Update browser for a secure experience

It looks like you may be using a web browser version that we don't support. Make sure you're using the most recent version of your browser, or try using of these supported browsers, to get the full experience: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge.
Open: 9 AM to 5 PM
Buy TicketsHotel PackagesShop
Astronaut Appearance

Meet Astronaut Tom Jones

Universe Theater

MonMondayMarch 3
TueTuesdayMarch 4
WedWednesdayMarch 5
ThuThursdayMarch 6
FriFridayMarch 7
Buy Admission

Included with Admission

Tom Jones headshot with American flag in the background
Buy Admission

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.

Tom Jones headshot with American flag in the background

Thomas “Tom” D. Jones

Thomas “Tom” D. Jones, PhD, is a veteran NASA astronaut, planetary scientist, author, pilot, and speaker. He flew on four space shuttle missions and led three spacewalks to install the centerpiece of the International Space Station.

A graduate of the Air Force Academy, Dr. Thomas “Tom” D. Jones piloted B-52D bombers, earned a PhD in planetary sciences, and worked on asteroid studies and robotic missions for NASA, as well as intelligence systems for the CIA. He flew on four space shuttle missions (STS-59, STS-68, STS-80, and STS-98), spending 53 total days in space and leading three spacewalks to install the American Destiny laboratory on the International Space Station.

His accolades include the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, four NASA Space Flight Medals, and the Distinguished Eagle Scout award. Asteroid 1082 TomJones is named in his honor, and he was inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame in 2018.

An accomplished author of seven books, his memoir, Sky Walking, was named one of the Wall Street Journal’s “Five Best” space books. Dr. Jones continues to influence space exploration through consulting, public speaking, and serving on advisory boards.

Read More