A Rising Star in Aviation
In the early 1960s, Ed Dwight, a U.S. Air Force test pilot, was poised to make history as NASA’s first African American astronaut candidate. Born in Kansas City in 1933, Dwight’s talents in engineering and aviation earned him a place at the prestigious Aerospace Research Pilot School, where he trained alongside aviation legends like Chuck Yeager.
The Kennedy Administration’s Vision
The Kennedy administration, seeking to demonstrate progress in civil rights, supported Dwight’s career as a symbol of diversity in the space race. Dwight’s candidacy drew national attention, and he became a figure of hope for many. However, prejudice at Edwards Air Force Base and within the astronaut selection process presented obstacles.
A Career Stalled
Despite his qualifications, Dwight was not selected for NASA’s Astronaut Group 3 in 1963. After facing institutional challenges and a lack of support following President Kennedy’s assassination, Dwight left the Air Force in 1966, ending his astronaut aspirations.
In the early 1960s, Ed Dwight, a U.S. Air Force test pilot, was poised to make history as NASA’s first African American astronaut candidate. Born in Kansas City in 1933, Dwight’s talents in engineering and aviation earned him a place at the prestigious Aerospace Research Pilot… pic.twitter.com/zE2lZaaJCb
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