Three Space Shuttle missions define the career of Michael J. Bloomfield, an American military officer and former astronaut. Born in 1959 in Flint, Michigan, he transitioned from a background as a fighter pilot and test pilot into the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, where he eventually directed operations for the Shuttle program.
Academic and Military Background
Bloomfield attended the United States Air Force Academy, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Engineering Mechanics. During his time there, he served as team captain for the Falcons football squad under coach Bill Parcells. He later completed his master's degree in Engineering Management at Old Dominion University in 1993. His military training included the Fighter Weapons Instructor Course, followed by a tenure as a test pilot.
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Selected for the astronaut program in December 1994, Bloomfield commenced his duties at the Johnson Space Center in March 1995. His administrative contributions within the organization included serving as Chief of Safety for the Astronaut Office, Chief Instructor Astronaut, and Chief of the Shuttle Branch. In the latter capacity, he oversaw technical issues related to the Shuttle fleet. By 2006, he held the position of deputy director of Flight Crew Operations at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, before resigning from the agency in July 2007.
Spaceflight Missions
His tenure as an astronaut spanned three distinct missions. In 1997, he piloted STS-86, a flight that involved docking with the space station Mir. He returned to space in 2000 as the pilot for STS-97, which traveled to the International Space Station. His final flight mission occurred in 2002 when he served as commander for STS-110, another operation involving the International Space Station.
Post-Agency Career
Following his departure from NASA, Bloomfield entered the private sector. In October 2007, he became Vice President of the Constellation Program at ATK. He subsequently joined Oceaneering in December 2010, acting as its vice president and General Manager of Oceaneering Space Systems. He continues to reside in suburban Houston, Texas, and serves on the board of directors at Space Center Houston.
Fast facts
- Born: 1959, Flint, United States
- Education: United States Air Force Academy; Old Dominion University
- Military Rank: Colonel
- NASA Selection: December 1994
- Space Missions: STS-86, STS-97, STS-110
- Former Employer: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
- Current Affiliation: Space Center Houston
Questions readers ask
What rank did Bloomfield hold in the military?
He reached the rank of Colonel.
When did he leave NASA?
He resigned from the agency in July 2007.
Achievements
- Affiliated with National Aeronautics and Space Administration
- Educated at U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School, United States Air Force Academy and Old Dominion University
- Worked as military officer, astronaut and aircraft pilot
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