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Brent Ward JettAstronaut
Date of Birth: 05.10.1958
Country:  USA |
Content:
- NASA Astronaut: A Voyage of Exploration
- Military Service and Flight Experience
- Selection to NASA's Astronaut Corps
- Spaceflight Experience
- Awards and Recognition
- Personal Life
NASA Astronaut: A Voyage of Exploration
Early Life and EducationBorn on October 5, 1958, in Pontiac, Michigan, our protagonist embarked on an educational journey that laid the foundation for his future in space. In 1976, he graduated from Northeast High School in Oakland Park, Florida. Five years later, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from the United States Naval Academy. Pursuing further academic excellence, he obtained a Master of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School in 1989.
Military Service and Flight Experience
Upon graduating from the Naval Academy, the astronaut underwent flight training at Naval Air Station Virginia Beach in Virginia. He subsequently deployed as an F-14 Tomcat pilot with the 74th Fighter Squadron aboard the aircraft carrier Saratoga. During his service, he undertook two six-month missions in the Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean. In 1990, he joined the Naval Air Test Center, flying various aircraft models. In 1991, he returned to the 74th Fighter Squadron aboard the Saratoga. Throughout his military career, he accumulated over 3,500 flight hours across 35 aircraft types, including 450 carrier landings.
Selection to NASA's Astronaut Corps
Inspired by the boundless possibilities of space exploration, the astronaut applied to NASA's astronaut corps in 1992. He was selected as a candidate in March of that year and embarked on a two-year comprehensive training program at Johnson Space Center, culminating in his certification as an astronaut in August 1994.
Spaceflight Experience
The astronaut's inaugural spaceflight occurred in January 1996 as the pilot of STS-72 aboard the Endeavour spacecraft. During this eight-day mission, the crew conducted experiments involving deployable spacecraft. In January 1997, he returned to space as the pilot of STS-81 aboard the Atlantis spacecraft. This ten-day mission involved docking with the Russian Mir space station and conducting operations on board. In December 2000, he commanded STS-97 aboard the Endeavour spacecraft, delivering cargo to the International Space Station and performing assembly tasks. Over his three spaceflights, he logged a total of 29 days, 22 hours, and 53 minutes in orbit.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his distinguished career, the astronaut has been honored with numerous awards, including medals from the Department of Defense and the United States Navy. NASA recognized his extraordinary contributions with the NASA Exceptional Service Medal and three NASA Space Flight Medals in 1996, 1997, and 2000.
Personal Life
Outside of his professional endeavors, the astronaut cherishes family life, being married to Janet Leigh Lyon. His leisure pursuits include running, water-skiing, rowing, and basketball.
