Four space shuttle missions logged over 35 days in orbit for Jerome Apt, a physicist who transitioned from managing ground-based optical observatories to executing complex maneuvers in space. His career combines rigorous scientific research in planetary studies with the practical application of orbital technology, later evolving into a focus on energy economics and technical risk management.
Academic and Scientific Foundations
Apt graduated from Shady Side Academy in 1967 before attending Harvard University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in physics in 1971. He continued his studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, completing a Doctor of Philosophy in experimental atomic physics in 1976. During his early professional years, he served as a staff member at Harvard’s Center for Earth & Planetary Physics and directed the Planetary Imaging Computer Center. His initial contributions to space science involved the Pioneer Venus 1978 mission and planetary research at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, where he managed optical facilities at the Table Mountain Observatory.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Mission Control and Astronaut Training
Before his selection as an astronaut candidate in 1985, Apt functioned as a flight controller at the Johnson Space Center. He supported payload operations for eight shuttle missions, including STS-7 and STS-51D. After qualifying as an astronaut, his responsibilities included developing maintenance techniques for the Hubble Space Telescope and the Gamma Ray Observatory, as well as serving as the lead for the Astronaut Office Mission Support Branch.
Spaceflight Operations
Apt flew his first mission on STS-37 in 1991, performing two spacewalks to deploy a stalled antenna on the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory. In 1992, he served as flight engineer for STS-47, an eight-day cooperative mission with Japan. He commanded the blue shift on STS-59 in 1994, operating imaging radar systems to map environmental data. His final shuttle mission, STS-79 in 1996, involved docking with the Russian Mir space station to facilitate the exchange of personnel and scientific supplies.
Transition to Academia
In 2003, Apt joined the faculty at Carnegie Mellon University, holding roles within the Tepper School of Business and the Department of Engineering and Public Policy. His academic work focuses on the electricity industry, technical innovation, and risk management. He has authored over 125 peer-reviewed publications and the book Variable Renewable Energy and the Electricity Grid. His photography book, Orbit: NASA Astronauts Photograph the Earth, has been published in eleven languages.
Fast facts
- Born: 1949, Springfield
- Education: Harvard University; Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Space Missions: STS-37, STS-47, STS-59, STS-79
- Time in space: Over 35 days
- 1997 NASA Distinguished Service Medal recipient
- 2013 Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science
- Career: Physicist, Astronaut, Professor
Questions readers ask
What research did Apt conduct while in orbit?
He participated in materials processing experiments, mapped carbon monoxide in the atmosphere, and conducted planetary observations using radar systems.
Did Apt encounter dangers during his spacewalks?
Yes, during STS-37, a palm-bar in his glove punctured his suit, exposing his hand to a vacuum, resulting in a minor scar.
Achievements
- Affiliated with National Aeronautics and Space Administration and Carnegie Mellon University
- Educated at Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Shady Side Academy
- Worked as astronaut, university teacher and physicist