Ed Dwight, America's first Black astronaut candidate, becomes oldest person to reach space
90-Year-Old Ed Dwight Conquers Space: Why Now?
Ed Dwight, who was America's first Black astronaut candidate, has become the oldest person to reach space at the age of 90. He flew aboard Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin rocket, experiencing a few minutes of weightlessness during the 10-minute flight. Dwight described the journey as a life-changing experience.
Dwight's space flight comes 60 years after he was initially recommended by the Air Force for NASA's astronaut program but was not selected for the 1963 class. Post-military, Dwight pursued a successful career in sculpture, focusing on Black history. His recent space trip was sponsored by the nonprofit Space for Humanity, alongside other passengers including business entrepreneurs and a retired accountant.
How long was Ed Dwight's flight with Blue Origin, and what experience did he gain during this flight?
Ed Dwight's flight with Blue Origin lasted approximately 10 minutes. During this flight, he experienced a few minutes of weightlessness and got to see the dramatic view of Earth from outer space. The flight reached an altitude of about 65 miles, a few miles above the Kármán line, which is the internationally recognized boundary where outer space begins. This experience was described as "life-changing" by Dwight, and he expressed that everyone should have the opportunity to do this.
What motivated Ed Dwight to finally undertake a space flight with Blue Origin at the age of 90?
Ed Dwight, America's first Black astronaut candidate, undertook a space flight with Blue Origin at the age of 90, after being passed over by NASA in the 1960s5. His motivation for finally taking the flight was to fulfill a long-held dream and to make history as the oldest person to reach the edge of space. Dwight described the experience as "a life-changing event" and said, "I thought I really didn't need this in my life. But, now, I need it in my life... I am ecstatic." The opportunity to go to space with Blue Origin was sponsored in part by the nonprofit Space for Humanity.