WATCH – From Migrant Farmer to Astronaut and Engineer: the Incredible Journey of José Hernández

In a world where attaining one’s dreams often seems as distant as the night sky, there are some who defy the odds, transcending their humble beginnings to reach for the stars themselves, figuratively or, in this case, quite literally. One such individual is José Hernández Moreno, a remarkable Latino astronaut, philanthropist, and engineer. José’s life story is a testament to the enduring power of perseverance and determination.

Watch LATV’s exclusive interview with José Hernández on our segment Cultura Shock, where we delve deeper into the mind of this remarkable individual who has touched the stars and brought their light back to Earth. We talk about how climate change is harming our environment, how excessive heat hurts our farmers (aka, more people of color), and about the new movie based on his life story, “Million Miles Away.” José Hernández’s story is proof that the sky is not the limit; it’s just the beginning of our journey into the unknown.

The incredible life story of José Hernández

Born in the small town of French Camp, California, José Hernández was the son of two Mexican immigrants, Julia Moreno and Salvador Hernández, who came to the United States in search of a better life. Raised amidst the struggles of a working-class family, young José quickly learned the value of hard work and the importance of education.

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A post shared by José M Hernández (@astrojosehernandez)

From a young age, José spent his summers toiling in the fields alongside his family, picking strawberries and cucumbers under the scorching California sun. It was during these laborious days that he developed a strong work ethic and unwavering determination, instilled by his parents who encouraged him to pursue his dreams.

One fateful day, while watching television with his grandmother, José saw something that would change his life forever – the historic Apollo moon landing. That moment sparked a dream in him, a dream to one day journey beyond the confines of Earth’s atmosphere. Little did he know that he would not only chase that dream but also achieve it against all odds.

José Hernández’s journey from a modest upbringing to becoming a celebrated astronaut was anything but easy. At the age of 12, he began learning English, which would later become an essential skill on his path to the stars. With unyielding determination, he attended the Universidad del Pacífico and delved into the world of science and electrical engineering. His pursuit of knowledge led him to earn a master’s degree from the University of California in Santa Barbara, a significant milestone on his trajectory to the stars.

Despite his academic achievements, José’s path to NASA was strewn with setbacks. He faced rejection a staggering 11 times. Yet, he refused to be disheartened, epitomizing the very essence of resilience. His unwavering commitment to his dream culminated in 2007 when he was selected as part of NASA’s 19th class of astronauts.

Commemorating my 1st day in space 11 years ago by reminding folks that no matter what situation you find yourself in that with hard work, an education and perseverance you too can reach your dream! Always be proud of your roots & familia! @FJED #Farmworker #SeValeSoñarEnGrande pic.twitter.com/fO1OyPeYIN

— Jose Hernandez (@Astro_Jose) August 29, 2020

Finally, José’s perseverance paid off, when in 2009 he embarked on a 14-day mission aboard Space Shuttle Discovery during the STS-128 mission to the International Space Station. As the shuttle’s flight engineer, he not only fulfilled his childhood dream but also contributed significantly to humanity’s exploration of outer space.

Following his awe-inspiring space mission, José Hernández continued his remarkable career, bringing his expertise to various critical roles. He served as the Branch Chief of the Materials and Processes Branch at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, before transitioning to NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he served as a Legislative Analyst, contributing to the development of space policy and NASA’s annual budget package while fostering relationships with key Congressional members.

José’s impact extended beyond NASA, with a diverse range of accomplishments in his portfolio. He spent over 16 years at the Department of Energy’s Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), where he played a pivotal role in the development of a space-deployed X-ray laser as part of the Strategic Defense Initiative. Additionally, he co-developed the first full-field digital mammography system for early breast cancer detection.

In a testament to his commitment to global security, José served as the Deputy Program Manager of the Highly Enriched Uranium Implementation program. In this role, he executed an agreement for the US purchase of highly enriched uranium derived from the dismantlement of Russian nuclear weapons, thereby reducing the threat of nuclear proliferation and terrorism.

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A post shared by José M Hernández (@astrojosehernandez)

José’s illustrious career extended to the Department of Energy Headquarters in Washington, D.C., where he served as the Laboratory’s Program Manager in the Office of International Material Protection and Cooperation. In this role, he developed and implemented policies, strategies, and plans to enhance US national security by securing nuclear materials in Russia’s nuclear weapons complex.

As if his accomplishments in the realms of space, science, and international security were not enough, José Hernández founded and leads Tierra Luna Engineering, LLC, an aerospace consulting company. His journey is also told in his three books: “Reaching for the Stars,” “From Farmworker to Astronaut,” and the children’s version, “The Boy Who Touched the Stars.”

José’s thirst for achievement knows no bounds. He returned to his agricultural roots and introduced Tierra Luna Cellars, a winemaking venture that reflects his passion for cultivating the land. Under this label, he produces wines that embody the essence of his journey, from farm fields to outer space.

¡Netflix hará una película basada en la historia de mi vida! Que honor! Le dije a la directora Alejandra Márquez Abella, @marquezabella y mi esposa que si eligen a @salmahayek para interpretarla, ¡hare una audición para interpretar a mí mismo! Je je je https://t.co/cm3jfCrERF

— Jose Hernandez (@Astro_Jose) November 20, 2020

A million Miles Away

And now, his extraordinary life story is set to captivate audiences on the silver screen. A movie titled “A Million Miles Away” premiered in September on Amazon Prime Video, offering viewers an intimate look at José Hernández’s incredible journey from a migrant farmworker to a NASA astronaut. Actor Michael Peña masterfully portrays the young José, bringing his inspiring tale to life.

Ok it is official! The movie is coming out! I hope my story inspires many people to follow their dreams. Watch the trailer for A Million Miles Away now and stream the movie on Prime Video on September 15! https://t.co/lo4abT6f95

— Jose Hernandez (@Astro_Jose) August 15, 2023

As José Hernández Moreno once eloquently put it, “Borders are concepts created by humans and designed to separate us.” His perspective, gained from the breathtaking vantage point of space, speaks to the universality of human experience and the unity of our planet.

José Hernández is not just an astronaut; he is a symbol of resilience, a beacon of hope, and a testament to the power of dreams. His life story serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us that with determination, hard work, and unwavering belief in ourselves, we too can reach for the stars.