Loral Ashley O'Hara launched into orbit aboard the Soyuz MS-24 spacecraft on September 15, 2023, marking a milestone in a career that spans both deep-sea engineering and aerospace exploration. Born in Houston in 1983, O'Hara has navigated a path through diverse technical environments, from university laboratories to the extreme conditions of the International Space Station.
Academic Foundation
O'Hara grew up in Sugar Land, Texas, where she attended Clements High School. She pursued technical studies, earning a Bachelor of Science in aerospace engineering from the University of Kansas in 2005. During her undergraduate tenure, she engaged with the KC-135 Reduced Gravity Student Flight Opportunities Program. She later relocated to Indiana to complete a Master of Science in aeronautics and astronautics at Purdue University in 2009, supported by a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship awarded in 2008.
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Before finalizing her master's degree, O'Hara gained experience at Rocketplane Limited in Oklahoma City. In 2009, she transitioned to the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. Her responsibilities included conducting technical upgrades on the DSV Alvin submersible and operating as an engineer and data processor for the Jason remotely-operated vehicle. Additionally, her early career included an internship at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and participation in the NASA Academy at Goddard Space Flight Center.
NASA Astronaut Selection
NASA selected O'Hara as an astronaut candidate in June 2017, with formal training commencing that August. She completed the requirements of the candidate program and officially entered the NASA astronaut corps on January 10, 2020. This certification rendered her eligible for flight assignments. Although initially slated for the Soyuz MS-23 mission as part of Expedition 68, operational adjustments to the Soyuz MS-22 spacecraft necessitated a shift to the Soyuz MS-24 crew.
Spaceflight and Skill Set
O'Hara conducted her mission after launching in September 2023, concluding her time in orbit on April 6, 2024. Beyond her professional duties in engineering and flight, she holds certifications as a private pilot, emergency medical technician, and wilderness first responder. Her personal interests include various outdoor and technical pursuits such as diving, sailing, surfing, and aviation.
Fast facts
- Born: 1983, Houston
- Education: University of Kansas (BS), Purdue University (MS)
- NASA Candidate Selection: June 2017
- Spacecraft: Soyuz MS-24
- Mission Dates: September 15, 2023 – April 6, 2024
- Previous Employment: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
Questions readers ask
What engineering work did Loral O'Hara perform before becoming an astronaut?
She worked for Rocketplane Limited and performed data processing and engineering tasks for the DSV Alvin submersible and the Jason remotely-operated vehicle at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.
Which spacecraft did O'Hara use for her mission to the International Space Station?
She launched and returned aboard the Soyuz MS-24 spacecraft.
Achievements
- Educated at University of Kansas, Purdue University and Clements High School
- Worked as astronaut and engineer
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