Oldest Astronaut Retires....

... and he's a GT grad. Story here.

Astronaut John W. Young (Georgia Tech AE ‘52) is a veteran of six space flights and one of 12 men to walk on the moon.


Young’s achievements during his 42-year career at NASA are unmatched. He was the first human to fly in space six times and launch seven times, six times from Earth and once from the moon. He is the only astronaut to pilot four different types of spacecraft, flying in the Gemini, Apollo and Space Shuttle programs. Young is the longest serving astronaut in history. His retirement from NASA is effective December 31.

"John’s tenacity and dedication are matched only by his humility,” said NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe. “He’s never sought fame and often goes out of his way to avoid the limelight. However, when you need a job done and you want it done right, John’s the person to go to. He’s a true American treasure, and his exemplary legacy will inspire generations of new explorers for years to come.”

Godspeed to Astronaut John W. Young (GT AE52)