November 08

Seddon earned her medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia and served in the Air Force Medical Corps. Selected by NASA in 1978, she became one of the first female NASA physicians-astronauts. She flew on STS-51-D, STS-40, and STS-58, conducting medical experiments in microgravity. Seddon specialized in space medicine, studying its effects on human health. After leaving NASA, she worked in aerospace medicine and health policy. Her work expanded understanding of medical care in space and inspired future generations of women in STEM.

Gardner graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and earned a master’s in aeronautical engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School. Selected by NASA in 1978, he served on STS-8 and STS-51-A missions. During STS-51-A, he notably retrieved two satellites using an Manned Maneuvering Unit in the first space salvage mission. Gardner logged over 264 hours in orbit. After NASA, he worked in aerospace engineering and consultancy. His achievements demonstrated ingenuity in orbital operations and inspired space exploration efforts.