A graduate of The University of Alabama is aboard the International Space Station about 250 miles above the Earth after successfully piloting a SpaceX craft in April.
In his first flight to space, Bob Hines, a NASA astronaut, was responsible for vehicle performance and systems on its journey to the ISS, and is now part of a science expedition mission.
Hines earned a master’s degree in aerospace engineering from the University in 2010.
In an interview with UA News Center while aboard the ISS, Hines said being in space is beyond the wildest dreams he had for his career, and his education at the University helped pave the way for the opportunity to become an astronaut.
The University of Alabama, part of The University of Alabama System, is the state’s flagship university. UA shapes a better world through its teaching, research and service. With a global reputation for excellence, UA provides an inclusive, forward-thinking environment and nearly 200 degree programs on a beautiful, student-centered campus. A leader in cutting-edge research, UA advances discovery, creative inquiry and knowledge through more than 30 research centers. As the state’s largest higher education institution, UA drives economic growth in Alabama and beyond.