Charles Gordon Fullerton, known to many as Gordon Fullerton, was born on November 11, 1936, in Rochester, New York. He spent his early years in upstate New York before his family eventually moved to Portland, Oregon. Fullerton showed an early interest in aviation and space exploration, fueling his passion for a career in the aerospace industry.
Fullerton attended the California Institute of Technology, where he pursued both undergraduate and graduate degrees in Mechanical Engineering. His time at Caltech provided him with a solid foundation in engineering principles that would serve him well in his future career as an astronaut and test pilot.
After completing his education, Fullerton began working for the Hughes Aircraft Company, a prominent aerospace and defense contractor based in Southern California. During his time at Hughes Aircraft, he gained valuable experience in aircraft design and engineering, preparing him for his eventual transition to a career in spaceflight.
Fullerton's career as a NASA astronaut began in the 1970s when he was selected to participate in the Approach and Landing Tests for the Space Shuttle Enterprise. These tests were crucial in preparing the Space Shuttle for its first atmospheric flight, and Fullerton played a key role in ensuring the success of the program.
In 1982, Fullerton was selected to be a part of the crew for the Space Shuttle Columbia's third mission, STS-3. This mission marked Fullerton's first journey into space, solidifying his place in the history of American space exploration. Fullerton's calm demeanor and technical expertise were instrumental in the success of the mission, further establishing his reputation as a top astronaut.
Fullerton's next spaceflight came in 1983 when he was selected to be a part of the crew for the Space Shuttle Challenger's eighth flight, STS-51F. Once again, Fullerton's skill and experience were put to the test as he helped to carry out important experiments and maneuvers in space. His contributions to the mission were lauded by his fellow crew members and NASA officials alike.
Outside of his work as an astronaut and test pilot, Fullerton was a devoted husband and father. He was married to Marie Jeanette Buettner, and together they raised two children, Andrew and Molly. Fullerton's family provided him with love and support throughout his career, helping him to balance the demands of his professional life with his personal commitments.
Throughout his career, Fullerton received numerous honors and awards for his contributions to the field of aerospace engineering. These accolades included the prestigious Distinguished Flying Cross, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, and the Society of Experimental Test Pilots' Ray E. Tenhoff Award. Fullerton's dedication to his work and his unwavering commitment to excellence were recognized and celebrated by his peers and superiors.
Fullerton's legacy as a pioneering astronaut and test pilot lives on in the annals of space exploration history. His unique blend of technical expertise, courage, and leadership set a high standard for future generations of astronauts to follow. Fullerton's passion for aviation and spaceflight will continue to inspire others to reach for the stars and push the boundaries of human exploration.