A chemist and astronaut who spent 188 days on the International Space Station, conducting experiments and performing spacewalks, inspiring future generations of scientists and explorers.
As a renowned American chemist and NASA astronaut, Tracy Caldwell Dyson has made history by becoming one of the few women to venture into the vast expanse of space. With three spacewalks under her belt, logging over 22 hours of extravehicular activity, Caldwell Dyson has proven herself to be a trailblazer in the field of space exploration.
Caldwell Dyson's journey to the stars began with her selection as a mission specialist on Space Shuttle Endeavour's STS-118 flight in August 2007. This marked the beginning of her illustrious career, which would take her to the International Space Station (ISS) not once, but twice. During her expeditions, she was part of the crew on the ISS for Expeditions 23 and 24 from April to September 2010.
Born on August 14, 1969, in Arcadia, California, Caldwell Dyson grew up in a family of two girls. Her family relocated to Beaumont, California, in the early 1980s, where her father worked as an electrician. She developed a passion for sports, participating in track and field events, and even worked on her family's electrical contracting company as an electrician and inside wireman.
Caldwell Dyson pursued higher education at California State University, Fullerton, where she excelled in her undergraduate research. She designed, constructed, and implemented electronics and hardware for a laser-ionization, time-of-flight mass spectrometer, studying atmospherically relevant gas-phase chemistry. Her research experience also extended to working as a lab assistant, performing environmental monitoring of laboratories using hazardous chemicals and radioactive materials.
Caldwell Dyson's remarkable achievements have earned her several accolades, including the NASA Exceptional Service Medal, the NASA Space Flight Medal, and the Russian Federation Medal for Merit in Space Exploration.
In addition to her distinguished career, Caldwell Dyson has achieved personal milestones, such as completing three spacewalks and logging over 22 hours of extravehicular activity. Her most recent venture into space began on March 23, 2024, marking her third time in space for a six-month mission onboard the ISS.
Caldwell Dyson's journey serves as a testament to the power of determination and hard work. Her achievements have inspired countless individuals, particularly women, to pursue careers in STEM fields and challenge the status quo. As a role model, Caldwell Dyson continues to push the boundaries of human exploration, inspiring the next generation of astronauts and scientists.
75 Years Old
American physicist and astronaut who broke barriers as the first woman in space, inspiring generations of women in STEM fields. Founded a company to promote science education and literacy.
66 Years Old
American biochemist and astronaut who holds the record for the most time spent in space by an American, with a total of 289 days, 5 hours, and 1 minute. She is also known for her three long-duration stays on the International Space Station.
62 Years Old
Spent a year in space, setting a record for the longest single spaceflight by an American, and providing valuable insights into the effects of long-term space travel on the human body.
60 Years Old
A highly decorated astronaut and naval aviator who holds the record for the most spacewalks by a woman, with a total of 322 days in space.
