NASA astronaut Brig. Gen. Nick Hague has retired from the agency, marking the end of a remarkable career that saw him participate in two spaceflight missions, spend 374 days in space, and conduct multiple spacewalks aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Hague will continue his service with the U.S. Space Force, reflecting a lifelong commitment to advancing space exploration and technology.
Hague’s first long-duration mission began in March 2019 when he launched aboard the Soyuz MS-12 spacecraft from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. Serving as a flight engineer during Expeditions 59/60, he spent 203 days in orbit, conducting three spacewalks to upgrade the station’s power systems and support its maintenance. His contributions extended to a wide array of scientific investigations, covering fields such as biology, human physiology, materials science, and technology demonstrations.
Overcoming Challenges and Achievements in Space
Hague’s career was not without its challenges. Originally set to fly in 2018 as part of the Soyuz MS-10 crew, he experienced a launch anomaly shortly after liftoff. The mission required a high-G ballistic abort, but Hague and his crewmate landed safely. Demonstrating resilience, he returned to flight status within months and successfully completed his 2019 mission.
In September 2024, Hague flew again during NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission, launching from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. This mission was historic, marking the first human spaceflight from that location and the first time a Space Force Guardian launched to space. Hague joined the Expedition 72 crew, spending 171 days aboard the ISS and conducting another spacewalk, bringing his career total to 25 hours and 56 minutes over four spacewalks.
Leadership and Legacy at NASA
“Nick’s determination and dedication to human space exploration are truly phenomenal,” said Vanessa Wyche, director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. “His leadership and commitment to mission excellence have supported progress aboard the International Space Station and prepared us for future missions as we continue to explore farther into the solar system.”
Beyond his spaceflight accomplishments, Hague served in various technical and leadership roles within NASA. He was instrumental in developing future spacecraft operations, contributed to astronaut training, and played a key role in human spaceflight safety initiatives, leveraging his firsthand experience during the MS-10 launch abort.
“Nick brought calm, clarity, and a spirit of teamwork to every situation,” said Scott Tingle, chief of the Astronaut Office at NASA Johnson. “From his work in orbit to his support of crew operations here on Earth, he exemplified what it means to be an astronaut. His impact will continue to shape the missions and the astronauts who follow.”
From Kansas to the Stars
A native of Hoxie, Kansas, Hague’s journey to the stars began with a strong academic foundation. He earned a bachelor’s degree in astronautical engineering from the U.S. Air Force Academy and a master’s degree in the same field from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Before joining NASA in 2013, Hague served as a developmental and test engineer supporting advanced Air Force technologies and operations both domestically and internationally.
In his current role as a brigadier general in the U.S. Space Force, Hague is responsible for the development and implementation of policy for all U.S. Space Force global operations, sustainment, training, and readiness.
The Future of Space Exploration
“It has been an honor to serve as a NASA astronaut,” Hague stated. “Working alongside incredible teams, on the ground and in space, has been the privilege of a lifetime. The International Space Station represents the very best of what humanity can accomplish when we work together. I am grateful to have contributed to that mission, and I look forward to watching NASA, our partners, and the next generation of explorers push even farther as we return to the Moon and journey on to Mars.”
Hague’s retirement marks the end of an era but also the beginning of new opportunities for the next generation of astronauts. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire future explorers as NASA and its international partners continue to push the boundaries of human space exploration.
