NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine poses for a picture with the 2017 astronaut candidate class after taping a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA astronaut candidates, back row from left, Jonny Kim, Joshua Kutryk of the Canadian Space Agency, Jasmin Moghbeli, Loral O’Hara, Frank Rubio, Jennifer Sidey-Gibbons of the Canadian Space Agency, Jessica Watkins, front row from left, Kayla Barron, Zena Cardman, Raja Chari, Matthew Dominick, Bob Hines, and Warren Hoburg. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine holds up the patch of the 2017 astronaut class during a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine asks a question of the 2017 astronaut candidates during a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA astronaut candidate Matthew Dominick, third from right in the front row, answers a question during a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, along with fellow members of the 2017 astronaut candidate class, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine introduces the 2017 astronaut candidates during a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

nhq201706070006 (06/07/2017) --- Vice President Mike Pence takes a group selfie with kids that were in attendance during an event where NASA introduced 12 new astronaut candidates, Wednesday, June 7, 2017 at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. After completing two years of training, the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Vice President Mike Pence cuts a cake presented to him on his 58th birthday while touring the Christopher C. Kraft Jr. Mission Control Center, Wednesday, June 7, 2017 at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. The Vice President was at the space center to welcome nhq201706070008 (06/07/2017) --- America’s newest astronaut candidates, chosen from more than 18,300 applicants to carry the torch for future human space exploration. After completing two years of training, the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

nhq201706070003 (06/07/2017) --- Vice President Mike Pence delivers remarks during an event where NASA introduced 12 new astronaut candidates, Wednesday, June 7, 2017 at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. After completing two years of training, the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

nhq201706070007 (06/07/2017) ---Vice President Mike Pence, center, listens to NASA Deputy Chief Flight Director Holly Ridings, right, and NASA Flight Director Rick Henfling during a tour of the Christopher C. Kraft Jr. Mission Control Center, Wednesday, June 7, 2017 at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. The Vice President was at the space center to welcome America’s newest astronaut candidates, chosen from more than 18,300 applicants to carry the torch for future human space exploration. After completing two years of training, the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine speaks with the agency's astronaut candidates during a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine is seen during a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine speaks with NASA and Canadian Space Agency astronaut candidates following a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA astronaut candidate Jessica Watkins answers a question during a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA astronaut candidate Bob Hines answers a question during a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA astronaut candidate Loral O’Hara answers a question during a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA astronaut candidate Jasmin Moghbeli answers a question during a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA Astronaut Candidate Frank Rubio answers a question during a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA astronaut candidate Zena Cardman answers a question during a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA astronaut candidate Kayla Barron answers a question during a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

nhq201706070004 (06/07/2017) --- Vice President Mike Pence poses for a group photograph with NASA's 12 new astronaut candidates, Wednesday, June 7, 2017 at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. NASA astronaut candidates, standing from left, Robb Kulin, Jonathan Kim, Robert Hines, Warren Hoburg, Matthew Dominick, Kayla Barron, Jessica Watkins, from left kneeling, Francisco Rubio, Loral O’Hara, Jasmin Moghbeli, Zena Cardman, and Raja Chari. After completing two years of training, the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls) Original Filename

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine speaks with NASA and Canadian Space Agency astronaut candidates following a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Astronaut candidates, back row from left, Jonny Kim, Joshua Kutryk of the Canadian Space Agency, Jasmin Moghbeli, Loral O’Hara, Frank Rubio, Jennifer Sidey-Gibbons of the Canadian Space Agency, Jessica Watkins, front row from left, Kayla Barron, Zena Cardman, Raja Chari, Matthew Dominick, Bob Hines, and Warren Hoburg listen to a question from NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine during a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Astronaut candidates, back row from left, Jonny Kim, Joshua Kutryk of the Canadian Space Agency, Jasmin Moghbeli, Loral O’Hara, Frank Rubio, Jennifer Sidey-Gibbons of the Canadian Space Agency, Jessica Watkins, front row from left, Kayla Barron, Zena Cardman, Raja Chari, Matthew Dominick, Bob Hines, and Warren Hoburg are seen during a live episode of the Administrator's monthly chat show, Watch This Space, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. NASA's newest astronaut candidate class has started their two years of training, after which the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

jsc2017e067273 (June 6, 2017) --- NASA’s 2017 Astronaut Candidate Class stopped for a group photo while getting fitted for flight suits at Ellington Airport near NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.

