A single mission aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery in 1985 defined the career of William Frederick Fisher, who participated in two spacewalks to repair the SYNCOM IV-3 satellite. This mission, designated STS-51-I, required over 11 hours of extravehicular activity, marking the longest spacewalk duration recorded at that time while demonstrating complex orbital rendezvous capabilities.
Early Education and Medical Training
Born in Dallas in 1946, Fisher completed his secondary schooling at North Syracuse Central High School in 1964. He proceeded to Stanford University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Biological Sciences in 1968. Following a period as a mountaineering instructor in Leysin, Switzerland, he enrolled at the University of Florida, graduating with a Doctor of Medicine in 1975. His medical training continued with a general surgery residency at Harbor–UCLA Medical Center, concluding in 1977, before he transitioned into private practice in emergency medicine.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →NASA Technical Assignments
Selected as an astronaut in 1980, Fisher contributed to the technical development of space systems. Between 1981 and 1984, he served as a representative for the Extravehicular Mobility Unit, conducting thermal vacuum testing of spacesuits. His involvement extended to the development teams for the Manned Maneuvering Unit and the Remote Manipulator System. He also performed CAPCOM duties for STS-8 and STS-9 and later served as the Chief of Astronaut Public Appearances from 1985 to 1987.
Space Station Analysis
In 1990, Fisher directed a study regarding the design of the planned Freedom space station. His analysis indicated that the 500-foot structure possessed high complexity, potentially requiring 3,700 annual hours of astronaut maintenance. In March 1990, he provided testimony before Congressional committees regarding these maintenance concerns after publicly questioning NASA policy. His later tenure at the agency involved advisory roles on the NASA Medicine Policy Board and the U.S. Air Force Scientific Advisory Board.
Professional Transition
Fisher retired from his NASA duties in 1992, returning to his primary profession in clinical medicine. He maintains an active practice in emergency medicine within the Houston area. His career is supported by his status as a Diplomate of the American Board of Emergency Medicine and a Fellow of both the American College and American Academy of Emergency Medicine.
Fast facts
- Born: 1946, Dallas
- Education: Stanford University, University of Florida, University of Houston
- Mission: STS-51-I (1985)
- Total Space Time: Over 170 hours
- Total EVA Time: 11 hours, 52 minutes
- Awards: NASA Exceptional Service Medal, NASA Space Flight Medal
- Status: Retired from NASA 1992, active physician
Questions readers ask
What was the focus of Fisher's 1990 space station study?
He evaluated the maintenance requirements of the planned Freedom space station, concluding that the structure's complexity would demand significantly more upkeep than original design goals estimated.
How many spacewalks did Fisher perform?
He performed two extravehicular activities during the STS-51-I mission in 1985 to repair a satellite.
Achievements
- Affiliated with National Aeronautics and Space Administration
- Educated at University of Florida, University of Houston and Stanford University
- Worked as astronaut and physician
.jpg)