Ronald Evans, born on October 11, 1933 in Kansas, was an American astronaut who made history as the command module pilot of Apollo 17 in 1972. He had a long and successful career in the military and space exploration before his untimely death in 1990.
After completing his flight training in 1957, Evans flew combat missions in Vietnam, showcasing his exceptional skills as a pilot. His dedication to his country and his passion for aviation paved the way for his future success as an astronaut.
Evans' most notable achievement was serving as the command module pilot for Apollo 17, the final manned mission to the moon. During this mission, Evans orbited the moon while his fellow astronauts conducted experiments and explored the lunar surface. His role was crucial to the success of the mission, and he executed his duties with precision and expertise.
One of the standout moments of the Apollo 17 mission was Evans' spacewalk, during which he famously exclaimed, 'Hot diggity dog!' This lighthearted moment captured the excitement and wonder of space exploration and endeared Evans to the public.
Evans was a devoted husband and father, sharing two children with his wife Jan. Despite the demands of his career, he made time for his family and cherished the moments spent with his loved ones.
After his time with NASA, Evans continued to make significant contributions to the field of space exploration. He served as the backup command module pilot for the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project, further solidifying his place in history as a pioneer in space travel.
Evans' dedication, skill, and passion for exploration inspired future generations of astronauts and space enthusiasts. His legacy lives on through his contributions to NASA and his role in shaping the future of space exploration.
Although his life was tragically cut short in 1990, Ronald Evans left behind a lasting impact on the world of space exploration. His bravery, dedication, and pioneering spirit will always be remembered and celebrated.