April 9th 2024.
Blue Origin's New Shepard-25 mission has caused quite a buzz as it prepares to launch into space with a special addition to its crew. Among the astronauts on board will be Ed Dwight, a former Air Force Captain and native of Kansas City, who is set to become the first Black astronaut candidate to embark on this journey. After being denied the opportunity to fly to space for decades, Dwight's inclusion in this mission is a remarkable full-circle moment in his impressive career.
Sponsored by the nonprofit Space for Humanity and the Jaison and Jamie Robinson Foundation, Dwight's seat on New Shepard-25 is a nod to his illustrious career. He has transitioned from entrepreneurship to creating incredible sculptures honoring Black historical figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Frederick Douglass, and Harriet Tubman. With over 130 of his works displayed in museums across the U.S. and Canada, Dwight's talent and dedication are undeniable.
In 1961, President John F. Kennedy handpicked Dwight as the first Black astronaut candidate, but unfortunately, his dream of space travel was not realized at that time. Despite completing the Aerospace Research Pilot School and receiving a recommendation from the U.S. Air Force, Dwight's journey was cut short. Now, with Blue Origin's invitation, he is finally getting the chance to fulfill his long-awaited dream.
Dwight will be joined by an exceptional and diverse crew on this momentous journey, including Mason Angel, Sylvain Chiron, Kenneth L. Hess, Carol Schaller, and Gopi Thotakura. Each member shares a passion for space exploration and will carry a postcard created by students as part of Blue Origin's Club for the Future initiative. This program aims to inspire the next generation of leaders in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics).
Alexandra, a space communicator, shared her excitement about the mission on her Instagram, saying, "Club for the Future is proud to make space accessible to all humans through the Postcards to Space program." The initiative's website further explains, "Anyone can participate by drawing or writing their vision of the future on a postcard, and Blue Origin will fly it to space and back on a future New Shepard mission." This program highlights Blue Origin's commitment to making space more accessible and inclusive for all.
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