Rex J. Walheim

Rex J. Walheim is an American astronaut and flight engineer who has been a part of multiple space missions for NASA. He was born on October 10, 1962, in Redwood City, California. Walheim has a distinguished career in the field of aerospace engineering and has contributed significantly to the advancement of space exploration.

Early Life and Education

Walheim was born and raised in Redwood City, California. He graduated from San Carlos High School in 1980. He then attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1984. He later earned a Master of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Houston in 1989.

Career

Walheim began his career as a flight controller at NASA's Johnson Space Center. He worked in the Mission Control Center as a Propulsion Systems Officer (PSO) on the Space Shuttle program.

In 1996, Walheim was selected by NASA as an astronaut candidate. He completed two years of training and evaluation, and was qualified for flight assignment as a mission specialist. He has flown on three space missions: STS-110 in 2002, STS-122 in 2008, and STS-135 in 2011.

During his space missions, Walheim performed multiple spacewalks and was involved in the assembly of the International Space Station (ISS). He has logged over 36 days in space, including over 36 hours of spacewalk time.

Personal Life

Walheim is married and has two children. He enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and running.

Awards and Honors

Walheim has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the NASA Exceptional Service Medal, the NASA Space Flight Medal, and the NASA Distinguished Service Medal.

See Also

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