The US’s first black astronaut trainee reaches space at 90
Ed Dwight missed out on his chance to become the first black astronaut in the 1960s. Now, at the age of 90, he's finally reached the edge of space.
In May 2024, 90-year-old Ed Dwight Jr. from Kansas City, Missouri travelled to the edge of space – he was an honoured guest in the Blue Origin rocket. His trip was 60 years overdue. Ed had been chosen by President John F Kennedy to be the first African-American astronaut at a time when racism was rife and segregation a reality. But JFK’s plans for Ed were scuppered – and Ed had to pick himself up and build a whole new career.
Please be aware that this episode contains outdated racial language that may offend.
Presenter: Jo Fidgen
Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707
(Photo: Ed Dwight (left) emerging from the Blue Origin rocket; Image credit: Blue Origin)
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