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Astronaut Appearance

Meet Astronaut Susan Kilrain

Universe Theater

MonMondayOctober 13
TueTuesdayOctober 14
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Included with Admission

Astronaut Susan Kilrain in orange space suit without helmet, crossing arms and smiling
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Get the rare opportunity to meet a veteran NASA astronaut every day at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Meet the Astronaut of the Day at any of the following opportunities:  

  • Astronaut Encounter – During these presentations, hear from the Astronaut of the Day about his or her unique experience living and working in space. Have your questions ready after the presentation. Astronaut Encounter is included with admission. 
  • Chat With An Astronaut – Enjoy a sampling of food and beverages while having a small-group conversation with the Astronaut of the Day about what it is really like to live and work in space. Chat With An Astronaut can be purchased in addition to admission. 
  • Autograph signings – get the astronaut’s autograph at The Space Shop and Shuttle Express at various times during the day. 

 See the Daily Schedule for the times for each when you arrive.

Learn more about this Astronaut of the Day below.

Astronaut Susan Kilrain in orange space suit without helmet, crossing arms and smiling

Susan Kilrain

  • Pilot, space shuttle Columbia (STS-83)

  • Pilot, space shuttle Columbia (STS-94)

Commander Susan Kilrain is a renowned astronaut, a distinguished navy test pilot, and author. She is the youngest person, and one of only three women, to pilot the space shuttle.

Officer and Commander Susan Kilrain served for 20 years in the U.S. Navy, becoming a trailblazer for women in aviation. She has over 3,000 flight hours across 30 different aircraft. As a NASA astronaut, she flew on two space shuttle missions—STS-83 and STS-94—spending over 20 days in space. Afterward, she continued to contribute to the space program, working in Mission Control during other shuttle launches and landings. At NASA Headquarters, she held positions in Safety and Legislative Affairs.

After retiring, she became a Partner at New North Ventures and now focuses on consulting, particularly encouraging young women and underprivileged teens to pursue STEM fields. Additionally, Susan is a published author of An Unlikely Astronaut, a children’s book, and enjoys photography and astronomy. She also serves on boards for various private companies, universities, and non-profits.

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