06/01/2026
Christina Koch is an American astronaut and engineer best known for her groundbreaking achievements aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and her continued contributions to NASA’s human spaceflight programs.
From an early age, she developed a strong interest in science, exploration, and engineering. She later earned degrees in Electrical Engineering and Physics, building a strong academic foundation that led her to a career in space research and technology development.
In 2013, Koch was selected as a NASA astronaut. After years of rigorous training, she flew to the ISS as part of Expeditions 59, 60, and 61, where she served as a flight engineer and contributed to a wide range of scientific experiments in biology, Earth science, and human physiology.
She made history by completing 328 consecutive days in space, the longest single spaceflight by a woman at the time, helping scientists better understand the effects of long-duration space travel on the human body.
Koch also participated in the first all-female spacewalks alongside astronaut Jessica Meir, marking a major milestone in space exploration and representation.
Beyond her record-breaking mission, she continues to play an important role in NASA’s future exploration efforts, including participation in Artemis missions aimed at returning humans to the Moon.
Today, Christina Koch is widely respected for her courage, discipline, and contributions to advancing human spaceflight, inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers around the world.