Joseph M. Acaba

Joseph M. Acaba is a NASA astronaut whose career demonstrates dedication to space exploration and scientific advancement. He is the former chief of the astronaut office of astronauts at NASA. He was the first person of Puerto Rican heritage to be chosen as a NASA astronaut.

Selected as part of NASA's astronaut class, Acaba has completed multiple missions to the International Space Station, logging significant time in orbit while conducting experiments in microgravity research, Earth observation, and technology demonstrations. His spaceflights, including long-duration expeditions aboard the Space Shuttle and Soyuz spacecraft, have contributed to the understanding of human physiology in space and supported international collaboration in low-Earth orbit.

Acaba's professional experience includes roles as a mission specialist, science officer, and educator at NASA's Johnson Space Center. He has contributed to payload integration, robotics operations, and spacewalk preparations, supporting NASA's human spaceflight programs. Acaba has received awards such as the NASA Space Flight Medal and Distinguished Service Medal. His background in engineering and geophysics, developed through work in disaster response and education, informs his perspective on resilience, STEM education, and space travel.

In addition to his astronaut duties, Acaba participates in NASA's Artemis program, training, public outreach, and mentoring. His public speaking engagements address challenges such as adapting to zero gravity and international teamwork, offering insights from his experiences in space missions. Acaba communicates the complexities of space exploration to diverse audiences, sharing firsthand accounts of humanity's efforts beyond Earth.