NASA Remembers Astronaut Jon McBride
On November 7, 2024, NASA published an oral history with Jon A. McBride, an astronaut who flew on two Space Shuttle missions. McBride passed away in 2024 at the age of 81.
The oral history, conducted by NASA historian Dr. Roger Launius, covers McBride’s early life, his military career, and his time as an astronaut. McBride was born in Charleston, West Virginia, in 1943. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1966 and served as a naval aviator for six years. In 1978, he was selected as an astronaut by NASA.
McBride flew on two Space Shuttle missions: STS-41G in 1984 and STS-52 in 1992. STS-41G was the first Space Shuttle mission to carry two satellites into orbit. STS-52 was a logistics mission to the International Space Station.
In the oral history, McBride talks about the challenges and rewards of being an astronaut. He also discusses the future of space exploration. McBride was a strong advocate for human exploration of Mars.
“I think we need to go to Mars,” McBride said. “It’s the next step in our exploration of space. It’s a challenge, but it’s a challenge that we can overcome.”
McBride’s oral history is a valuable addition to the NASA archives. It provides a firsthand account of the life and career of one of NASA’s most accomplished astronauts. McBride’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of space explorers.
Additional Information
- Jon McBride was the first astronaut to be born in West Virginia.
- McBride was the first astronaut to fly two Space Shuttle missions.
- McBride was awarded the NASA Distinguished Service Medal and the NASA Exceptional Service Medal.
- McBride was inducted into the West Virginia Aviation Hall of Fame in 2003.
- McBride was a member of the National Space Society and the American Astronautical Society.
Oral History with Jon A. McBride, 1943 – 2024
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NASA a new article on 2024-11-07 20:54 titled “Oral History with Jon A. McBride, 1943 – 2024”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
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