José M. Hernández: From Migrant Fields to Space Exploration
José Moreno Hernández, a Mexican-American engineer and former NASA astronaut, embodies the realization of the American dream through education and perseverance. His journey from working in the fields of California to soaring among the stars on the Space Shuttle Discovery is a testament to his dedication and the power of education.
Early Life and Overcoming Obstacles
Born on August 7, 1962, in French Camp, California, José Hernández considers Stockton, California, his hometown. His family's roots trace back to La Piedad, Michoacán, Mexico. As a child, Hernández divided his time between La Piedad and the United States, working alongside his family and other farmworkers, harvesting crops as they migrated across California. This experience instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for education.
Growing up in a migrant farming family presented numerous challenges. Hernández didn't become proficient in English until he was 12 years old, and his education was frequently disrupted as his family moved from town to town. Despite these obstacles, he remained focused on his goal of becoming an astronaut.
A pivotal moment in his life occurred in 1972 when he watched the final Apollo moon mission, Apollo 17, on television. This event ignited his passion for space exploration and solidified his determination to pursue a career in the field.
Recognizing the importance of education, one of Hernández's teachers, Miss Young, encouraged his parents to stay in Stockton so that he could receive a more stable education. This support proved to be crucial in his academic development.
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Academic Pursuits and Engineering Career
Hernández participated in Upward Bound during high school, a Federal TRIO program that prepares students for college. After graduating from Franklin High School in Stockton, he pursued higher education, becoming the first in his family to attend college.
In 1984, he earned a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from the University of the Pacific. Demonstrating his commitment to academic excellence, he continued his studies, obtaining a master's degree in electrical and computer engineering from the University of California, Santa Barbara, in 1986. He was also a member of Eta Kappa Nu Electrical Engineering Honor Society. The University of the Pacific later awarded him an honorary LL.D.
From 1987 to 2001, Hernández worked as an engineer at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. During his time there, he honed his skills in signal and image processing, applying them to various applications, including radar imaging and computed tomography. He also developed quantitative x-ray film imaging analysis techniques, contributing to the development of an X-Ray laser as part of the Strategic Defense Initiative Program.
Notably, Hernández co-invented the first full-field digital mammography system while at Lawrence Livermore. This groundbreaking technology significantly improved early breast cancer detection, showcasing his commitment to using his engineering skills for the benefit of society.
NASA Career and Spaceflight
In 2001, Hernández joined NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, driven by his lifelong dream of becoming an astronaut. However, his path to space was not without obstacles. He applied to NASA's astronaut training program eleven times before finally being selected in May 2004.
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Hernández persevered, demonstrating resilience and determination in the face of repeated rejections. Heeding his wife's advice, he analyzed the qualifications of successful candidates and identified areas where he could improve, such as becoming a pilot, learning to scuba dive, and becoming proficient in another language spoken by a space partner.
In February 2006, he completed Astronaut Candidate Training, which encompassed scientific and technical briefings, intensive instruction in Shuttle and International Space Station systems, physiological training, T-38 flight training, and water and wilderness survival training.
During his NASA career, Hernández held various technical assignments. He served as a Materials Research Engineer, evaluating advanced structural materials for aircraft and spacecraft. He also served as Branch Chief of the Materials and Processes Branch, managing a team of scientists and engineers and overseeing activities related to materials science, fracture control, and non-destructive evaluation.
In 2007, Hernández participated in the NEEMO 12 mission, spending 11 days as an aquanaut in an underwater laboratory. This experience prepared him for the challenges of living and working in a confined environment, simulating the conditions of spaceflight.
On July 15, 2008, Hernández's dream came true when he was selected as a mission specialist-flight engineer for the STS-128 mission aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery. The mission launched on August 28, 2009, marking a significant milestone in his career and life.
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During the 14-day STS-128 mission, Hernández and his crewmates delivered supplies and equipment to the International Space Station, contributing to the ongoing research and operations conducted in orbit. The crew conducted three spacewalks and transferred over 18,000 pounds of supplies and equipment to the station. The STS-128 mission was accomplished in 217 orbits of the Earth, traveling over 5.7 million miles in 332 hours and 53 minutes.
Hernández's journey to space was a testament to his unwavering dedication and the culmination of years of hard work and preparation. He became only the second Mexican-American to travel to space, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Post-NASA Career and Political Aspirations
After retiring from NASA in January 2011, Hernández embarked on a new chapter in his life, entering the realm of politics.
In 2012, he ran for the U.S. House of Representatives for California's 10th congressional district. Although he lost to the incumbent, Congressman Jeff Denham, Hernández's campaign brought attention to important issues, such as immigration reform and STEM education.
During his campaign, Hernández faced scrutiny regarding a 2010 personal tax lien imposed by the IRS, which he paid in 2012. Despite this challenge, he garnered endorsements from various organizations, including Democracy for America and the California Labor Federation.
Since his 2012 loss, Hernández has made multiple public statements regarding potential future campaigns. He remains active in public life, advocating for causes he believes in and inspiring others to pursue their goals.
Other Ventures and Legacy
Beyond his engineering and space exploration achievements, Hernández has also ventured into entrepreneurship. He owns a 20-acre vineyard near Lodi, California, where he grows grapes and produces wine under the name Tierra Luna Cellars, which translates to "Earth Moon" Cellars in English.
Hernández's life story has resonated with many, inspiring the 2023 movie "A Million Miles Away," where he was portrayed by actor Michael Peña. The film celebrates his remarkable journey from migrant farmworker to astronaut, highlighting his perseverance, dedication, and the importance of family and education.
Throughout his career, Hernández has received numerous accolades and honors, including the Department of Energy Outstanding Performance Commendation, the Society of Mexican American Engineers and Scientists (MAES) Medalla de Oro, and the Hispanic Engineer National Achievement Award. In 2016, he received the National Hispanic Hero Award presented by the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute.
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