retire NASA astronaut and United States Air Force general Joe Engel Died at his home on July 10 Houston. Engel was the only astronaut to fly either type of aircraft X-15 and space shuttle.
Joe passed away at the age of 91, surrounded by his family.
Engel is survived by his wife; JennyReflecting on his legacy, he said: “General Joe had natural piloting skills and was happiest in any cockpit. His passing leaves a huge loss in our hearts. We are relieved that He was joined by his best friends Tom Stafford and George Abbey.
Engel was born in Dickinson County, Kansas, and graduated from the University of Kansas in 1955 with a degree in aerospace engineering.
At the age of 32, Engel flew the X-15 for the U.S. Air Force and became the youngest pilot to qualify as an astronaut. He was the last surviving X-15 pilot and was already engaged in aerospace operations when he was selected as pilot. NASA Became an Astros candidate in 1966.
“General Joe Engel was a born pilot who helped humanity’s dreams fly,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson.
“He was one of the first astronauts I met at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. I will never forget his bright smile, his warmth and his courage. We will all miss him,” Bill added .
Engel supported the Apollo program and was the backup pilot of the Apollo 14 lunar module. Landing at Mach 25 speed. His last mission was in 1985 commanding the space shuttle Discovery, deploying and servicing satellites.
“Joe’s legacy of achievement and perseverance will continue to inspire and influence generations of explorers for years to come,” said Vanessa Wyche, director of NASA’s Johnson Center.
Engle has flown more than 180 different types of aircraft and logged more than 14,000 hours. His military decorations include the Department of Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the U.S. Air Force Distinguished Service Medal, and the Air Force Distinguished Flying Cross with Oak Leaf Cluster.
Joe passed away at the age of 91, surrounded by his family.
Engel is survived by his wife; JennyReflecting on his legacy, he said: “General Joe had natural piloting skills and was happiest in any cockpit. His passing leaves a huge loss in our hearts. We are relieved that He was joined by his best friends Tom Stafford and George Abbey.
Engel was born in Dickinson County, Kansas, and graduated from the University of Kansas in 1955 with a degree in aerospace engineering.
At the age of 32, Engel flew the X-15 for the U.S. Air Force and became the youngest pilot to qualify as an astronaut. He was the last surviving X-15 pilot and was already engaged in aerospace operations when he was selected as pilot. NASA Became an Astros candidate in 1966.
“General Joe Engel was a born pilot who helped humanity’s dreams fly,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson.
“He was one of the first astronauts I met at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. I will never forget his bright smile, his warmth and his courage. We will all miss him,” Bill added .
Engel supported the Apollo program and was the backup pilot of the Apollo 14 lunar module. Landing at Mach 25 speed. His last mission was in 1985 commanding the space shuttle Discovery, deploying and servicing satellites.
“Joe’s legacy of achievement and perseverance will continue to inspire and influence generations of explorers for years to come,” said Vanessa Wyche, director of NASA’s Johnson Center.
Engle has flown more than 180 different types of aircraft and logged more than 14,000 hours. His military decorations include the Department of Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the U.S. Air Force Distinguished Service Medal, and the Air Force Distinguished Flying Cross with Oak Leaf Cluster.
