Astronaut Tom Marshburn Announces Retirement From NASA — What’s Next for Him?

A NASA astronaut is now looking forward to greener pastures.

Dr. Thomas H. Marshburn, M.D. has recently announced his retirement from NASA after almost 30 years to begin a new journey with a private company.

The veteran astronaut went to the International Space Station (ISS) thrice in his career, with him leaving the station on a different vehicle each time, according to Space.com.

Dr. Thomas Marshburn M.D. Retirement Details

NASA announced that Dr. Marshburn is retiring from the agency after 28 years of service, with 18 of them as an astronaut. His latest incursion to space was during SpaceX's Crew-3 mission as the crew's pilot, though he could also act as a surgeon should the need arises.

SpaceX's Crew-3 mission launched on Nov. 11, 2021, and ended on May 6, 2022, following the successful arrival of SpaceX's Crew-4 members on the ISS on April 27, according to a separate NASA blog post.

During his last time on the ISS, Dr. Marshburn and his crewmates performed more than 250 scientific investigations that could benefit humanity and help future exploration. They tested new systems for growing crops and studied potentially drought-resistant cotton plants.

Additionally, they also tried out a new device that can create bandages made from skin cells directly onto a wound.

Dr. Marshburn also participated in a spacewalk to replace a faulty antenna on the ISS' Port-1 truss structure.

Dr. Marshburn said that it was beyond difficult to say farewell to the friends and colleagues he made during his 28 years in NASA, saying it was "an honor" to have participated in the United States' human spaceflight endeavors.

He also added that he is excited about the new challenges awaiting him after his retirement from NASA.

Norm Knight, director of Flight Operations at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, said that Dr. Marshburn is an exceptional astronaut and that his contributions to the space agency's mission as a flight surgeon, astronaut, and mentor have left "an indelible impact."

"Future crew members and colleagues will continue to benefit from his work as we continue to revolutionize spaceflight in low-Earth orbit and on our Artemis missions to the Moon and to Mars," Knight added.

NASA's Johnson Space Center extended her heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Marshburn for his "dedication and service to human space exploration," adding that his leadership and achievements to benefit humanity will inspire the next generation to carry humanity to even greater heights.

What's Next For Dr. Marshburn?

Dr. Marshburn's retirement follows his decision to move on to Sierra Space, a private space company where he will be the chief medical officer for its human spaceflight center and astronaut training academy. According to the space company's announcement, he will report to its president, Dr. Janet Kavandi, who is also a former NASA astronaut.

He will be based out of the company's facilities located at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, where he will play an important role in Sierra Space's plans.

When questioned about his move to pursue a career under Siera Space, Dr. Marshburn said he is thrilled to join the company to fulfill such an important role. He also added he is looking forward to the creation and development of rules, regulations, and training that ensure Sierra Space is properly equipped to train the next astronaut crops successfully.