Famous American Astronauts

Neil Armstrong was an American astronaut and aeronautical engineer who made history by becoming the first person to walk on the Moon in 1969. He served as a naval aviator, test pilot, and university professor. Armstrong joined NASA's Astronaut Corps in 1962 and participated in the Gemini and Apollo space missions. His famous words, "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind," echoed around the world during the Apollo 11 mission. Armstrong's contributions to space exploration earned him several prestigious awards and honors.

Buzz Aldrin is an American former astronaut, engineer, and fighter pilot. He made significant contributions to space exploration as a pilot on the Gemini 12 mission and the Lunar Module Eagle pilot on the historic Apollo 11 mission. Aldrin was the second person to walk on the Moon, following Neil Armstrong. He holds a Doctor of Science degree in astronautics and was the first astronaut with a doctoral degree. Aldrin continued to advocate for space exploration after leaving NASA and developed the Aldrin cycler for efficient travel to Mars.

John Glenn had a diverse and illustrious professional career, starting as a distinguished fighter pilot in various wars before joining NASA as one of the Mercury Seven astronauts. He made history in 1962 as the first American to orbit the Earth. After leaving NASA, he became a U.S. Senator, serving for 24 years. Glenn returned to space at age 77, setting records as the oldest person in space and the only one to fly in both the Mercury and Space Shuttle programs.

Jim Lovell is an American retired astronaut, naval aviator, test pilot, and mechanical engineer. He was part of the Apollo 8 mission in 1968, which made history by being the first to orbit the Moon. Lovell later commanded the Apollo 13 lunar mission in 1970, successfully navigating a critical failure and safely returning to Earth. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy and excelled in various roles within the Navy, including as a flight instructor and safety engineering officer. Lovell was selected as an astronaut for the Gemini and Apollo programs, flying into space four times and twice to the Moon. He is a recipient of prestigious awards and co-authored the book Lost Moon, which inspired the film Apollo 13.

Sunita Williams is an accomplished American astronaut and United States Navy officer. She has set records for the most spacewalks and the most spacewalk time by a woman. Williams has been a part of several expeditions to the International Space Station, including serving as a flight engineer and commander. In 2024, she made history by participating in the first crewed mission of the Boeing Starliner. Throughout her career, Williams has demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and dedication in the field of space exploration.

Mae Carol Jemison is an American engineer, physician, and former NASA astronaut. She made history as the first African-American woman in space aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992. Jemison graduated from Stanford University with degrees in chemical engineering and African-American studies, later earning her medical degree from Cornell University. She served as a doctor for the Peace Corps before joining NASA in 1987. After leaving NASA in 1993, she founded a technology research company, a non-profit educational foundation, and led the 100 Year Starship project funded by DARPA. Jemison is also a published author and has received numerous accolades for her contributions to space exploration and education.

Michael Collins was an American astronaut, test pilot, and major general in the U.S. Air Force Reserve. He flew in space twice, first on Gemini 10 in 1966 and then as part of the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. Collins orbited the Moon while Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin made the historic landing. After retiring from NASA, he held various positions in the Department of State, National Air and Space Museum, and LTV Aerospace. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom and Congressional Gold Medal.

Sally Kristen Ride was an accomplished American astronaut and physicist, known for being the first American woman in space. She joined NASA in 1978 and flew on two Space Shuttle missions, deploying satellites and operating the robotic arm. After leaving NASA, she pursued research in physics and served on committees investigating space shuttle disasters. Ride made significant contributions to the fields of space exploration, optics, and scattering, leaving a lasting impact on the scientific community.

Christa McAuliffe was an American teacher and astronaut selected for the NASA Teacher in Space Project. She held a bachelor's degree in education and history and a master's degree in education. McAuliffe taught social studies at Concord High School before being chosen for the Challenger mission STS-51-L. She aimed to conduct experiments and teach lessons from space. Tragically, the mission ended in disaster, leading to her posthumous recognition with the Congressional Space Medal of Honor and the naming of several schools in her honor.

