(Washington, DC) Today, Apollo 11 astronaut Michael Collins passed away. House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology Ranking Member Frank Lucas issued a statement honoring his life and accomplishments.
“This is a sad day for our space program and all Americans. Michael Collins inspired generations of Americans with his historic flight as the command module pilot on the Apollo 11 mission to the Moon. His work allowed us to land humans on the Moon for the first time and, importantly, safely return them to Earth. That, along with his piloting of Gemini X, was instrumental in developing the finest space program in the world. After his career at NASA, he continued his commitment to public service, serving as the Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs, and then as the Director of the National Air and Space Museum. He has countless more accomplishments, and he has left a legacy of exploration that continues to drive our current space program. When humans next land on the Moon, we can thank Michael Collins for pioneering the way there. As we share our gratitude for his work, my thoughts and prayers are with his family.”