The Mercury Seven Astronauts
In 1957, the Russians launched the first space-probe, called Sputnik, into space. America was in a state of panic. The space race had begun and already the United States was losing. The newly formed National Aeronautics and Space Administration was tasked with getting a man in space as soon as possible. With young technology that had barely begun to be tested, NASA set about finding some elite pilots who would be willing to face great danger in man’s discovery of the unknown. Seven men were found who had to go through numerous psychological and physical tests. Out of the hundreds who were able to apply for the spot, only seven military pilots were able to make it. These seven men were:
John H. Glenn – piloted Friendship 7 – February 20, 1962
Malcom Scott Carpenter – piloted Aurora 7 – May 24, 1962
Alan B. Shepard – piloted Freedom 7 – May 5, 1961
Walter M. Schirra – piloted Sigma 7 – October 3, 1962
Deak Slayton – did not fly until later missions
Virgil I. “Gus” Grissom – piloted Liberty Bell 7 – July 21, 1961
Lery G. Cooper – piloted Faith 7 – May 15, 1963
