Joe Engle, the trailblazing astronaut and test pilot, has passed away at the age of 91. Engle, known for his remarkable contributions to space exploration, flew the North American X-15 hypersonic rocket plane and commanded two Space Shuttle missions. His pioneering spirit made him the first astronaut to fly in space aboard two different winged vehicles.
Born on August 26, 1932, in Chapman, Kansas, Engle graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in aeronautical engineering. His distinguished career included serving as a U.S. Air Force pilot and a NASA astronaut. Engle’s legacy is celebrated by his family, friends, and colleagues, who remember him as a dedicated and fearless aviator. He passed away on July 10, 2024, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of explorers.