jsc2017e067274 (June 6, 2017) --- NASA’s 2017 Astronaut Candidate Class stopped for a group photo while getting fitted for flight suits at Ellington Airport near NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.

jsc2020e000600 (Jan. 10, 2020) --- Johnson Space Center Director Mark Geyer addresses visitors attending the graduation of the 2017 Class of Astronauts in Houston, Texas. This is the first class of astronauts to graduate under the Artemis program and are now eligible for assignments to the International Space Station, Artemis missions to the Moon, and ultimately, missions to Mars.

jsc2020e000604 (Jan. 10, 2020) --- NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine addresses visitors attending the graduation of the 2017 Class of Astronauts at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. This is the first class of astronauts to graduate under the Artemis program and are now eligible for assignments to the International Space Station, Artemis missions to the Moon, and ultimately, missions to Mars.

iss069e088442 (Sept. 15, 2023) --- Expedition 69 Flight Engineers (from left) Jasmin Moghbeli, Loral O'Hara, and Frank Rubio, all NASA astronauts, pose for a portrait aboard the International Space Station's Unity module. All three crew members were selected as part of the NASA astronaut class of 2017.

jsc2020e000649 (Jan. 10, 2020) --- The 2017 Class of Astronauts participate in graduation ceremonies at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. From left are, NASA astronaut Jonny Kim, Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Joshua Kutryk, NASA astronaut Jessica Watkins, CSA astronaut Jennifer Sidey-Gibbon, NASA astronauts Kayla Barron, Jasmin Moghbeli, Loral O'Hara, Zena Cardman, Raja Chari, Matthew Dominick, Bob Hines and Warren Hoburg. This is the first class of astronauts to graduate under the Artemis program and are now eligible for assignments to the International Space Station, Artemis missions to the Moon, and ultimately, missions to Mars.

jsc2020e000607 (Jan. 10, 2020) --- The 2017 Class of Astronauts participate in graduation ceremonies at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. From left are, NASA astronauts Kayla Barron, Zena Cardman, Raja Chari, Matthew Dominick, Bob Hines, Warren Hoburg, Jonny Kim, Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Joshua Kutryk, NASA astronauts Jasmin Moghbeli, Loral O'Hara and Jessica Watkins, CSA astronaut Jennifer Sidey-Gibbon and NASA astronaut Frank Rubio. This is the first class of astronauts to graduate under the Artemis program and are now eligible for assignments to the International Space Station, Artemis missions to the Moon, and ultimately, missions to Mars.

jsc2017e067166 (06/07/2017) --- United States Vice President Mike Pence congratulates NASA's 12 new astronaut candidates at the agency's Johnson Space Center in Houston. The 2017 astronaut candidate class -- Kayla Barron, Zena Cardman, Raja Chari, Matthew Dominick, Bob Hines, Warren “Woody” Hoburg, Jonathan Kim, Robb Kulin, Jasmin Moghbeli, Loral O’Hara, Francisco Rubio and Jessica Watkins – were chosen from amid a record number of people applying. Photo Credit: (NASA/James Blair)

jsc2020e000599 (Jan. 10, 2020) --- Johnson Space Center Deputy Director Vanessa Wyche addresses visitors attending the graduation of the 2017 Class of Astronauts at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. In the back row (from left) are NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine, Johnson Space Center Director Mark Geyer, Chief of the Astronuat Office Patrick Forrester, NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman and Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Jeremy Hansen. This is the first class of astronauts to graduate under the Artemis program and are now eligible for assignments to the International Space Station, Artemis missions to the Moon, and ultimately, missions to Mars.

jsc2017e067125 (June 6, 2017) --- The members of the 2017 NASA Astronaut Class are (from left) Zena Cardman, Jasmin Moghbeli, Jonny Kim, Frank Rubio, Matthew Dominick, Warren Hoburg, Robb Kulin, Kayla Barron, Bob Hines, Raja Chari, Loral O' Hara and Jessica Watkins. Photo Credit: NASA/Robert Markowitz

