Harrison Schmitt

Profession:
(1935 - ) Amerikanischer Geologe, pensionierter NASA-Astronaut, Universitätsprofessor und ehemaliger US-Senator (New Mexico)

Year of Birth: 1935

Harrison Hagan Schmitt, born on July 3rd, 1935, is an American geologist, astronaut, and former U.S. Senator from New Mexico. He is best known for being one of the last astronauts to walk on the moon as part of the Apollo 17 mission in 1972.

Before becoming an astronaut, Schmitt studied geology at the California Institute of Technology and received his Ph.D. from Harvard University in 1964. His expertise in geology played a crucial role in the success of the Apollo missions, where he conducted important experiments and collected valuable lunar samples.

After his time as an astronaut, Schmitt entered politics and was elected to the U.S. Senate, representing New Mexico from 1977 to 1983. During his time in the Senate, he was a strong advocate for space exploration and science funding.

Throughout his career, Schmitt has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to science and space exploration. He is a member of the National Academy of Engineering and the American Geophysical Union, among other prestigious organizations.

Despite retiring from politics, Schmitt continues to be active in the scientific community, lecturing on space exploration and advocating for the importance of science education. He remains a respected figure in both the scientific and political worlds.