Leland Devon Melvin, born February 15, 1964, in Lynchburg, Virginia, transitioned from professional football aspirations to a career as a NASA engineer and mission specialist. Before his time in orbit, he spent years as a standout wide receiver for the University of Richmond, setting career records that remain part of the institution's athletic legacy today.
Athletic Career and Education
Melvin attended Heritage High School before enrolling at the University of Richmond on a football scholarship, where he earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry. From 1982 to 1985, he served as a wide receiver for the Richmond Spiders, catching at least one pass in every game he played. He holds the university record with 198 career receptions for 2,669 yards. Following his collegiate career, the Detroit Lions selected him in the 1986 NFL draft, but injuries ended his professional path before he could secure a permanent roster position.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Engineering and NASA Tenure
In 1989, Melvin earned a Master of Science in Materials Science Engineering from the University of Virginia and began his tenure at NASA's Langley Research Center. His early work focused on nondestructive evaluation, utilizing fiber optic sensors to detect structural damage. By 1994, he led the Vehicle Health Monitoring team for the X-33 program. He transitioned to the astronaut corps in 1998, later serving as the associate administrator for the Office of Education starting in October 2010.
Spaceflight Missions
Melvin flew two missions aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis, logging over 565 hours in space. During STS-122 in February 2008, the crew installed the European Space Agency's Columbus laboratory at the International Space Station. In November 2009, he served as a mission specialist on STS-129, which delivered critical logistics racks and replacement parts to the station. He retired from NASA in February 2014.
Media and Public Outreach
Since his retirement, Melvin has authored works including Chasing Space: An Astronaut's Story of Grit, Grace, and Second Chances. His public profile includes hosting Child Genius and appearances on programs such as Top Chef and the Netflix series Dogs. A 2009 photograph featuring Melvin with his rescue dogs, Jake and Scout, gained widespread attention, subsequently serving as the cover image for his autobiography.
Fast facts
- Born: February 15, 1964, Lynchburg
- Education: University of Richmond, University of Virginia
- NFL Draft: 11th round, 1986, Detroit Lions
- NASA Space Missions: STS-122, STS-129
- Award: NASA Distinguished Service Medal, 2015
- Retirement: February 2014
Questions readers ask
Did Leland Melvin play in the NFL?
He was selected by the Detroit Lions in the 1986 NFL draft but was released after a hamstring injury during training camp.
How many missions did he fly with NASA?
He flew two missions as a mission specialist on the Space Shuttle Atlantis.
