Bernard A. Harris Jr.

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Bernard Harris WPI 2014

Bernard A. Harris Jr. is an American astronaut, physician, and entrepreneur known for his significant contributions to space exploration and medicine. Born on June 26, 1956, in Temple, Texas, Harris has had a distinguished career that spans several decades, during which he has achieved numerous milestones, including becoming the first African American to perform a spacewalk.

Early Life and Education

Harris grew up in San Antonio, Texas, and showed an early interest in science and space. He pursued his education with a focus on medicine and completed his Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Houston. He later earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine. Harris also holds a Master of Medical Science from the University of Texas Medical Branch and an MBA from the University of Houston.

NASA Career

Harris was selected by NASA in January 1990 as an astronaut candidate. After completing his training, he became an astronaut in July 1991. Harris first flew into space as a mission specialist on STS-55, aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in April 1993. This mission was part of the Spacelab D-2, and during this flight, the crew conducted a variety of research experiments across multiple disciplines.

His second flight was on STS-63, aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery in February 1995. This mission is particularly notable because Harris became the first African American to perform an extravehicular activity (EVA), or spacewalk. During the mission, Harris and his colleague Michael Foale conducted an EVA to test technologies designed for the assembly of the International Space Station (ISS).

Post-NASA Career

After leaving NASA in April 1996, Harris has been involved in several ventures and initiatives aimed at promoting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, particularly among underrepresented groups. He founded the Harris Foundation, which focuses on education, health, and wealth. The foundation's notable programs include the Bernard Harris Summer Science Camp and the Dream Tour, initiatives designed to inspire youth in STEM fields.

Harris has also been involved in the healthcare sector, applying his expertise in medicine and management to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes. He has served on the boards of various organizations, including the National Math and Science Initiative, which aims to improve student performance in STEM subjects across the United States.

Legacy and Honors

Bernard A. Harris Jr.'s work has been widely recognized and honored. He has received numerous awards, including the NASA Space Flight Medal, the NASA Award of Merit, and he has been inducted into the Texas Science Hall of Fame. Harris's pioneering spacewalk and his efforts to promote STEM education have made him a role model and an inspiration to many.

See Also

• African Americans in science
• Space exploration
• List of spacewalks and moonwalks

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