Kalpana Chawla was an Indian-born American astronaut and aerospace engineer. She made history as the first woman of Indian origin to fly to space. Chawla served as a mission specialist and primary robotic arm operator on Space Shuttle Columbia in 1997 (STS-87). Tragically, she was part of the final flight of Columbia in 2003 (STS-107) and lost her life in the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster. Despite her untimely death, Chawla's contributions were recognized with the Congressional Space Medal of Honor and various institutions named in her honor.

Scott Kelly is an American engineer, retired astronaut, and naval aviator. He commanded the International Space Station on Expeditions 26, 45, and 46, with a total of four space flights. Kelly served as a pilot on Space Shuttle Discovery during STS-103 and as a mission commander on STS-118. He also spent a year on the ISS during Expeditions 43, 44, 45, and 46. Kelly retired from NASA in 2016 after an illustrious career in space exploration.

Jonny Kim is a versatile professional with a remarkable career in the U.S. Navy. He has served as a lieutenant commander, SEAL, Naval flight surgeon, and Naval aviator. In addition to his military roles, Kim is a physician who has earned accolades such as the Silver Star and Bronze Star with V device. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts in mathematics and a Doctor of Medicine degree. Kim's achievements culminated in his acceptance into NASA Astronaut Group 22 in 2017, completing astronaut training in 2020 and awaiting a flight assignment with the Artemis program as of December 2020.

Leroy Gordon Cooper Jr. was an American aerospace engineer, test pilot, and United States Air Force pilot. He was one of the seven original astronauts in Project Mercury, the first human space program of the United States. Cooper piloted the longest Mercury spaceflight, Mercury-Atlas 9, and later flew as command pilot of Gemini 5, setting a new space endurance record. He also had a passion for racing cars and boats. Cooper retired from NASA and the Air Force as a colonel in 1970.

Ronald Erwin McNair was an accomplished American NASA astronaut and physicist. He made significant contributions to space exploration as a mission specialist, participating in two Space Shuttle missions. McNair's pioneering spirit led him to become the second African American in space during the STS-41-B mission. Tragically, his promising career was cut short during the ill-fated launch of the Space Shuttle Challenger on mission STS-51-L. McNair's dedication and achievements in the field of space exploration continue to inspire future generations.

Judith Resnik was a brilliant American engineer, pilot, and astronaut who made significant contributions to the fields of electrical engineering, software engineering, and biomedical engineering. She worked on Navy missile and radar projects at RCA, was a senior systems engineer at Xerox, and conducted research on integrated circuitry. Resnik was selected by NASA as a mission specialist and was part of the first astronaut group to include women. She developed software for NASA missions and operated the robotic arm during her space flights. Tragically, she lost her life in the Challenger disaster in 1986.

John Watts Young was an accomplished American astronaut, naval officer, and aviator known for his significant contributions to space exploration. He walked on the Moon as commander of Apollo 16, flew on four different spacecraft types, and set world records as a test pilot. Young's career included commanding Gemini and Apollo missions, being the first person to orbit the Moon solo, and piloting the Space Shuttle. He served as Chief of the Astronaut Office and retired from NASA after 42 years of service.

John Leonard Swigert Jr. was an accomplished astronaut, engineer, test pilot, and Air Force pilot. He joined NASA in 1966 after a successful career as a civilian test pilot and fighter pilot in the Air National Guard. Swigert made history as the command module pilot of Apollo 13, where he and his crew faced a life-threatening crisis but managed to safely return to Earth. After leaving NASA, he ventured into politics, running for Senate and later winning a congressional election posthumously.

Charles "Pete" Conrad Jr. was an accomplished American astronaut, aeronautical engineer, naval officer, aviator, and test pilot. He made significant contributions to space exploration, commanding the Apollo 12 mission and becoming the third person to walk on the Moon. Conrad set records for space endurance, commanded missions like Gemini 11 and Skylab 2, and received honors such as the Congressional Space Medal of Honor. After retiring from NASA and the Navy, he held executive positions at companies like American Television and Communications Company and McDonnell Douglas.

Deke Slayton was an accomplished American Air Force pilot, aeronautical engineer, and test pilot. He was one of the original NASA Mercury Seven astronauts and later served as NASA's first Chief of the Astronaut Office and Director of Flight Crew Operations. Slayton's career included serving in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II, obtaining a degree in aeronautical engineering, working for Boeing, attending the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School, and contributing to the development of the Space Shuttle.

