Sian Proctor

Sian Proctor, born on March 28, 1970, is a multifaceted American who has made significant strides in various fields, including geology, aviation, and the arts. As a geology professor and commercial astronaut, she has dedicated her career to education and exploration, inspiring countless individuals along the way.

Proctor made history on September 15, 2021, when she became the first female commercial spaceship pilot and the first African-American woman to pilot a spacecraft during the all-civilian Inspiration4 orbital spaceflight. Her role as the pilot of the SpaceX Crew Dragon space capsule marked a significant milestone in the realm of space exploration.

In addition to her achievements in space, Proctor has served as the education outreach officer for the first Hawaii Space Exploration Analog and Simulation (HI-SEAS) Mission. Her commitment to education and science communication has been recognized, leading to her selection as a U.S. Science Envoy for the United States Department of State in 2024.

Since her historic flight, Proctor has emerged as a prominent Afrofuturist artist, poet, and author, becoming the first African American astronaut to paint in space. Her creative endeavors reflect her passion for storytelling and the exploration of cultural narratives.

Beyond her artistic pursuits, Proctor is a major in the Civil Air Patrol, where she serves as the aerospace education officer for its Arizona Wing, further demonstrating her dedication to inspiring future generations in the fields of science and aviation.