Mark Edward Kelly’s life reads like a blend of service, science and resilience. Born in 1964 and rising from a New Jersey upbringing to become a naval aviator, test pilot, NASA astronaut and — more recently — a U.S. senator from Arizona, Kelly has become a public figure recognized for both his record in space and his advocacy on civic issues.
This biography walks through his early life, military and NASA careers, family and public service, and his transition into politics.
Data
- Full Name: Mark Edward Kelly
- Born: February 21, 1964
- Age: 61 (as of December 1, 2025)
- Birthplace: Orange, New Jersey, U.S.
- Nationality: American
- Occupation: Politician (U.S. Senator), former NASA astronaut, retired U.S. Navy Captain
- Parents: Richard Kelly (father) and Patricia Kelly (mother), both retired police officers
- Siblings: Identical twin brother — Scott Joseph Kelly (also a former NASA astronaut)
- Spouse: Gabrielle Giffords (married November 10, 2007)
- Children: Two daughters from prior marriage — Claudia Kelly and Claire Kelly
- Relationship: Married to Gabrielle Giffords
- Net Worth: Estimated around US $10 million to US $27 million.
Early Life and Education
Mark Kelly was born on February 21, 1964, in Orange, New Jersey, and grew up in West Orange. The son of two police officers, he and his identical twin brother Scott were raised with a strong sense of duty and public service. Kelly graduated from Mountain High School (class of 1982) and then attended the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, earning a B.S. in marine engineering and nautical science in 1986. He later received an M.S. in aeronautical engineering from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School.
Military Career
Following his graduation, Kelly entered the U.S. Navy and became a naval aviator. He flew combat missions during the Gulf War and served as a test pilot — a career path that would position him for selection by NASA. He served on active duty until 2011, retiring with the rank of captain.
NASA Career and Spaceflights
Selected by NASA as a Space Shuttle pilot in 1996, Kelly flew on four shuttle missions. His spaceflight record includes serving as pilot of STS-108 (Endeavour, 2001) and STS-121 (Discovery, 2006), and as commander on STS-124 (2008) and STS-134 (Endeavour, 2011) — the latter being the final flight of Space Shuttle Endeavour. Across his missions he logged more than 54 days in space. Kelly retired from NASA on October 1, 2011.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Mark Kelly married former U.S. Representative Gabrielle “Gabby” Giffords on November 10, 2007. When Giffords survived a near-fatal assassination attempt in January 2011, the couple’s lives shifted toward advocacy. They co-founded Americans for Responsible Solutions (now merged into Giffords), focusing on gun violence prevention and policy reform. The couple has two children.
Writing and Public Outreach
Besides policy advocacy, Kelly has authored and coauthored several books — including a memoir and children’s books inspired by his work with youth and space education. Titles include Gabby: A Story of Courage, Love and Resilience and Mousetronaut, a children’s bestseller.
Entry into Politics — U.S. Senate
Kelly transitioned into electoral politics in 2019–2020. Running as a Democrat in Arizona, he won the 2020 special election to fill the seat vacated following the death of Sen. John McCain and then won reelection in 2022. He was sworn in on December 2, 2020. In the Senate, Kelly has emphasized science-based policy, national security, veterans’ issues, healthcare access and sensible gun-safety legislation.
Policy Positions and Legislative Work
As a senator, Kelly has supported bipartisan solutions on some issues while aligning with Democratic priorities on others. Notable themes of his record include support for the Affordable Care Act with added protections, backing research-driven technology and space policy, and endorsing certain gun safety measures.
Legacy & Public Image
Mark Kelly’s public profile is shaped by a rare combination: astronaut credentials, military service, and a high-profile role in gun-safety advocacy together with a seat in the U.S. Senate. For many, he represents a type of public servant who translates technical expertise into policy influence.
FAQs
When and where was Mark Kelly born?
Mark Edward Kelly was born on February 21, 1964, in Orange, New Jersey.
How many spaceflights did Mark Kelly fly?
Kelly flew four Space Shuttle missions (STS-108, STS-121, STS-124, STS-134), totaling over 54 days in space.
Is Mark Kelly related to Scott Kelly?
Yes — Scott Kelly is Mark’s identical twin brother, also a NASA astronaut.
When did Mark Kelly become a U.S. Senator?
He was sworn in as a U.S. Senator from Arizona on December 2, 2020.
What advocacy work is Mark Kelly known for?
Alongside his wife Gabby Giffords, Kelly co-founded Americans for Responsible Solutions to push for gun-violence prevention policies.
Has Mark Kelly written books?
Yes — he coauthored a memoir with his wife and authored children’s books such as Mousetronaut.
Conclusion
Mark Kelly’s biography is the story of a public servant whose trajectory — from New Jersey to the cockpit of naval jets, from commanding space shuttle missions to representing Arizona in the U.S. Senate — is anchored by service, technical skill, and advocacy. As he continues his Senate service, his mix of scientific grounding and civic commitment will likely keep him a prominent voice on national security, science policy and gun-safety reform.
