The F/A-18E/F Super Hornet flight testing program served as the professional launchpad for Kenneth Todd Ham, who was selected for the NASA astronaut program in August 1998. Born in Plainfield, New Jersey, in 1964, Ham transitioned from a decorated career as a United States Navy captain and test pilot to a dual-mission veteran of the Space Shuttle.
Academic and Military Foundation
After graduating from Arthur L. Johnson High School in 1983, Ham entered the United States Naval Academy, earning a Bachelor of Science in aerospace engineering in 1987. He later obtained a Master of Science in aeronautical engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School in 1996. Commissioned as an ensign in May 1987, he gained flight experience in T-34C, T-2C, and TA-4J aircraft. As a Distinguished Graduate of the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School, he conducted critical evaluations on propulsion stability and weapon separation for the Super Hornet.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Space Shuttle Missions
Ham traveled to space twice during his tenure with NASA. In June 2008, he served as pilot for STS-124, a mission that delivered the Japanese Experiment Module and the Japanese Remote Manipulator System to the International Space Station. In May 2010, he returned to orbit as mission commander for STS-132. Over the course of 186 orbits, his crew successfully installed the Russian-built Mini Research Module onto the space station.
Post-NASA Professional Development
Following his departure from NASA in June 2012, Ham held a leadership position as the Chair of the Aerospace Engineering Department at the United States Naval Academy. In 2014, he transitioned to the private sector, joining Bigelow Aerospace to establish astronaut training protocols for orbital habitats. By 2015, he moved to Tactical Air Support Inc, eventually advancing to the role of Chief Operating Officer.
Fast facts
- Born: 1964, Plainfield, New Jersey
- Call sign: Hock
- Flight experience: Over 7,500 hours
- Navy rank: Captain
- Space missions: STS-124 and STS-132
- Education: United States Naval Academy, Naval Postgraduate School
- Awards: New Jersey Aviation Hall of Fame (2014)
Questions readers ask
What was Kenneth Ham's role at the Naval Test Pilot School?
He was a Distinguished Graduate and participated in the cooperative program for aeronautical engineering before joining the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet Integrated Test Team.
What aircraft did Ham pilot during his post-NASA career?
He continues to fly the F-5AT and F-5N+ aircraft as part of his work with Tactical Air Support Inc.
Achievements
- Affiliated with National Aeronautics and Space Administration
- Educated at Arthur L. Johnson High School, Naval Postgraduate School and United States Naval Test Pilot School
- Worked as military officer, astronaut and test pilot
