Alan Shepard
Astronaut, Apollo 14 Commander

Born
November 18th, 1923
101 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1998
26 years ago — 74 years old
Category
Explorers & Adventurers
Country
United States
Links & References
An American astronaut and test pilot, made history by becoming the first American in space in 1961 during the Freedom 7 mission. Commanded the Apollo 14 mission in 1971, which successfully landed on the Moon, conducting two lunar EVAs and collecting valuable geological samples. Instrumental in testing various experimental aircraft and spacecraft, advancing human spaceflight efforts.
First American in space in 1961
Commander of Apollo 14 mission
Second human to walk on the Moon
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