Births on January 20

Buzz Aldrin, American colonel, pilot, and astronaut

Edwin Eugene "Buzz" Aldrin Jr., born on January 20, 1930, is a revered American figure known for his multifaceted career as an astronaut, an accomplished engineer, and a decorated fighter pilot. He etched his name in history through his pivotal contributions to the United States' space program, most notably as the second person to walk on the Moon.

A Distinguished Career: From Military Service to Lunar Explorer

Aldrin's journey to the stars began with a solid foundation in both academia and military service, demonstrating a remarkable blend of intellect and bravery.

Early Life and Distinguished Military Service

Born in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, Aldrin's academic excellence was evident early on. He graduated third in his class of 1951 from the prestigious United States Military Academy at West Point, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering. This rigorous education provided him with the analytical and problem-solving skills crucial for his future endeavors.

Following his graduation, Aldrin was commissioned into the United States Air Force, where he distinguished himself as a jet fighter pilot during the intense Korean War. Flying 66 combat missions, he demonstrated exceptional aerial combat prowess by successfully shooting down two MiG-15 aircraft, underscoring his courage and skill under pressure. This combat experience honed his ability to perform under extreme conditions, a trait invaluable for spaceflight.

Academic Prowess and NASA's 'Dr. Rendezvous'

Aldrin's commitment to education continued beyond his military service. He earned a Doctor of Science degree in astronautics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), a groundbreaking achievement that set him apart. His doctoral thesis, "Line-of-Sight Guidance Techniques for Manned Orbital Rendezvous," focused on the critical maneuvers required for spacecraft to meet and dock in orbit. This specialized knowledge was so fundamental to the future of space exploration that it earned him the fitting nickname "Dr. Rendezvous" among his fellow astronauts. When he was selected as a member of NASA's Astronaut Group 3 in 1963, Aldrin made history as the first astronaut with a doctoral degree, bringing an unparalleled level of theoretical understanding to the burgeoning field of spaceflight.

Pioneering Spacewalks and the Historic Lunar Landing

His first venture into space occurred in 1966 as the pilot of the Gemini 12 mission. During this mission, Aldrin performed three spacewalks, or Extravehicular Activities (EVAs), accumulating over five hours outside the spacecraft. These spacewalks were crucial for demonstrating that astronauts could work effectively in a weightless environment, proving the viability of complex tasks like those needed for lunar operations. This experience was vital preparation for the monumental Apollo program.

Just three years later, on July 20, 1969, Aldrin made history again as the Lunar Module Eagle pilot on the Apollo 11 mission. Alongside mission commander Neil Armstrong, he was one of the first two human beings to land on the Moon. At 03:15:16 UTC on July 21, 1969, Aldrin stepped onto the lunar surface, a mere nineteen minutes after Armstrong became the first. While Aldrin and Armstrong explored the Sea of Tranquility, command module pilot Michael Collins orbited above, ensuring their safe return. This mission wasn't just a scientific achievement; it was a profound geopolitical triumph, effectively proving US victory in the Space Race by fulfilling President John F. Kennedy's ambitious 1961 goal "of landing a man on the Moon and returning him safely to the Earth" before the decade's end.

A deeply religious man, Aldrin, a Presbyterian elder, also performed the first religious ceremony on the Moon, privately taking communion shortly after landing. This moment highlighted the personal and spiritual significance of the mission for many involved.

Post-NASA Contributions and Enduring Legacy

Upon leaving NASA in 1971, Aldrin continued to serve the nation, becoming the Commandant of the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School, a prestigious role that shaped the next generation of aviation and space pioneers. He retired from the Air Force in 1972, concluding 21 years of dedicated service.

Aldrin candidly shared his personal struggles with clinical depression and alcoholism in the years following his NASA career in his autobiographies, *Return to Earth* (1973) and *Magnificent Desolation* (2009). These works offer a raw and honest look at the human side of extraordinary achievements.

Today, Buzz Aldrin remains a fervent advocate for human space exploration, particularly championing a crewed mission to Mars. His forward-thinking contributions include the development of the "Aldrin cycler," a theoretical spacecraft trajectory designed to make travel to Mars more efficient in terms of both time and propellant, showcasing his continued engineering prowess and vision for the future of space travel. Throughout his life, Aldrin has been accorded numerous honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1969, the highest civilian award in the United States, recognizing his monumental contributions to science and humanity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buzz Aldrin

When was Buzz Aldrin born?

Buzz Aldrin was born on January 20, 1930.

What was Buzz Aldrin's role on the Apollo 11 mission?

Buzz Aldrin served as the Lunar Module Eagle pilot on the Apollo 11 mission, becoming the second person to walk on the Moon.

What made Buzz Aldrin unique among early astronauts?

Buzz Aldrin was the first astronaut with a doctoral degree, having earned a Doctor of Science in astronautics from MIT, which led to his nickname "Dr. Rendezvous."