Franklin R. Chang-Díaz: 1950—: Astronaut, Physicist Biography

Franklin R. Chang-Díaz: 1950—: Astronaut, physicist.

As one of the first Hispanic Americans to fly in space, astronaut and physicist Franklin R. Chang-Díaz has participated in seven space shuttle missions. He is a specialist in applied plasma physics and fusion technology, and has worked on experiments aboard the space shuttle that, it is hoped, will lead to signifi-cant improvements in the manufacture of medicines. His current research at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, which focuses on plasma propulsion technology, is expected to contribute toward achieving workable methods for human space flights to Mars.