NASA Astronaut Returns to Military Service
NASA astronaut Jonny Kim departs agency after nine years, returning to active duty as Navy lieutenant commander.
The update
NASA astronaut Jonny Kim has left the space agency after nearly a decade of service to return to active military duty as a lieutenant commander in the U.S. Navy. Kim’s last day at NASA was Thursday, August 27, 2026. During his NASA career, he completed one spaceflight, an eight-month mission to the International Space Station in 2025 where he served as a flight engineer during Expeditions 72/73.
Why it matters
Kim’s departure highlights the unique career paths of astronauts with military backgrounds. His resume includes serving as both a Navy SEAL and a physician with a Harvard medical degree before joining NASA. His transition back to military service reflects the complex career decisions faced by specialized personnel with multiple high-demand skills.
What to watch
How NASA’s astronaut retention strategies may evolve in response to military personnel returning to service. Whether other astronauts with military backgrounds will follow similar paths. How Kim’s dual expertise in medicine and military operations might continue to benefit space exploration efforts.