What Happened to Buzz Aldrin After Apollo 11?

Introduction

Buzz Aldrin, an iconic figure in the annals of space exploration, is best known as the second man to set foot on the moon during the historic Apollo 11 mission. 

But Aldrin’s life didn’t stop after his lunar landing. His journey, both personal and professional, continued to be marked by significant events and contributions to space exploration.

Buzz Aldrin’s Early Life and Career

Aldrin, post-engagement with a MiG-15 fighter during the Korean War, inside the cockpit of an F-86 Sabre from the 51st Fighter Interceptor Wing. Credit: Wikipedia.
Aldrin, post-engagement with a MiG-15 fighter during the Korean War, inside the cockpit of an F-86 Sabre from the 51st Fighter Interceptor Wing. Credit: Wikipedia.

Born as Edwin Eugene Aldrin Jr., Buzz Aldrin grew up in Montclair, New Jersey. His childhood was marked by a keen interest in science and the cosmos. Aldrin’s academic prowess led him to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he graduated third in his class with a degree in mechanical engineering.

His military career was equally illustrious. Aldrin flew F-86 Sabre Jets in 66 combat missions during the Korean War, earning numerous accolades for his service. 

However, his passion for space led him to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he earned a Ph.D. in aeronautics and astronautics. His thesis on orbital mechanics would later prove instrumental in his selection as an astronaut by NASA.

The Apollo 11 Mission

Astronaut Edwin E. Aldrin, Jr. - Image Courtesy of NASA.
Astronaut Edwin E. Aldrin, Jr. – Image Courtesy of NASA.

In 1969, Aldrin, alongside Neil Armstrong and Michael Collins, embarked on the Apollo 11 mission. This mission was a culmination of years of preparation and training, with Aldrin playing a crucial role in developing docking and rendezvous techniques for spacecraft.

On July 20, 1969, Aldrin and Armstrong made history by becoming the first humans to land on the moon. Aldrin’s role in the mission was pivotal, and his words, “Magnificent desolation,” upon setting foot on the lunar surface, became a symbol of the awe-inspiring vastness of space. 

The mission was a global sensation, with an estimated 600 million people watching the live broadcast of the moon landing.

The Apollo 11 crew returned to Earth safely, their mission marking a significant milestone in human space exploration. The global reaction was overwhelming, with Aldrin, Armstrong, and Collins celebrated as heroes.

The Apollo 11 mission was not just a scientific achievement; it was a testament to human ingenuity and the limitless possibilities of exploration.

Life After Apollo 11

Aldrin serving as the Commandant of the Air Force Test Pilot School. Image credit: Wikipedia.
Aldrin served as the Commandant of the Air Force Test Pilot School. Image credit: Wikipedia.

Following the Apollo 11 mission, Buzz Aldrin returned to the Air Force in a managerial role. His transition back to a more conventional life was not without its challenges. 

Aldrin openly struggled with depression and alcoholism, a testament to the immense pressure and scrutiny he faced as a public figure. 

His personal life also underwent significant changes, including a divorce that marked a difficult period in his life.

Aldrin’s Contributions to Space Exploration

On July 28, 2014, Buzz Aldrin was seen signing copies of his book at Barnes & Noble Booksellers in Glendale, California. Image credit: Tibrina Hobson—FilmMagic/Getty Images.
On July 28, 2014, Buzz Aldrin was seen signing copies of his book at Barnes & Noble Booksellers in Glendale, California. Image credit: Tibrina Hobson—FilmMagic/Getty Images.

Despite these challenges, Aldrin continued to contribute significantly to space exploration. He developed advanced spacecraft systems and proposed the concept of the Aldrin Mars Cycler, a spacecraft system for missions to Mars. 

His innovative thinking led to him receiving patents for a modular space station, reusable rockets, and multi-crew modules. These contributions have had a lasting impact on the field of space exploration and technology.

Aldrin’s Later Career and Public Life

In 1998, Aldrin founded the ShareSpace Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing space education, exploration, and affordable space flight experiences. 

His public life extended to television appearances and public engagements, where he continued to advocate for space exploration and science education.

Aldrin also embarked on a writing career, publishing several works, including his autobiographies, children’s books, and science fiction novels. 

His books, such as “Return to Earth” and “Magnificent Desolation: The Long Journey Home from the Moon,” offer a deeply personal look into his life and the experiences of an astronaut.

This image, captured by Commander Neil A. Armstrong, provides an interior view of the Apollo 11 Lunar Module during the lunar landing mission, featuring Lunar Module Pilot Edwin E. Aldrin, Jr. The photo was taken prior to the moon landing. Image credit: NASA.
This image, captured by Commander Neil A. Armstrong, provides an interior view of the Apollo 11 Lunar Module during the lunar landing mission, featuring Lunar Module Pilot Edwin E. Aldrin, Jr. The photo was taken prior to the moon landing. Image credit: NASA.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Buzz Aldrin’s life post-Apollo 11 has been marked by personal challenges and significant contributions to space exploration. His journey, from walking on the moon to advocating for future space missions, is a testament to his enduring passion for exploration. 

Despite the personal struggles he faced, Aldrin’s contributions to space technology and his efforts to inspire future generations stand as his lasting legacy. 

His story serves as a reminder of the boundless possibilities of human exploration and the personal courage required to venture into the unknown.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Apollo 11 mission and its astronauts, you might also want to read about what happened to Neil Armstrong after Apollo 11.

FAQ

1. Did Buzz Aldrin like Neil Armstrong?

Yes, Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong, despite having different personalities, maintained a professional relationship during their time at NASA. They successfully completed the Apollo 11 mission together, which required a high level of trust and cooperation.

2. How much did Buzz Aldrin get paid to go to the moon?

As a military officer on active duty during the Apollo 11 mission, Buzz Aldrin was paid according to his rank and time in service, not for the specific mission to the moon. The exact amount is not publicly disclosed, but it was not significantly more than a typical military salary.

3. What does Buzz Aldrin do now?

Buzz Aldrin has remained active in promoting space exploration since retiring from NASA. He founded the ShareSpace Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing space education and exploration. He has also authored several books and made numerous public appearances to advocate for continued space exploration.

4. What happened to Buzz Aldrin after Apollo 11?

After Apollo 11, Buzz Aldrin continued to serve in the Air Force in a managerial role before retiring. He faced personal challenges, including struggles with depression and alcoholism. Despite these challenges, he made significant contributions to space exploration and public education about space.

5. Is Buzz Aldrin still alive?

As of the last update in 2023, Buzz Aldrin is alive. He continues to be an active advocate for space exploration and education.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Apollo 11 mission, don’t miss our article on what happened to Michael Collins after Apollo 11.

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