History Takes Flight: Ed Dwight, America's First Black Astronaut Candidate, to Launch On Blue Origin's Next Mission

In a landmark moment for diversity in space exploration, Blue Origin have announced that Ed Dwight, the first Black astronaut candidate selected in the United States, will be on board their next New Shepard rocket flight. This historic mission will finally fulfill Dwight's lifelong dream of reaching space, decades after he was passed over for astronaut selection by NASA in the 1960s.

Dwight, a former U.S. Air Force pilot, was chosen for astronaut training by President John F. Kennedy's administration in 1961. Though he completed the rigorous training program, he wasn't selected for one of the coveted spots in NASA's Mercury 7 astronaut group. Now, at the age of 90, Dwight will have the opportunity to experience the wonders of space aboard Blue Origin's suborbital capsule.

"This is a momentous occasion," said Jeff Bezos, founder of Blue Origin. "We are incredibly honored to have Ed Dwight on board our next flight. His story is an inspiration, and his inclusion in this mission highlights the importance of diversity in space exploration."

The New Shepard mission, designated NS-25, will be the first crewed flight for Blue Origin in over a year. The six-person crew will experience a few minutes of weightlessness as the capsule reaches the edge of space, offering breathtaking views of Earth before returning safely.

"I never gave up hope of reaching space," said Ed Dwight. "This is a dream come true, and I am grateful to Blue Origin for this incredible opportunity. I can't wait to experience the wonders of space and inspire others to reach for the stars."

Dwight's historic flight will be a significant milestone for racial equality in space exploration. It serves as a powerful reminder of the contributions of Black Americans to the field and paves the way for a more inclusive future in space travel.