Raja Chari reached the threshold of spaceflight as the commander of the SpaceX Crew-3 mission, becoming the first NASA rookie to command a mission since 1981. Born in 1977 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, his career spans advanced aeronautical engineering, test piloting for the United States Air Force, and an active role within the NASA astronaut program.
Early Education and Military Foundations
Raised in Cedar Falls, Iowa, Chari graduated from Columbus High School in 1995. He pursued higher education at the United States Air Force Academy, earning a Bachelor of Science in astronautical engineering and engineering science by 1999. He later attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology as a Draper Fellow, receiving a Master of Science in aeronautical and astronautical engineering in 2001.
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Following flight training at Vance Air Force Base, Chari served as an F-15E evaluator pilot with the 90th Fighter Squadron and 494th Fighter Squadron, deploying during Operation Iraqi Freedom. His expertise in radar technology and flight test operations led to his role as the commanding officer of the 461st Flight Test Squadron at Edwards Air Force Base.
NASA Selection and Mission Leadership
Selected for NASA Astronaut Group 22 in June 2017, Chari commenced two years of training. In December 2020, he was named to the Artemis team. As commander of SpaceX Crew-3, he directed the mission, marking a significant milestone for his group. During his time in space, he performed an extravehicular activity on March 23, 2022, alongside Matthias Maurer, successfully addressing technical issues with equipment during the operation.
Fast facts
- Born: 1977, Milwaukee
- Citizenship: United States
- Education: United States Air Force Academy, MIT
- Current Rank: Brigadier General
- Awards: Meritorious Service Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal
- Status: Eagle Scout
Questions readers ask
What is Raja Chari's military background?
He is a colonel and fighter pilot who has served as a test pilot and commanding officer at Edwards Air Force Base.
What significant command role did he hold at NASA?
He commanded the SpaceX Crew-3 mission, serving as the first NASA rookie to command a spaceflight since Joe Engle in 1981.
Achievements
- Educated at United States Air Force Academy, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and United States Naval Test Pilot School
- Worked as astronaut, engineer and test pilot
