NASA Astronaut and Cranfield Alumnus inspires local pupils

Image courtesy NASA / Josh Valcarcel

Commander Hathaway, who studied at Cranfield in 2014, visited Holywell School in Cranfield to speak with Year 5 pupils during an assembly.

Commander Hathaway shared his inspiring journey from serving as a Commander in the US Navy to training as a NASA astronaut. He spoke about his experiences preparing for future missions to the International Space Station and the Moon, offering the children a unique insight into the challenges and rewards of space exploration.

During the assembly, students enthusiastically quizzed Commander Hathaway about his career, his ambitions for space travel and what it takes to become an astronaut. He also judged a space-related competition that the pupils had completed in class, providing thoughtful feedback and encouragement to the children.

Commander Jack Hathaway said: “It was such a wonderful visit; the kids were so smart and articulate and they were excited to hear my story and I was excited to hear their questions and their stories. Certainly, a bunch of kids who have great plans for their lives.”

Professor Mark Westwood, Professor of Aeronautics and Head of Centre for Aeronautics at Cranfield University, said: “We were thrilled to welcome Commander Jack Hathaway back to Cranfield and to the local community.

“His story is incredibly inspiring and it was wonderful to see the children so engaged and excited to learn about space and STEM opportunities.”

The visit left a lasting impression on the pupils, sparking curiosity and excitement about space. It also reinforced the strong connection between Cranfield University, its alumni, and the local community.

Neil Colbourne, Head of Science at Holywell said: “Our Year 5 students had been learning about space and were excited to find out about Commander Hathaway’s journey to becoming a real astronaut. Dressed in his NASA uniform, he was inspirational. His message to ‘Dream big’ was perfect. As the students left the assembly and headed back to their lessons there was a sparkle in their eyes, a spring in their step and an ambition to reach for the stars. Mission accomplished.”

Commander Jack Hathaway is a NASA astronaut and a former Commander in the US Navy. Selected by NASA in 2021, he has completed rigorous astronaut training and is qualified for future missions to the International Space Station and the Moon. He is a proud alumnus of Cranfield University, where he studied in 2014 before embarking on his remarkable career in space exploration.