Astronaut’s trial could start as early as July

? State court officials Tuesday released dates in the case involving former astronaut Lisa Marie Nowak, who was charged with attacking a woman she viewed as a rival for another man’s attention.

If the case goes to trial, officials say it’s scheduled to take place at the end of July, according to the State Attorney’s Office.

Nowak, a Navy captain, is expected to report for duty today at a naval base in Corpus Christi, Texas. Officials dropped the mother of three from NASA’s astronaut corps, making it the first time NASA has sent an astronaut back to the military.

Nowak, 43, was charged with attempted kidnapping, burglary with assault and misdemeanor battery.

Prosecutors say Nowak drove nearly 1,000 miles from Houston to Orlando and allegedly attacked U.S. Air Force Capt. Colleen Shipman with pepper spray. Shipman was dating the man Nowak was vying for – shuttle pilot Bill Oefelein.

An arraignment is scheduled for Thursday, but Nowak’s attorney has already filed paperwork with Nowak’s not guilty plea. The next court hearing is planned for June 29.