Malcolm Scott Carpenter was a versatile American professional who excelled as a naval officer, aviator, test pilot, aeronautical engineer, astronaut, and aquanaut. Commissioned into the U.S. Navy, he served as a naval aviator during the Korean War and the Cold War. Carpenter then became a test pilot and was selected as one of the Mercury Seven astronauts for NASA's Project Mercury. He orbited the Earth and later participated in the U.S. Navy SEALAB project as an aquanaut, contributing significantly to space exploration and underwater research.

Lisa Nowak is a former NASA astronaut and United States Navy officer who served as a naval flight officer and test pilot. She was selected by NASA in 1996 and flew aboard Space Shuttle Discovery during the STS-121 mission in 2006, operating robotic arms. Nowak graduated from the United States Naval Academy and earned advanced degrees in aeronautical engineering. She logged over 1,500 flight hours in various aircraft during her Navy career and received several military awards before being terminated by NASA and the Navy due to criminal misconduct.

Peggy Annette Whitson is an accomplished biochemistry researcher and astronaut known for her extensive space career. She retired from NASA in 2018 after serving as Chief Astronaut. Throughout her missions, Whitson accumulated an impressive 665 days in space, a record-setting achievement. She made history as the first woman to command the International Space Station during Expedition 16, and she also served as NASA's Chief Astronaut. Whitson holds several records for spacewalks and cumulative EVA time, showcasing her exceptional contributions to space exploration.

Thomas Kenneth Mattingly II was an accomplished American aviator, aeronautical engineer, and test pilot, serving as a rear admiral in the U.S. Navy. He was an astronaut who flew on the Apollo 16 mission and Space Shuttle missions STS-4 and STS-51-C. Mattingly was originally slated for Apollo 13 but was replaced due to measles exposure. He conducted a significant extravehicular activity during Apollo 16's return flight, retrieving film cassettes from the spacecraft, making history with his space exploration achievements.

Walter Marty Schirra Jr. was an accomplished American naval aviator and astronaut who made significant contributions to space exploration. He was selected as one of the original seven astronauts for Project Mercury and went on to fly missions in both the Gemini and Apollo programs. Schirra achieved several milestones in space, including the first space rendezvous and commanding the Apollo 7 mission. He retired from the Navy and NASA after a successful career, later working as a consultant for CBS News.

Fred Wallace Haise Jr. is an accomplished American former NASA astronaut, engineer, and test pilot. He served as a fighter pilot in both the U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Air Force before joining NASA. Haise is renowned for his role as Lunar Module pilot on Apollo 13, where he demonstrated exceptional skill during the mission's aborted landing. Following his time with NASA, he continued to contribute to space exploration by conducting Space Shuttle Approach and Landing Tests, showcasing his expertise and dedication to advancing aerospace technology.

Edgar Mitchell was a distinguished United States Navy officer, aviator, and test pilot who later became a NASA astronaut. He achieved the remarkable feat of being the sixth person to walk on the Moon during the Apollo 14 mission in 1971. Mitchell held degrees in Industrial Management, aeronautical engineering, and a doctorate in Aeronautics and Astronautics. He excelled in his military training and served as an instructor for astronaut candidates. Mitchell's post-NASA career focused on scientific and parapsychology work, notably through the Institute of Noetic Sciences.

Francis Richard "Dick" Scobee was an accomplished American pilot, engineer, and astronaut. He held a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering and served as a combat aviator in the Vietnam War. Selected for the NASA Astronaut Corps in 1978, Scobee trained extensively and piloted the Challenger mission STS-41-C in 1984. Tragically, he lost his life while commanding the Space Shuttle Challenger during the STS-51-L mission in 1986 due to a booster failure. His dedication to space exploration and his contributions to NASA's missions remain a significant part of his professional legacy.

Frank Borman was a distinguished American Air Force colonel, astronaut, and businessman. As a NASA astronaut, he commanded Apollo 8, the first mission to orbit the Moon. He set a spaceflight endurance record during Gemini 7 and played a key role in the investigation following the Apollo 1 fire. After his NASA career, he held leadership positions at Eastern Air Lines, overseeing a period of profitability but also facing challenges such as deregulation. Borman later pursued business ventures in automotive and ranching industries.

