A highly decorated Marine Corps general and NASA astronaut who flew on four Space Shuttle missions, including a 1986 voyage on the Space Shuttle Columbia. He later became the 12th Administrator of NASA.
Charles Frank Bolden Jr. is a name synonymous with space exploration and leadership. As the first African American to head NASA on a permanent basis, Bolden has left an indelible mark on the space industry, inspiring generations to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Born on August 19, 1946, in Columbia, South Carolina, Bolden graduated from C. A. Johnson High School in 1964. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Science from the United States Naval Academy in 1968, where he was a contemporary of future notable figures such as Oliver North and Michael Mullen. Bolden later earned a Master of Science degree in Systems Management from the University of Southern California in 1977.
Bolden's military career spanned over 34 years, during which he became a Marine aviator and test pilot. He flew over 100 combat missions in North and South Vietnam, earning numerous awards and decorations. In 1980, he was selected as an astronaut candidate by NASA, going on to fly on four Space Shuttle missions, including STS-61-C, STS-31, STS-45, and STS-60.
In 2009, President Barack Obama nominated Bolden as Administrator of NASA, a position he held until 2017. During his tenure, Bolden oversaw the development of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, the Orion spacecraft, and the Commercial Crew Program. He also played a crucial role in the revitalization of fundamental aeronautics research and the development of U.S. human spaceflight and space operations programs.
Bolden has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to space exploration and public service. In 2020, he was elected a member of the National Academy of Engineering, recognizing his leadership and development of U.S. human spaceflight and space operations programs. He has also received the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, and the National Space Trophy, among others.
Charles Bolden's legacy extends far beyond his impressive résumé. He has inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in STEM, particularly from underrepresented communities. His dedication to space exploration and public service has left a lasting impact on the space industry, paving the way for future generations of astronauts, scientists, and engineers.
As Bolden once said, "NASA is not just about astronauts and engineers; it's about the entire nation coming together to achieve great things." His commitment to this philosophy has cemented his place as one of the most influential figures in the history of space exploration.
95 Years Old
First person to walk on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission, marking a historic milestone in space exploration.
96 Years Old
Second man to walk on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission, a pioneering astronaut and advocate for space exploration.
98 Years Old
Commander of the Apollo 13 mission, known for his heroic efforts in saving his crew after an explosion occurred on board. He's an iconic figure in space exploration history.
96 Years Old
Led the third manned mission to land on the Moon, Apollo 12, and became the third person to walk on its surface. Known for his bold and fearless approach to space exploration.
94 Years Old
One of the 12 humans to walk on the Moon during NASA's Apollo program, known for his moonwalk during Apollo 12 and later becoming a painter, capturing the beauty of space through art.
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American baseball player who pitched in the Major Leagues from 1965 to 1975, known for being a four-time All-Star and winning the American League ERA title in 1968.
62 Years Old
Spent a year in space, setting a record for the longest single spaceflight by an American, and providing valuable insights into the effects of long-term space travel on the human body.
62 Years Old
Astronaut who flew on four Space Shuttle missions and later became a US Senator, known for his space travel and advocacy for gun control.
