Commanding the STS-122 mission to the International Space Station, Stephen Nathaniel Frick logged two distinct Space Shuttle flights during his tenure with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Born in Pittsburgh in 1964, Frick transitioned from a career as a naval officer and F/A-18 fighter pilot into the technical demands of aerospace engineering and orbital exploration.
Military and Academic Foundation
Frick attended Pine-Richland High School before graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 1986. Following his commission as a naval officer, he qualified as a fighter pilot. During his active duty service aboard the USS Saratoga, he flew combat missions. His academic background includes a master's degree in aeronautical engineering, which he earned at the Naval Postgraduate School in 1994, alongside training at the United States Naval Test Pilot School.
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In 1996, NASA selected Frick as an astronaut candidate. His first spaceflight was STS-110, where he served as a pilot during a docking mission with the International Space Station. In July 2006, he received the assignment to command STS-122. This 12-day flight launched on February 7, 2008, and concluded on February 20, 2008. The crew successfully delivered the European Space Agency's Columbus laboratory to the station and returned flight engineer Daniel M. Tani to Earth.
Career Conclusion
Throughout his service, Frick achieved the rank of captain. His military and civilian service records include the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal. Additional decorations comprise the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, multiple Navy Commendation Medals, Southwest Asia Service Medals, the NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal, and the NASA Spaceflight Medal. He retired from his position at NASA in July 2015.
Fast facts
- Born: 1964, Pittsburgh
- Citizenship: United States
- Education: United States Naval Academy, Naval Postgraduate School
- Military Rank: Captain
- NASA Selection Year: 1996
- STS-110 Role: Pilot
- STS-122 Role: Commander
- Retirement Date: July 2015
Questions readers ask
What missions did Stephen Frick command?
He commanded the STS-122 mission in 2008, which delivered the Columbus laboratory to the International Space Station.
What was his military background before joining NASA?
He was a United States Navy officer and F/A-18 fighter pilot who flew missions from the USS Saratoga.
Achievements
- Affiliated with National Aeronautics and Space Administration
- Educated at Naval Postgraduate School, United States Naval Test Pilot School and United States Naval Academy
- Worked as naval officer, military flight engineer and astronaut
