A degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Adelaide set the foundation for Andrew Thomas, who became the first Australia-born professional astronaut to enter space. His career path transitioned from aerodynamic research at Lockheed in Atlanta to a twenty-two-year tenure at NASA, where he logged over 177 days orbiting the Earth across four separate space shuttle missions.
Academic Background
Born in Adelaide in 1951, Thomas attended St Andrews Primary School and St Peter's College before enrolling at the University of Adelaide. He earned a Bachelor of Engineering with First Class Honours in 1973, followed by a PhD in mechanical engineering in 1978. His early interest in aerospace engineering began in childhood with the construction of model rockets.
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After completing his doctoral studies, Thomas moved to the United States and joined Lockheed in Atlanta. By 1990, he served as the organization's principal aerodynamic scientist, focusing on senior research roles. In December 1986, he obtained United States citizenship to pursue opportunities within the American space program.
NASA Missions
Selected by NASA in March 1992, Thomas qualified as a mission specialist in 1993. His first flight occurred in May 1996 aboard Endeavour for mission STS-77. He later served as flight engineer 2 on the Russian space station Mir for 140 days in 1998. Subsequent missions included STS-102 in 2001, where he performed a 6.5-hour spacewalk, and STS-114 in 2005, which involved evaluating thermal protection system repair techniques.
Legacy and Recognition
Thomas concluded his NASA career on 1 March 2014, having served in roles including Deputy Chief of the Astronaut Office. His contributions were acknowledged through multiple honors, including the Officer of the Order of Australia, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, and the Oswald Watt Gold Medal. In 2020, the Andy Thomas Foundation was established to support space education in Australia.
Fast facts
- Born: 1951, Adelaide, Australia
- Citizenship: Australia, United States
- Education: University of Adelaide, BEng (1973), PhD (1978)
- NASA Tenure: 1992–2014
- Total Time in Space: Over 177 days
- Officer of the Order of Australia: Appointed 2000
- Andy Thomas Foundation launch: 20 November 2020
Questions readers ask
What was Andy Thomas's primary role at NASA?
He served as an astronaut and engineer, participating in mission operations as a payload commander and flight engineer.
Did Thomas serve on the International Space Station?
Yes, he visited the International Space Station during the STS-102 mission in 2001.
Achievements
- Affiliated with National Aeronautics and Space Administration
- Educated at University of Adelaide
- Worked as astronaut and engineer
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