Early Life and Education

David Leestma was born on May 6, 1949, in Muskegon, Michigan. He attended the University of Michigan, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering in 1970. He later went on to complete a Master of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School in 1974.

Career in NASA

In 1980, David Leestma was selected as an astronaut candidate by NASA. He completed his training and became a mission specialist, flying on three Space Shuttle missions. His first mission was aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery in 1985, followed by missions aboard the Atlantis in 1989 and Columbia in 1992.

Space Shuttle Missions

During his time at NASA, David Leestma logged over 532 hours in space, including three spacewalks totaling over 21 hours. He played a crucial role in various scientific experiments and satellite deployments during his missions.

Retirement and Later Career

After retiring from NASA in 1995, David Leestma went on to work as a consultant for various aerospace companies. He also served as the Vice President of Space Systems for Kistler Aerospace Corporation before retiring from the industry altogether.

Personal Life

David Leestma is married and has two children. In his free time, he enjoys sailing and woodworking. He is also actively involved in promoting STEM education and inspiring young people to pursue careers in aerospace engineering.

Net Worth

As of 2024, David Leestma's net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. This includes his earnings from his time at NASA, as well as his consulting work in the aerospace industry.

Overall, David Leestma has had a successful career as an astronaut and aerospace engineer, contributing significantly to space exploration and scientific research. His dedication to his work and passion for inspiring others make him a respected figure in the field.