Pioneers of the Sky

John Glenn

John Glenn was a pioneering American astronaut, Marine Corps aviator, and U.S. senator. In 1962, he became the first American to orbit the Earth aboard Friendship 7, marking a key milestone in the space race. Glenn later served four terms in the U.S. Senate, advocating for science and technology. In 1998, he returned to space aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery at age 77, becoming the oldest person to fly in space. Glenn remains a symbol of courage and public service.