Roger B. Chaffee was an American naval officer, aviator, and aeronautical engineer who became a NASA astronaut in the Apollo program. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering from Purdue University in 1957, then completed his Navy training and became a commissioned ensign. Chaffee served in various roles in the Navy, including as a pilot flying different aircraft. He was selected as an astronaut in 1963 and served as CAPCOM for Gemini missions before tragically perishing in the Apollo 1 pre-launch test in 1967.

Guion Stewart Bluford Jr. is an accomplished American aerospace engineer, retired USAF officer, and former NASA astronaut. During his time at NASA, he reached the rank of colonel in the USAF. Bluford made history by becoming the first African American to travel to space, a feat he achieved on the Space Shuttle Challenger's mission STS-8 in 1983. He went on to participate in a total of four Space Shuttle flights between 1983 and 1992, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of space exploration.

Harrison Hagan "Jack" Schmitt is an accomplished American geologist, former NASA astronaut, university professor, and former U.S. senator from New Mexico. He made history as the first professional scientist to walk on the Moon during the Apollo 17 mission in 1972. Schmitt played a vital role in training Apollo astronauts and was a key figure in the geology community supporting the Apollo program. He later transitioned into politics, winning a Senate seat in 1976 before being defeated in 1982.

Jessica Meir is an American NASA astronaut, marine biologist, and physiologist with a background in comparative physiology. She has conducted research on the diving physiology of emperor penguins in Antarctica and the migratory capabilities of bar-headed geese over the Himalayas. Meir has participated in various space missions and training programs, including serving as an aquanaut on NEEMO 4 and training in a space-analogue cave environment. Notably, she was part of the first all-female spacewalk alongside Christina Koch and was recognized in Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2020.

Edward Higgins White II was an accomplished aeronautical engineer, Air Force officer, test pilot, and NASA astronaut. He flew various fighter planes during his military service. White furthered his education in aeronautical engineering and became a test pilot, contributing to the Aeronautical Systems Division. He was selected as an astronaut and participated in the Gemini 4 mission, where he made history as the first American to walk in space. Tragically, he lost his life in a pre-launch testing accident for Apollo 1.

Charles Moss Duke Jr. is a former American astronaut, United States Air Force officer, and test pilot. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy and completed advanced flight training on the F-86 Sabre. Duke served as a fighter pilot in West Germany before joining NASA's astronaut group in 1966. He was involved in several Apollo missions, including being the Lunar Module pilot on Apollo 16. Duke retired from NASA and entered the Air Force Reserve, eventually attaining the rank of brigadier general before retiring in 1986.

Rick Husband was an accomplished American astronaut and fighter pilot known for his bravery and dedication to space exploration. He embarked on two space missions, serving as the pilot of STS-96 and the commander of STS-107. Tragically, he lost his life alongside his crew members when the Columbia shuttle disintegrated during reentry. Despite this devastating event, Husband's legacy lives on through his recognition as a recipient of the Congressional Space Medal of Honor for his exceptional contributions to space travel.

Franklin Chang-Díaz is an accomplished American mechanical engineer, physicist, and former NASA astronaut. He is the founder and CEO of Ad Astra Rocket Company and serves on Cummins' board of directors. With a remarkable career, he has participated in seven Space Shuttle missions, making him one of the most experienced astronauts. Chang-Díaz holds the distinction of being the first Latin American immigrant selected by NASA for space travel. He is recognized for his contributions to space exploration and is a distinguished member of the NASA Astronaut Hall of Fame.

Alan LaVern Bean was an American naval officer, aviator, aeronautical engineer, test pilot, NASA astronaut, and painter. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering before joining the U.S. Navy and becoming a fighter pilot. Bean was selected as an astronaut by NASA in 1963 and became the fourth person to walk on the Moon during the Apollo 12 mission. After his spaceflights, Bean pursued a career in painting, focusing on space-related scenes and documenting his experiences in space.

