Bruce McCandless II

US astronaut and first untethered spacewalker

Bruce McCandless II - Explorers & Adventurers born 1937
Born

1937
89 years ago

Died
Category

Explorers & Adventurers

Country

United States

Links & References

Performed the first untethered spacewalk in 1984 during the STS-41-B mission aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger. This historic EVA exhibited the capabilities of the Manned Maneuvering Unit, a device that allowed astronauts to move freely in space. McCandless dedicated his career to space exploration, participating in three Space Shuttle flights, and contributed to various missions by utilizing advanced spacecraft systems. His work emphasized the importance of human presence and maneuverability in space operations.

Conducted the first untethered spacewalk in 1984

Participated in three Space Shuttle missions

Utilized the Manned Maneuvering Unit in space

Other People Who Died on December 21st

George S. Patton

American General during World War II
Born
November 11th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1945 80 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent American general during World War II, played a crucial role in the European Theater of the conflict. Commanded the U.S. Third Army and led operations in the Normandy landings. Developed a reputation for aggressive tactics and rapid armored advancement. His leadership was pivotal in several key battles, including the Battle of the Bulge and the liberation of France.

Continue Reading

Francis Garnier

French captain and explorer of Asia
Born
July 25th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1873 152 years ago — 34 years old

Born in 1839, a French captain and explorer, undertook significant exploratory missions in Southeast Asia. Led expeditions along the Mekong River, documenting geography and indigenous cultures. Participated in military actions in the Second French Empire's colonial campaigns. Contributed to cartography and geographic knowledge of the region, providing valuable insights during a period of colonial expansion. Met his end in 1873 during a military engagement in Tonkin, leaving a legacy as a prominent figure in French exploration.

Continue Reading

Edwin G. Krebs

American biochemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
June 6th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
December 21st, 2009 16 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent figure in biochemistry contributed to understanding the regulation of enzymes and cellular processes. Conducted research on the protein kinase cascade and discovered reversible protein phosphorylation. This research laid the foundation for the field of signal transduction in cells. Held a faculty position at the University of Washington for many years and served as chair of the biochemistry department. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1992 for work on signal transduction in cells.

Continue Reading

Friedrich August von Quenstedt

Geologist and palaeontologist
Born
July 10th, 1809 216 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1889 136 years ago — 80 years old

Contributed significantly to geology and palaeontology during the 19th century. Worked extensively on the classification of fossils, particularly from the Jurassic period. Authored several pivotal works, including the influential treatise 'Die Gesteine Württembergs', detailing the geology of Württemberg. His research focused on the stratigraphy and fossil records, establishing foundational concepts in the study of prehistoric life.

Continue Reading

Albert King

Blues guitarist and singer-songwriter
Born
April 25th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1992 33 years ago — 69 years old

Acclaimed as a pivotal figure in the blues genre, a blend of powerful guitar work and soulful vocal style characterized the artist's career. Active primarily from the 1950s through the 1990s, numerous albums and live performances showcased talent and musicianship. The artist's work greatly influenced the blues-rock movement and inspired countless musicians. Highlights included collaboration with other legendary blues musicians and inclusion in the Blues Hall of Fame.

Continue Reading

Claude Champagne

Canadian composer and violinist
Born
May 27th, 1891 135 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1965 60 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1891, this individual was a prominent Canadian composer, violinist, and pianist. He studied at the Conservatoire de Paris and became instrumental in the development of Canadian classical music. The composition style blended French influences with Canadian themes. Contributions to music included innovative works that showcased Canadian cultural elements. Champagne held academic positions, teaching composition and music theory at various institutions. His work extended to the realm of arranging, with a focus on traditional Quebecois music. The legacy includes numerous compositions for orchestra, chamber ensembles, and solo instruments.

Continue Reading