Michael Collins: A Biography of an Apollo 11 Astronaut

Embark on a journey through the lesser-known narrative of the man who orbited the moon alone while his crewmates stepped onto the lunar surface.

Michael Collins, the unsung hero of the Apollo 11 mission, was the linchpin to humanity’s greatest leap. Though often overshadowed by his fellow astronauts, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, Collins’ contributions to space exploration are no less monumental.

From his early years in fighter jet cockpits to his solitary voyage around the moon, Collins led a life of undaunted bravery, intellectual prowess, and unyielding dedication to the advancement of space exploration.

Dive into this riveting tale of his journey and discover why Michael Collins is not just a hero but a legend, an icon of the human endeavor for discovery and exploration.

This is the story of the man behind the moon landing, the story of the third astronaut. Prepare for lift-off as we explore the remarkable life of Michael Collins.

In a picture featuring Michael Collins (left) and fellow astronaut Deke Slayton standing next to a NASA T-38, a notable interaction between the two is remembered. During a flight from Houston to The Cape before Apollo 11, Slayton, who was in charge of the astronauts, inquired if Collins would like to be assigned to another mission, one that would likely have given him the opportunity to walk on the moon. Collins, however, declined the offer, having resolved to devote more time to his family. Nevertheless, he informed Slayton that if Apollo 11 did not succeed, he would be eagerly knocking on his door for another chance. Image courtesy of NASA.

Michael Collins: Fighter Pilot, Astronaut, and Unsung Hero of Apollo 11

Michael Collins was born to a U.S. Army officer father on October 31, 1930, in Rome, Italy.
His fascination with aviation began at a young age, leading him to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 1952.
Collins served as a fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force but saw no combat during the Korean War.
After completing the USAF Experimental Flight Test Pilot School in 1960, he became an instructor, flight leader, and later a test pilot.
Collins applied to NASA’s astronaut program in 1962, where he was selected among nine candidates from over 200 applicants.
His first spaceflight was Gemini 10, launched on July 18, 1966, where he became the first person to perform two spacewalks in one mission.
Following Gemini 10, Collins began training for the Apollo missions and was assigned as the command module pilot for Apollo 11.
During Apollo 11, Collins orbited the moon in the command module Columbia, monitoring progress, maintaining communication, and preparing for rendezvous with the lunar module Eagle.
Post Apollo 11, Collins was honored with numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, and the Collier Trophy.
Collins retired from NASA in 1970, later becoming the Director of the National Air and Space Museum and authoring several books.
He was instrumental in pioneering human spaceflight and contributed to the success of landing humans on the moon for the first time.
Collins died on April 28, 2021, at age 90, after battling cancer, and was hailed as a hero, a legend, and an icon for his role in space exploration.

The Early Years and Military Career

In anticipation of the 1969 mission, Apollo 11 command module pilot, Michael Collins, is seen here engaged in training exercises aboard a spacecraft simulator. (Source: NASA) — In anticipation of the 1969 mission, Apollo 11 command module pilot Michael Collins is seen here engaged in training exercises aboard a spacecraft simulator. (Source: NASA)

Michael Collins, often overlooked in the history of space exploration, played a pivotal role in the Apollo 11 mission as the third member of the crew.

While Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin made history by walking on the lunar surface, Collins orbited the moon in the command module, alone and out of contact with Earth for hours. In this article, we will delve into the life and career of Michael Collins, from his early days as a fighter pilot and test pilot to his significant contributions as an astronaut and leader in the space community.

Collins was born on October 31, 1930, in Rome, Italy, to a U.S. Army officer father who served in various diplomatic posts worldwide.

Growing up in a military family, he moved frequently and attended different schools. His fascination with aviation began at a young age, inspired by his father’s stories and flying experiences together.

He excelled both academically and athletically at St. Albans School in Washington, D.C., before following in his father’s footsteps and enrolling at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 1952.

After completing his education at West Point, Collins joined the U.S. Air Force and became a fighter pilot.

Although he flew F-86 Sabre jets during the Korean War, he did not see any combat action. Collins later served as an instructor and flight leader at various bases in the United States and Europe. In 1958, he earned a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology.

Subsequently, in 1960, Collins was accepted into the prestigious USAF Experimental Flight Test Pilot School at Edwards Air Force Base in California.

During his time there, he acquired advanced flying skills and conducted various flight experiments. He graduated with distinction and was assigned to the Air Force Flight Test Center as a test pilot.

