# Scott Altman

> American astronaut, aviator and test pilot

**Wikidata**: [Q382247](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q382247)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scott_Altman)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/scott-altman

## Summary
Scott Altman is an American astronaut, aviator, and test pilot renowned for his career with NASA and distinguished military service. A veteran of multiple space missions, he contributed to advancements in aerospace exploration and held leadership roles in naval aviation. His achievements include receiving prestigious honors such as the Distinguished Flying Cross and the NASA Distinguished Service Medal.

## Biography
- **Born**: August 15, 1959  
- **Nationality**: United States  
- **Education**:  
  - University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign  
  - Naval Postgraduate School  
  - United States Naval Test Pilot School  
- **Known for**: NASA astronaut, naval aviator, and test pilot  
- **Employer(s)**: NASA, United States Navy  
- **Field(s)**: Aerospace, aviation, space exploration  

## Contributions
- **NASA Astronaut Group 15**: Selected as part of this elite group, contributing to space missions and aerospace research.  
- **Military Decorations**: Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal for exceptional service in naval aviation.  
- **Test Pilot Expertise**: Advanced aviation safety and performance through rigorous testing and evaluation.  

## FAQs
**What is Scott Altman’s educational background?**  
He studied at the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, the Naval Postgraduate School, and the United States Naval Test Pilot School.  

**What organizations has Scott Altman been affiliated with?**  
He served in the United States Navy and later joined NASA as an astronaut.  

**What awards has Scott Altman received?**  
He was honored with the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, and NASA Distinguished Service Medal.  

## Why They Matter
Scott Altman’s dual career as a naval aviator and NASA astronaut underscores his pivotal role in both military and civilian aerospace innovation. His test pilot expertise ensured the reliability of aircraft systems, while his contributions to NASA supported the progression of space exploration. As a member of Astronaut Group 15, he helped maintain U.S. leadership in spaceflight during a critical era of shuttle missions and international collaboration.

## Notable For
- **Awards**: Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, NASA Distinguished Service Medal  
- **Affiliations**: NASA Astronaut Group 15, United States Naval Test Pilot School  
- **Dual Career**: Distinguished service in both naval aviation and space exploration  

## Body

### Early Life and Education  
Scott Douglas Altman was born on August 15, 1959. He pursued higher education at the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, followed by specialized training at the Naval Postgraduate School and the prestigious United States Naval Test Pilot School. These institutions equipped him with the technical and operational skills necessary for a career in high-stakes aviation and spaceflight.

### Military and Aviation Career  
Altman’s military career included assignments as a naval aviator, where he demonstrated exceptional skill and bravery, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal. His role as a test pilot at the Naval Test Pilot School involved rigorous evaluation of aircraft systems, directly impacting the safety and efficacy of naval aviation operations.

### NASA Career  
As a member of **NASA Astronaut Group 15**, Altman joined an elite cohort of space professionals tasked with advancing U.S. space initiatives. His work with NASA included contributions to shuttle missions and the development of protocols critical to manned spaceflight. Though specific mission details are not provided in the source material, his affiliation with this group highlights his role in maintaining operational excellence during a pivotal period in NASA’s history.

### Awards and Recognition  
Altman’s career was marked by significant accolades, including:  
- **Distinguished Flying Cross**: Awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement in aerial flight.  
- **Air Medal**: Recognized for meritorious achievement in flight operations.  
- **NASA Distinguished Service Medal**: Honored for outstanding contributions to NASA’s mission.  

These awards reflect his dual impact in military aviation and civilian space exploration, solidifying his legacy as a leader in both domains.

## References

1. [Source](https://searchpub.nssc.nasa.gov/servlet/sm.web.Fetch/Agency_Awards_Historical_Recipient_List.pdf?rhid=1000&did=2120817&type=released)
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
3. Spaceman