LIVE: Astronaut candidates graduate

NASA Astronaut Training and Selection

• NASA introduced its 12 newest astronauts who completed two years of intensive training.
• The astronauts underwent various training modules, including flying T-38 jets, spacewalking skills, studying the International Space Station, and preparing for deep space exploration.
• NASA celebrated the successful completion of two years of rigorous training for the 2023 astronaut candidates.
• The candidates were recognized as official NASA astronauts and UAE astronauts.
• The ceremony emphasized the exceptional and unique qualities of each astronaut and their contributions as individuals and as a team.
• NASA's core values, including safety, integrity, teamwork, excellence, and inclusion, were highlighted as essential principles for astronauts.
• The astronauts were reminded of the importance of prioritizing their own safety and the safety of their colleagues and teammates.
• Each astronaut was introduced with a brief description of their background, accomplishments, and qualities that make them exceptional.
• The astronauts expressed gratitude for the support and encouragement they received during their training and acknowledged the importance of sharing their stories and experiences to inspire others.

NASA's Artemis Program and Future Missions

• NASA officials praised the astronauts' hard work and dedication and acknowledged the agency's progress in space exploration, including the successful launch of Crew 8 and the upcoming Boeing Starliner test flight.
• The International Space Station was recognized as a crucial hub for scientific research and technology demonstration, paving the way for future long-duration missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
• Astronaut Laurel O'Hara sent a special message from the International Space Station, congratulating the new astronauts and encouraging them to continue their passion for exploration.
• NASA's busy season of space activities was highlighted, including the recent launch of Crew 8, the upcoming return of Crew 7, and the planned launch of NASA astronauts Tracy Dyson and Laura Lara to the International Space Station.
• NASA Administrator Bill Nelson introduces the 23rd class of NASA astronauts and highlights their diverse backgrounds and accomplishments.
• Nelson emphasizes that the Artemis Generation includes everyone on Earth who is working together to explore the solar system.
• The 12 new astronauts are introduced: Marcos Berríos, Christina Birch, Deniz Burnham, Luke Delaney, Andre Douglas, Jessica Wittner, Nora Al-Matrooshi (UAE), Muhammad Al-Ahbabi (UAE), Anil Menon, Christopher Williams, Jasmin Moghbeli, and Jessica Watkins.
• Dr. Harrison Schmidt, an Apollo 17 astronaut and geologist, addresses the audience and emphasizes the importance of assimilating the discipline of flying jet aircraft as a foundation for human space flight.
• Schmidt discusses the significance of lunar resources and the need for an international regime to avoid future conflicts.
• He highlights the importance of biomedical science and the potential for humans to adapt to lunar gravity.
• Schmidt emphasizes that the Moon is a stepping stone to Mars and beyond, and that human evolution in the universe has begun.
• NASA's Associate Administrator Jim Free praises the work of the Artemis 1 team and their successful uncrewed test flight.
• Free emphasizes the importance of international collaboration and the significance of graduating not only NASA astronauts but also International partner astronauts.

Astronaut Experiences and Advice

• Astronauts shared their experiences, highlighting the challenging but rewarding nature of the training program.
• They emphasized the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in space flight and expressed excitement about their future missions.
• Chris Williams is a board-certified medical physicist, private pilot, and Eagle Scout known for his deep understanding of complex engineering systems and his humility.
• Jessica Whitner is a former enlisted sailor, now a Lieutenant Commander, Naval aviator, and test pilot with a passion for geology and a distinguished career in aerospace engineering.
• Nora Al Matrooshi is the first Emirati and Arab woman astronaut, a mechanical engineer, and a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. She is known for her compassion, fearlessness, and ability to push boundaries.
• Mohammed Al Mulla is a commercial pilot, the youngest in the Dubai Police Force, and holds a bachelor's degree in law and economics. He is selfless, generous, and has a great sense of humor.
• The NASA astronaut class lead, Chris Birch, expressed gratitude to their families, trainers, and fellow astronauts for their support and mentorship during the challenging training process.
• The new astronauts emphasized the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and shared experiences in their journey to becoming astronauts.
• They highlighted the value of diversity in backgrounds and perspectives within the astronaut corps and expressed excitement about contributing to NASA's missions, including low Earth orbit science, the International Space Station, and the Artemis program.
• The astronauts also showcased their camaraderie and sense of humor through a video that captured their experiences during training and highlighted their close bonds.
• Astronaut Nicole Aunapu Mann's call sign, "Vapor," was chosen by her squadron mates based on stories about her interactions, flying skills,