Lawrence holds the honor as the first African American selected for a space program.

This article stands tribute to the contributions and accomplishments of each and every astronaut listed below, while recognizing the efforts of countless African Americans on the ground who made these spaceflights possible. Several have distinguished themselves as senior leaders at NASA, including as the agency’s administrator. African American astronauts played key roles in the assembly of the International Space Station, and today utilize the orbiting lab by performing numerous spacewalks and robotic operations and conducting research as expedition crewmembers. These astronauts have made history with contributions that include participating in space shuttle missions to perform critical tasks such as deploying and retrieving satellites, performing spacewalks, conducting science and technology research, and piloting and commanding space shuttle missions. Prior to flying in space, these individuals served as military pilots, engineers, scientists, and physicians, and more. In honor of Black History Month, we recognize the contributions of African Americans to our nation’s space programs.