Apollo 8 Astronaut and Businessman Frank Borman Dies at 95

Frank Borman, the astronaut who led the historic Apollo 8 mission, the first human journey to the moon, has passed away at the age of 95. The announcement was made by NASA and the cause of his death was stated as a stroke. Borman had been residing in a retirement community in Billings, Montana.

A Life of Service and Achievement

Borman’s passing comes a week after the death of fellow NASA astronaut Ken Mattingly, who played a crucial role in the safe return of Apollo 13 following an onboard explosion. After the passing of John Glenn in 2016, Borman held the distinction of being the oldest living astronaut in the United States.

Apart from his contributions to space exploration, Frank Borman also had a successful business career. He served as CEO of the now-defunct Eastern Airlines in 1975, followed by a stint as the chairman of the board. Despite a period of profitability under his leadership, the airline eventually fell due to deregulation, increased debt, and union disputes. Borman resigned in 1986.

A Tribute to a True Hero

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson referred to Borman as a “true American hero”. As a commander of the Gemini mission in 1966, Borman set a 14-day spaceflight endurance record. He then led the Apollo 8 mission to the moon in December 1968, making 10 orbits before returning to Earth. Borman retired from NASA and the Air Force in 1970.

A Lifetime Passion for Aviation

Born in Gary, Indiana, Borman showed an early interest in aviation, fostered by his father, a car salesman. He obtained his pilot’s license at the age of 15 and went on to attend the military academy at West Point. After graduating, he began a career in the U.S. Air Force in 1950, serving in various roles including fighter pilot, test pilot, and assistant professor. His expertise led to his selection in the second group of pilots chosen by NASA for the moon program.

The Historic Apollo 8 Mission

On Christmas Eve 1968, Borman, along with astronauts James Lovell and William Anders, became the first humans to orbit the moon. This mission resulted in the iconic “Earthrise” photo capturing our planet rising over the moon’s horizon. Borman participated in only two space missions and was not part of the crew that landed on the moon in 1969.

NASA’s Nelson paid tribute to Borman’s belief in the power of exploration and its role in uniting humanity. His service, Nelson stated, will continue to inspire future generations of space explorers.