Dr. Bernard Harris, a distinguished University of Houston alum and former astronaut, is slated for induction into the prestigious U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame. His legacy of being the first African American to conduct a spacewalk marks a historical moment in space exploration. The ceremony will take place in Florida at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on May 31, a detail confirmed by CW39.
With a career spanning two missions, the Texas native blazed a trail for African-American spacefarers during his time with NASA. As he prepares to join the ranks of spaceflight's elite in the Hall of Fame, Harris expressed his gratitude towards the contemplative selection process that involves his peers. "Being inducted into the Astronaut Hall of Fame is a tremendous honor, made even more special by the fact that it comes from my peers," Harris told CW39. "This recognition isn’t just about my accomplishments. It is also a testament to the teamwork and dedication of everyone who shared this amazing journey with me along the way."
The Hall of Fame, originally established by the Mercury Seven astronauts, stands as a testament to the exploits and contributions of NASA astronauts. Harris, along with the inductee Peggy Whitson, are poised to join 109 others who have previously been bestowed this honor. Curt Brown, who serves as the chairman of the board for the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation, underscored the significance of their induction during a visit that was made to showcase the Hall of Fame, "The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame welcomes two exceptional and trailblazing veterans of the space program who contributed significantly to NASA’s mission and program," he reportedly said, according to an article from the University of Houston.
Following his celebrated NASA career, where Harris was pivotal in designing medical equipment innovations still in use today, he founded Vesalius Ventures, focusing on investing in novel medical technologies. Furthering his contributions even beyond celestial bounds, Harris established The Harris Foundation. Aimed at empowering youth from disadvantaged backgrounds, the foundation echoes his belief in limitless potential and aspiration, a belief which he shared, according to University of Houston release, "Space exploration has always been about pushing boundaries, inspiring future generations and proving that the impossible is achievable."
