Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

Science

LunaSea

(2,892 posts) Thu Aug 18, 2022, 08:42 PM Aug 2022

Happy 89th orbit Gene Kranz!

NASA's second Chief Flight Director, aerospace engineer, and vest fashion icon.

Gene Kranz may best be known as the man behind the team that got the Apollo 13 crew home safely. But he also directed missions of the Gemini and Apollo programs, including the first lunar landing mission, Apollo 11. His vests became a powerful symbol and he wore a new white vest for the start of every mission, and a second flashier vest during splashdowns, in celebration of a successful mission.

Thanks for reminding us that failure is not an option, Happy Birthday Gene!