Astronaut Profile
James M. Kelly
Pilot
James Kelly piloted STS-114, NASA's first Shuttle flight after the Columbia disaster, a mission that tested new inspection and repair techniques for damaged heat shielding.
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Pilot • Living
Biography
The person behind the mission
James M. Kelly was a United States Air Force pilot and NASA astronaut who flew as pilot on STS-114 in 2005, NASA's 'Return to Flight' mission following the loss of Columbia in 2003. The mission introduced new procedures for inspecting and repairing the Shuttle's heat-shield tiles in orbit, changes developed directly in response to the Columbia accident investigation.
Astronaut Details
Born
April 14, 1964
Birthplace
Burlington, Iowa, USA
Role
Pilot
Program
Space Shuttle
Time in Space
Approximately 26 days, 16 hours
Missions
STS-102, STS-114
Recognition
Awards & Honors
- NASA Distinguished Service Medal
- NASA Exceptional Service Medal
- NASA Space Flight Medal