NASA ushers in new era of space exploration with newest class of astronauts

In a ceremony at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, the agency introduced its latest class of astronauts, 10 graduates ready to take humanity further into space as part of the Artemis program. Selected from over 12,000 hopefuls in 2021, these astronauts have completed rigorous training and are now poised for missions that could span from stays aboard the International Space Station or trips to the lunar surface and beyond.

“Congratulations to the newest class of NASA astronauts!” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. “We are excited to have a new and diverse set of explorers ready to expand humanity’s reach.” 

Nelson emphasized the pioneering role of astronauts in the agency’s ambitious goals, including future lunar missions, Mars exploration, and other ventures into the cosmos. 

The graduates, selected for their exceptional skills and dedication, have undergone more than two years of basic training, mastering spacewalking, robotics, space station systems, and other critical disciplines. They have received extensive training readying them to contribute to missions aboard the ISS, future commercial space stations, and the Artemis program’s lunar endeavors as humanity gears up for the next giant leaps in space exploration. 

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The graduating class of NASA astronauts includes Nichole Ayers from Colorado Springs, Colorado; Marcos Berríos of Guaynabo, Puerto Rico; Chris Birch of Gilbert, Arizona; Deniz Bunham of Wasilla, Alaska; Luke Delaney of Debary, Florida; Andre Douglas of Chesapeake, Virginia; Jack Hathaway of South Windsor, Connecticut; Anil Menon of Minneapolis; Chris Williams of Potomac, Maryland; and Jessica Wittner of Clovis, California. 

Chief Astronaut Joe Acaba highlighted the exciting opportunities awaiting these new astronauts, noting the variety of spacecraft and destinations that mark this incredible era for space exploration. He expressed pride in welcoming the graduates and anticipation for the expansion of the astronaut corps. 

In a testament to the importance of international collaboration for the agency, NASA’s ceremony also recognized two astronauts from the United Arab Emirates – Nora AlMatrooshi and Mohammad AlMulla – who trained alongside their NASA counterparts. This partnership extends to various cooperative endeavors, including the ISS, the Artemis missions through the Gateway lunar space station, and groundbreaking scientific and research activities. 

The event not only celebrated the achievements of these new astronauts but also underscored NASA’s commitment to innovation and exploration. Kiran Ahuja, Director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, commended the collaborative effort in streamlining the astronaut selection process and expressed excitement for continuing to support NASA’s recruitment efforts.