In 1978, Dr. Shannon Lucid, a researcher in the Biomembrane Research Laboratory, was selected by NASA as one of the first female astronauts. Dr. Lucid was qualified for assignment as a mission specialist on Space Shuttle flight crews.

She served as a CAPCOM (Capsule Communication) in the Mission Control Center for numerous Space Shuttle and International Space Station crews. Dr. Lucid retired from NASA in Jan. 2012.