NASA Astronaut Mark Kelly Rushes To His Wife’s Side

NASA astronaut Mark Kelly, is rushing to be at his wife’s side, Gabrielle Giffords, after she was shot earlier today, at close range in the head.

It has been reported that Mark Kelly was traveling by private jet and expected to arrive in Tucson at 3:00pm. A family friend, who owns the jet has been quoted as saying “We have a positive outlook. We think she’s going to pull through.”

Gabrielle Giffords married Mark Kelly back in November of 2007. 46 year old, Kelly has flown a total of three shuttle missions for NASA. his first flight in space was as the pilot for STS-108 Endeavour December 5–17, 2001. He flew again as the pilot of STS-121 Discovery July 4-17, 2006. Then went on to serve as commander of STS-124 Discovery May 31 to June 14, 2008. Kelly’s next mission is scheduled for launch on April 1, 2011.

Kelly’s twin brother Scott, is also an astronaut. As brothers, they are the only twins and the only siblings who have both flown into space.

As he rushes to be with his wife at this tragic time, it is still unclear what Gabrielle Giffords current health status is.

We can now report that a total of 6 people have died so far as a result of the shooting incident earlier today, when a gunman targeted Gabrielle Giffords and let of around 20 rounds.

President Obama has called the shooting an “unspeakable tragedy.” He also mention that Giffords was “gravely wounded.”

It is understood that a federal judge was amongst the victims of the shooting incident, although his condition has not been made available at this time.