Mark Polansky

Mark Polansky is a NASA astronaut and former U.S. Air Force colonel who flew on three Space Shuttle missions during his career with NASA. Selected as an astronaut in 1996, he served as pilot on STS-98 and later commanded STS-116 and STS-127, missions that supported the continued assembly and expansion of the International Space Station. His leadership during these missions helped deliver critical station components and advance international collaboration in human spaceflight.

Through discussions and outreach events, Polansky has shared insights about the responsibilities of leading a space mission and the teamwork required to successfully operate complex spacecraft systems. His experiences commanding shuttle crews highlight the importance of preparation, communication, and adaptability in achieving mission objectives while supporting NASA’s broader goals for exploration and scientific discovery.

He was the astronaut who handed out the diploma during graduation.