Retired NASA astronaut Tom Jones talks to high school students during "Lunch with an Astronaut" at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Top scholars from Brevard County public high schools were invited to Kennedy Space Center for a tour of facilities, lunch and a roundtable discussion with engineers and scientists at the center. The 2017-2018 Brevard Top Scholars event was hosted by the center's Education Projects and Youth Engagement office to honor the top three scholars of the 2017-2018 graduating student class from each of Brevard County’s public high schools. The students received a personalized certificate at the end of the day.

jsc2020e000609 (Jan. 10, 2020) --- The 2017 Class of Astronauts participate in graduation ceremonies at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. In the front row (from left) are, NASA astronauts Kayla Barron, Zena Cardman, Raja Chari, Matthew Dominick, Bob Hines and Warren Hoburg. In the back row (from left) are, NASA astronaut Jonny Kim, Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Joshua Kutryk, NASA astronauts Jasmin Moghbeli, Loral O'Hara and Frank Rubio, CSA astronaut Jennifer Sidey-Gibbon and NASA astronaut Jessica Watkins. This is the first class of astronauts to graduate under the Artemis program and are now eligible for assignments to the International Space Station, Artemis missions to the Moon, and ultimately, missions to Mars.

jsc2020e000610 (Jan. 10, 2020) --- The 2017 Class of Astronauts participate in graduation ceremonies at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. In the front row (from left) are, NASA astronauts Kayla Barron, Zena Cardman, Raja Chari, Matthew Dominick, Bob Hines and Warren Hoburg. In the back row (from left) are, NASA astronaut Jonny Kim, Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Joshua Kutryk, NASA astronauts Jasmin Moghbeli, Loral O'Hara and Frank Rubio, CSA astronaut Jennifer Sidey-Gibbon and NASA astronaut Jessica Watkins. This is the first class of astronauts to graduate under the Artemis program and are now eligible for assignments to the International Space Station, Artemis missions to the Moon, and ultimately, missions to Mars.

jsc2020e000650 (Jan. 10, 2020) --- The 2017 Class of Astronauts poses for a portrait with Texas Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. In the front row (from left) are, NASA astronauts Jonny Kim, Jessica Watkins, Kayla Barron, Jasmin Moghbeli, Loral O'Hara, Zena Cardman and Raja Chari. In the back row (from left) are, Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronauts Joshua Kutryk and Jennifer Sidey-Gibbon, NASA astronaut Frank Rubio, Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz and NASA astronauts Matthew Dominick, Bob Hines and Warren Hoburg. This is the first class of astronauts to graduate under the Artemis program and are now eligible for assignments to the International Space Station, Artemis missions to the Moon, and ultimately, missions to Mars.

jsc2017e114492 (Sept. 1, 2017) --- NASA astronauts Joe Acaba (left) and Shannon Walker pose for pictures by a statue of a peacock at the Kremlin in Moscow Sept. 1. The statue had special significance for them since they are members of the Astronaut Class of 2004 that bears the nickname “The Peacocks”. Acaba, Alexander Misurkin of Roscosmos and Mark Vande Hei of NASA will launch Sept. 13 from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan Sept. 13 on the Soyuz MS-06 spacecraft for a five and a half month mission on the International Space Station. Credit: NASA/Elizabeth Weissinger

Retired NASA astronaut Tom Jones is with top scholars from Brevard County public high schools in the Rocket Garden at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Top scholars from the high schools were invited to Kennedy Space Center for a tour of facilities, lunch and a roundtable discussion with engineers and scientists at the center. The 2017-2018 Brevard Top Scholars event was hosted by the center's Education Projects and Youth Engagement office to honor the top three scholars of the 2017-2018 graduating student class from each of Brevard County’s public high schools. They students received a personalized certificate at the end of the day.

Canadian Space Agency Astronaut Jeremy Hansen is making his first flight to space as a mission specialist on the Artemis II mission. He was one of two recruits selected by CSA in May 2009 through the third Canadian Astronaut Recruitment Campaign and has served in many roles supporting human spaceflight. Hansen has served as Capcom in NASA's Mission Control Center at the Johnson Space Center and in 2017, became the first Canadian to be entrusted with leading a NASA astronaut class, leading the training of astronaut candidates from the United States and Canada. This image was modified to include CSA’s insignia on the center front of Hansen’s spacesuit. The insignia was not available at the time of the photo. It will be on Hansen’s suit for Artemis II.

