“Aggie in Space”

Have you ever looked up into the night sky and dreamed about flying in space? Can you imagine what it would be like for that dream to come true? Strap in for an exciting talk by Colonel Mike Fossum ‘80 (USAFR ret) as he talks about his journey from the Mexican border in South Texas, to Texas A&M and the Air Force, then to NASA. At NASA he helped design the International Space Station (ISS), then flew 3 missions for a total of 194 days in space, performed 7 spacewalks to help build the space station, and finally served as the Commander of the ISS. Colonel Fossum’s career has now made its own complete orbit as he is now a Vice President of Texas A&M as he serves as the leader of our marine and maritime branch campus in Galveston.

About

Michael E. Fossum ’80 currently serves as a Vice President of Texas A&M University, the Chief Operating Officer of the Galveston Campus, and the Superintendent of the Texas A&M Maritime Academy. Fossum joined Texas A&M following his retirement from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) – Johnson Space Center in 2017.

Fossum is a veteran of three space flights with more than 194 days in space and more than 48 hours in seven spacewalks during his 19 years as an astronaut. During his last mission in 2011, Fossum served as the Commander of the International Space Station. He has logged over 2,000 hours in 35 different aircraft throughout the course of his career. Fossum earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University and was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Air Force in 1980. He is also a graduate of the US Air Force Test Pilot School and has earned Master of Science degrees in Systems Engineering and Physical Science/Space Science.

Fossum was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and grew up in McAllen, Texas. He is married to his Aggie sweetheart, the former Melanie J. London ’80. They have four children and seven grandchildren. He enjoys family and outdoor activities. Fossum has been a lifelong supporter and volunteer in the Scouting program.

Col. Michael E. Fossum ’80, USAFR (Ret.)

NASA Astronaut, Chief Operating Officer at Texas A&M University, Galveston, Vice President at Texas A&M University, Superintendent at the Texas A&M Maritime Academy, and Executive Professor of Maritime Administration at Texas A&M University, Galveston.