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Astronaut Appearance

Meet Astronaut José Hernandez

Universe Theater

FriFridayAugust 15
SatSaturdayAugust 16
SunSundayAugust 17
MonMondayAugust 18
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Headshot of astronaut José Hernandez in orange space suit, holding his helmet and standing in front of the U.S. flag and a model of the space shuttle
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Get the rare opportunity to meet a veteran NASA astronaut every day at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Meet the Astronaut of the Day at any of the following opportunities:  

  • Astronaut Encounter – During these presentations, hear from the Astronaut of the Day about his or her unique experience living and working in space. Have your questions ready after the presentation. Astronaut Encounter is included with admission. 
  • Chat With An Astronaut – Enjoy a sampling of food and beverages while having a small-group conversation with the Astronaut of the Day about what it is really like to live and work in space. Chat With An Astronaut can be purchased in addition to admission. 
  • Autograph signings – get the astronaut’s autograph at The Space Shop and Shuttle Express at various times during the day. 

 See the Daily Schedule for the times for each when you arrive.

Learn more about this Astronaut of the Day below.

Headshot of astronaut José Hernandez in orange space suit, holding his helmet and standing in front of the U.S. flag and a model of the space shuttle

José M. Hernandez

  • Mission Specialist, space shuttle Discover (STS-128)

José Hernandez’s work has profoundly impacted space exploration and medical technology, highlighting his dedication to scientific and technological advancement.

Hernandez began his NASA career in 2001 at the Johnson Space Center as first a Materials Research Engineer, developing advanced structural materials for aircraft and spacecraft, and later, as Branch Chief of the Materials & Processes Branch. He was selected as an astronaut candidate in 2004 and began to support space shuttle launch and landing preparations.

In 2009, Hernandez flew on space shuttle Discover (STS-128), a mission that played a crucial role in the assembly and maintenance of the International Space Station (ISS). The mission’s primary objective was to deliver the Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module (MPLM), packed with essential supplies and scientific equipment. During the mission, Hernandez and his crew conducted three spacewalks, transferring over 18,000 pounds (8,164 kilograms) of supplies and equipment to the ISS, ensuring the station’s continued operation and scientific research. The mission lasted 13 days, covering over 5.7 million miles (9,173,260 kilometers) in 332 hours.

Before joining NASA, Hernandez worked at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, where he co-developed the first full-field digital mammography imaging system, significantly advancing breast cancer detection. His work has earned him recognition and awards, highlighting his impact in both the aerospace and medical fields.

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