Mark Kelly

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Records

Mark Kelly's career is marked by several historic achievements. He and his twin brother Scott are the only siblings to have both flown in space, a unique distinction in human spaceflight. Kelly commanded the final flight of Space Shuttle Endeavour, one of the most storied orbiters in NASA's fleet. His transition from astronaut to U.S. senator is rare; only a handful of people have served in both roles. As a gun-safety advocate, he helped build a national organization that has influenced policy debates. Kelly's military service includes 39 combat missions, and his four spaceflights logged over 54 days off Earth.

AwardsMark Kelly has received numerous military and NASA decorations. His military awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, and Air Medal with combat devices. NASA awarded him the Space Flight Medal (three service stars) and the Exceptional Service Medal. These honors recognize his combat service in the Gulf War and his four Space Shuttle missions.

Honours & Distinctions

Only sibling pair to both fly in space

NASA·2011

Mark and Scott Kelly are the only siblings to have both traveled to space.

Records & Feats

First person to both command a Space Shuttle and serve in the U.S. Senate

Historic First·2020

Kelly is the only individual to have commanded a Space Shuttle mission and later become a U.S. senator.

Only sibling pair to both fly in space

Historic First·2011

Mark and Scott Kelly are the only siblings to have both traveled to space.