Anna Lee Fisher is an accomplished American chemist, emergency physician, and former NASA astronaut. She joined NASA in 1978 as part of the first astronaut group to include women. Throughout her career, Fisher played key roles in various NASA programs, including the Space Shuttle, International Space Station, and Orion spacecraft. She made history in 1984 as the first mother to fly in space and conducted a successful mission using the Canadarm to retrieve satellites. Fisher's contributions to space exploration continued until her retirement in 2017.

Michael J. Smith was an accomplished American engineer and astronaut, serving as the pilot of the ill-fated Space Shuttle Challenger during the STS-51-L mission. Tragically, the Challenger broke up 73 seconds into the flight, resulting in the loss of all seven crew members. Smith had a distinguished Naval career, flying numerous civilian and military aircraft and accumulating nearly 5,000 hours of flying time. Following his untimely death, he was posthumously promoted to the rank of captain and honored with a chair at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California.

Kathleen Rubins is an accomplished American microbiologist and NASA astronaut who has made significant contributions to space exploration. She has participated in multiple missions to the International Space Station, including Expeditions 48/49 and 63/64. Rubins holds the distinction of being the 60th woman to fly in space and has spent a total of 300 days, 1 hour, and 31 minutes in space. Her dedication to scientific research and space exploration has solidified her reputation as a respected figure in the field.

Eugene Cernan was a prominent American astronaut, naval aviator, electrical engineer, and fighter pilot. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from Purdue University and joined the U.S. Navy through NROTC. Cernan served as a fighter pilot, receiving his naval aviator wings and later earning a Master of Science in aeronautical engineering. He achieved the rank of captain before retiring from the Navy. Cernan flew into space three times, including two lunar missions, making him the most recent person to walk on the Moon.

James Benson Irwin was an accomplished American astronaut, aeronautical engineer, test pilot, and United States Air Force pilot. He made history as the Lunar Module pilot for Apollo 15, marking the fourth successful human lunar landing. Irwin became the 8th individual to walk on the Moon and was notably the first, and youngest, among those astronauts to pass away. His contributions to space exploration and aviation showcased his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and pushing the boundaries of human achievement.

Elliot See Jr. was an accomplished American engineer, naval aviator, test pilot, and NASA astronaut. He began his career as an engineer at General Electric after graduating from the United States Merchant Marine Academy. See's expertise led him to become a naval aviator during the Korean War, where he flew fighter planes. He later rejoined GE as a flight test engineer and experimental test pilot, flying the latest jet aircraft. See was selected as an astronaut by NASA in 1962 and was tragically killed in a NASA jet crash during training for his first space flight.

James Alton McDivitt Jr. was an accomplished American test pilot, USAF pilot, aeronautical engineer, and NASA astronaut. He flew combat missions in the Korean War before becoming a test pilot and joining the Manned Spacecraft Operations Branch. Selected as part of Astronaut Group 2, he commanded the Gemini 4 and Apollo 9 missions, making significant contributions to the Gemini and Apollo programs. McDivitt later managed lunar landing operations and the Apollo spacecraft program before retiring as a brigadier general from the USAF in 1972.

Bruce McCandless II was an accomplished American Navy officer, aviator, electrical engineer, and NASA astronaut. He made significant contributions to space exploration during his career. In 1984, he achieved a major milestone by completing the first untethered spacewalk using the Manned Maneuvering Unit during one of his Space Shuttle missions. His expertise and bravery in space earned him recognition as a pioneer in extravehicular activity and a key figure in advancing human space exploration.

Story Musgrave is a highly accomplished American physician and retired NASA astronaut known for his remarkable career in space exploration. As a public speaker and consultant for prominent organizations such as Disney's Imagineering group and Applied Minds, he has shared his expertise and insights. With an impressive record of flying on six spaceflights, Musgrave holds the distinction of being the most formally educated astronaut, boasting six academic degrees. Notably, he is the sole astronaut to have flown aboard all five Space Shuttles, showcasing his exceptional contributions to space missions.

Eileen Collins is a retired NASA astronaut and USAF colonel who made significant contributions to space exploration. She was the first woman to pilot the Space Shuttle and the first to command a Space Shuttle mission. Collins had a diverse career, serving as a flight instructor, test pilot, and professor in mathematics. She flew several missions, including a historic mission to rendezvous with the Russian space station Mir and commanding NASA's "return to flight" mission after the Columbia disaster. Collins retired in 2006, leaving a lasting impact on space exploration.