Canadian Space Agency Astronaut Jeremy Hansen is making his first flight to space as a mission specialist on the Artemis II mission. He was one of two recruits selected by CSA in May 2009 through the third Canadian Astronaut Recruitment Campaign and has served in many roles supporting human spaceflight. Hansen has served as Capcom in NASA's Mission Control Center at the Johnson Space Center and in 2017, became the first Canadian to be entrusted with leading a NASA astronaut class, leading the training of astronaut candidates from the United States and Canada. Photographer: Robert Markowitz

Canadian Space Agency Astronaut Jeremy Hansen is making his first flight to space as a mission specialist on the Artemis II mission. He was one of two recruits selected by CSA in May 2009 through the third Canadian Astronaut Recruitment Campaign and has served in many roles supporting human spaceflight. Hansen has served as Capcom in NASA's Mission Control Center at the Johnson Space Center and in 2017, became the first Canadian to be entrusted with leading a NASA astronaut class, leading the training of astronaut candidates from the United States and Canada. This image was modified to include CSA’s insignia on the center front of Hansen’s spacesuit. The insignia was not available at the time of the photo. It will be on Hansen’s suit for Artemis II.

Canadian Space Agency Astronaut Jeremy Hansen is making his first flight to space as a mission specialist on the Artemis II mission. He was one of two recruits selected by CSA in May 2009 through the third Canadian Astronaut Recruitment Campaign and has served in many roles supporting human spaceflight. Hansen has served as Capcom in NASA's Mission Control Center at the Johnson Space Center and in 2017, became the first Canadian to be entrusted with leading a NASA astronaut class, leading the training of astronaut candidates from the United States and Canada. Photographer: Riley McClenaghan

jsc2017e067164 (06/07/2017) --- United States Vice President Mike Pence congratulates NASA's 12 new astronaut candidates at the agency's Johnson Space Center in Houston Texas. The 2017 astronaut candidate class -- Kayla Barron, Zena Cardman, Raja Chari, Matthew Dominick, Bob Hines, Warren “Woody” Hoburg, Jonathan Kim, Robb Kulin, Jasmin Moghbeli, Loral O’Hara, Francisco Rubio and Jessica Watkins – were chosen from amid a record number of people applying. After completing two years of training, the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/James Blair)

jsc2017e067182 (06/07/2017) --- United States Vice President Mike Pence congratulates NASA's 12 new astronaut candidates at the agency's Johnson Space Center in Houston Texas. The 2017 astronaut candidate class -- Kayla Barron, Zena Cardman, Raja Chari, Matthew Dominick, Bob Hines, Warren “Woody” Hoburg, Jonathan Kim, Robb Kulin, Jasmin Moghbeli, Loral O’Hara, Francisco Rubio and Jessica Watkins – were chosen from amid a record number of people applying. After completing two years of training, the new astronaut candidates could be assigned to missions performing research on the International Space Station, launching from American soil on spacecraft built by commercial companies, and launching on deep space missions on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket. Photo Credit: (NASA/Robert Markowitz)

jsc2020e000651 (Jan. 10, 2020) --- The 2017 Class of Astronauts poses for a portrait with NASA officals and Texas Senators at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. In the front row (from left) are, NASA astronauts Jonny Kim, Jessica Watkins, Kayla Barron, Jasmin Moghbeli, Loral O'Hara, Zena Cardman and Raja Chari and Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Jeremy Hansen. In the back row (from left) are, Chief of the Astronuat Office Patrick Forrester, Johnson Space Center Director Mark Geyer, NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine, Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronauts Joshua Kutryk and Jennifer Sidey-Gibbon, NASA astronaut Frank Rubio, Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz, NASA astronauts Matthew Dominick, Bob Hines and Warren Hoburg, Johnson Space Center Deputy Director Vanessa Wyche and NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman. This is the first class of astronauts to graduate under the Artemis program and are now eligible for assignments to the International Space Station, Artemis missions to the Moon, and ultimately, missions to Mars.

