Astronaut Jonny Kim, Who Met Queens Students in 2022, Now Embarks on First Space Mission

Congresswoman Grace Meng commended NASA astronaut Jonny Kim once they arrived successfully at the International Space Station (ISS) during his debut space mission, barely two years later. visiting Queens To motivate local students, Kim blasted off into space along with two Russian cosmonauts and reached the ISS. on Tuesday morning He is set to stay at the space station for eight months, where he will carry out various scientific investigations encompassing fields such as technological advancement, Earth observation, biological studies, and research into human physiology. [caption id="attachment_516586" align="aligncenter" width="765"] Representative Grace Meng greeted astronaut Jonny Kim at her office. Photo courtesy of Representative Grace Meng’s office [/caption] Meng, who represents New York's 6th Congressional District , formerly collaborated with NASA to bring Kim to Queens in October 2022 During that trip, Kim had a meeting with students at Francis Lewis High School in Fresh Meadows and the Queens College School for Math, Science and Technology in Flushing . The astronaut also joined Meng for a luncheon with Korean American leaders and community stakeholders in Flushing. “I remember seeing the excitement from Queens students when Jonny Kim came to their school and how they were inspired by his story,” said Meng. “I’m thrilled to now see him arriving in space and I wish him all the best in this important mission.”

In 2022, during his trip to Queens, Kim recounted his compelling life story to students, sharing how he became an astronaut, discussing his military experience, and highlighting the challenges he faced throughout his journey. Born to South Korean parents who moved to America, Kim joined the U.S. Navy where he served as a Navy SEAL, participating in over 100 combat operations and receiving commendations such as the Silver Star and Bronze Star for bravery. After leaving the military, he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics at the University of San Diego before pursuing further education and eventually graduating from Harvard Medical School with a Doctorate in Medicine. He was chosen to be part of NASA’s elite astronaut program in 2017.