Quick Info
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Name | Eugene Cernan |
| Current Age | 82 (1934-2017) |
| Occupation(s) | Astronaut |
| Date of Birth | March 14, 1934 |
| Date of Death | January 16, 2017 |
| Place of Birth | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Spouse | Jan Nanna Cernan |
| Children | 3 |
| Net Worth (2024) | $2 million |
| Source of Wealth | Astronaut, Author |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Height | 6'0" |
| Notable Works | Last human to walk on the Moon, "The Last Man on the Moon" autobiography |
Early Life and Education
Eugene Cernan, born on March 14, 1934, in Chicago, Illinois, was an American astronaut who left an indelible mark on space exploration history. Growing up in the suburbs of Chicago, Cernan developed a passion for aviation and space from a young age. He pursued his dream by earning a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University in 1956.
Career and Achievements
Cernan's illustrious career began when he was selected as an astronaut by NASA in 1963. He made his first space flight in 1966 as the pilot of Gemini 9A. Notably, Cernan was the second American to walk in space during this mission. His most significant achievement came during the Apollo program when he became the last human to set foot on the Moon during the Apollo 17 mission in December 1972.
Legacy and Contributions
Eugene Cernan's legacy extends beyond being the last man on the Moon. His dedication to space exploration and his inspirational words, "We leave as we came, and, God willing, as we shall return, with peace and hope for all mankind," continue to resonate with generations of aspiring astronauts and space enthusiasts. Cernan's autobiography, "The Last Man on the Moon," provides a poignant account of his experiences and the challenges of space travel.
Personal Life and Net Worth
Outside of his remarkable career, Eugene Cernan was a devoted husband to his wife, Jan Nanna Cernan, and a loving father to their three children. Despite his significant contributions to space exploration, Cernan's net worth in 2024 is estimated to be $2 million, primarily derived from his career as an astronaut and author.
In conclusion, Eugene Cernan's pioneering spirit, unwavering dedication, and historic achievements have solidified his place in the annals of space exploration. His legacy serves as a beacon of inspiration for future generations to reach for the stars and continue pushing the boundaries of human exploration beyond Earth.