jsc2020e000653 (Jan. 10, 2020) --- The 2017 Class of Astronauts poses for a portrait with NASA officals and Texas Senators at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. In the front row (from left) are, NASA astronauts Jonny Kim, Jessica Watkins, Kayla Barron, Jasmin Moghbeli, Loral O'Hara, Zena Cardman and Raja Chari and Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Jeremy Hansen. In the back row (from left) are, Chief of the Astronuat Office Patrick Forrester, Johnson Space Center Director Mark Geyer, NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine, Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronauts Joshua Kutryk and Jennifer Sidey-Gibbon, NASA astronaut Frank Rubio, Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz, NASA astronauts Matthew Dominick, Bob Hines and Warren Hoburg, Johnson Space Center Deputy Director Vanessa Wyche and NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman. This is the first class of astronauts to graduate under the Artemis program and are now eligible for assignments to the International Space Station, Artemis missions to the Moon, and ultimately, missions to Mars.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates are at United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS) in Florida for a familiarization tour. They also toured facilities at Kennedy Space Center, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Complex 39B, the Vehicle Assembly Building, Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, and SpaceX's Launch Complex 39A. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

Canadian Space Agency Astronaut Jeremy Hansen is making his first flight to space as a mission specialist on the Artemis II mission. He was one of two recruits selected by CSA in May 2009 through the third Canadian Astronaut Recruitment Campaign and has served in many roles supporting human spaceflight. Hansen has served as Capcom in NASA's Mission Control Center at the Johnson Space Center and in 2017, became the first Canadian to be entrusted with leading a NASA astronaut class, leading the training of astronaut candidates from the United States and Canada. PHOTOGRAPHER: Josh Valcarcel This image was modified to include CSA’s insignia on the center front of Hansen’s spacesuit. The insignia was not available at the time of the photo. It will be on Hansen’s suit for Artemis II.

Canadian Space Agency Astronaut Jeremy Hansen is making his first flight to space as a mission specialist on the Artemis II mission. He was one of two recruits selected by CSA in May 2009 through the third Canadian Astronaut Recruitment Campaign and has served in many roles supporting human spaceflight. Hansen has served as Capcom in NASA's Mission Control Center at the Johnson Space Center and in 2017, became the first Canadian to be entrusted with leading a NASA astronaut class, leading the training of astronaut candidates from the United States and Canada. PHOTOGRAPHER: Josh Valcarcel This image was modified to include CSA’s insignia on the center front of Hansen’s spacesuit. The insignia was not available at the time of the photo. It will be on Hansen’s suit for Artemis II.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates toured the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and viewed exhibits, including Space Shuttle Atlantis, during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates view the new work platforms in High Bay 3 of the Vehicle Assembly Building during a familiarization tour at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and Space Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates are inside the Saturn V Center at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

Members of the 2017 class of astronaut candidates are on the surface of Launch Pad 39B during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Vehicle Assembly Building, Launch Control Center, Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates toured the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and viewed exhibits, including Space Shuttle Atlantis, during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

Member of the 2017 class of astronaut candidates are in Firing Room 1 inside the Launch Control Center during a familiarization tour at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Vehicle Assembly Building, Launch Pad 39B, the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates pause for a group photograph on the deck of the mobile launcher during a familiarization tour at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

Members of the 2017 class of astronaut candidates view the new work platforms in High Bay 3 of the Vehicle Assembly Building during a familiarization tour at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay, Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates tour Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on May 1. They are at the center for a familiarization tour of facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Complex 39B, and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates toured the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and viewed exhibits, including Space Shuttle Atlantis, during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates are inside the Saturn V Center at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates are inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, the Vehicle Assembly Building and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

