NASA astronaut Brigadier General Nick Hague has officially retired from the agency, marking the end of a remarkable career that saw him spend 374 days in space and participate in multiple spacewalks. Hague will continue his service in the U.S. Space Force, where his expertise will contribute to national space operations and policy development.
Hague’s journey into space began with his launch aboard the Soyuz MS-12 spacecraft in March 2019 from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. During this mission, he served as a flight engineer for Expeditions 59 and 60, spending 203 days in orbit. His contributions included three spacewalks focused on upgrading the International Space Station’s power systems and performing essential maintenance tasks.
From Launch Anomaly to Space Success
Originally slated for a 2018 mission with the Soyuz MS-10 crew, Hague’s first attempt at space travel was interrupted by a launch anomaly shortly after liftoff. The incident required a high-G ballistic abort, but both Hague and his crewmate landed safely. Demonstrating resilience, Hague returned to flight status within months, completing his mission in 2019.
In September 2024, Hague embarked on NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission, launching from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. This mission was groundbreaking as it marked the first human spaceflight from the complex and the first time a Space Force Guardian traveled to space. Hague joined the Expedition 72 crew, spending another 171 days aboard the station before returning in March 2025.
A Legacy of Leadership and Exploration
Hague’s career total of 25 hours and 56 minutes across four spacewalks is a testament to his dedication to space exploration. Vanessa Wyche, director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, praised Hague’s contributions, stating,
“Nick’s determination and dedication to human space exploration are truly phenomenal. 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 spaceflights, Hague played a pivotal role in NASA’s technical and leadership domains. His work included developing future spacecraft operations, enhancing astronaut training, and advancing human spaceflight safety initiatives. Scott Tingle, chief of the Astronaut Office at NASA Johnson, highlighted Hague’s influence, saying,
“Nick brought calm, clarity, and a spirit of teamwork to every situation. 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.”
Continuing Service with the U.S. Space Force
A native of Hoxie, Kansas, Hague’s career extends beyond NASA. As a brigadier general in the U.S. Space Force, he is responsible for developing and implementing policies for global operations, sustainment, training, and readiness. His academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in astronautical engineering from the U.S. Air Force Academy and a master’s degree 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. His transition to the Space Force allows him to continue influencing the future of U.S. space endeavors.
A Vision for the Future
Reflecting on his career, Hague expressed gratitude for his experiences and optimism for the future of space exploration.
“It has been an honor to serve as a NASA astronaut,” said Hague. “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.”
As Hague transitions to his new role, the legacy of his contributions to space exploration and leadership at NASA will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of astronauts and space enthusiasts.
