Jacksonville-raised NASA astronaut Christina Koch to visit Raleigh Aug. 26

RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — NASA astronaut Christina Koch will return to her home state next week as part of a tour celebrating the Artemis II mission.

North Carolina Labor Commissioner Luke Farley will welcome Koch to the historic Labor Building in Raleigh on Wednesday, Aug. 26, at 10 a.m.

Koch, who grew up in Jacksonville, North Carolina, served aboard Artemis II, NASA’s first crewed lunar flyby in more than 50 years.

During her visit, Koch will be recognized for her accomplishments and contributions to science, technology, engineering and mathematics, as well as her connection to North Carolina’s workforce.

Local students will have the opportunity to participate in an interactive question-and-answer session with Koch. She is expected to discuss her experiences as an astronaut, her career journey and the path that led her to NASA.

The event is intended to inspire the next generation of North Carolina students and workers to pursue careers in STEM fields.

Event details

What: Christina Koch home-state visit and STEM student Q&A
When: Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2026, at 10 a.m.
Where: Labor Building, 4 W. Edenton St., Raleigh
Who: Labor Commissioner Luke Farley and NASA astronaut Christina Koch