L. Blaine Hammond, American colonel, pilot, and astronaut

Lloyd Blaine Hammond Jr., born on January 16, 1952, is a distinguished American aviator and former NASA astronaut whose remarkable career spans critical roles in both military aviation and space exploration. His diverse professional journey includes service as a United States Air Force officer, an accomplished NASA astronaut who ventured into space on two separate Space Shuttle missions, and a highly skilled Gulfstream test pilot, contributing significantly to advanced aerospace development.

Early Life and Distinguished Military Service

Hammond Jr.'s foundational experience in aviation began with his rigorous training as a United States Air Force officer. A graduate of the prestigious U.S. Air Force Academy in 1973, he earned his pilot wings and went on to become an accomplished fighter pilot. During his decorated career with the USAF, he gained extensive experience flying high-performance tactical aircraft, including the advanced F-15 Eagle, renowned for its air superiority capabilities, and the T-38 Talon, a supersonic jet trainer often used by astronauts. This period honed his exceptional piloting skills and deep understanding of complex aerospace systems, critical prerequisites for his future roles. His dedication and expertise led him to further specialize as a test pilot, a demanding discipline that involves evaluating new aircraft designs and modifications, ensuring their safety and performance limits are thoroughly understood. This background in military flight test proved invaluable for his subsequent work with NASA.

A Career Among the Stars: NASA Astronaut

In May 1985, Blaine Hammond Jr. was selected by NASA as part of Astronaut Group 10, a testament to his elite piloting skills and engineering acumen. This selection marked the beginning of an intensive period of training, preparing him for the unique challenges of spaceflight, including complex orbital mechanics, spacecraft systems operations, and emergency procedures. His dedication culminated in his assignment to two pivotal Space Shuttle missions as a pilot, contributing directly to humanity's understanding and exploration of space.

• STS-44: Atlantis (November 24 – December 1, 1991)

As the pilot of Space Shuttle Atlantis on STS-44, Hammond Jr. played a crucial role in a demanding Department of Defense mission. The primary objective of this seven-day flight was the successful deployment of a Defense Support Program (DSP) satellite, a critical asset for national security providing early warning of missile launches. The mission also involved conducting various scientific experiments and engineering tests in the unique microgravity environment, demonstrating the versatility and capabilities of the Space Shuttle program. His precision piloting was essential for the delicate maneuvers required for satellite deployment and rendezvous operations.

• STS-53: Discovery (December 2–9, 1992)

Less than a year later, Hammond Jr. returned to space as the pilot of Space Shuttle Discovery on STS-53. This mission was also a dedicated Department of Defense flight, carrying a variety of classified payloads and conducting a diverse range of scientific and technological experiments. The crew performed complex maneuvers and operations, further showcasing the Space Shuttle's capacity for strategic and scientific endeavors. Across his two missions, Hammond Jr. logged a total of 13 days, 18 hours, and 23 minutes in Earth orbit, accumulating invaluable experience in orbital operations and spacecraft command.

Post-NASA Contributions: Gulfstream Test Pilot

Following his distinguished career with NASA, Blaine Hammond Jr. transitioned to another high-stakes role: a Gulfstream test pilot. In this capacity, he applies his unparalleled flight experience and deep technical knowledge to the development and certification of advanced business jet aircraft. Gulfstream Aerospace is a world-renowned manufacturer of sophisticated corporate aircraft, known for their performance, luxury, and technological innovation. As a test pilot for such an organization, Hammond Jr. is instrumental in pushing the boundaries of aviation technology, conducting rigorous flight tests to evaluate new designs, systems, and modifications. This work ensures the safety, efficiency, and superior performance of these cutting-edge aircraft before they are delivered to customers worldwide, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to aerospace excellence and innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lloyd Blaine Hammond Jr.

Who is Lloyd Blaine Hammond Jr.?

Lloyd Blaine Hammond Jr. is a highly accomplished individual known for his multifaceted career as a former United States Air Force officer, a former NASA astronaut who flew on two Space Shuttle missions, and currently, a Gulfstream test pilot.

What Space Shuttle missions did Blaine Hammond Jr. participate in?

Blaine Hammond Jr. served as the pilot on two Space Shuttle missions: STS-44 aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis in 1991 and STS-53 aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery in 1992.

What was his role in the U.S. Air Force?

In the U.S. Air Force, Hammond Jr. was a distinguished officer and fighter pilot, flying aircraft like the F-15 Eagle, and also served as a skilled test pilot, evaluating advanced aircraft systems.

What does a Gulfstream test pilot do?

As a Gulfstream test pilot, Hammond Jr. is responsible for conducting rigorous flight tests on new and modified business jet aircraft, evaluating their performance, safety, and systems to ensure they meet stringent certification standards before commercial release.