On 14 March 2025, Nichole Ayers launched to the International Space Station as the pilot of the SpaceX Crew-10 mission. This flight marked a significant milestone in her career, transitioning from tactical fighter aviation to orbital operations. She served as a crew member during Expeditions 72 and 73, remaining aboard the station for approximately five months before returning to Earth on 9 August 2025.
Early Education and Academic Foundation
Born in San Diego in 1988, Ayers attended Woodland Park High School in Colorado. She continued her studies at the United States Air Force Academy, graduating in 2011 with a bachelor's degree in mathematics and a minor in Russian. She furthered her technical background at Rice University, where she earned a master's degree in computational and applied mathematics in 2013.
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Ayers completed flight training in 2014 and initially piloted the T-38 at Langley Air Force Base for an adversary squadron. She transitioned to the F-22 Raptor, serving as a flight instructor for the platform. During her military tenure, she logged over 200 flight hours in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. Prior to her NASA selection, she acted as the assistant director of operations for the 90th Fighter Squadron stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base.
NASA Selection and Spaceflight
NASA included Ayers in the Astronaut Group 23, announcing her selection on 6 December 2021. Following her assignment to Crew-10, she undertook her inaugural spaceflight. While serving aboard the International Space Station in April 2025, she received a promotion to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel during an orbital ceremony.
Recognition and Public Contributions
Throughout her service, Ayers has earned multiple honors, including the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal, the Aerial Achievement Medal, the Commendation Medal, and the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal. Beyond her professional duties, she is recognized for her photography; her image of a jet over Coahuila, Mexico, was selected as the third best Picture of the Year 2025 on Wikimedia Commons.
Fast facts
- Born: 1988, San Diego
- Education: United States Air Force Academy, Rice University
- Military Rank: Lieutenant Colonel
- Space Group: NASA Astronaut Group 23
- First Spaceflight: SpaceX Crew-10
- Languages: English
Questions readers ask
What was the duration of Nichole Ayers' first spaceflight?
She launched on 14 March 2025 and returned to Earth on 9 August 2025.
Where did Nichole Ayers serve as a flight instructor?
She served as an instructor for F-22 Raptor units at Langley Air Force Base.
Achievements
- Meritorious Service Medal
- Air Medal
- Aerial Achievement Medal
- Commendation Medal
- Recorded as aircraft pilot and astronaut
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