Honored for extraordinary contributions advancing human physiology research and the future of space medicine.
The Aerospace Medical Association has named Dr. Michael A. Schmidt the recipient of the 2026 Joseph P. Kerwin MD Award, recognizing his extraordinary contributions to the discipline of space medicine and advances in understanding human physiology during spaceflight.
Established in honor of Joseph P. Kerwin, MD — the first physician/astronaut in space — the award is presented to individuals whose work has significantly advanced the practice of aerospace medicine and helped support optimal human health and performance in space environments.
The award itself recognizes recipients “For Extraordinary Contributions to the Discipline of Space Medicine.”
Dr. Schmidt’s work has focused extensively on the physiological impact of spaceflight on the human body, helping shape critical conversations surrounding the future of long-duration human space exploration and the development of a spacefaring civilization.
“We salute our valued and gifted colleague, Doctor Michael A. Schmidt, winner of The Joseph P. Kerwin MD Award,” said Dr. Marianne Legato. “Doctor Schmidt and I are collaborating in the study of the impact of space flight on human physiology and have just edited a new book, Building a Space Faring Civilization, which has been very well received as a unique and indispensable resource as we enter the new era of space exploration.”
Explore Their New Book
Dr. Michael A. Schmidt and Dr. Marianne Legato recently co-edited Building a Space Faring Civilization, a groundbreaking book examining the scientific, medical, technological, and societal challenges humanity must solve as we move toward long-duration space exploration and life beyond Earth.
The book brings together leading experts to explore how spaceflight affects human physiology and what must be done to protect human health as we enter a new era of exploration.
For anyone interested in aerospace medicine, human performance, the future of healthcare, or the next frontier of civilization, this book offers a fascinating and timely perspective.
What is the Joseph P. Kerwin MD Award?
The Joseph P. Kerwin MD Award is presented by the Aerospace Medical Association and honors individuals who have made significant advances in understanding human physiology during spaceflight and innovations in space medicine that support human health and performance in space.
Who was Joseph P. Kerwin, MD?
Joseph P. Kerwin, MD, was the first physician/astronaut in space and played a pioneering role in advancing aerospace medicine and human spaceflight research.
Why was Dr. Michael A. Schmidt selected for this award?
Dr. Schmidt was recognized for his extraordinary contributions to space medicine and his work studying how spaceflight impacts human physiology, helping advance the future of human health in space exploration.
Why is space medicine important?
Space medicine helps scientists and physicians understand how extreme environments affect the human body. This research is essential for long-duration missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond, while also contributing insights that may improve healthcare on Earth.
What is Building a Space Faring Civilization about?
Co-edited by Dr. Michael A. Schmidt and Dr. Marianne Legato, Building a Space Faring Civilization explores the scientific, medical, technological, and societal challenges humanity must overcome to thrive in space and expand human exploration beyond Earth.
Why does GenderMed focus on space medicine?
GenderMed recognizes that biological sex and gender can influence how the body responds to stress, disease, medications, and environmental conditions — including spaceflight. Understanding these differences is essential for developing more personalized and effective healthcare for both astronauts and people on Earth.