Tomorrow, May 5th, we as Americans will celebrate the Anniversary of Alan Shepard's flight into space 50 years ago. Alan flew in a Mercury capsule on top of a Redstone Rocket. His recovery at sea was viewed by millions on live television. Alan could have been the first human to fly in space, however, delays postponed what was to be an October, 1960 launch. Safety was the concern back then as it is today. Alan actually had some control over the Mercury capsule including it's attitude. His flight was not on autopilot. He was very concerned about making a mistake as he knew everyone was depending on him. His flight was a great success and a tribute to all those who came before him, some giving their lives as test pilots. The success could not have been possible if it were not for all those who were involved in the design, manufacturing and assembly, and all things necessary to launch a spacecraft. All were American Patriots.
I was just 15 years old in 1961 and had been licensed as a Novice for 3 months. My father worked at NASA Lewis so we were very much aware of the tremendous effort being made to put a man in Space. The years that came after saw the United States fly mission after mission culminating with a lunar landing. Alan Shepard would later command Apollo 14 and pilot the lunar lander onto the surface of the moon. Alan Shepard (1923-1998) is an American Hero. Alan Shepard, the first American in Space, May 5th, 1961. Tell your kids and grandkids about him. 73, John K8YSE _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
