Former NASA Astronaut Dr. Sandra H. Magnus Joins Aurora Expeditions for Jewels of the Arctic: Greenland Solar Eclipse Expedition
Aurora Expeditions, a world leader in small-ship expedition travel, is thrilled to announce that former NASA astronaut Dr. Sandra H. “Sandy” Magnus will be joining an upcoming voyage in August 2026, offering passengers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the world’s most remote destinations alongside a true space explorer.
Dr. Magnus, a veteran NASA astronaut and aerospace engineer, has spent over 150 days in space, including missions to the International Space Station (ISS) and participation in the final space shuttle flight, STS-135. With an extensive career spanning NASA, the U.S. Department of Defense, and global aerospace initiatives, she brings an unparalleled perspective on science, exploration, and the human drive to push boundaries.
“I have spent my career exploring the vastness of space, but there is still so much to discover right here on our own planet,” said Dr. Magnus. “I’m excited to partner with Aurora Expeditions and share in the adventure of exploring Earth’s polar regions.”
As a special guest on this exclusive expedition, Dr. Magnus will share her insights through engaging lectures and guided discussions. She will draw connections between space and the polar regions, emphasizing the importance of scientific research, environmental stewardship, and the spirit of discovery that unites both disciplines.
“Aurora Expeditions is dedicated to fostering a deeper connection between our travelers and the natural world,” said Michael Heath, CEO at Aurora Expeditions. “Having Dr. Magnus onboard offers an extraordinary chance to learn from a pioneering explorer whose experiences extend beyond our planet.”
About the Expedition
Jewels of the Arctic – Greenland Solar Eclipse Trip Dates: Aug. 2 – 16, 2026 aboard the Greg Mortimer
This unique and breathtaking journey takes travelers through Svalbard, where near-endless daylight illuminates a world of polar bears, walrus haul-outs on sea ice, and towering cliffs alive with guillemots and fulmars. The adventure continues into East Greenland, home to Scoresbysund, the largest fjord system in the world, where passengers will visit the remote Inuit settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit, cruise among sculpted icebergs, and walk across tundra bursting with colorful blooms.
Expedition Highlights
Witness a solar eclipse, a truly unforgettable experience in one of the most pristine regions on Earth.
Observe Arctic wildlife, including polar bears hunting on pack ice, ringed seals, and Arctic foxes beneath cliffs teeming with seabirds.
Push through pack ice in Svalbard, searching for incredible wildlife encounters.
Experience Greenland’s vast wilderness, quietly approaching musk oxen and reindeer on tundra walks.
Zodiac cruise along vast glacial fronts and into Øfjord, where the setting sun paints towering 2,000-meter (6,562-foot) cliffs in brilliant shades of pink.
(Former NASA Astronaut Dr. Sandra H. Magnus Joins Aurora Expeditions for Jewels of the Arctic: Greenland Solar Eclipse Expedition)
