Michael Fincke

Michael Fincke is an American astronaut and Air Force officer. He was born on March 14, 1967, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Fincke has been a part of several NASA missions and holds the American record for the most time spent in space.

Early Life and Education

Fincke was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Sewickley Academy in 1985 and later attended the MIT where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Aeronautics and Astronautics in 1989. He also holds a Master's degree in Aeronautics and Astronautics from Stanford University, which he received in 1990.

Career

Fincke's career began in the United States Air Force, where he served as a flight test engineer. He was selected by NASA in 1996 and became an astronaut in 1998. He has been a part of three spaceflights, including Expedition 9, Expedition 18, and STS-134. During his time in space, Fincke performed nine spacewalks and spent over 381 days in space, setting the American record for the most time spent in space.

Personal Life

Fincke is married and has three children. He is fluent in Japanese and Russian, which he used during his time on the International Space Station.

Awards and Honors

Fincke has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, the NASA Space Flight Medal, and the Air Force Distinguished Flying Cross.

See Also

• List of astronauts by year of selection
• List of spacewalks and moonwalks
• List of human spaceflights