Born: 1963 (Washington, D.C.)
Biography:
Lisa Marie Nowak (née Caputo, born May 10, 1963) is an American aeronautical engineer, convicted criminal, and former NASA astronaut and United States Navy officer. Nowak’s life has been marked by both significant accomplishments and personal struggles.
Born in Washington, D.C., Nowak grew up in a family that instilled in her a love for science and exploration. She excelled academically and developed a strong interest in aviation and space. Following her passion, Nowak enrolled at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, from where she graduated in 1985.
After graduation, Nowak joined the United States Navy and began her career as a naval flight officer and test pilot. She was assigned to VAQ-34 at Naval Air Station Point Mugu, California, where she honed her skills flying the EA-7L Corsair and ERA-3B Skywarrior. Recognizing her exceptional abilities, Nowak was selected to attend the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland, in 1993.
During her time at Patuxent River, Nowak flew the F/A-18 Hornet and EA-6B Prowler, gaining extensive experience and amassing over 1,500 flight hours in more than 30 different aircraft. Her exceptional contributions to the field of aeronautics were recognized with prestigious accolades, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal, and the Navy Achievement Medal.
In 1996, Nowak made history by being selected as a mission specialist in robotics for NASA Astronaut Group 16. This achievement allowed her to fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming an astronaut. She underwent rigorous training and preparation for her space missions, including operating the robotic arms of the Space Shuttle Discovery and the International Space Station.
Nowak achieved her biggest milestone in July 2006 when she flew in space aboard Space Shuttle Discovery during the STS-121 mission. She played a crucial role in successful mission operations and contributed significantly to the advancement of space exploration.
However, Nowak’s life took a dramatic turn in 2007 when she became involved in a highly publicized incident of criminal misconduct. She was arrested in Orlando, Florida, after assaulting and pepper-spraying Colleen Shipman, a U.S. Air Force captain who was romantically involved with astronaut William Oefelein, with whom Nowak had been in a relationship.
The incident led to Nowak pleading guilty to felony burglary and misdemeanor battery charges. As a result, she faced severe consequences, including her demotion from captain to commander, and the termination of her employment with both NASA and the Navy. A Naval Board of Inquiry later voted unanimously to reduce her rank even further to commander and discharge her from the Navy under other than honorable conditions.
Despite the unfortunate events that tarnished her career, Nowak’s contributions to the field of aeronautics and her successful space mission remain an integral part of women’s history. Her accomplishments serve as an inspiration for young women pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Awards:
– Defense Meritorious Service Medal
– Navy Commendation Medal
– Navy Achievement Medal