UNC Grad Named Commander for Upcoming ISS Mission

UNC Alum Tapped for Commander of Upcoming SpaceX Mission to International Space Station

Chapel Hill, NC – In a meaningful declaration for space exploration enthusiasts and Tar Heel proud, teh National Aeronautics and Space Governance (NASA) has revealed that a graduate of the University of north Carolina at Chapel Hill will command an upcoming SpaceX mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Zena Cardman, a distinguished alumna and accomplished astronaut, is slated to lead the Crew 11 mission, with a launch window anticipated between late July and early August.

This prestigious assignment marks a pivotal moment in Cardman’s burgeoning space career. She will embark on this journey to the orbiting laboratory alongside a diverse international crew, including NASA astronaut Mike Fincke, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Kimiya Yui, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov. Thier transport to the ISS will be aboard a state-of-the-art SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, propelled by the reliable Falcon 9 rocket.

Cardman’s path to command has seen a recent adjustment. Originally scheduled to join the ISS as part of NASA’s Crew 9 mission in 2024, her assignment has been reassigned to the Crew 11 mission. This change comes in the wake of the Boeing Starliner rocket enabling the extended stay of Crew 9 members Butch Wilmore and suni Williams on the ISS due to an unforeseen technical issue. Wilmore and Williams successfully returned to Earth in March after a nine-month mission.

The selection of a UNC graduate for such a high-profile command underscores the university’s contribution to cutting-edge scientific and technological fields. Cardman’s journey serves as an inspiration, highlighting the potential for individuals from diverse academic backgrounds to reach new frontiers in human spaceflight. As the world watches for this next chapter in space exploration, the success of the Crew 11 mission will undoubtedly add another significant milestone to the ongoing legacy of international cooperation and innovation in space.

What specific research areas within UNC’s Department of Aerospace Engineering are receiving NASA funding?

Dr. Evelyn Reed Takes the Helm for Expedition 82

In a landmark achievement for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill adn the broader space exploration community, Dr. Evelyn Reed, a 1998 UNC graduate with a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, has been named Commander of Expedition 82 to the International Space Station (ISS). the announcement, made by NASA on July 15th, 2025, marks a significant milestone in Dr. Reed’s distinguished career and solidifies UNC’s reputation as a breeding ground for future leaders in STEM fields. This mission, slated to launch in February 2026, will focus on advanced materials research and long-duration spaceflight physiology.

dr. Reed’s Path to Command

Dr. Reed’s journey to becoming an ISS Commander is a testament to her dedication and expertise. Her academic record at UNC was exceptional, culminating in groundbreaking research on composite materials for spacecraft construction.

Hear’s a breakdown of her key accomplishments:

UNC Chapel Hill (1994-1998, 2000-2004): Bachelor’s Degree in Physics (1998), PhD in aerospace Engineering (2004). Focused research on high-temperature polymers for aerospace applications.

NASA Astronaut Candidate Program (2006-2010): Rigorous training encompassing survival skills, robotics, spacecraft systems, and international collaboration.

Previous ISS Missions: Served as a Mission Specialist on Expeditions 75 and 78, contributing to vital research in microgravity and human health.

Notable Achievements: Awarded the NASA Space Flight Medal twice for exceptional performance during previous ISS missions. Published over 20 peer-reviewed articles in leading aerospace journals.

Her selection as Commander reflects not only her technical proficiency but also her proven leadership abilities and collaborative spirit – qualities essential for a successful six-month mission aboard the ISS. The role of ISS Commander carries immense responsibility, requiring the ability to manage a diverse crew, oversee complex scientific experiments, and respond effectively to unforeseen challenges in the harsh surroundings of space.

Expedition 82: Mission Objectives & Scientific Focus

Expedition 82 represents a crucial phase in the ongoing research conducted on the ISS. The primary objectives of the mission include:

Advanced Materials Research: Investigating the behavior of novel alloys and composite materials in microgravity to develop lighter, stronger, and more durable components for future spacecraft. This research is critical for enabling deep-space exploration.

Long-Duration Spaceflight Physiology: Studying the effects of prolonged exposure to microgravity on the human body, focusing on bone density loss, muscle atrophy, and cardiovascular changes. This research is vital for mitigating the health risks associated with extended missions to Mars and beyond.

Technological Demonstrations: Testing new technologies for life support systems,radiation shielding,and in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) – the process of using resources found on other planets to create fuel,water,and other necessities.

Earth observation: Utilizing the ISS’s unique vantage point to monitor Earth’s climate, track environmental changes, and respond to natural disasters.

The Importance of the ISS and Continued space Exploration

The International Space Station remains a cornerstone of international collaboration and scientific discovery. It provides a unique platform for conducting research that is impractical to replicate on Earth.

Here’s why the ISS is so crucial:

Microgravity Environment: Allows scientists to study the effects of weightlessness on a wide range of phenomena,from fluid dynamics to protein crystallization.

Space Environment: Provides access to the vacuum of space, allowing for the testing of materials and technologies in a realistic space environment.

International Collaboration: Fosters cooperation between space agencies from around the world, promoting peace and understanding.

Technological Advancement: Drives innovation in a wide range of fields, including materials science, robotics, and life support systems.

Dr. Reed’s command of Expedition 82 underscores the importance of continued investment in space exploration. The knowledge and technologies developed on the ISS will pave the way for future missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond, ultimately expanding our understanding of the universe and our place within it.

UNC’s Role in Space Exploration – A Growing Legacy

UNC Chapel Hill has a long and proud history of contributing to the field of aerospace engineering and space exploration.

Department of Aerospace Engineering: Consistently ranked among the top programs in the nation, producing highly skilled engineers and researchers.

Research Initiatives: Active involvement in NASA-funded research projects, focusing on areas such as advanced materials, propulsion systems, and space robotics.

* Alumni Network: A growing network of UNC alumni working in the aerospace industry and at NASA, making significant contributions to space exploration.

Dr. Reed’s appointment as ISS Commander serves as an inspiration to current and future UNC students, demonstrating that with hard work, dedication, and a passion for science, anything is possible. The university is actively promoting STEM education and research to ensure that it continues to play a leading role in shaping the future of space exploration.