Ellison Onizuka was an American astronaut, engineer, and U.S. Air Force flight test engineer. He successfully flew into space with the Space Shuttle Discovery on STS-51-C. Tragically, he lost his life in the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster while serving as Mission Specialist for mission STS-51-L. Onizuka made history as the first Asian American and the first person of Japanese origin to reach space. His professional life was marked by his dedication to space exploration and his contributions to the field of aerospace engineering.

Charles Frank Bolden Jr. is a former Administrator of NASA, retired United States Marine Corps Major General, and astronaut who completed four Space Shuttle missions. Graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 1968, he served as a Marine aviator and test pilot before becoming Deputy Commandant of Midshipmen at the Naval Academy. Bolden was appointed as NASA Administrator in 2009, marking the first time an African American held the position. He retired from NASA in 2017 and was later elected a member of the National Academy of Engineering in 2020.

Ronald Evans was an accomplished American electrical and aeronautical engineer, naval officer, and NASA astronaut. He flew to the Moon as Command Module Pilot on Apollo 17, making him one of the select few to orbit the Moon without landing. Before his spaceflight, Evans served in the U.S. Navy as a fighter pilot during the Vietnam War, achieving the rank of captain. Post-NASA, he contributed to the Space Shuttle program and pursued a career in the coal industry.

Karen L. Nyberg is an accomplished American mechanical engineer and retired NASA astronaut. She made history as the 50th woman in space during her first mission in 2008. Nyberg holds a Ph.D in mechanical engineering and began her space career in 1991. Throughout her career, she spent a total of 180 days in space, serving as a mission specialist on STS-124 and a flight engineer on Soyuz TMA-09M in 2008 and 2013, respectively. Nyberg's contributions to space exploration have been significant and inspiring.

Leland D. Melvin is an accomplished American engineer and retired NASA astronaut. During his time at NASA, Melvin served as a mission specialist on the Space Shuttle Atlantis missions STS-122 and STS-129. He later transitioned to the role of NASA Associate Administrator for Education, where he made significant contributions to promoting STEM education initiatives. Prior to his career at NASA, Melvin was a professional football player, showcasing his versatility and talent across different fields.

Ellen Ochoa is an accomplished American engineer and former astronaut who made history in 1993 as the first Latina woman to go to space. She served on a nine-day mission aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery. Ochoa later became the director of the Johnson Space Center, making her the first Latina and second female to hold the position. Throughout her career, she has made significant contributions to space exploration and has inspired many with her achievements in the field.

Anousheh Ansari is an accomplished engineer and entrepreneur, known for her leadership roles in companies such as Prodea Systems and Telecom Technologies, Inc. She made history as the first Iranian in space and the first self-funded woman to visit the International Space Station. Ansari's significant contributions extend to her role as the CEO of the X Prize Foundation, where she continues to drive innovation and support groundbreaking initiatives. Her memoir, "My Dream of Stars," reflects her inspiring journey and accomplishments in the field.

David M. Brown was a United States Navy captain and NASA astronaut who joined the astronaut corps in 1996. He tragically lost his life during his first spaceflight aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-107) when it disintegrated during reentry. Despite not having the opportunity to complete a space mission before the Columbia disaster, Brown was posthumously awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honor in recognition of his dedication and service to space exploration.

Christopher Cassidy is a retired NASA astronaut and former United States Navy SEAL. He achieved the rank of captain in the U.S. Navy and served as the Chief of the Astronaut Office at NASA from July 2015 to June 2017. Cassidy completed his first spaceflight in 2009 as a crew member on a Space Shuttle mission. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and dedication to space exploration, making significant contributions to both the military and space agency.

Alfred Worden was an accomplished American test pilot, engineer, and NASA astronaut. He served as command module pilot for the Apollo 15 lunar mission in 1971, orbiting the Moon 74 times in the command module Endeavour. Worden's career included becoming a skilled fighter pilot, test pilot, and astronaut. He played a crucial role in space exploration, conducting a historic extravehicular activity during Apollo 15's return flight, and later contributing to the scientific community and promoting space exploration and education.

