Robert Behnken was born on July 28, 1970 in St. Ann, Missouri. He grew up with a passion for all things related to space and aviation. After completing high school, Behnken went on to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering and physics from Washington University in St. Louis. He was a dedicated student, always striving for excellence in his academic pursuits.
After obtaining his undergraduate degrees, Behnken continued his education at the California Institute of Technology, where he earned a doctorate in mechanical engineering. His research focused on advanced propulsion systems for spacecraft, further solidifying his expertise in the field of aerospace engineering.
Behnken's passion for aviation led him to join the United States Air Force, where he quickly rose through the ranks to become a Colonel. During his time in the military, Behnken served as a military test pilot, honing his skills in flying aircraft in a variety of challenging conditions. He was recognized for his exceptional contributions with the Air Force Achievement Medal and two Air Force Commendation Medals.
In 2000, Behnken was selected to join the ranks of NASA's elite astronaut corps. He underwent rigorous training to prepare for spaceflight missions, including survival training, spacewalk practice, and simulations of emergency scenarios. Behnken's first mission as a NASA astronaut was as a Mission Specialist on the STS-123 flight of the Space Shuttle Endeavour in March 2008.
Behnken's performance on his first mission was exceptional, and he was selected to participate in future Endeavour missions. In 2010, he flew on STS-130, contributing to the assembly of the International Space Station and conducting numerous experiments in microgravity.
Outside of his professional life, Behnken is a loving husband to his wife, K. Megan McArthur, who is also a NASA astronaut. The two met during their astronaut training and share a mutual love for exploration and discovery. Behnken and McArthur have two children together and are dedicated to balancing their demanding careers with family life.
In 2012, Behnken made history by becoming the Chief of the Astronaut Office at NASA, succeeding Peggy Whitson. In this role, he oversees the training and assignments of all NASA astronauts, ensuring that they are prepared for the challenges of spaceflight. Behnken's leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the future of space exploration.
Throughout his career, Robert Behnken has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and a passion for pushing the boundaries of human knowledge. His contributions to aerospace engineering and space exploration have earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the wider scientific community. Behnken's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of astronauts and engineers to reach for the stars.
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