Steven R. Nagel

Steven R. Nagel

Steven R. Nagel was born on October 27th, 1946

Full Name: Steven Ray Nagel
Place of Birth: Canton, Illinois
Profession: Astronaut, Engineer
NASA Career: 1980-2011
Spaceflights: 4 (STS-51-G, STS-61-A, STS-37, STS-55)
Known For: Space Shuttle Program
Awards: NASA Distinguished Service Medal
Retirement: 2011

Colonel, engineer, and astronaut who flew on four Space Shuttle missions, logging over 700 hours in space, and was a key figure in the development of the Space Shuttle program.

Written by: Victor Malone Victor Malone

Steven R. Nagel: The Astronaut Who Defied Gravity

A Lifetime of Exploration and Innovation

Steven Ray Nagel, an American astronaut, aeronautical and mechanical engineer, test pilot, and United States Air Force pilot, is renowned for his extraordinary achievements in space exploration, logging a remarkable 723 hours in space. As a pioneering astronaut, Nagel's remarkable career spanned over three decades, leaving an indelible mark on the history of space travel.

Early Life and Education

Born on October 27, 1946, in Canton, Illinois, Nagel grew up with an insatiable curiosity for the workings of the universe. He graduated from Canton High School in 1964 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering with high honors from the University of Illinois in 1969. Nagel further honed his skills, earning a Master of Science degree in mechanical engineering from California State University, Fresno, in 1978.

Flight Experience and NASA Career

Nagel received his commission in 1969 through the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) program at the University of Illinois. He completed Undergraduate Pilot Training at Laredo Air Force Base, Texas, in February 1970. As a seasoned pilot, Nagel flew various aircraft, including the F-100 and A-7D, and served as a T-28 instructor for the Laotian Air Force in Thailand. In 1976, he attended the USAF Test Pilot School at Edwards Air Force Base, California, and later worked as a test pilot, contributing to various projects at the 6512th Test Squadron.

Spaceflights and Achievements

Nagel's NASA career was marked by four spaceflights: STS-51-G (1985), STS-61-A (1985), STS-37 (1991), and STS-55 (1993). During these missions, he operated the Remote Manipulator System (RMS) and contributed to the deployment of various satellites and scientific experiments. Nagel's extensive experience in space made him an integral part of NASA's Astronaut Corps.

Post-NASA Career and Legacy

After retiring from NASA in 1995, Nagel worked as an instructor in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department at the University of Missouri College of Engineering. He continued to inspire the next generation of engineers and astronauts, leaving a lasting impact on the field of aerospace engineering.

Personal Life and Hobbies

Nagel was married to fellow astronaut Linda M. Godwin and had two daughters. In his free time, he enjoyed sport flying, amateur radio operations, and music.

Awards and Honors

Nagel's extraordinary achievements in space exploration, aeronautical engineering, and education have cemented his place as a pioneer in the world of aerospace. His remarkable legacy continues to inspire generations of engineers, astronauts, and scientists.
Timeline
1946
Born in Canton, Illinois
Steven R. Nagel was born in Canton, Illinois, and grew up in a family of modest means. He developed an interest in engineering and physics from an early age.
1964
Earned Bachelors Degree in Aerospace Engineering
Nagel earned a bachelors degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Illinois in 1964. He went on to earn a masters degree in engineering from the same institution.
1969
Joined the United States Air Force
Nagel joined the United States Air Force in 1969, and served as a pilot and engineer. He flew over 100 combat missions in Vietnam, and was decorated for his service.
1978
Selected as an Astronaut by NASA
Nagel was selected as an astronaut by NASA in 1978, and flew on four Space Shuttle missions between 1985 and 1993. He spent over 30 days in space during his career.
1995
Retired from NASA and the Air Force
Nagel retired from NASA and the Air Force in 1995, after a distinguished career as an astronaut and military officer. He went on to work in private industry, and remains involved in aerospace education and advocacy.
Steven R. Nagel

Steven R. Nagel Quiz

What was Steven R. Nagel's profession before becoming an astronaut?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What was Steven R. Nagels role in the space program?
Steven R. Nagel was a NASA astronaut who flew on four Space Shuttle missions, including STS-51-G, STS-61-A, STS-37, and STS-55. He served as a pilot, commander, and spacewalk participant during his time in the program.
What was Steven R. Nagels educational background?
Steven R. Nagel earned a bachelors degree in aeronautical engineering from the University of Illinois and a masters degree in mechanical engineering from California State University, Fresno. He was also a distinguished graduate of the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School.
What were some of Steven R. Nagels notable accomplishments in space?
During his time in space, Steven R. Nagel participated in several notable accomplishments, including the deployment of the Spartan-212 satellite and the conduct of numerous scientific experiments. He also performed two spacewalks during his STS-37 mission.
What was Steven R. Nagels post-NASA career like?
After leaving NASA, Steven R. Nagel worked as a pilot for Boeing and later served as the director of the Aerospace Sciences and Technology Division at the Sandia National Laboratories.
How did Steven R. Nagel pass away?
Steven R. Nagel passed away on August 21, 2014, at the age of 67, due to complications from cancer.

Related People:

Neil Armstrong

96 Years Old

First person to walk on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission, marking a historic milestone in space exploration.

Buzz Aldrin

96 Years Old

Second man to walk on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission, a pioneering astronaut and advocate for space exploration.

Pete Conrad

96 Years Old

Led the third manned mission to land on the Moon, Apollo 12, and became the third person to walk on its surface. Known for his bold and fearless approach to space exploration.

Alan Bean

94 Years Old

One of the 12 humans to walk on the Moon during NASA's Apollo program, known for his moonwalk during Apollo 12 and later becoming a painter, capturing the beauty of space through art.

Jim Lovell

98 Years Old

Commander of the Apollo 13 mission, known for his heroic efforts in saving his crew after an explosion occurred on board. He's an iconic figure in space exploration history.

Fred Haise

92 Years Old

Astronaut and engineer who flew on the Apollo 13 mission, known for his bravery and ingenuity during the mission's critical failure. He also flew on the Enterprise during the Approach and Landing Tests.

Jack Swigert

95 Years Old

Astronaut and pilot who flew on Apollo 13, famously uttering "Houston, we've had a problem" during the mission's critical malfunction. He played a crucial role in saving the crew from disaster.