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.