Biography:
Dorothy Marie Dottie Metcalf-Lindenburger was born on May 2, 1975, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She grew up in a family that nurtured her interest in space and science. Her parents, Joyce and Keith Metcalf, always encouraged her curiosity and passion for exploration. Metcalf-Lindenburger’s love for space began at an early age and she dreamed of one day becoming an astronaut.
After completing her high school education at Fort Collins High School in Fort Collins, Colorado, Metcalf-Lindenburger went on to pursue her Bachelor of Arts degree in Geology at Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington. She graduated with honors and cum laude in 1997. Following her undergraduate studies, she obtained a Teaching Certification from Central Washington University in Ellensburg, Washington, in 1999.
Metcalf-Lindenburger continued her academic journey by pursuing a Master’s degree in Geology at the University of Washington in Seattle, Washington. She completed her studies in 2016, further deepening her knowledge and understanding of the Earth’s geological processes.
Throughout her education, Metcalf-Lindenburger was an active member of various organizations, including the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, Phi Beta Kappa, National Education Association, and The Mars Generation. She demonstrated her commitment to academic excellence and leadership in these organizations.
Before her career as an astronaut, Metcalf-Lindenburger dedicated herself to teaching. She spent five years teaching earth science and astronomy at Hudson’s Bay High School in Vancouver, Washington. She also devoted three years to coaching cross-country and two years to coaching Science Olympiad at the high school level.
Metcalf-Lindenburger’s passion for geology was evident in her undergraduate research. She conducted research with the KECK Consortium for two summers, one in Wyoming mapping the last glaciations of Russell Creek in 1995, and another in 1996 mapping and determining the petrology of rocks in the Wet Mountain region of Colorado. Her research led to publications, marking early successes in her scientific career.
In May 2004, Metcalf-Lindenburger’s dream of becoming an astronaut became a reality when she was selected by NASA as an astronaut candidate. She embarked on the rigorous training program that included orientation briefings, technical and scientific instruction, flight training, and survival training. In February 2006, she successfully completed her training, officially qualifying as a NASA Astronaut.
Metcalf-Lindenburger’s first space mission came in April 2010 as a mission specialist on STS-131, a Space Shuttle mission to the International Space Station. This mission was notable for having the first-ever four-woman crew in space, with Metcalf-Lindenburger representing one of the four women. The primary payload of the mission was the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module.
Outside of her astronaut duties, Metcalf-Lindenburger demonstrated her talent and passion as a singer. She sang the National Anthem at the Houston Astros game on July 20, 2009, in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing. She was also a lead singer with the all-astronaut rock band, Max Q.
Metcalf-Lindenburger’s remarkable contributions to space exploration did not stop at her Space Shuttle mission. On April 16, 2012, NASA announced that she would command the NEEMO 16 mission. NEEMO stands for NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations, which involves underwater activities to simulate space exploration conditions. Her selection as a mission commander further solidified her position as a respected and influential astronaut.
Dorothy Metcalf-Lindenburger’s career as an astronaut and her commitment to education and scientific exploration have left a lasting impact on both the space community and society as a whole. She has inspired countless individuals, especially young girls, to pursue their dreams in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Her role as a trailblazer in women’s history is undeniable, and her journey continues to shape the future of space exploration.
Awards:
– 2007 Space Camp Hall of Fame Inaugural Inductee
– 1999 Outstanding Teacher Preparation Candidate at Central Washington University
– 1997 Whitman College Leed’s Geology Award
– 1997 Whitman College Order of the Waiilatpu
– 1996 GSA Field Camp Award
– 1995-1996 NAIA Academic All-American in Cross Country and Track
– 1996 NAIA Conference Champion in the 10K