David C. Hilmers

David C. Hilmers

David C. Hilmers was born on January 28th, 1950

Full Name: David Carl Hilmers
Nationality: American
Profession: Colonel, Physician, Astronaut
Place of Birth: Clinton, Iowa, USA
Known For: NASA Astronaut
NASA Missions: STS-51-J, STS-34
Medical Specialty: Family Medicine
Awards: Multiple NASA Awards

A decorated military officer, physician, and NASA astronaut who flew on four Space Shuttle missions, conducting scientific experiments and deploying satellites. He's a true Renaissance man in space exploration.

Written by: Penelope Wildwood Penelope Wildwood

David C. Hilmers: The Astronaut with a Passion for Exploration and Education

David C. Hilmers is a former NASA astronaut who has flown on four Space Shuttle missions, accumulating over 493 hours in space. He is also a highly educated individual, holding five academic degrees, making him the second most formally educated U.S. astronaut, behind Story Musgrave with six.

Early Life and Education

Hilmers was born on January 28, 1950, in Clinton, Iowa, but considers DeWitt, Iowa, his hometown. He graduated from Central Community High School in DeWitt, Iowa, in 1968, and went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics summa cum laude from Cornell College in 1972.

Academic Achievements

Military Career

Hilmers entered active duty with the United States Marine Corps in July 1972. He completed The Basic School and Naval Flight Officer School, and was assigned to VMAAW-121 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, flying the A-6 Intruder as a bombardier-navigator.

NASA Experience

Hilmers was selected as a NASA astronaut in July 1980 and completed the initial training period in August 1981. He flew on four Space Shuttle missions: STS-51-J, STS-26, STS-36, and STS-42.

Spaceflight Experience

Personal Life

Hilmers enjoys playing the piano, gardening, electronics, and spending time with his family. He has two grown sons and is married.

Legacy

David C. Hilmers' remarkable career as a NASA astronaut and his impressive educational achievements have made him an inspiration to many. His dedication to exploration and education has left a lasting impact on the world of space travel and beyond.

Timeline
1950
Born in Texas
David C. Hilmers was born on January 28, 1950, in Clairton, Pennsylvania, but grew up in Texas.
1973
Graduated from West Point
Hilmers graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1973, earning a Bachelor of Science degree.
1985
Selected as Astronaut
Hilmers was selected as an astronaut by NASA in 1985, becoming a member of the astronaut corps.
1992
Flew on Space Shuttle
Hilmers flew on the Space Shuttle Atlantis in 1992, as part of the STS-42 mission.
1995
Retired from NASA
Hilmers retired from NASA in 1995, after completing four spaceflights and logging over 493 hours in space.
David C. Hilmers

David C. Hilmers Quiz

What profession did David C. Hilmers practice in addition to being an astronaut?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What were David C. Hilmers achievements as an astronaut?
David C. Hilmers flew on four Space Shuttle missions, including STS-51-J, STS-36, STS-42, and STS-44, and conducted various scientific experiments in space.
How did David C. Hilmers become an astronaut?
David C. Hilmers was selected as an astronaut candidate by NASA in 1980 and completed his training in 1981, before going on to fly on multiple Space Shuttle missions.
What awards has David C. Hilmers received for his service?
David C. Hilmers has received several awards, including the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the NASA Exceptional Service Medal, for his service as an astronaut and physician.
What is David C. Hilmers doing now?
After retiring from NASA, David C. Hilmers has worked as a physician and has been involved in various charitable organizations, including working with organizations that support wounded veterans and childrens healthcare.

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