UCSD Grad Jessica Meir Heads to International Space Station

NASA astronaut will spend 8 months studying microgravity's effects on the human body.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

NASA astronaut Jessica Meir, a UC San Diego graduate, is on her way to the International Space Station where she will spend the next 8 months conducting research on how microgravity affects the human body. Meir, who previously spent 205 days on the space station in 2019-2020, lifted off from Cape Canaveral, Florida aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft along with three other astronauts.

Why it matters

Meir's research on the effects of microgravity is critical for future space exploration missions to the Moon and Mars, as understanding how the human body adapts to extended periods in space is key to ensuring the health and safety of future astronauts.

The details

Meir, who earned a doctorate in marine biology from UCSD's Scripps Institution of Oceanography in 2009, is the commander of the current mission to the ISS. During her time on the station, she will be part of several experiments and studies focused on how the human body responds to the microgravity environment of space.

  • Meir and three other astronauts lifted off from Cape Canaveral, Florida on February 13, 2026.
  • They are expected to reach the International Space Station early on February 14, 2026.

The players

Jessica Meir

A NASA astronaut and UC San Diego graduate who is making her second trip to the International Space Station.

UC San Diego

The university where Meir earned her doctorate in marine biology in 2009.

Scripps Institution of Oceanography

The research institute at UC San Diego where Meir conducted her graduate studies.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Jessica Meir's second mission to the International Space Station underscores the important role that UCSD and its Scripps Institution of Oceanography play in preparing the next generation of space scientists and explorers.