UNC-Chapel Hill Graduate Zena Cardman Set to Join NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 Mission to the International Space Station
Zena Cardman, a talented NASA astronaut and proud graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill, is preparing for an incredible journey to space this summer. She will be part of the esteemed SpaceX Crew-9 mission, which will transport a team of four astronauts to the International Space Station. This mission, scheduled to launch in August, promises to be a groundbreaking endeavor that will encompass a wide range of operational and research activities for the benefit of all.
Cardman expressed her deep honor and excitement in a recent social media post, where she shared her enthusiasm about joining an exceptional crew that embodies competence, kindness, and trust. This mission will mark her first trip to space since successfully completing her training under NASA’s prestigious Artemis program in 2020.
Cardman’s journey to becoming an astronaut has been nothing short of extraordinary. In 2017, she was chosen as a NASA astronaut from a staggering pool of over 18,000 applicants. Her selection was a testament to her exceptional skills and unwavering dedication. Moreover, Cardman made history as the first woman with a UNC degree to join the esteemed space program as an astronaut candidate.
Cardman’s educational background is equally impressive. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in biology and master’s degree in marine biology from UNC before pursuing her doctoral degree in geosciences at Penn State University. Her diverse academic experiences have undoubtedly contributed to her success and prepared her for the challenges that lie ahead.
It is worth noting that Cardman is not the only North Carolina-educated astronaut making waves in the space industry. Christina Koch, who holds three degrees from NC State University, has also been selected as a crew member for a NASA mission. Koch is set to become the first woman to fly to the moon as part of the Artemis II mission next year. The achievements of both Cardman and Koch highlight the exceptional talent and educational opportunities available in North Carolina.
Cardman’s connection to UNC runs deep, as she fondly credits her time at the university for setting her on the path to becoming an astronaut. During University Research Week in 2019, Cardman returned to campus and expressed her gratitude for the role UNC played in shaping her journey. “I’m Zena Cardman,” she proudly declared. “I am a NASA astronaut. I am also a Tar Heel.” Her words serve as a testament to the transformative power of education and the immense pride she feels for her alma mater.
Joining Cardman on the SpaceX Crew-9 mission are Pilot Nick Hague, Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson, and Roscosmos Cosmonaut Mission Specialist Aleksandre Gorbunov. This diverse and accomplished team is poised to make significant contributions to space exploration and scientific research during their time aboard the International Space Station.
As the launch date approaches, the anticipation and excitement surrounding Cardman’s upcoming mission continue to grow. Her journey from a UNC student to a NASA astronaut is an inspiration to aspiring scientists and explorers around the world. Cardman’s dedication, perseverance, and unwavering pursuit of her dreams serve as a reminder that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
The SpaceX Crew-9 mission represents another milestone in humanity’s quest for knowledge and exploration beyond our planet. It is a testament to the remarkable achievements of individuals like Zena Cardman, who push the boundaries of what is possible and inspire future generations to reach for the stars. As we eagerly await the launch of this historic mission, we can only imagine the discoveries and advancements that await us in the vast expanse of space.
Sources:
– WTVD-TV: “UNC-Chapel Hill Graduate Zena Cardman Set to Join NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 Mission to the International Space Station”
