Who Is Jeanette Epps? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on November 3, 1970, Jeanette Epps is an accomplished American aerospace engineer and NASA astronaut who has made significant contributions to space exploration. Growing up in Syracuse, New York, Epps showed an early interest in science and technology. After graduating from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering, she furthered her education by obtaining a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from Rice University. Epps has garnered attention not only for her work in the aerospace sector but also as a trailblazer for women of color in STEM fields.
As of 2025, Jeanette Epps is 54 years old, and her career continues to inspire young women and aspiring engineers across the globe.
| Occupation | Scientists |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 3, 1970 |
| Age | 54 Years |
| Birth Place | Syracuse, New York, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Jeanette Epps's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Jeanette Epps stands at approximately 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall. Her weight is around 140 lbs (63.5 kg), and she maintains a healthy and active lifestyle that is essential for her demanding role as an astronaut. Epps often emphasizes the importance of physical fitness, especially in preparation for space missions.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Regarding her personal life, Jeanette Epps is relatively private. As of 2025, she is not publicly known to be in a relationship, and details about her dating life remain undisclosed. There have been no records of a boyfriend or girlfriend, nor is there any known spouse. Epps continues to focus on her career while maintaining strong ties to her family, particularly her supportive parents and siblings who have been instrumental in her journey.
Net Worth and Salary
In 2025, Jeanette Epps's net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $2 million. This impressive figure is primarily attributed to her salary from NASA, which is standard for astronauts with her level of experience, and additional income from speaking engagements and educational roles. While Epps’s specific earnings have not been disclosed, salaries for NASA astronauts can range widely depending on experience level and time in service.
Career, Business, and Investments
Jeanette Epps's career is as remarkable as it is inspiring. After completing her education, she worked as a technical intelligence officer with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) before joining NASA as an astronaut candidate in 2009. Epps's expertise as an aerospace engineer has led her to work on numerous advanced projects, including initiatives in microgravity research.
In addition to her work with NASA, Epps is passionate about mentoring the next generation of scientists and engineers. She engages in public speaking events, promoting STEM education and opportunities for women in technology. Though not known for business ventures, her investments and focus have predominantly centered around education and outreach in the aerospace field.
After graduating, Epps worked in research at Ford Motor Company, then as a Technical Intelligence Officer with the Central Intelligence Agency.
Her work at the Ford Motor Company, resulted in a provisional patent involving the application of magnetostrictive actuators to reduce vibrations in the suspension control arms, and later, a US patent for detection of the location of a frontal collision in an automobile. She worked at the CIA for seven years, including deployments to Iraq.
Before becoming an astronaut, her role at the CIA was a Technical Intelligence Officer.
Social Network
Jeanette Epps actively participates in social media to inspire and connect with her followers. You can find her on:
- Twitter: @jeanette_epps
- Instagram: @jeanette_epps
On January 4, 2017, NASA announced that Epps would be assigned as a flight engineer to the International Space Station (ISS) in mid-2018 for Expeditions 56 and 57, but on January 16, 2018, NASA announced that Epps had been replaced by her backup Serena M. Auñón-Chancellor and would instead be "considered for assignment to future missions".
The reason for Epps' removal was not stated, and a NASA spokesperson said, "These decisions are personnel matters for which NASA doesn't provide information." The Washington Post stated that "Last-minute crew changes are not unusual at NASA," although Epps’ brother blamed racism for her removal.
Education
Jeanette Epps's educational background is a testament to her hard work and determination. She earned her B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Maryland in 1993. Following that, she obtained a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from Rice University in 2000. Epps's educational journey underscored her commitment to excellence and remains a significant part of her narrative as one of NASA's leading astronauts.
Jeanette Jo Epps (born November 3, 1970) is an American aerospace engineer and NASA astronaut. Epps received both her M. S. and Ph.D. degrees in aerospace engineering from the University of Maryland, where she was part of the rotor-craft research group and was a NASA GSRP Fellow.
She was chosen for the 20th class of NASA astronauts in 2009, graduating in 2011. She currently serves as a member of the ISS Operations Branch and has completed analog astronaut missions, including NEEMO 18 and CAVES 19. She is the second woman and first African-American woman to have participated in CAVES.
She was part of the SpaceX Crew-8 mission, that spent 235 days on the ISS from launch on March 4, 2024, to return to Earth on October 25, 2024.