Walter Cunningham was a versatile professional with a diverse career spanning astronautics, military service, academia, and entrepreneurship. As a skilled fighter pilot, physicist, and venture capitalist, he made significant contributions to NASA's space exploration efforts. His role as a lunar module pilot on the Apollo 7 mission showcased his expertise and dedication to advancing space technology. Additionally, Cunningham's work as an author further highlighted his passion for sharing knowledge and inspiring others in the fields of science and innovation.

Barbara Radding Morgan is an American teacher and former NASA astronaut. She was selected as the backup to Christa McAuliffe for the 1986 STS-51-L mission aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger. Following the Challenger tragedy, she continued her training and eventually flew as a mission specialist on STS-118 in August 2007. Barbara is recognized for her significant achievement as the first teacher to travel to space, fulfilling her role in NASA's Teacher in Space program and contributing to advancements in space exploration.

Michael J. Massimino is a mechanical engineering professor at Columbia University and a former NASA astronaut. He currently serves as the senior advisor of space programs at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. Massimino has a distinguished career in space exploration, having flown two Space Shuttle missions to repair the Hubble Space Telescope. He is known for his expertise in space engineering and has made significant contributions to the field of aerospace technology through his work both in academia and at NASA.

Robert Louis Behnken is an American engineer and former NASA astronaut with a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering. He served as a colonel in the U.S. Air Force before joining NASA in 2000. Behnken flew on Space Shuttle missions STS-123 and STS-130, accumulating over 708 hours in space and 55 hours of spacewalk time. Following retirement of the Space Shuttle, he became Chief of the Astronaut Office. Assigned to the SpaceX Dragon 2 in 2018, he launched on the spacecraft's first crewed mission in 2020, making history as one of the first astronauts to launch aboard a commercial orbital spacecraft.

Donn F. Eisele, a Colonel in the USAF, was an accomplished Air Force officer, test pilot, and NASA astronaut. He notably served as the command module pilot for the Apollo 7 mission in 1968. Following his retirement from NASA and the Air Force, Eisele took on the role of Peace Corps country director for Thailand. Later, he transitioned into the private sector, where he pursued opportunities in business. Throughout his career, Eisele made significant contributions to aerospace and international development.

Michael P. Anderson was a United States Air Force officer, NASA astronaut, and payload commander of the Space Shuttle Columbia. He was responsible for overseeing science experiments during the mission. Tragically, Anderson lost his life in the Columbia disaster, where the shuttle disintegrated during re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere. Despite the heartbreaking end to his mission, Anderson was posthumously honored with the Congressional Space Medal of Honor for his dedication and service to space exploration.

Virgil Ivan "Gus" Grissom was an accomplished American engineer and pilot in the United States Air Force, known for his significant contributions to the field of space exploration. As one of the original Mercury Seven astronauts selected by NASA, he played a crucial role in Project Mercury, Project Gemini, and the Apollo program. Grissom was a distinguished veteran of World War II and the Korean War, as well as a skilled test pilot, earning several prestigious awards for his exceptional service. Tragically, he lost his life during a pre-launch test for the Apollo 1 mission.

Kathryn Dwyer Sullivan is an accomplished American geologist, oceanographer, and former NASA astronaut and US Navy officer. She made significant contributions to space exploration, including being the first American woman to perform an extra-vehicular activity during her first Space Shuttle mission. Sullivan also served as Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and Administrator of NOAA, showcasing her expertise in environmental science. With a diverse career spanning aerospace, oceanography, and policy, she continues to be a trailblazer in scientific research and exploration.

Piers John Sellers was a British-American meteorologist, NASA astronaut, and Director of the Earth Science Division at NASA/GSFC. He attended Cranbrook School in the UK and earned a bachelor's degree in ecological science from the University of Edinburgh, followed by a doctorate in biometeorology from the University of Leeds. Sellers conducted research at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center focusing on the Earth's biosphere and atmosphere interaction. His work included climate system computer modeling and field research utilizing various technologies. Sellers retired from the NASA Astronaut Corps in 2011.

