News Summary
Zena Cardman, a native of Williamsburg, Virginia, has been selected as the commander for the SpaceX Crew-11 mission to the International Space Station. Scheduled for July 2025, this mission will conduct vital scientific investigations and technology demonstrations in collaboration with NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. Cardman’s journey into space marks a significant milestone as she prepares for her first flight, having a strong educational background in biology and marine sciences. As excitement builds for the mission, Cardman’s achievements highlight pride for her hometown.
Historic Mission: Williamsburg Native Ready to Soar
From the charming streets of Williamsburg, Virginia, to the endless wonders of space, astronaut Zena Cardman is about to embark on an incredible journey! This ambitious space explorer has been selected as the commander for the upcoming SpaceX Crew-11 mission to the International Space Station (ISS), set to lift off in July 2025. It’s an exciting time for space enthusiasts and a proud moment for her hometown!
The Mission’s Mission
The SpaceX Crew-11 mission will be the 11th crew rotation in NASA’s Commercial Crew Program — a partnership that allows astronauts to travel to the ISS aboard SpaceX’s cutting-edge spacecraft. What makes this mission even more thrilling is the emphasis on conducting essential scientific investigations and technology demonstrations. The findings from these explorations could be instrumental in paving the way for human travel to the moon and beyond. Plus, they will serve to enhance life right here on Earth!
All Aboard! A Journey Begins
For Zena, this journey marks her first flight into space, a significant milestone for any astronaut. Cardman is not new to the world of space exploration; she was initially slated to be part of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission before she was reassigned to Crew-11. With a solid background in science, she holds a bachelor’s degree in Biology and a master’s in Marine Sciences from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She was even working towards a doctorate in Geosciences when she received her astronaut selection in 2017.
Digging Deep into Science
Cardman’s research journey has taken her to some extraordinary places. She specializes in geobiology and geochemical cycling in various subsurface environments. This includes everything from intriguing caves to the mysterious depths of the ocean floor. With extensive field experience—having traversed the harsh landscapes of Antarctica and conducted research aboard vessels—Zena is well-prepared for the challenges of space.
A Team Effort
Following her rigorous astronaut training, Cardman has been involved in real-time operations aboard the ISS and has contributed to detailed planning for lunar exploration. The Crew-11 team, set to launch no earlier than July 2025, will work together on long-duration scientific expeditions once they reach the ISS, furthering human knowledge of outer space.
Communication is Key
Cardman has made it a point to connect with current American astronauts working aboard the ISS. By reaching out for insights and advice, she is ensuring that she is fully prepared for her upcoming space journey.
Community Pride
Before rising to these great heights, Zena graduated from Bruton High School right in Williamsburg. Her academic pursuits at UNC laid the groundwork for her incredible career, and she spent time as a graduate research fellow at Pennsylvania State University prior to her astronaut selection.
A Personal Touch
In addition to her stellar career, Zena has a personal life that’s just as captivating. She is engaged to Miles Saunders, a navigator aboard a deep-sea research vessel. With two passionate explorers in love, it’s clear that adventure is part of their life’s fabric!
Looking Ahead
As the countdown to July 2025 begins, the excitement for the SpaceX Crew-11 mission grows. With Zena Cardman at the helm, awe-inspiring discoveries await! Her journey is not only a personal achievement but a moment of pride for Williamsburg, proving that dreams of the stars are well within reach!
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Additional Resources
- WYDaily: Williamsburg Astronaut to Lead SpaceX Crew-11
- Wikipedia: Zena Cardman
- WRAL: UNC Alumna Astronaut Zena Cardman
- Google Search: Zena Cardman
- ABC11: Zena Cardman NASA Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Zena Cardman
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
