Ellen Baker was born on April 27, 1953 in North Carolina. From a young age, she had an interest in space and medicine, which would eventually lead her to a remarkable career as an astronaut and a medical doctor. She attended Cornell University, where she earned her medical degree in 1978.
Ellen Baker's journey to becoming an astronaut began when she was selected by NASA to join the astronaut corps in 1984. She underwent rigorous training and preparation for her first mission, which would be aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-71. This mission was a historic one, as it involved the first Shuttle-Mir docking, paving the way for future cooperation between NASA and the Russian space agency.
During her time at NASA, Ellen Baker not only conducted important research in space, but also served as the Chief of the Education/Medical Branch. Her contributions to the field of space medicine were invaluable, and she was recognized for her dedication and expertise in the field.
Ellen Baker's personal life was also a source of great joy for her. She was married to Kenneth J. Baker, with whom she had two daughters. Despite the demands of her career as an astronaut and a doctor, she always made time for her family and cherished the moments they spent together.
Ellen Baker's impact on the field of space exploration and medicine is undeniable. Her pioneering spirit and dedication to advancing our understanding of space has inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in STEM fields. She will always be remembered as a trailblazer who pushed the boundaries of what was possible.
Ellen Baker's legacy serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance and determination. Her accomplishments as both an astronaut and a medical doctor are a testament to her passion for exploration and discovery. She will forever be remembered as a visionary who helped shape the future of space exploration.