NASA Astronaut, Former Record Holder for The Longest Time a US Citizen Has Been in Space, Founder of Foale Aerospace & Co-Author of ‘Waystation to the Stars’

Michael Foale CBE is a British-American astrophysicist, former NASA astronaut, and one of the most accomplished space explorers in history. A veteran of six space missions, he has spent an extraordinary 374 days, 11 hours and 19 minutes in orbit, once holding the record for the most time spent in space by a U.S. citizen. The only NASA astronaut to complete extended missions on both the Russian Mir and the International Space Station, Michael is renowned for his calm heroism during the 1997 Mir collision. Today, he shares his remarkable journey and insights as an inspirational and highly sought-after speaker.

Michael’s distinguished career began at the University of Cambridge, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Physics and Natural Sciences, followed by a Doctorate in Laboratory Astrophysics. After completing his studies, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Centre, initially serving as a Payload Officer in Mission Control. In 1987, he was selected as a NASA astronaut, marking the start of an extraordinary journey in human spaceflight.

Over the years, Michael flew on six space missions, including extended stays on both the Russian Mir Space Station and the International Space Station, making him the only NASA astronaut to have completed long-duration missions on both. During the 1997 Mir collision, when debris punctured the station and caused a dangerous drop in pressure, Michael’s decisive actions and calm problem-solving helped save the crew and the station, earning him international respect.

He later held senior leadership roles at NASA, including Assistant Director of the Johnson Space Centre, Chief of the Astronaut Office Expedition Corps and Deputy Associate Administrator for Exploration Operations. Today, Michael is the founder of Foale Aerospace, advancing green aviation technologies, and remains active as a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society and the Institute of Physics, inspiring innovation and future explorers worldwide.

Michael co-authored ‘Waystation to the Stars’, which chronicles his scientific training, his harrowing 1997 Mir collision experience, and life aboard the International Space Station. He has written technical papers on spacecraft operations, mission safety, and orbital systems. His insights have been featured in BBC Horizon, Discovery Channel’s Space Chronicles, NASA TV, and numerous space documentaries. Michael also contributes expert commentary to aerospace journals and international STEM education media.

Why Hire Michael Foale?

Booking Michael Foale brings audiences face-to-face with one of the most inspiring figures in modern space exploration. His story combines scientific brilliance, courage under pressure and a deep understanding of teamwork and leadership. Having survived and successfully managed the 1997 Mir collision crisis, Michael offers first-hand insights into staying calm, making critical decisions and solving problems when the stakes are highest.

As a speaker, Michael shares extraordinary lessons on resilience, adaptability and innovation drawn from his time living and working in space. He connects his experiences in orbit to real-world challenges faced by businesses, educators and global leaders. Beyond his space career, his work in sustainable aviation and green technologies offers a compelling vision for the future of science and the planet.

With his engaging storytelling style and genuine passion for discovery, Michael Foale inspires audiences to think boldly, collaborate fearlessly and reach beyond perceived limits.

To book Michael to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.