Ohio Astronauts -Richard Linnehan

Richard Linnehan

By William D.Hinsch

Richard Linnehan

“From Ohio state veterinarian to NASA astronaut: Richard Linnehan’s journey has led through veterinary medicine, military service, and space exploration. Linnehan firmly believes that it is mankind’s destiny as a species to reach out to the cosmos and walk among the stars. He envisions a future where humans will not only reach out to the stars but live among them for lifetimes.”

Dr. Richard Linnehan’s journey from a veterinary student at The Ohio State University to an astronaut on the International Space Station is a remarkable testament to the boundless opportunities that arise from dedication and curiosity. Born on September 19, 1957, in Lowell, Massachusetts, Linnehan’s academic and professional path reflects a lifelong commitment to both animal sciences and space exploration.

Graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences from the University of New Hampshire and later earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from The Ohio State University, Linnehan’s early career was deeply rooted in veterinary medicine. His work took him from private practice to the Zoo Animal Medicine and Comparative Pathology at the Baltimore Zoo and John Hopkins University. His expertise and leadership as a U.S. Army Veterinary Corps captain and his role as the chief clinical veterinarian for the U.S. Navy’s Marine Mammal Program highlight his significant contributions to veterinary science.

Linnehan’s transition to astronautics began when NASA sought a veterinarian astronaut to oversee animal experiments on the space station. Selected into the astronaut program in 1992, Linnehan became the first veterinarian to complete astronaut training. His comparison of the rigorous astronaut training to veterinary school reflects the intensity and dedication required in both fields.

His first space mission in 1996 aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia was a pivotal moment, allowing him to conduct life science and microgravity experiments. Linnehan’s unique perspective as a veterinarian provided valuable insights into the adaptation of rodents to space conditions, contributing to our understanding of living organisms in microgravity. His subsequent missions continued to focus on life sciences, neurology, and the effects of space on the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Linnehan’s third mission in 2002 was particularly noteworthy as he participated in the fourth Hubble Space Telescope Servicing Mission. His spacewalks and contributions to replacing the telescope’s solar arrays and power control unit demonstrate his versatility and skill as an astronaut. The Columbia disaster in 2003 was a somber moment in his career, but Linnehan’s resolve to continue exploring and expanding human presence in space remained unshaken. His final mission on the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 2008 was a testament to his expertise and dedication. As the lead spacewalker, Linnehan played a crucial role in delivering the Japanese Experiment Logistics Module and the Canadian-built robot Dextre to the International Space Station. His work during this mission underscores the importance of international collaboration and technological innovation in space exploration.

Today, Linnehan continues to contribute to NASA’s efforts in space exploration and animal welfare. His work with the Astronaut Office Exploration and Integration branches, the institutional review board, and the Johnson Space Center’s Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee reflects his ongoing commitment to advancing both human and animal science.

Throughout his illustrious career, Linnehan has received numerous honors, including NASA medals and alumni awards, highlighting his exceptional service and contributions. As an adjunct professor, he continues to inspire and educate the next generation of scientists and explorers. Linnehan’s belief in the future of human exploration and the prospect of humans being born on Mars speaks to his visionary outlook. His career is not just a series of missions and achievements but a profound narrative of how passion, dedication, and a willingness to explore the unknown can lead to extraordinary experiences and contributions to humanity’s understanding of itself and the universe. Dr. Richard Linnehan’s story is a beacon for all who aspire to reach beyond the confines of Earth, seeking to unravel the mysteries of space and life beyond our planet.