# Anne McClain > American astronaut **Wikidata**: [Q13500570](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q13500570) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anne_McClain) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/anne-mcclain ## Summary Anne McClain is an American astronaut, test pilot, and former rugby union player known for her contributions to aerospace exploration and her service in the U.S. military. Born on June 7, 1979, she became a NASA astronaut in 2013 and has participated in missions aboard the International Space Station (ISS), including spacewalks. McClain is recognized for her dual career in the military and spaceflight, as well as her academic achievements in engineering and law. ## Biography - **Born**: June 7, 1979 - **Nationality**: United States - **Education**: - University of Bath (Master of Laws) - University of Bristol (Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering) - United States Military Academy (Bachelor of Science) - United States Naval Test Pilot School - **Known for**: NASA astronaut, test pilot, and military service. - **Employer(s)**: NASA, United States Army. - **Field(s)**: Aerospace engineering, military aviation, space exploration. ## Contributions - **NASA Astronaut Group 21**: Selected in 2013 as part of NASA's 21st astronaut class. - **ISS Expeditions**: Participated in Expeditions 58/59 (2018–2019) and conducted two spacewalks. - **Military Service**: Served in the U.S. Army as a helicopter pilot, including deployments in Iraq. - **Test Pilot Experience**: Graduated from the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School and flew over 200 aircraft. - **Rugby Career**: Played rugby union at the collegiate and international levels. ## FAQs **What is Anne McClain's educational background?** McClain holds degrees from the United States Military Academy, the University of Bristol, and the University of Bath, with expertise in engineering and law. **What are her notable military achievements?** She served as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army, earning awards like the Bronze Star Medal and Air Medal during deployments in Iraq. **When did she join NASA?** McClain was selected as a NASA astronaut in 2013 and flew on her first space mission in 2018. **What is her connection to rugby?** She played rugby union at the collegiate level and competed internationally, balancing athletics with her academic and military career. ## Why They Matter Anne McClain's career bridges military aviation and space exploration, making her a prominent figure in STEM fields. Her contributions to NASA missions, including critical spacewalks, advance global scientific research. As a female astronaut and test pilot, she inspires underrepresented groups in aerospace. Her dual expertise in engineering and law also highlights interdisciplinary leadership in technical professions. ## Notable For - **NASA Astronaut Group 21**: Selected in 2013 as one of eight candidates. - **Spacewalks**: Conducted two extravehicular activities during her ISS mission. - **Military Decorations**: Recipient of the Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal, and Commendation Medal. - **Rugby Career**: Competed in rugby union while pursuing higher education. - **Academic Achievements**: Holds advanced degrees in engineering and law from prestigious institutions. ## Body ### Early Life and Education Anne Charlotte McClain was born on June 7, 1979, in Spokane, Washington. She graduated from the United States Military Academy in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science degree. McClain later earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Bristol (2005) and a Master of Laws from the University of Bath (2006). Her academic focus spanned engineering, international law, and aerospace systems. ### Military Career McClain served as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army, flying the Bell OH-58 Kiowa. She deployed to Iraq and participated in combat operations, earning the Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal, and Commendation Medal. She later graduated from the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School in 2010, accumulating over 2,000 flight hours in more than 200 aircraft. ### NASA Career Selected as a NASA astronaut in 2013, McClain trained for missions involving robotics, spacewalks, and Russian language proficiency. Her first spaceflight occurred in 2018 as part of ISS Expedition 58/59, where she spent 204 days in space. During this mission, she performed two spacewalks totaling 12 hours and 34 minutes, focusing on maintenance and upgrades to the ISS. ### Rugby Union Career McClain played rugby union at the collegiate level for the University of Bath and competed internationally for the U.S. Armed Forces team. Her athletic career underscored her dedication to teamwork and physical discipline alongside her technical pursuits. ### Awards and Recognition McClain's honors include the National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal. She also received a Marshall Scholarship for postgraduate studies in the U.K., reflecting her academic excellence and leadership potential. ### Personal Life McClain is married to fellow engineer and former rugby player Scott McClain. She advocates for STEM education and has engaged in public outreach to inspire young people, particularly girls, to pursue careers in science and engineering. ### Legacy As a decorated military officer, test pilot, and astronaut, McClain embodies the intersection of national service and scientific advancement. Her role in NASA's missions supports ongoing research in microgravity and deep-space exploration, contributing to foundational knowledge for future Artemis program goals. Her career trajectory—from rugby fields to spaceflight—demonstrates resilience and adaptability, leaving a lasting impact on both the military and aerospace communities. ## References 1. [Source](https://www.space.com/nasa-astronaut-anne-mcclain-space-crime-claim.html) 2. [Source](https://www.lanacion.com.ar/lifestyle/en-las-redes/anne-mcclain-la-astronauta-senalada-por-cometer-el-primer-delito-en-el-espacio-fue-declarada-nid21112025/) 3. Google Knowledge Graph 4. [Source](https://www.podchaser.com/creators/anne-mcclain-107aIUugk8/appearances)