Category	Information
Born	October 31, 1930, Rome, Italy
Died	April 28, 2021 (aged 90), Naples, Florida, U.S.
Resting place	Arlington National Cemetery
Nationality	American
Alma mater	United States Military Academy (BS, 1952)
Occupations	Fighter pilot, test pilot, astronaut
Awards	Air Force Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross, Legion of Merit, Presidential Medal of Freedom, Congressional Gold Medal, NASA Distinguished Service Medal, NASA Exceptional Service Medal
Spouse	Patricia Finnegan (m. 1957; died 2014)
Children	3, including Kate
Parents	James Lawton Collins (father)
Relatives	James Lawton Collins Jr. (brother), J. Lawton Collins (uncle)
Space career	NASA astronaut
Time in space	11 days, 2 hours, 4 minutes, 43 seconds
Selection	1963 NASA Group 3
Total EVAs	2
Total EVA time	1 hour 28 minutes
Missions	Gemini 10, Apollo 11

The Journey to NASA

In 1962, Michael Collins applied to NASA‘s third group of astronauts, competing with over 200 other pilots. He was among the nine chosen for the program, alongside notable test pilots like Frank Borman, Jim Lovell, and Pete Conrad.

Collins underwent rigorous training in diverse fields, including geology, astronomy, navigation, survival, and spacecraft systems. He also mastered extravehicular activities (EVAs) or spacewalks.

Gemini 10 and Notable Achievements

In 1966, Collins was undergoing training for the Gemini X mission.
Photo courtesy: NASA. — *In 1966, Collins was undergoing training for the Gemini X mission. Photo courtesy: NASA*.

Collins’ first spaceflight came with Gemini 10, launched on July 18, 1966. He served as the pilot alongside John Young, who was the command pilot.

The mission objectives encompassed docking with an Agena target vehicle, conducting two EVAs, and rendezvousing with another Gemini spacecraft.

Collins achieved both EVAs successfully, becoming the first person to perform two spacewalks during the same mission.

Additionally, he established a new altitude record of 475 miles (764 km) by utilizing the Agena’s engine to boost their orbit. Gemini 10 lasted nearly three days and completed 43 orbits.

Preparation for Apollo 11

*In this image from 1969, Michael Collins is seen immersed in rigorous training as he prepares for his crucial role as the command module pilot for the historic Apollo 11 mission. (Credit: NASA).*

Following the Gemini 10 mission, Collins began training for the Apollo missions that aimed to land humans on the moon. Initially assigned as the backup command module pilot for Apollo 8, he had to step down due to a cervical disc herniation that necessitated surgery.

However, he recovered in time to fulfill the role of command module pilot for Apollo 11, alongside Armstrong as the commander and Aldrin as the lunar module pilot.

Apollo 11 was launched on July 16, 1969, marking the culmination of years of preparation and effort by thousands of people.

The mission objectives were simple: land on the moon and return safely to Earth. Collins’ specific role was to stay in orbit around the moon in the command module Columbia while Armstrong and Aldrin descended to the surface in the lunar module Eagle.

Michael was responsible for monitoring their progress, maintaining communication with Earth, and preparing for their rendezvous after their lunar excursion.

Collins’ Experience and Contributions

Apollo 11 Command Module pilot, Mike Collins, is seen in a simulator practicing the removal of the docking hatch from the Command Module. Image courtesy of NASA. — *Apollo 11 Command Module pilot Mike Collins is seen in a simulator practicing removing the docking hatch from the Command Module. Image courtesy of NASA.*

Collins’ experience during Apollo 11 was both exhilarating and lonely. He witnessed the historic landing of his crewmates on July 20, 1969, but also endured long periods of silence and isolation when he passed behind the moon and lost contact with Earth.

Michael later wrote that he felt “awareness, anticipation, satisfaction, confidence, almost exultation” during his solo orbit but also “amazement” at being “alone now, truly alone.”

He also joked that he was “the loneliest person in history” or “the only person that everybody in the world knew where he was.”

Collins’ role was crucial for the success of Apollo 11. He had to perform several maneuvers to adjust his orbit and align with Eagle’s ascent trajectory.

He also had to deal with potential emergencies, such as a failed docking or a stranded lunar module.

Fortunately, none of these scenarios occurred, and Collins successfully docked with Eagle on July 21, 1969. He welcomed Armstrong and Aldrin back to Columbia with a smile and a handshake. The three astronauts then began their journey back to Earth.

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Legacy and Impact

Astronauts Armstrong and Collins from the Apollo 11 mission make their arrival at the NAR facility located in Downey. Credit: NASA. — *Astronauts Armstrong and Collins from the Apollo 11 mission make their arrival at the NAR facility located in Downey.* Credit: NASA.

After Apollo 11, Collins became a celebrity and a hero along with his crewmates. They were honored with parades, awards, speeches, and visits to various countries around the world.

They also met President Richard Nixon and other world leaders. Collins received numerous accolades for his role in Apollo 11, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, and the Collier Trophy.

He also received honorary degrees from several universities and was named one of Time magazine’s Men of the Year in 1969.

