# Thomas Marshburn

> American physician and NASA astronaut

**Wikidata**: [Q520384](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q520384)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Marshburn)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/thomas-marshburn

## Summary
Thomas Marshburn is an American physician and NASA astronaut known for his contributions to space exploration and medical research. Born on August 29, 1960, he has participated in multiple space missions and holds key roles in NASA's astronaut corps. His work bridges medicine and spaceflight, advancing human health in extreme environments.

## Biography
- **Born:** August 29, 1960
- **Nationality:** United States
- **Education:** 
  - University of Virginia (degree not specified)
  - Wake Forest University (degree not specified)
  - Davidson College (degree not specified)
- **Known for:** Contributions to space medicine and NASA missions
- **Employer(s):** NASA
- **Field(s):** Aerospace medicine, space exploration

## Contributions
Thomas Marshburn has participated in NASA missions, though specific mission details are not provided in the source material. His dual background in medicine and astronautics underscores his role in ensuring crew health and safety during spaceflight. As a member of NASA Astronaut Group 19 (2004), he contributes to the advancement of human space exploration.

## FAQs
**Q: What is Thomas Marshburn's profession?**  
A: He is both a physician and a NASA astronaut, combining medical expertise with space mission experience.

**Q: Where has Thomas Marshburn worked?**  
A: He is affiliated with NASA and has been part of NASA Astronaut Group 19 since 2004.

**Q: What educational institutions is he associated with?**  
A: Marshburn has ties to the University of Virginia, Wake Forest University, and Davidson College.

**Q: Has Thomas Marshburn received any notable awards?**  
A: He has been awarded the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, recognizing his contributions to the agency's goals.

## Why They Matter
Thomas Marshburn's unique blend of medical and astronautical expertise makes him a critical figure in addressing the health challenges of space travel. His involvement in NASA missions and his role in Astronaut Group 19 highlight his impact on the safety and success of human spaceflight programs. Without professionals like Marshburn, the medical aspects of long-duration space missions would be significantly understudied, posing risks to astronaut well-being.

## Notable For
- **Dual Career:** Practicing physician and NASA astronaut.
- **NASA Affiliation:** Member of NASA Astronaut Group 19 (2004).
- **Awards:** Recipient of the NASA Distinguished Service Medal.
- **Educational Background:** Alumni of prestigious institutions including the University of Virginia, Wake Forest University, and Davidson College.

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Thomas Henry Marshburn was born on August 29, 1960. He pursued higher education at the University of Virginia, Wake Forest University, and Davidson College, though specific degrees earned are not detailed in the source material. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for his dual career in medicine and space exploration.

### Career
Marshburn's career is marked by his dual roles as a physician and astronaut. He joined NASA as part of Astronaut Group 19 in 2004, a group that included candidates selected for their diverse skill sets in science, engineering, and medicine. His medical background has been instrumental in addressing the unique health challenges faced by astronauts during space missions.

### NASA Contributions
As a NASA astronaut, Marshburn has been involved in missions that advance human spaceflight, though the source material does not specify mission names or dates. His work with the agency emphasizes the critical intersection of medicine and space exploration, ensuring that astronauts remain healthy and perform effectively in microgravity environments.

### Affiliations and Recognition
Marshburn's professional affiliations include the University of Virginia, Wake Forest University, and Davidson College, reflecting his academic journey. His receipt of the NASA Distinguished Service Medal underscores his significant contributions to the agency's mission, recognizing individuals who have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service.

### Legacy
While specific mission details are not provided, Marshburn's legacy is rooted in his commitment to both the medical and aerospace fields. His role in NASA Astronaut Group 19 and his ongoing work with the agency highlight the importance of interdisciplinary expertise in pushing the boundaries of space exploration. As space missions grow longer and more complex, the medical insights provided by professionals like Marshburn will remain essential to safeguarding astronaut health and mission success.

## References

1. [Source](http://www.jsc.nasa.gov/Bios/htmlbios/marshburn-th.html)
2. [Source](http://www.spacefacts.de/bios/astronauts/english/marshburn_thomas.htm)
3. [Source](https://searchpub.nssc.nasa.gov/servlet/sm.web.Fetch/Agency_Awards_Historical_Recipient_List.pdf?rhid=1000&did=2120817&type=released)
4. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013