Mike Hopkins (astronaut)

Mike Hopkins, born on December twenty-eighth, nineteen sixty-eight, is a distinguished United States Space Force colonel and a former NASA astronaut. His journey into the realm of space exploration began when he was selected in June two thousand nine as a member of NASA Astronaut Group twenty, marking the start of an illustrious career.

Hopkins made his inaugural spaceflight as a flight engineer aboard Soyuz TMA-10M, contributing to Expedition thirty-seven and thirty-eight from September two thousand thirteen until March two thousand fourteen. Notably, he became the first member of his astronaut class to venture into space, setting a precedent for his peers.

In a historic move, Hopkins became the first astronaut to transition to the U.S. Space Force, participating in a transfer ceremony held on the International Space Station. This significant milestone underscores his commitment to advancing the United States' presence in space.

Before embarking on his space endeavors, Hopkins dedicated over twenty-seven years to the United States Air Force, where he honed his skills as an air force officer, test pilot, and military flight engineer. His extensive experience in aviation and military operations has been instrumental in his successful career as an astronaut.