NASA astronaut Jeanette Epps is set to ignite young minds during the Intrepid Museum's Kids Week, bringing her extraordinary space exploration experience directly to aspiring scientists and engineers on Sunday, February 16! 
Official portrait of NASA astronaut Jeanette Epps taken at NASA's Johnson Space Center. Credit: NASA/Bill Stafford
Kids Week allows children of all ages to dive into the exciting world of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) through a variety of thrilling activities. From engaging NASA displays and exhibits to captivating live animal shows, hands-on workshops and performances by special guests, there’s something for everyone!
Three days of Kids Week are part of the NASA Explore Days. This program promises an immersive space-themed adventure, featuring interactive displays, exhibits, and hands-on activities designed to inspire children from all backgrounds. With a special focus on increasing STEM opportunities for underrepresented communities, the event will welcome young explorers to discover the wonders of space and scientific discovery.
As part of the Museum's NASA Explore Days, Epps will share her incredible journey from aerospace engineer to astronaut, offering attendees a unique glimpse into the world of space exploration on February 16. Her presence at Kids Week will provide a unique opportunity for children to learn about space exploration and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead!
Early Life
Jeanette Epps, born on November 3, 1970, in Syracuse, New York, has become an inspiration for aspiring scientists. Her remarkable journey from a physics student to a NASA astronaut demonstrates the power of dedication and passion!
Education and Early Career
Epps' academic path took off with a bachelor's degree in physics from Le Moyne College. She continued her education at the University of Maryland, earning master's and Ph.D. degrees in Aerospace Engineering. Her research focused on innovative materials and helicopter technologies, setting the stage for her future space career.
NASA and Space Exploration
Selected as a NASA astronaut in 2009, Epps underwent rigorous training that included:
NASA astronaut and SpaceX Crew-8 Mission Specialist Jeanette Epps is seated inside a T-38 trainer jet at Ellington Field in Houston, Texas. Credit: NASA
She completed her astronaut training in 2011 and continued to grow her skills by participating in underwater missions and geological studies. In 2019, she participated in the ESA CAVES training program, becoming the second woman and the first Black woman to do so! This program prepares astronauts for exploring unknown places like the Moon and Mars.
Her groundbreaking SpaceX Crew-8 mission in 2024 made her the second Black woman to complete a long-duration mission on the International Space Station, spending an impressive 235 days in space!
NASA astronaut and SpaceX Crew-8 mission specialist Jeanette Epps is pictured in her pressure suit during a crew equipment integration test at SpaceX headquarters in Hawthorne, California. Credit: SpaceX.
Contributions and Achievements
Throughout her time at NASA, Jeanette has made significant contributions to space exploration. She has worked on improving how astronauts work together on the ISS and received an award for her innovative ideas in 2013.
Jeanette has also played important roles in mission control, helping guide astronauts during their flights. Currently, she works in the ISS Operations Branch, continuing to support space missions.
Expedition 71 Flight Engineer and NASA astronaut Jeanette Epps poses for a portrait inside the seven-window cupola, the International Space Station's "window to the world," while orbiting 259 miles above Greece in 2024. Credit: NASA.
Inspiring the Next Generation
At the Intrepid Museum's NASA Explore Days as a part of Kids Week, Epps will continue her mission of inspiring young minds. By sharing her experiences and insights, she hopes to encourage children to pursue their dreams in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Jeanette Epps' appearance at the Intrepid Museum is more than just a talk – it's an opportunity to spark curiosity, break barriers and show young people that with hard work and determination, the sky is not the limit!
To learn more about Jeanette Epps, visit the Intrepid Museum during this year’s Kids Week. Tickets can be purchased here. More information about Kids Week and the 2025 schedule can be found here.
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