RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — NASA astronaut Christina Koch is one of eight recipients to receive the North Carolina Award this year, which honors individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields, including public service, literature, science, and the arts.

Koch, who set a record for the longest single spaceflight by a woman, is being recognized with the highest civilian honor awarded by the state.

North Carolina State University alumna Christina Koch will be honored with the state's highest civilian award, the North Carolina Award. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the state and nation.