Collins did not fly in space again after Apollo 11. He decided to retire from NASA in 1970 and pursue other interests.

Apollo 11 astronauts Aldrin, Collins, and Armstrong, from left to right, scrutinize a moon rock alongside the Smithsonian Institution's Director of Museums, Taylor. Credit: NASA. — *Apollo 11 astronauts Aldrin, Collins, and Armstrong, from left to right, scrutinize a moon rock alongside the Smithsonian Institution’s Director of Museums, Taylor.* Credit: NASA.

Michael became the Director of the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., where he oversaw the construction and opening of the museum in 1976. He also became an author, writing several books on space exploration and his experiences, such as “Carrying the Fire,” “Liftoff,” and “Mission to Mars.”

He also served as a consultant, a board member, and a public speaker for various organizations related to aviation and space.

Collins’ legacy and impact are immense. He was one of the pioneers of human spaceflight, contributing to its advancement and success.

Michael was part of one of the most remarkable achievements in history, landing humans on another world for the first time.

He inspired countless people around the world with his courage, skill, and dedication. He also influenced future generations of astronauts and space enthusiasts, sharing his knowledge, wisdom, and passion.

Remembering Michael Collins

An image of Apollo and Gemini astronaut, Michael Collins, is displayed beside a wreath in his honor during a ceremony at the Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex on April 30, 2021. As the command module pilot for Apollo 11, the first mission to land astronauts on the moon, Collins passed away on April 28, 2021. Image courtesy of NASA. — An image of Apollo and Gemini astronaut Michael Collins is displayed beside a wreath in his honor during a ceremony at the Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex on April 30, 2021. Collins passed away on April 28, 2021, as the command module pilot for Apollo 11, the first mission to land astronauts on the moon. Image courtesy of NASA.

Michael Collins died on April 28, 2021, at age 90, after battling cancer. He was mourned by his family, friends, colleagues, and admirers.

Collins received tributes from NASA, the U.S. government, and other space agencies and organizations. He was hailed as a hero, a legend, and an icon.

Michael Collins’ life and achievements are worth remembering and celebrating. He played a vital role in one of humanity’s greatest endeavors: reaching for the moon.

Collins showed us what is possible when we dare to explore, to learn, and to dream. He left us with a legacy of excellence, adventure, and discovery. He taught us how to carry the fire.

FAQ

Q: Who is Michael Collins, and what is his significance in space exploration? A: Michael Collins was an American astronaut who played a crucial role in the Apollo 11 mission, which marked the first manned moon landing in 1969. While Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walked on the moon, Collins orbited around the moon in the command module, ensuring the safe return of the lunar module.
Q: What did Michael Collins do after his retirement from NASA? A: After retiring from NASA in 1970, Michael Collins served as the Director of the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., overseeing the construction and opening of the museum. He also wrote several books about space exploration and his experiences as an astronaut.
Q: What other space missions did Michael Collins participate in apart from Apollo 11? A: Before the Apollo 11 mission, Michael Collins was part of the Gemini 10 mission in 1966. During this mission, he became the first person to perform two spacewalks on a single mission.
Q: What were the honors and awards received by Michael Collins? A: Michael Collins received numerous accolades for his contributions to space exploration, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, and the Collier Trophy. He was also named one of Time magazine’s Men of the Year in 1969.
Q: When did Michael Collins pass away, and how is he remembered? A: Michael Collins passed away on April 28, 2021, at the age of 90. He is remembered as a pioneer of human spaceflight and is hailed as a hero, a legend, and an icon of space exploration. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of astronauts and space enthusiasts.

References

NASA’s official biography page on Michael Collins would provide a wealth of information on Collins’ career, missions, and contributions to the field.
Collins, Michael. “Carrying the Fire: An Astronaut’s Journeys.” Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2009. This autobiography details Collins’ personal experiences during the Gemini 10 and Apollo 11 missions.
NASA’s Apollo 11 mission overview. This would offer specifics about the mission itself and Collins’ role within it.
Chaikin, Andrew. “A Man on the Moon: The Voyages of the Apollo Astronauts.” Penguin Books, 2007. This book provides a comprehensive history of the Apollo program and includes first-hand accounts from the astronauts, including Collins.
National Air and Space Museum official website. This can provide additional information on Collins’ post-NASA career as the museum’s director.
Collins, Michael. “Mission to Mars.” Grove/Atlantic, Inc., 1990. This book, written by Collins, discusses the future of space exploration and his own perspectives on Mars missions.

For a more detailed look at the historic Apollo 11 mission that Michael Collins was a part of, including the mission’s timeline, crew information, and other intriguing facts, feel free to explore our in-depth article, Apollo 11: Mission History, Timeline, Crew Information, and More.