Stockton's very own, José M. Hernández, is the living embodiment of what it means to chase a dream against all odds. From humble beginnings working alongside his farmworker parents, Hernández went on to touch the stars and become an astronaut, a journey now being showcased in an Amazon Prime movie set to premiere on Sept. 15, directed by the renowned Alejandra Márquez Abella.
The trajectory of Hernández’s life is astonishing. As a child of migrants from Michoacán, Mexico, he split his time between farm fields in California and Mexico. The son of Julia and Salvador Hernández, he remembers a defining moment at the age of 10 when he watched NASA astronaut Gene Cernan walk on the moon. This ignited a passion in him to journey beyond our atmosphere.
But the road to space wasn't straightforward. It took Hernández 12 attempts to be accepted into the NASA program. Each rejection only fueled his determination, supported by the unwavering belief of his family, especially his wife, Adela Hernández. The forthcoming movie, featuring Michael Peña in the leading role, chronicles these challenges, emphasizing the power of perseverance and dedication.
“It demonstrates that anything is possible with hard work, education, and the willingness to prepare yourself,” Hernández expressed in an interview with The Record.
His connection to Stockton remains strong, as references to the University of the Pacific (UOP), where he completed his degree in electrical engineering, and the San Joaquin Valley are proudly integrated into the film. "We didn't try to hide the fact that I was from Stockton," Hernández proudly stated.
Beyond becoming an astronaut, Hernández’s accomplishments include developing a pioneering tool for early breast cancer detection in the 90s, running for Congress in 2012, and becoming a successful vineyard owner in Manteca. His influence extends through his Reaching for the Stars Foundation, aimed at inspiring the younger generation to pursue STEM fields.
The ripple effect of Hernández’s achievements is evident, especially in his son, Julio Hernández, who is following in his father's footsteps, having recently graduated with an aerospace Ph.D. from Purdue University.
Stockton Mayor Kevin Lincoln hailed Hernández as an emblem of "hope, perseverance, and opportunity," reflecting the spirit of Stockton and San Joaquin County.
The film is not just a biopic but a beacon of inspiration for all, showcasing how dedication and unwavering self-belief can propel one from the fields of Stockton to the vastness of space.
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