Members of the 2017 class of astronaut candidates pause for a group photo on the beach after a familiarization tour of the Beach House at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Vehicle Assembly Building, Launch Control Center, Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay, Launch Pad 39B and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates tour Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on May 1. They are at the center for a familiarization tour of facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Complex 39B, and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates toured the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and viewed exhibits, including Space Shuttle Atlantis, during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates are inside the Space Station Processing Facility high bay during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They are viewing the Interim Cryogenic Propulsion System for NASA's Space Launch System rocket. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates pause for a group photograph inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay during a familiarization tour at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Vehicle Assembly Building, Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, and United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates listen to NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Bob Cabana, standing, during their tour and familiarization with the center. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Vehicle Assembly Building, Launch Control Center, Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building, Launch Pad 39B, and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates toured the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and viewed exhibits, including Space Shuttle Atlantis, during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates are inside the Space Station Processing Facility high bay during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates view the mobile launcher during a familiarization tour at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates pose for a group photograph at United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS) in Florida during a familiarization tour. They also toured Kennedy Space Center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Complex 39B, the Vehicle Assembly Building, Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, and SpaceX's Launch Complex 39A. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates toured the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and viewed exhibits, including Space Shuttle Atlantis, during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates tour Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on May 1. They are at the center for a familiarization tour of facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Complex 39B, and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates are inside the Space Station Processing Facility high bay during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They are viewing the Interim Cryogenic Propulsion System for NASA's Space Launch System rocket. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates are inside the Space Station Processing Facility high bay during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Behind them is the Interim Cryogenic Propulsion System for NASA's Space Launch System rocket. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates get a close-up view of the mobile launcher during a familiarization tour at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates toured the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and viewed exhibits, including Space Shuttle Atlantis, during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

A members of the 2017 class of astronaut candidates signs her name to a wooden sign inside the Beach House during a familiarization tour at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Vehicle Assembly Building, Launch Control Center, Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay, Launch Pad 39B and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

A member of the 2017 class of astronaut candidates views the Orion crew module for Exploration Mission-1 inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay during a familiarization tour at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Vehicle Assembly Building, Launch Pad 39B, the Launch Control Center and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, and United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates listen to NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Bob Cabana, far right, during their tour and familiarization with the center. Sitting behind the candidates, at right is Kelvin Manning, Kennedy associate director. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Vehicle Assembly Building, Launch Control Center, Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building, Launch Pad 39B, and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates toured the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and viewed exhibits, including Space Shuttle Atlantis, during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates tour the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay during a familiarization tour at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In front, at right, is Glenn Chin, deputy manager, Orion Production Operations Office. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Vehicle Assembly Building; Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, and United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates are inside the Saturn V Center at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates arrive at Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on May 1. They are at the center for a familiarization tour of facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Complex 39B, and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates pause for a group photograph on the deck of the mobile launcher during a familiarization tour at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

Members of the 2017 class of astronaut candidates are inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Vehicle Assembly Building, Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, and United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

Members of the 2017 class of astronaut candidates view the flame trench at Launch Pad 39B during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Vehicle Assembly Building, Launch Control Center, Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates are inside the Vehicle Assembly Building during a familiarization tour of facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, and the Space Station Processing Facility. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates get a close-up view of the mobile launcher during a familiarization tour at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The candidates toured center facilities, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Pad 39B, and the Vehicle Assembly Building. They also toured Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SpaceX's Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

The 2017 class of astronaut candidates are at United Launch Alliance's Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS) in Florida for a familiarization tour. They are on the crew access tower that provides access to the crew access arm. They also toured facilities at Kennedy Space Center, including the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay; the Launch Control Center, Launch Complex 39B, the Vehicle Assembly Building, Boeing's Commercial Crew and Cargo Facility, and SpaceX's Launch Complex 39A. The candidates will spend about two years getting to know the space station systems and learning how to spacewalk, speak Russian, control the International Space Station's robotic arm and fly T-38s, before they're eligible to be assigned to a mission.

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – U.S. Navy personnel in rigid hull inflatable boats practice with tether lines attached to the Orion boilerplate test vehicle during an evolution of the Underway Recovery Test 2 near the USS Anchorage in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of San Diego. The vehicle is outside of the ship. NASA, Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Navy are conducting the test to prepare for recovery of the Orion crew module on its return from a deep space mission. The underway recovery test will allow the teams to demonstrate and evaluate the recovery processes, procedures, new hardware and personnel in open waters. The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program is conducting the underway recovery test. Orion is the exploration spacecraft designed to carry astronauts to destinations not yet explored by humans, including an asteroid and Mars. It will have emergency abort capability, sustain the crew during space travel and provide safe re-entry from deep space return velocities. The first unpiloted test flight of the Orion is scheduled to launch in 2014 atop a Delta IV rocket and in 2017 on NASA’s Space Launch System rocket. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: U.S. Navy/Specialist 1st Class Gary Keen