Peggy A. Whitson, Ph. D.
Astronaut
National Aeronautics and Space Administration/Johnson Space Center
Houston TX

I was born and raised in rural Iowa. So rural, in fact, that the closest town to my parents farm had only 30 people living there when I was growing up. I was inspired to become an astronaut when I watched the first men walk on the moon, and it became my goal as I graduated from high school, when the first female astronauts were selected. After graduating from Mt. Ayr High School, I attended Iowa Wesleyan College. I graduated in 3 years, with a double major in biology and chemistry. I then attended Rice University, graduating with a Ph.D. in Biochemistry.

Immediately after leaving Rice in 1986, I began work at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX, first as an National Research Council Fellow, later as a contractor employee, and finally as a civil servant for NASA. In 1996, after 10 years of applying, I was selected to begin astronaut training. In 1999 I was selected to train as a backup crewmember for Expedition 3 and prime crewmember for Expedition 5. Living and working in space for 184 days, 22 hours was the most incredible/memorable experience of my life. Most of the time spent as an astronaut is spent in the technical support of other crewmembers, preparing for their missions or conducting operations while they are on orbit. Although this time is not as exciting as the opportunity to experience it personally, it is very gratifying to be a part of the space program.

I am excited about the NEEMO project because it will be another form of exploration, underwater instead of from miles above. Living in space was a great opportunity to see our beautiful planet, including the coral reefs and the oceans, and I look forward to the experience from a different perspective.

Career opportunities in space or underwater involve a dedication to some field of science, math or engineering. I would encourage all interested young people to pursue their dreams and put in the work and effort to make them come true. It's so much more than a job if you get the chance to live your dream.

My hobbies include weight lifting, biking, and gardening.