Rocket scientist and author who inspired millions with his memoir "Rocket Boys," which was adapted into the film "October Sky," sharing his journey from coal miner's son to NASA engineer.
Homer Hickam, born February 19, 1943, is an American author, Vietnam War veteran, and former NASA engineer, best known for training the first Japanese astronauts and penning the New York Times Best Seller memoir, Rocket Boys, which was adapted into the 1999 film October Sky.
Hickam was born and raised in Coalwood, West Virginia, and graduated from Big Creek High School in 1960. During his high school years, he and his friends, Roy Lee Cooke, Sherman Siers, Jimmy O'Dell Carroll, Willie "Billy" Rose, and Quentin Wilson, formed the Big Creek Missile Agency (BCMA), becoming amateur rocket builders.
Their innovative designs earned them a spot at the 1960 National Science Fair, where they won gold and silver medals in the area of propulsion. This early interest in aerospace engineering paved the way for Hickam's future career in NASA.
Hickam's remarkable journey is chronicled in his memoirs, including Rocket Boys, which recounts his childhood adventures as a self-taught rocket scientist. The book's success led to the film adaptation, October Sky, directed by Joe Johnston and starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Laura Dern, and Chris Cooper.
In addition to Rocket Boys, Hickam has written several bestselling novels and memoirs, including the Josh Thurlow historical fiction series, Carrying Albert Home: The Somewhat True Story of a Man, his Wife, and her Alligator, and Don't Blow Yourself Up: The Further Adventures and Travails of the Rocket Boy of October Sky, published in 2021.
After serving in the Vietnam War, Hickam joined NASA as an engineer, where he played a crucial role in training the first Japanese astronauts. His expertise in aerospace engineering and his experience as a rocket scientist made him an invaluable asset to the NASA team.
Hickam's contributions to literature and aerospace engineering have earned him numerous awards and honors, including the 2004 NASA Exceptional Service Medal and the 2007 Virginia Tech College of Engineering's Distinguished Alumnus Award.
Hickam's inspiring story has had a profound impact on modern society, encouraging young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). His memoirs and novels have been translated into multiple languages, making him a beloved figure in the world of literature and aerospace engineering.
Hickam graduated from Virginia Tech in 1964 with a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial engineering. During his time at Virginia Tech, he and his classmates designed a cannon, which they named "Skipper" in honor of President John F. Kennedy.
In 1964, Hickam joined the United States Army, serving for six years, including two years in Vietnam. After his military service, he began his career at NASA.
Hickam's story is a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and innovation. Through his writing and public speaking, he has inspired countless individuals to pursue their passions, no matter how impossible they may seem.
His philosophy is centered around the idea that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things with dedication and perseverance.
Homer Hickam's remarkable life and achievements serve as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging people to chase their dreams and push beyond the boundaries of what is thought possible.
As arocket scientist, author, and veteran, Hickam has left an indelible mark on the world of aerospace engineering and literature, cementing his place as one of the most fascinating and accomplished individuals of our time.
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.
Born in 1912
Developed the V-2 rocket for Nazi Germany and later led the team that created the Saturn V rocket that took humans to the moon.
97 Years Old
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.
Born in 1925
One of the original Mercury Seven astronauts, he orbited the Earth in 1962, paving the way for future space exploration. He was also a decorated naval aviator and aquanaut.
Born in 1926
One of the original seven astronauts in NASA's Project Mercury, a decorated military pilot, and a pioneer in space exploration, known for being the second American in space and commanding the first manned Gemini mission.
Born in 1923
First American in space, commanded Apollo 14 mission, and walked on the Moon.
