Astronaut Eileen Marie Collins. Image credit: NASA
On this day in 1956, astronaut Eileen Marie Collins was born.
Collins became an astronaut in 1991, and was initially assigned to Orbiter engineering support. She served as pilot of the Space Shuttle on two flights and as commander on two more, and was the first woman to hold either distinction. While in command of Space Shuttle mission STS – 93 Columbia, she lead the deployment of the Chandra X-Ray Observatory.
The crew of STS-114 on their way to the launch pad in 2005, including Commander Collins.
Before becoming an astronaut, Collins received extensive education in the sciences and worked as an Air Force Pilot and instructor. She holds an associate in science degree in mathematics/science, a Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics and economics, a Master of Science degree in operations research, and a Master of Arts degree in space systems management.
Eileen Collins as an Air Force pilot in training, on board a T-38 aircraft at Vance Air Force Base in 1979. Image credit: NASA
She was given several special honors during her work with NASA and the Air Force, including the Defense Superior Service Medal and NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal.
Collins retired from NASA in 2006.
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