The U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command supports NASA as the higher headquarters for the Army NASA Detachment located at the Johnson Space Center in Texas.
The current team includes two active-duty astronauts, Colonel Anne McClain and Colonel Frank Rubio, along with astronaut candidate Chief Warrant Officer 3 Joseph (Ben) Bailey, two FA40A Army Space Operations Officers, and the detachment’s executive assistant.
Army astronauts are integral members of NASA’s flight crews for the International Space Station, Artemis, and Commercial Crew programs. Since the selection of Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Robert Stewart in 1978 as the Army’s first astronaut, NASA has chosen 19 Army astronauts to participate in space missions, contributing to the peaceful exploration of space.
The Army astronauts and FA40As provide essential expertise and leadership to various NASA human spaceflight programs, including those focused on low-Earth orbit and deep space exploration. They offer engineering insights into human interactions with on-orbit and terrestrial space systems. They also provide expertise on a myriad of disciplines including human biological and technical experimentation, safety systems, public engagements, launch, recovery, and rescue operations.
By collaborating with international space agencies and industry partners, detachment personnel help the Army define its space capabilities. Their efforts enhance the Army’s utilization of space while serving as ambassadors to both NASA and the public.
Today, the Army NASA Detachment continues to play crucial roles in manned and unmanned space operations for national programs. Their contributions ensure that space support aligns with Army strategic, operational, and tactical objectives worldwide, while also fostering awareness of important space initiatives throughout the Army.