Richard Allen Garriott is a prominent British-born American video game developer, entrepreneur, and private astronaut. Known for creating the influential Ultima game series, he was involved in all eleven main installments. Garriott founded the video game development company Portalarium in 2009 and served as CEO and creative director for Shroud of the Avatar: Forsaken Virtues until 2018. He flew aboard the Soyuz TMA-13 mission to the International Space Station in 2008 as a private astronaut, becoming the second space traveler with a parent who was also an astronaut.

John Bennett Herrington is a retired United States Naval Aviator, engineer, and former NASA astronaut. He made history in 2002 by becoming the first enrolled citizen of a Native American tribe to fly in space. Throughout his career, Herrington demonstrated exceptional skills as a naval aviator, engineer, and astronaut. He played a crucial role in advancing space exploration and inspiring others, especially within the Native American community. Herrington's achievements and contributions have left a lasting impact on the fields of aviation and space exploration.

Douglas G. Hurley is an American engineer, former Marine Corps pilot, and ex-NASA astronaut. He piloted Space Shuttle missions STS-127 and STS-135, including the final flight of the program. Hurley later commanded the Crew Dragon Demo-2 mission, marking the first crewed spaceflight from American soil since STS-135. He and Bob Behnken were the first astronauts to launch aboard a commercial orbital spacecraft. Hurley was the first Marine to fly the F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet and is known by the call sign "Chunky."

William J. "Pete" Knight was an accomplished American aeronautical engineer, politician, and military pilot. He made significant contributions as a combat pilot during the Vietnam War, a test pilot, and an astronaut. Knight was part of the select group of X-15 pilots, setting records for speed and altitude in experimental spaceplanes. His achievements include flying the program's fastest flight and reaching a height that qualified him as an astronaut by U.S. standards. Knight's career also included participation in the X-20 Dyna-Soar program.

Vance D. Brand is a highly accomplished retired American naval officer, aviator, aeronautical engineer, test pilot, and NASA astronaut. With an extensive flight experience totaling 9,669 hours, he has flown a variety of aircraft including jets, helicopters, and spacecraft. Brand notably served as command module pilot during the first U.S.-Soviet joint spaceflight in 1975, and commanded three Space Shuttle missions. His career highlights include being a skilled test pilot and having proficiency in over 30 types of military aircraft.

Stuart Allen Roosa was an accomplished American aeronautical engineer, smokejumper, United States Air Force pilot, test pilot, and NASA astronaut. He served as the Command Module Pilot for the Apollo 14 mission, during which he orbited the Moon 34 times while his colleagues explored the lunar surface. Roosa's professionalism and expertise were evident throughout his career, as he contributed significantly to advancements in aeronautics and space exploration, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of aerospace engineering.

Dennis Tito is an American engineer and entrepreneur known for being the first space tourist to self-fund a trip into space. In 2001, he spent nearly eight days aboard the International Space Station as a crew member of ISS EP-1, a visiting mission. The mission was launched by Soyuz TM-32 and landed by Soyuz TM-31. Tito's pioneering journey into space marked a significant milestone in commercial space travel and inspired future endeavors in the field.

Karl Gordon Henize was an accomplished American astronomer, space scientist, and NASA astronaut known for his extensive contributions to the field. Throughout his career, he held positions at various observatories worldwide, including notable institutions such as McCormick Observatory and Mount Wilson Observatory. Henize's work also extended to space missions, where he served as a mission specialist on the Spacelab-2 mission aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger. His dedication and expertise were recognized with awards such as the NASA Exceptional Scientific Achievement Medal. Tragically, he passed away during a Mount Everest expedition while testing equipment for NASA.

Robert Laurel Crippen is a distinguished American retired naval officer, aviator, test pilot, aerospace engineer, and astronaut. He made four spaceflights, serving as pilot and commander on several missions. Crippen played key roles in various space programs, such as the Manned Orbiting Laboratory and the Space Shuttle Approach and Landing Tests. Following his astronaut career, he held management positions at NASA and other organizations. Crippen received prestigious awards, including the Congressional Space Medal of Honor, and is recognized as a fellow by esteemed aerospace organizations.