astronaut

Astronauts are highly trained professionals who work for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). They are responsible for carrying out scientific research, maintaining space stations, and conducting spacewalks. Astronauts must be in excellent physical and mental health, and they must have a strong background in science and engineering. They must also be able to work well in a team environment, and they must be able to handle the challenges of living and working in space.

The astronaut selection process is highly competitive, and only a small number of people are chosen each year. Astronaut candidates must undergo a rigorous training program that includes academic coursework, physical training, and simulations. They must also be certified in a variety of skills, including scuba diving, robotics, and emergency medical procedures.

Once they have completed their training, astronauts are assigned to a mission. Missions can last anywhere from a few days to several months, and they can take place on the International Space Station, the Space Shuttle, or other spacecraft. During their missions, astronauts conduct scientific experiments, maintain space stations, and perform spacewalks. They also work with scientists on the ground to develop new technologies and to test new equipment.

Astronauts are paid a salary by NASA, and they receive a number of benefits, including health insurance, life insurance, and a pension plan. They also have the opportunity to travel to space and to experience the unique challenges and rewards of living and working in space.

Training for Space Missions

Astronaut training is a rigorous and comprehensive process designed to prepare individuals for the unique physical, mental, and cognitive challenges of space exploration.

Physical Training:

• Includes exercises to enhance cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and endurance.
• Focuses on zero-gravity simulations, water survival techniques, and extreme environment training.

Mental Training:

• Addresses psychological aspects of spaceflight, including isolation, stress management, and decision-making.
• Utilizes simulations and scenarios to test astronauts’ adaptability, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

Cognitive Training:

• Enhances astronauts’ cognitive abilities, such as memory, attention, and spatial reasoning.
• Involves simulation exercises and cognitive testing to improve situational awareness and critical thinking.

Other Training:

• Includes specialized training in robotics, geology, and medical procedures.
• Astronauts also receive training on specific mission objectives and spacecraft operations.

Astronaut Training

Astronaut training is an intensive and comprehensive program designed to prepare individuals for space missions. It involves various components to ensure physical, mental, and technical readiness.

Physical Training:

• Exercises to maintain fitness and cardiovascular health.
• Simulations to withstand the physiological challenges of space, including microgravity and radiation exposure.
• Underwater training to mimic the conditions of extravehicular activity (EVA).

Environmental Training:

• Simulations to replicate extreme conditions encountered in space, such as vacuum, temperature fluctuations, and lack of atmosphere.
• Survival training for situations that may arise during missions.
• Underwater training for neutral buoyancy and weightlessness.

Technical Training:

• Study of scientific, engineering, and operational principles related to space exploration.
• Operation and maintenance of spacecraft systems, including navigation, life support, and communications.
• Use of robotic arms and other equipment for EVA.

Psychological Training:

• Assessment and selection for psychological resilience.
• Training to cope with isolation, confinement, and stress.
• Team-building exercises to foster cooperation and communication in challenging environments.

Additional Training:

• Exposure to emergency scenarios and contingency planning.
• Public relations and media training for astronauts representing their agencies.
• Language training for international collaboration and communication.

The duration and intensity of astronaut training vary depending on the specific mission requirements. However, all astronauts undergo a rigorous and comprehensive program to prepare them for the physical, psychological, and technical challenges of space exploration.

Astronaut Selection

The process of selecting astronauts is rigorous and competitive, with a low acceptance rate. Candidates typically have a strong academic background in science, engineering, or medicine, and must meet physical and psychological requirements.

Screening:

• Initial screening assesses candidates’ qualifications and experience.

Physical and Medical:

• Physiological tests and medical examinations evaluate candidates’ health and fitness for spaceflight.

Psychological and Behavioral:

• Psychiatric evaluations assess candidates’ mental health and resilience.
• Behavioral tests evaluate cooperation, leadership, and decision-making skills.

Technical and Knowledge:

• Technical interviews assess candidates’ knowledge of science, engineering, and space operations.
• Simulations and exercises test problem-solving and teamwork abilities.

Qualification and Training:

• Selected candidates undergo extensive training in spacecraft operations, scientific experiments, and emergency procedures.
• They also receive training in language, robotics, and other necessary skills.

Acceptance and Assignment:

• Only a small number of candidates are ultimately accepted to join the astronaut corps.
• Astronauts are assigned to specific spaceflight missions based on their qualifications and experience.