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Buzz Aldrin

Astronaut

Born 1930

Biography

Buzz Aldrin, born Edwin Eugene Aldrin Jr. on January 20, 1930, in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, is an American astronaut and engineer. He is best known for piloting the Lunar Module during the Apollo 11 mission and becoming one of the first two humans to walk on the moon on July 20, 1969. Aldrin graduated third in his class from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1951, and earned a Sc.D. in astronautics from MIT in 1963. Aldrin flew combat missions during the Korean War, where he shot down two MiG-15 aircraft. His innovative work on orbital docking and rendezvous techniques significantly advanced the United States' space capabilities. After leaving NASA, Aldrin continued to promote space exploration and authored several books, including "Magnificent Desolation" and "Mission to Mars."

About

Born January 20, 1930

Birthplace Glen Ridge, New Jersey, USA

Nationality American

Education Doctor of Science in Astronautics

School Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Popular Quotes

"Neil Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon. I am the first man to piss his pants on the moon. (It was said humorously, so it's less well-known.)"

Humor Funny Space exploration Space travel

"I think both the space shuttle program and the International Space Station program have not really lived up to their expectations."

Expectations Space exploration Aerospace Nasa

"I know the sky is not the limit, because there are footprints on the Moon."

Motivation Inspiration Achievement Dreams

"The biggest benefit of Apollo was the inspiration it gave to a growing generation."

Motivation Inspiration Exploration Legacy

"Once you've been in space, you appreciate how small and fragile the Earth is."

Perspective Humanity Appreciation Universe

"We can continue to try and clean up the past, but our focus must be on the future."

Growth Innovation Change Future

"Man can be as big as he wants. The horizon ends only when we stop looking."

Motivation Inspiration Personal growth Perspective

"We can continue to try and clean up the past."

Personal growth Self-improvement Reflection Healing

"Mars is there, waiting to be reached."

Humanity Future Exploration Science

"Exploration is wired into our brains. If we can see the horizon, we want to know what's beyond."

Human nature Adventure Exploration Curiosity

"Your mind is a creative machine. It can move things from the possible to the impossible in the blink of an eye. Challenge yourself."

Motivation Self-improvement Creativity Transformation

"Exploring space involves great risks, but this is part of progress. It is the brave who face the unknown and pave the way for future generations."

Innovation Progress Adventure Bravery

"As we explore the reaches of space, we must serve as guardians of our own home planet. It is our responsibility to show kindness and empathy."

Empathy Compassion Humanity Responsibility

"There are always door openings. And gradually, it accumulates. The opportunities open up in front of you."

Growth Future Progress Opportunity