Rodolfo Neri: First Mexican in Space and National Pride

Rodolfo Neri, the first Mexican in space, made history with NASA. His story combines science, education, and dreams.

Andrea

August 31, 2025

Rodolfo Neri: First Mexican in Space and National Scientific Pride

Did it ever happen that as a kid you dreamed about touching the stars? For most people, it stays just as a dream. But for Rodolfo Neri, it was a goal he achieved with discipline, passion, and a lot of study.

The name Rodolfo Neri is written in Mexican history as the first to travel into space, breaking physical barriers and showing that talent has no borders. His career reminds us that Mexican science can go very far.

The Life of Rodolfo Neri

Rodolfo Neri was born on February 19, 1952, in Chilpancingo, Guerrero. From a very young age, he showed an obsession with science, which led him to study Mechanical and Electrical Engineering at UNAM.

He specialized in telecommunications, earning both a master’s degree and a PhD at the University of Birmingham in England. This international education made him the ideal candidate to represent Mexico at NASA.

The Historic Mission STS-61-B

In 1985, Rodolfo Neri was chosen as Payload Specialist for mission STS-61-B on board the Space Shuttle Atlantis, a collaboration between Mexico and the United States.

📋 Mission details:

Shuttle: Atlantis
Date: November 26 – December 3, 1985
Duration: 7 days, 23 hours, 5 minutes
Role: Payload Specialist
Purpose: To perform Mexican-designed experiments in telecommunications and biology

During his stay in space, he carried out experiments designed by Mexican scientists, including tests with food, materials, and communications.

Fun fact: They brought tortillas into space as a practical substitute for bread, since they don’t crumble in microgravity.

🧠 The Scientific and Educational Legacy

Since then, Rodolfo Neri has dedicated much of his life to spreading science across Mexico and Latin America. He has given hundreds of lectures, collaborated with universities, and even written books like El Pequeño Astronauta, inspiring children to dream beyond the sky.

A phrase that leaves a mark:

“When you look at Earth from space, you don’t see borders. You see one planet, and you understand that we are all connected.”

— Rodolfo Neri

Awards and International Recognition

Medal of University Merit by UNAM
Recognition from the Mexican Senate
Multiple honorary doctorates
International lecturer and science promoter
An asteroid named in his honor: 6141 Durda

🚀 Get Inspired in Mall gran Mexico

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❓Important Questions

Who was Rodolfo Neri?

The first Mexican astronaut, telecommunications engineer, and scientist.

When did he go to space?

In 1985, during NASA’s STS-61-B mission on the Atlantis shuttle.

What did he study?

Engineering at UNAM, plus a master’s and PhD in telecommunications in England.

What does he contribute to Mexican science?

He carried out experiments in space and has promoted science education ever since.

Is Rodolfo Neri still active?

Yes, Rodolfo Neri continues as a lecturer, educator, and motivator, inspiring new generations.