Joe Acaba is an American astronaut and educator, born on May 17, 1967, in Inglewood, California. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology from California State University, Los Angeles and a Master of Science degree in Geology from University of Arizona. Acaba joined NASA in 2004 and has participated in multiple space missions, including flights on the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. Throughout his career, Acaba has focused on science education and outreach, inspiring students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). He has logged over 300 days in space and is known for his work in promoting diversity in the field of aerospace.