Jose Hernandez NASA: An Overview
Jose Hernandez is a former NASA astronaut and engineer known for his work in human spaceflight and outreach. Born to a farmworking family in the United States, he pursued engineering and joined NASA as an astronaut candidate in 2004. Hernandez flew aboard the Space Shuttle as a mission specialist on STS-128 in 2009, contributing to ISS logistics and assembly. This profile covers his verified astronaut record, education path, and role in science communication, focusing on facts and career milestones that remain useful for understanding his place in modern space history.
Early Life and Educational Foundation
Hernandez grew up in a migrant farming household in the United States, learning English as a second language while excelling in math and science. He earned a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from the University of the Pacific and a master’s degree in electrical and computer engineering from the University of California, Santa Barbara. His academic training laid the groundwork for his later work in satellite technology and human spaceflight.
University and Advanced Degrees
His undergraduate and graduate education emphasized electrical engineering, with research and lab work relevant to control systems and signal processing. These skills later informed his technical roles at NASA and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, where he worked on imaging and remote sensing projects before selection as an astronaut.
NASA Astronaut Selection and Training
Selected by NASA in 2004, Hernandez reported for astronaut candidate training in 2005. The training program included spacecraft systems instruction, survival training, ISS systems familiarization, and Russian language preparation for international missions. By 2007, he was certified as a mission specialist and eligible for shuttle and long-duration assignments.
Training Modules and Evaluation
- Spacecraft systems and shuttle operations
- International Space Station systems and procedures
- EVA (spacewalk) readiness and robotics training
- Leadership, teamwork, and mission simulation drills
Space Shuttle Mission: STS-128
In 2009, Hernandez flew on STS-128 aboard Space Shuttle Discovery, delivering cargo and experiments to the International Space Station. The mission supported ISS research and logistics, including return of experiment samples and hardware. He participated in robotics operations and extravehicular activities preparation, contributing to station assembly and maintenance objectives.
STS-128 Quick Facts
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Mission | STS-128 | NASA Mission Archives |
| Launch Date | August 28, 2009 | NASA Factsheet |
| Landing Date | September 11, 2009 | Mission Summary |
| Duration | 13 days, 20 hours, 54 minutes | Mission Report |
| Role | Mission Specialist | Crew Assignment |
Post-Astronaut Career and Outreach
After leaving NASA, Hernandez pursued public service, education advocacy, and private industry roles focused on imaging and technology. He has worked as a consultant and board member, emphasizing STEM education, bilingual outreach, and workforce development. His post-NASA activities continue to highlight accessible science and engineering pathways for underrepresented communities.
Key Professional Themes
- STEM education and mentorship
- Public speaking on perseverance and inclusion
- Technology and imaging applications
- Advocacy for science funding and policy
Legacy and Public Recognition
Hernandez is recognized for embodying the idea that disciplined study and persistence can widen participation in high-level technical careers. Official NASA records, biographical summaries, and education initiatives continue to reference his shuttle service and outreach. His trajectory from farmworker family to shuttle astronaut informs ongoing conversations about diversity in aerospace.
Reference Highlights
- First spaceflight: STS-128, 2009
- NASA astronaut class of 2004
- Advocate for bilingual STEM engagement
- Contributions to ISS cargo and research support